One more TFZ IEMs model on my testing bench — My Love Edition which is derived from the famous King Pro series. As the name alludes, this model is positioned by TFZ as a souvenir product. Moreover, color options and use of bijouterie elements in the design tells us that it is aimed towards the female audience. Not sure why exactly this model was chosen to satisfy women taste from the standpoint of the sound, but it definitely won’t be popular among guys. Anyway, the variations of TFZ King Pro is so numerous now that anyone would find something appealing to his or her personal taste.

TFZ My Love Edition technical specifications:

• Type: single dynamic driver IEMs
• Driver: 12mm, double magnetic circuit
• Diaphragm: graphene
• Impedance: 55Ω
• Sensitivity: 108dB/mW
• Frequency response range: 5Hz — 40kHz
• Cable: 1,2m, silver plated
• Cable connectors: 2pin, 0.78mm

TFZ My Love Edition available at PenonAudio store

Packaging, design and build quality:

Love this beatifull white packaging of the King series when IEMs are exposed in the top part of the box. Shiny metallic color of brand logo and name, color choice at the back and additional box inside for the acessories.

In the box you’d find a set of items standard for most of the TFZ lineup:

• TFZ My Love Edition IEMs
• 2pin, 0.78mm audio cable
• cable clip
• 7 pairs of silicone eartips
• soft pouch
• short user manual

Silicone eartips come in two different designs (small and large sound opening) and three size options. One extra (7th pair) has smaller opening and M-size.

Shells are totally made of plastic with pearl-like paint (small shiny particles added to the paint) which adds the depth to any color option. My set is a combination of cyan bases and white top covers.

Alignment of those two parts is perfect with no visible gap between the elements. Moreover, besides the brand logos, top covers are given one extra design element that looks like a gemstone that addresses the female audience and makes the overall design more expressive.

Channel indicators and model names are printed on the inner sides of the bases and seem to be protected by the varnish layer (as well as other printed elements).

Two compensational openings per channel: one of the top cover and another one close to the output nozzle which are protected with aluminum grills.

There is one thing that I would call an imperfection — bases are also consisting of two molded parts which are glued together. Junction of parts is not polished and you can see a thin line under the layer of lacquer.

Stock cable is made of silver plated copper wires packed into soft silicone braid. Equipped with aluminum Y-splitter / audio jack housing and transparent plastic connectors with channel indicators. Mic effect is almost absent.

Fit: 

Considering that My Love model belongs to custom-like shaped IEMs — there should be absolutely no problems with the fit for most of the people. Flexible earguides and quite long output nozzles would also help to maintain the best position and the most comfortable feel.

Sound quality:

Tested with HiBy R6Pro DAP

Lows and midbass:

What My Love IEMs worth the attention for is their bass appeal. The sound of this model is constructed around deep and wide lows with more than average bass detalization. It flows to the sides, fills the space and widens the stage. The accent on lows is evident which also results in dark signature of the entire sounding and sometimes even overtakes and shadows the other ranges. Not dramatically, though. Such elevation of the lower portion makes this IEMs sound quite thick and warm. Midbass has also gained from the bass influence and highlights lower portion more than medium or small toms. Although, the last two still capable of revealing the full potential through very tight and springy hits necessary to expose drums naturally and engaging.

Mids and vocals:

Mids do sound thick and dense with a slight feel of being congested in the instrument section. Voices are pretty close to the listener, female vocals are smoothed out with the overall warmth and also given the full-bodied perception. More resolution is perceptible on the instruments of the higher mids but the detalization can be defined as only slightly better than just a moderate. Can’t say that the instrument sepration is perfect as they tend to mix and show some lack of space inbetween. But the overall performance on mids is pretty smooth and is polishing out all roughness and sparkling notes of screaming vocals or inappropriate recording.

Treble:

Treble gets the least of attention in the sound of My Love Edition IEMs. Don’t get it wrong — it is normally exposed and doesn’t sound scarce. It is about the extension, airy representation and transparency that are all quite moderate. On the other hand, the missing delicacy is compensated by the balanced presence, absence of sibilants and sufficient clarity. It manages to keep the appropriate integrity of the sound spreading its influence to raise the perceptible resolution.

