Overview

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The ZiiGaat Estrella is a collaboration between ZiiGaat and Jay’s Audio, featuring a hybrid driver configuration with 2×10 mm dynamic drivers and 4 balanced armature drivers per side. Positioned at 299 USD, it targets listeners seeking powerful bass impact with detailed treble. Premium components include genuine Knowles 29689 and Sonion 2345 full-range BAs plus Sonion E50 super-tweeters with a 3-way crossover and independent sound tubes. [1][2]

Scientific Validity

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Measurements indicate a strong sub-bass emphasis (≈15 dB), substantially elevating the response below 200 Hz beyond transparency thresholds. Independent THD figures are limited; reports suggest the dual-DD arrangement may introduce distortion at higher levels. Isolation is average for passive IEMs; no ANC. While detail retrieval and stage can surpass some single-driver options, the tuning favors impact over neutrality. [6]

Technology Level

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Solid engineering with proven parts (Knowles/Sonion BAs, dual 10 mm PET DDs, 3-way tubes) but no breakthrough innovations. Construction and materials are industry-standard; execution is competent yet conventional.

Cost-Performance

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Including ultra-budget options, the TANGZU Wan’er S.G (detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin, wired IEM) is available at 19 USD and measures closer to neutral targets than Estrella, i.e., equivalent-or-better on FR while matching core functions. [3][4][5] Thus a cheaper substitute exists with equal-or-better measured performance.

CP = MIN(1.0, 19 USD ÷ 299 USD) = 0.063… → 0.1 (rounded to 1 decimal)

For reference, using the 7Hz Salnotes Zero at 22.99 USD yields 22.99 ÷ 299 = 0.077… → 0.1 as well. [7]

Reliability & Support

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ZiiGaat provides a 1-year warranty for the IEM and 3-month coverage for the cable—industry average. Long-term reliability data is still limited for the brand.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The design prioritizes an intentionally boosted low end over measured transparency, conflicting with accurate reproduction goals. For high-fidelity use, this is a significant compromise.

Advice

If you specifically want a bass-forward, fun tuning, Estrella fits that brief. If you value neutrality and measured transparency, prioritize cheaper neutral options like TANGZU Wan’er S.G or other neutral-leaning sets first.

References

1. ZiiGaat — ZiiGaat x Jays Audio ESTRELLA product page, https://www.ziigaat.com/products/ziigaat-x-jays-audio-estrella, accessed 2025-08-16
2. Linsoul — ZiiGaat x Jays Audio ESTRELLA product page, https://www.linsoul.com/products/ziigaat-x-jays-audio-estrella, accessed 2025-08-16
3. Linsoul — TANGZU Wan’er S.G product page (detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin noted), https://www.linsoul.com/products/tangzu-waner-s-g, accessed 2025-08-16
4. Linsoul — Home listing showing Wan’er S.G at 19 USD, https://www.linsoul.com/, accessed 2025-08-16
5. Squiglink — TANGZU Wan’er S.G frequency response, https://boizoff.squig.link/?share=Harman_IE_2019v2_Target%2CTANGZU_Wan-er_SG%2CWaner_SG_Studio_Edition%28TENNMAK_SoFoam_tips%29_%E2%9C%93, accessed 2025-08-16
6. boizoff.com — Measurement DB update (Estrella added), https://boizoff.com/mdu_03_2025/, accessed 2025-08-16
7. Linsoul — 7HZ brand page (Salnotes Zero 22.99 USD), https://www.linsoul.com/collections/7hz, accessed 2025-08-16

(2025.8.16)