SuperTFZ
Chinese IEM brand focused on dynamic-driver consumer earphones (often marketed with “Tesla magnetic”/beryllium-coated diaphragms) in the budget-to-mid range.
Overview
SuperTFZ (sometimes sold under the TFZ umbrella) produces single-dynamic in-ear monitors primarily under ~150 USD. Notable recent models include FORCE1 and FORCE King. The brand’s marketing often highlights “Tesla magnetic” motor designs and beryllium-coated diaphragms, while retail distribution is handled by global e-commerce audio shops. Representative model pricing for FORCE1 has commonly been seen around 79 USD at launch/retail. [3][6][7][8]
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]Third-party measurements of multiple TFZ/SuperTFZ models on Reference Audio Analyzer’s SIEC rig show frequency responses with strong low-frequency lift and uneven treble that deviate well beyond a neutral target, indicating audible coloration. These include the TFZ X3 and Series 5S, both demonstrating significant bass emphasis and departures from Harman In-Ear target references on the same rig. While sensitivities are generally high (e.g., 5S listed at 133.3 dB SPL/V, 14.8 Ω), response linearity rather than efficiency is the limiting factor for transparency. [1][2]
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]The lineup employs competent, contemporary single dynamic-driver architectures (≈10–11.4 mm) with marketing claims of “dual/‘Tesla’ magnetic” motors and beryllium-coated diaphragms. These are mainstream techniques in 2023–2025 budget IEM design and do not, on their own, secure transparent-level performance without corroborating measurements. Documented model specs from retailers corroborate these constructions but do not evidence unique breakthroughs over peers. [3][8]
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{0.3}\]Comparator (cheapest equal-or-better): 7Hz x Crinacle Zero:2 — a single-dynamic IEM with broadly neutral target adherence and low distortion per independent testing; core functions are equivalent (wired IEM, no ANC/BT). [4]
Prices used (current market examples):
- Review-side representative: SuperTFZ FORCE1 ≈ 79 USD (typical retail at launch; still within market norms). [6][7]
- Comparator: 7Hz Zero:2 24.99 USD regular price (Linsoul). [5]
CP calculation (explicit): 24.99 ÷ 79 = 0.316… → 0.3
Equivalence note: Zero:2 provides the same user-facing function set (wired IEM) and meets or exceeds key measured performance axes (FR target adherence and low THD) relative to representative SuperTFZ tunings, at a substantially lower price. [1][2][4][5]
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]Products use common, serviceable 0.78 mm 2-pin cables and are sold via established retailers/distributors (e.g., Penon Audio, Linsoul for the TFZ/SuperTFZ family). Long-term reliability data and official, centralized after-sales documentation from the brand are limited in English; warranty handling typically follows retailer policies. No firmware factors apply (purely analog designs). [3][8]
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]The brand’s emphasis on impactful bass and vivid presentation prioritizes a colored signature over transparent reproduction. Given available third-party measurements showing sizable departures from neutral targets, engineering focus appears tuned for a fun, V-or-W-shaped tonality rather than scientifically transparent playback. Marketing around magnetic-system strength is not matched by objective transparency gains in published measurements. [1][2]
Advice
If you specifically want a lively, bass-boosted tuning for casual listening, certain SuperTFZ models can satisfy that preference. However, listeners seeking measurement-aligned tonality and overall value should start with 7Hz x Crinacle Zero:2 for neutral-leaning performance at extremely low cost, or step up to deep-insertion references like Etymotic ER2XR for high isolation and accuracy-oriented tuning (note: fit differs greatly). [4][5][6]
References
[1] Reference Audio Analyzer — TFZ X3 (Pro report; SIEC rig, FR vs Harman target and more), https://reference-audio-analyzer.pro/en/report/hp/tfz-x3-f-76ohm.php , accessed 2025-08-19.
[2] Reference Audio Analyzer — TFZ Series 5S (FR/impedance; lists 133.3 dB SPL/V, 14.8 Ω), https://reference-audio-analyzer.pro/en/report/hp/tfz-5s.php , accessed 2025-08-19.
[3] Penon Audio — SUPERTFZ FORCE1 (product page/specs), https://penonaudio.com/supertfz-force1.html , accessed 2025-08-19.
[4] Audio Science Review — 7Hz x Crinacle Zero:2: measurement-based review (FR & distortion), https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/7hz-x-crinacle-zero-2-iem-review.50534/ , Dec 18, 2023 / accessed 2025-08-19.
[5] Linsoul — 7Hz x Crinacle Zero:2 (current pricing; regular 24.99 USD shown alongside sale), https://www.linsoul.com/products/7hz-x-crinacle-zero-2 , accessed 2025-08-19.
[6] Etymotic — ER2XR (official page; isolation and model details), https://etymotic.com/product/er2xr-earphones/ , accessed 2025-08-19.
[7] HiEndPortable — SuperTFZ Force 1 costs 79 USD (price context at release), https://hiendportable.com/supertfz-force-king-english-review/ , accessed 2025-08-19.
[8] Linsoul — SUPERTFZ FORCE KING (brand distribution/spec example), https://www.linsoul.com/products/supertfz-force-king , accessed 2025-08-19.
(2025.8.19)