Soundstage:

The imaginary soundstage of TFZ My Love Edition is moderate. Good stage width defined by the volumetric presence of lows but the depth is lacking the space and layering between the instruments and ranges. No reveals here.

Sound in overall:

The sound of TFZ My Love Edition IEMs could be described as pretty dark with evident accent on lows, good bass extension and texturing, tight and engaging midbass, thick and warm mids, simplified but sufficient treble. Good for slow music genres with small amount of instruments and where the dense sound is a preference.

Compared to BQEYZ KB100:

BQEYZ KB100 are much brighter with more spacious and emotional sound. Its bass is not as deep, wide and filling as TFZ My Love Edition but the treble is much more detailed and extended. TFZ My Love, on its turn, generate more warm and thick sound, giving more body to each instrument or voice. Fit is also more comfortable.

Compared to LZ HiFI Z05A:

Z05A and TFZ My Love are pretty close in terms of thickness and density of the sound. Although, Z05A pereceives as more balanced since the lows are not that accented. Deep bass reach is less impressive while the treble is similarly clear but simplified. TFZ My Love have much better fit and sound darker.

Compared to PaiAudio DR2:

Both models have dark tonality with warm timbre, thick mids and simplified treble. Both have very good fit. The main advantage of TFZ My Love is higher resolution throughout all ranges and more dense sound. DR2 is producing larger soundtage with better layering and instrument separation.

Conclusion:

TFZ My Love Edition definitely belongs to dark sounding bassy IEMs with less emotional but more dense sound picture. If to consider that this model addresses mostly the female audience with its design — she should be quite experienced in listening with a mature taste in sound. Unpretentious and light compositions should pass by as not the intended material. This model is worth to consider if the representative of the beautiful half of humanity has clearly defined her preference — slow genre / high quality music. In this case, the visual aesthetics would be the additional bonus and IEMs would really turn into perfect present.

TFZ My Love Edition available at PenonAudio store

Starting to get lost in the significant amount of IEMs produced by such prolific brand as TFZ. One of their least expensive model with non-detachable cable and bullet-like shape is Balance 1 which should produce balanced and mellow sound according to the official description. This would be the first budget IEMs by TFZ in my hands. Hope that this model would not fall short of the expectations cause warm and mellow sound was always my preference.

TFZ Balance 1 technical specifications:

• Type: dynamic driver IEMs
• Driver: 9mm driver with dual magnetic circuit, 2-way crossover
• Diaphragm: graphene
• Impedance: 16Ω
• Sensitivity: 106dB/mW
• Frequency response range: 5Hz-40kHz
• Lowest power: 8mW
• Audio jack: 3.5mm, straight
• Cable: 1.2m, OFC

TFZ Balance 1 available at PenonAudio store

Packaging, design and build quality:

TFZ Balance 1 IEMs are shipped in a small and attractive box with cororful graphics, brand logos and model name. Short description is stated on the back side of the box. This box is much more compact to what TFZ designs for more expensive models and much less sturdy. Anyway, IEMs came unharmed, thanks to the 2 additional boxes for IEMs and accessories found inside.

Box contents:

• TFZ Balance 1 IEMs with integrated audio cable
• 7 pairs of silicone eartips
• pouch
• user manual

Soft pouch is pretty standard for the most of TFZ IEMs as well as a full set of silicone eartips of different sizes and in two different designs.

Balance 1 shells are made of aluminum with unibody construction. Therefore, no joints between the parts and very stiff feel. Design features partially ribbed surface, model name, channel indication and TFZ logos on the back side.

Two compensational opening / channel, one is near the sound output and another is near the cable. Output channels are protected by the aluminum grills. Cable has bending protection protruding from the shells for ~0.5cm.

Unfortunately, cable is not detachable. Good news is that it seems to be quite durable due to the thick silicone braid and high quality furniture all around. Besides, it is OFC, shared with other more expensive models and, hopefully, would live a long life and serve you well.

Fit: 

No probs as always. Bullet-like shape is the second best type of IEM shells that would fit most of the ears. IEMs are not heavy, output channel length is pretty long — not finding anything negative to talk about here apart from the mic effect. It is pretty severe when cable touches cheekbones or clothes. Not as evident and fades aways as the music volume gets higher.

