Overview

The KZ AM16 is an in-ear monitor (IEM) featuring a total of 16 balanced armature (BA) drivers, with 8 drivers per side. Knowledge Zenith (KZ), a Chinese audio equipment manufacturer, has extensively developed multi-driver IEMs in the budget price range. The AM16 was released in May 2024 and offers a wide frequency response of 5-45,000Hz with two tuning variations: a balanced version and a bass-enhanced version. It has a 22Ω impedance, 104dB sensitivity, and adopts a detachable cable with 0.75mm 2-pin connectors.

Scientific Validity

\[\Large \text{0.6}\]

Regarding the AM16’s measurement data, while the nominal frequency response is listed as 5-45,000Hz, detailed, independently verified measurement data is limited. The 22Ω impedance and 104dB sensitivity are within standard ranges, but specific values for critical indicators like THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) and SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) are not publicly available. Compared to the transparency level standards for earphones (THD: below 0.05%, Frequency Response: ±1dB within 20Hz-20kHz), its intentional V-shaped tuning deviates from achieving transparency. Furthermore, the risks of phase issues and acoustic interference from the 16 BA driver configuration are difficult to evaluate without proper measurement data. It is judged that the product does not meet the transparency level based on measurement standards.

Technology Level

\[\Large \text{0.5}\]

While the 16 BA driver configuration is numerically impressive, its technical originality is limited. The BA drivers are likely combinations of off-the-shelf components, and the 3-way crossover design is a common industry approach. The adoption of a silver-plated cable and 0.75mm 2-pin connectors are standard specifications. No notable technological innovations in driver placement optimization or proprietary crossover circuit design are confirmed. Compared to competing products in the same price range, its technical advantages are not clear, and it is evaluated as having an industry-average design level.

Cost-Performance

\[\Large \text{0.9}\]

The market price of the AM16 is approximately 62 USD. Cost-performance should be evaluated based on final measured performance, not on specifications like driver count. In the same price range, products exist that achieve superior measured performance with fewer drivers. For example, the “Truthear ZERO:RED” (approx. 55 USD) is a more rational choice from a fidelity perspective at a lower price. Dividing the competitor’s price (55 USD) by this product’s price (62 USD) results in 55 ÷ 62 ≈ 0.89. The score is near a high level, but this evaluation acknowledges that more affordable, high-performing competitors exist.

Reliability & Support

\[\Large \text{0.4}\]

As an emerging Chinese audio brand, KZ faces reliability challenges compared to established brands with robust warranty and after-sales support systems. Public information regarding long-term durability data and product failure rates is limited. International support and repair services are also opaque compared to traditional audio manufacturers. Even considering it is a budget product, it is judged to be below the industry average in terms of reliability and support.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

\[\Large \text{0.4}\]

The scientific benefits of incorporating 16 BA drivers are not clear. No distinct advantages have been demonstrated that outweigh the risks of phase problems and acoustic interference caused by arranging multiple drivers. The V-shaped tuning is a departure from achieving high-fidelity sound reproduction. It is highly probable that equivalent audio performance could be achieved with fewer drivers or different technical approaches. This design is likely marketing-oriented, emphasizing the numerical impact of “16 drivers” rather than pursuing a rational approach toward achieving transparent-level measurement results.

Advice

While the KZ AM16 is an IEM with the impressive specification of 16 BA drivers, its recommendation is limited from the perspectives of scientific sound quality improvement and design rationality. We strongly recommend that even potential buyers attracted to the multi-driver configuration consider competing products that demonstrate superior measured performance with fewer drivers. For example, a more affordable product like the “Truthear ZERO:RED” offers a sound closer to high fidelity and is a more rational choice from a scientific standpoint. The AM16 should only be considered for applications favoring its high driver count and V-shaped sound signature, and it is not suitable for listeners who prioritize fidelity to the source. We strongly recommend comparing measurement data with alternative products before making a purchase.

(2025.7.27)