Overview

The KZ ZS10 Pro X is an upgraded version of KZ’s popular ZS10 Pro, featuring a hybrid penta-driver configuration with one 10mm dynamic driver and four balanced armature drivers per side. Priced at 33 USD, it represents KZ’s attempt to refine their hybrid technology with custom-tuned 50024 balanced armature units and an enhanced dynamic driver. The earphone maintains KZ’s characteristic alloy faceplate design while incorporating improved recessed 2-pin connectors and silver-plated cables for enhanced durability.

Scientific Validity

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The KZ ZS10 Pro X demonstrates problematic performance characteristics based on available measurement data and manufacturer specifications. While official specifications indicate 29Ω impedance and 112±3dB sensitivity with 20Hz-40kHz frequency response [1], third-party measurements of the predecessor ZS10 Pro reveal significant frequency response deviations: bass boost of +8dB at 100Hz, midrange dip of -5dB at 2-3kHz, and treble peaks reaching +10dB at 8kHz relative to neutral reference, with THD <3% at 100dB SPL and channel mismatch of 2.2dB [2]. These measurements exceed the ±3dB deviation threshold for headphones, placing performance in issue level territory. The ZS10 Pro X’s upgraded drivers may offer improvements, but without comprehensive third-party verification of critical metrics including frequency response linearity, THD performance, and channel matching, the evaluation applies additional deduction for non-verified specifications.

Technology Level

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The ZS10 Pro X employs custom balanced armature drivers using 50024 units, representing an incremental improvement over the previous model’s 2×30095 + 2×50060 configuration [2]. Starting from the base score of 0.5, the hybrid driver implementation demonstrates appropriate contemporary technology combining dynamic and armature drivers. Construction utilizes alloy faceplates with resin cavities and improved recessed 2-pin connectors for enhanced durability [3]. The custom-tuned balanced armature drivers represent proprietary technology development (+0.1), though the overall design approach remains within established hybrid driver paradigms without significant breakthrough innovations. The technology lacks patent differentiation or industry-leading advancement that would attract widespread adoption, maintaining average technology level scoring.

Cost-Performance

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At 33 USD, the KZ ZS10 Pro X faces strong competition from single-driver alternatives with superior measured performance. The Truthear HOLA (19.99 USD) provides equivalent or better functionality with THD ≤0.1% @1kHz (94dB), 11mm dynamic driver with PU+PEEK composite diaphragm, 28Ω impedance, and 120dB/Vrms sensitivity [9]. Equipped with detachable 0.78mm 2-pin cables and 20-20kHz effective frequency response range, the HOLA delivers superior measured distortion performance and equivalent user-facing functionality versus ZS10 Pro X specifications. CP = 19.99 USD ÷ 33 USD = 0.6. The Truthear HOLA demonstrates equivalent functionality with objectively superior THD performance, making it the most cost-effective alternative for achieving similar audio delivery capability.

Reliability & Support

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KZ provides standard 1-year warranty coverage for manufacturing defects [5]. The hybrid driver construction with detachable cables offers reasonable serviceability advantages. However, significant support infrastructure limitations impact reliability assessment. Customer reports indicate poor response rates to support inquiries, with some users experiencing no response when contacting KZ support via email [6]. Regional support varies significantly, with limited service center availability in many markets, requiring customers to visit specific regional offices or return products to China for service [7]. The detachable cable design provides some user-serviceable advantages, but overall reliability is compromised by inadequate global support infrastructure.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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KZ demonstrates measurement-focused development approach emphasizing “sound quality above all else” with systematic driver improvements across model generations [8]. Starting from base score of 0.5, the company’s mission statement prioritizes high-fidelity audio delivery at accessible price points [8] (+0.1 for cost-effectiveness focus). Design costs directly contribute to driver configuration and performance enhancements rather than cosmetic features (+0.1 for functional cost allocation). The progression from previous models shows technical advancement with upgraded drivers and improved construction materials (+0.1 for performance progression). The scientific approach targeting measurable improvements through driver technology upgrades rather than subjective tuning demonstrates rational development methodology (+0.1 for scientific approach). While the approach remains conservative within established hybrid paradigms, the systematic focus on cost-effective performance optimization represents sound design philosophy.

Advice

The KZ ZS10 Pro X presents a mixed value proposition in the competitive budget IEM market. While the hybrid driver configuration with upgraded 50024 balanced armature units and construction quality represent solid engineering effort, the absence of comprehensive independent measurement data creates uncertainty about actual performance versus claims. The V-shaped signature described in user reviews may appeal to bass and treble enthusiasts but potentially deviates from neutral reference. Potential purchasers should consider whether the multi-driver configuration and technical improvements justify the premium over well-measured single-driver alternatives like the Truthear HOLA at lower prices. The limited global support infrastructure also warrants consideration for long-term ownership satisfaction.

References

1. KZ Audio, KZ ZS10 PRO X Official Product Page, https://kz-audio.com/kz-zs10-pro-x.html, accessed 2025-09-14
2. Reference Audio Analyzer, KZ ZS10 Pro Measurement Report, https://reference-audio-analyzer.pro/en/report/hp/kz-zs10pro.php, accessed 2025-09-14
3. Prime Audio Reviews, KZ ZS10 Pro X Review, https://primeaudio.org/kz-zs10-pro-x-review/, accessed 2025-09-14
4. Linsoul Audio, KZ ZS10 PRO X Product Page, https://www.linsoul.com/products/kz-zs10-pro-x, accessed 2025-09-14
5. The Audio Store, KZ ZS10 Pro X IEM Earphones With Mic, https://www.theaudiostore.in/products/kz-acoustics-zs10-pro-x-iem-with-mic, accessed 2025-09-14
6. TechEnclave, Review - KZ Warranty is Fraud, https://techenclave.com/threads/kz-warranty-is-fraud.217712/, accessed 2025-09-14
7. Concept Kart, Warranty Policy, https://conceptkart.com/pages/warranty-policy, accessed 2025-09-14
8. KZ Audio, KZ Earphones Official Website, https://kz-audio.com/, accessed 2025-09-14
9. Amazon, TRUTHEAR HOLA Earphone Dynamic in-Ear Minitors, https://www.amazon.com/Truthear-HOLA-Earphone-Minitors-Interchangeable/dp/B0BRSPNRRD, accessed 2025-09-14

(2025.9.14)