Sound quality:

Tested with HiBy R6Pro DAP

Lows and midbass:

This range sound pretty accurated and rather collected — not flowing far to the sides. Boundaries of the bass are clearly outlined and the texturing is evident. Although, the extension and volumetric feel is not that great. Lows might sound a bit obscured by the mids that are brought to front and have higher gain. The maturity of the sound picture doesn’t suffer too much from that as the bass stays perceprtible at all times and makes a good supplement. It just has slightly lower presence then mids or treble but still capable of showing the significant texturing and providing a good weight to the body of mids.

Midbass is generally doing well, sounding naturally and balanced. No peaking notes and no bright influence from treble. Drums sound engaging, assertiveness and dynamics are equally good.

Mids and vocals:

The most of the accent in Balance 1 is shared between mids and treble which seem to have similar gain and presence. Mids are brought to front, have full-bodied sound which is also can be defined as «thick». Female vocals are not shouting even with the highest notes and sound in overall has that sweet mellow feel. A little bit of pepper is added by the treble potion in a form of extra resolution on strings where you can hear the additional overtones and sparkles. Voices don’t have this much of detalization and the resolving potential in overall is moderate. Same goes to instrument separation — they might tend to mix at higher volume. To cunclude this part — mids feel thick, mellow and natural, with very slight amount of extra sharpness added by the treble.

Treble:

Treble is surprisingly detailed, gentle and accurate. Extension and clarity goes far beyound of what you’d expect from budget dynamic model. It doesn’t even sound too thick and sketchy. There are some tiny nuances that are made perceptible, reasonable accent and influence at other ranges. Sweet amount and wise tuning of treble with no negative effect in a form of extra brightness or sibilants.

Soundstage:

Huge soundstage is not among the virtues of Balance 1 model, unfortunately. Stage feels from moderate to narrow, depending of the amount of bass in the track and sound volume. As the volume gets higher — instruments start to mix. Less bassy track also means more narrow stage. Wouldn’t call Balance 1 bad in this respect, but far from being the best as well.

Sound in overall:

TFZ Balance 1 sound can be described as pretty balanced, tending slightly to a brighter tonality, with clear and texured lows, punchy midbass, standing out, thick and mellow mids, clear and extended treble. Soundstage is moderate. Good with any genres and music with small amount of instruments.

Compared to BQEYZ KB100:

BQEYZ KB100 are still my favorite IEMs in <$50 price range. They have the advantage of being a hybrid model with BA units responsible for more extended and detailed treble. Dynamic driver also does a perfect job of reproducing lows and adding thickness and warmth to mids. It also results in larger soundstage and better instrument separation. Balance 1, in its turn, are less bright, more thick on mids and have more comfortable fit.

Compared to Tanchjim Cora:

Cora and Balance 1 shows pretty similar behavior and sound tuning. Both have textured and accurate lows with quite thick mids and surprisingly good and extended treble. But IEMs from TFZ are the clear winner here due to a much better fit.

Compared to PaiAudio DR2:

DR2 have less treble clarity and more extension on lows instead. They sound darker. DR2 also have better instrument separation, layering and much wider stage. Moreover, their fit is more comfortable. Balance 1 have better treble extension, less bass boost and sound more balanced in general.

Conclusion:

The amount of positive qualities of TFZ Balance 1 IEMs in terms of materials, fit and sound quality positions it next to my favorite and more expensive hybrid model in <$50 price segment. Imaginary stage size and sub bass might have been better but the rest of the properties are all good: pretty balanced and mature sound consisting of textured lows, musical and mellow mids, clear and extended treble. Balance 1 is a good choice for any kind of music genre and a good companion for everyday use. Aluminum unibody construction and comfortable shape would also dedicate much to the overall positive experience. Once again TFZ has proven themselves to be reliable brand in IEMs with the consistent audio and build quality, no matter the price range.

TFZ Balance 1 available at PenonAudio store

TFZ — short of The Fragrant Zither — probably the most productive IEM brand from China. Lots of interesting models for different taste and wallet. Looking at the lineup — it seems that TFZ is mostly concentrated on dynamic models and rarely uses other types or drivers or its combinations. Focusing and mastering a chosen technology is the source of success of TFZ series, no matter the price brackets. My experience with this brand covers King Pro, Tequila, No.3, X1, X1E and My Love IEMs. Either of those deserves an «A» score or solid «B», at least. Only No.3 have some controversial results but its successor — TFZ No.3 Ti — got very warm welcome from the community. Hope that I’d get a chance to review it one day but today’s topic is Secret Garden HD — 12mm single dynamic driver IEMs packed in the most comfortable custom-type shells.

TFZ Secret Garden HD technical specifications:

• Driver type: 12mm double magnetic circuit graphene driver
• Impedance: 30Ω
• Sensitivity: 108dB mW
• Frequency response range: 5Hz — 40KHz
• Audio jack: 3.5mm, straight, gold-plated
• Cable connectors: 2-pin, 0.78mm

TFZ Secret Graden HD available at PenonAudio store

Packaging, design and build quality:

Secret Garden IEMs come in pretty small square-shaped box that states main technical specifications at the back side. Traditionally for TFZ — prints include shiny part with brand logo.

Box compartment is divided into three layers: top insert holding IEMs, box with cable in the middle and storage case with the additional accessories at the bottom.

Box contents:

• Secret Garden HD IEMs
• audio cable
• 6 pairs of silicone eartips
• 1 pair of memory foam eartips
• storage case
• user manual

Storage case is pretty standard — this design is shared across many brands, the only change is the brand logo at the top cover. Concerning the spread, there should be a third-party vendor that designs, manufactures and supplies such accessories to diferent companies. But the design is good — plenty of space inside and secure lock mechanism.

In overall, the design of Secret Graden HD IEMs is very close to be perfect. Unibody shells are made of acryl. Transparent front exposes aluminum inserts underneath with tiny but accurate brand logo and model name. Inner parts contain serial numbers in gold.

The rest of the shells are glossy black except for the compensational opening at the top edge outlined by decorative aluminum rings.

Sound output nozzles are protected by aluminum grills. Cable port bases are made of transparent plastic and rise above the surface for ~1.5mm. This serves a role of the additional protection against cable connector bending and breaking off.

Stock cable is thick, made of 4 twisted lines in black silicone braid. 3.5mm audio jack is packed into aluminum housing and ends up with pretty long bending protection. Y-splitter is made of black plastic and also contains TFZ brand logo. On the opposite side, cable ends with flexible transparent earguides and plastic housings of IEM connectors. Mic effect is absent.

Fit:

Once again — I think that this type of «custom» shells is the best current option mass market has to offer. Secret Garden HD might look bulky but the fit comfort and feel are excellent, thanks to that custom shape and flexible supports.

Sound quality:

Tested with Hidizs AP80 & HiBy R6Pro DAPs

Lows and midbass:

Main strength of Secret Garden HD IEMs is the amount of textures those IEMs are capable to resolve in lower region together with the accurate and weighted delivery. Depth of bass is not outstanding but the accuracy and detalization are both very satisfying. Lows are not overpowered or overemphasized — just the right amount. Separation from the other ranges is also good and bass always stays perfectly legible. Midbass portion sounds powerful and natural with enough volume and pleasing tightness while reproducing drums. Some rare harsh peaks are spotted in certain compositions, while in the most of the others — everything is perfectly controlled.

Mids and vocals:

Mids are a bit laid back in comparison to lows and treble while staying pretty thick and showing very small gain advance on female vocals and upper portion instrumetns. Seems that the «HD» suffix stands for increased treble that would create the additional (artificial) clarity and resolution on mids. Yes, the resolution is pretty high, especially on female voices, strings and bows but the negative outcome is the presence of screaming notes at higher volume levels. In general, this won’t become a problem unless a person is too susceptible to this range or the track is originally recorded with the excessive gain on treble range. Other than that — natural sounding, warm and thick mids with good «mellow» effect, pleasing for the genres like blues, jazz, soul, vocals, etc.

Treble:

As already been stated — treble is a bit more accented here in comparison to mids and sound on the same level as lows. With slow music genres everything is good — clarity, airiness and detalization are high, making sound picture complete and mature. Although, going higher on volume or switching to instrument-saturated music treble would expose some flaws — sounds start to mix together and to cast the excessive influence on upper portion of mids which leads to screaming notes on female vocals and some instrumetns.

Soundstage:

Secret Garden HD IEMs demonstarte good layering and instrument separation in lows and mids while treble is playing a distuctive role at higher volume and brakes the whole perception. With blues, jazz and slow rock everything stays fine — moderate soundtage with defined width and depth… trying metal or orchestra — hard to build the imaginary stage due to mixing of the instruments.

Sound in overall:

Sound of TFZ Secret Garden HD can be described as slightly V-shaped, with defined, texured and shaped bass, laid-back and mellow mids, slightly accented and well extended treble. Particularly good for slow music genres with limited amount of instruments. Tend to mix sounds at higher volumes.

Comapred to LZ HIFI A6Mini:

LZ A6Mini are hybrid IEMs based on single dynamic + piezo driver that adds the resolution and clarity to the sound. In fact, the sound of A6Mini is more detailed and crisp on treble, also forcing mids to sound more thin and vivid. The main advantages of Secret Garden is the texturing of lows with more accurate delivery. And much better fit.

Compared to SHOZY & NEO CP:

CPs are pure armature dirver IEMs with exceptional resolving potential in mids and treble parts but limited extension on bass. Secret Garden HD are more capable in terms of lows (more powerful and natural), midbass (more natural) but lack the extension and accuracy on treble. Both sound quite balanced, mellow and thick.

Compared to Moondrop Kanas PRO:   

Kanas PRO staying one of the best IEMs concerning its price. I would say that Secret Garden cannot move Kanas from the pedestal in terms of sound quality but definitely much better in terms of fit. Sound os Kanas PRO is more mature, with better layering and separation and showing no tendency to mix instruments.

Conclusion:

TFZ Secret Garden HD — another example of how the name resembles the sound quailty and purpose of IEMs. «HD» suffix clearly states the accent on treble that increases the perceptible resolution but skewes the entire balance towards V-shaped sound. Secret Garden in its name remids of quiet and slow music those IEMs are really better off with. Any slow genre with limted amount of instruments sounds smooth, natural and mature. Blues, slow rock, jazz, soul, launge — this is the genres perfectly reproduced and which TFZ Secret Garden HD are recommended for.

TFZ Secret Graden HD available at PenonAudio store

World goes wireless. Despite the resistance of true audiophiles towards it and lower sound quality in overall — most of us would still end up with over-the-air headphones, eventually. The choice between having the best possible SQ and the most convenient type of use is always leaning towards the latter. With the development of the latest lossless BT audio codecs many audio fans would also give up to unravel the wire. For me, personally, listening sessions and simple musical content consumption are two completely different disciplines — first requiring audiophile grade sound over wires, while the other is more about the universal use. Truthfully speaking, after having tried X1 — first BT wireless IEMs by a respected TFZ brand — my search of IEMs for everyday use, content consumption and phone conversations is over…

TFZ X1 available at PenonAudio store

TFZ X1 technical specifications:

• Driver type: Balanced Armature
• Frequency response range: 20Hz — 20000Hz
• Bluetooth version: BT5.0
• BT codecs: A2DP AVRCP HFP SPP PBAP
• Bluetooth distance: ≤20m
• Intelligent noise reduction
• IPX7 waterproof
• Call time: 5-7hours
• Charging case battery: 2600mA
• IEMs recharge in case:  15 times
• Earphones battery: 3.7V 60mA*2
• Charging time: ≤2 hours
• Mic: -42db
• LED light color: Red-blue
• Additional functions: memory matching, automatic interconnection, binaural calls, volume control
• Size: 76x30x45mm
• Weigh: 4.6g

Packaging, design and build quality:

TFZ X1 comes in a white box with TFZ brand  and product name printed in metallic blue at the front. Back side contains product picture, all available color options and your current choice. Box is heavy… Much heavier than you’d expect from a pair of IEMs.

Inside the box there is a layer retaining X1 case and covering the rest of the accessories.

Box contents:

• TFZ X1 IEMs
• X1 case
• MicroUSB -> USB A cable
• 8 pairs of silicone eartips
• user manual

Case is not only for storing but also acts as a charging cradle for X1 IEMs. It is a masterpience from any standpoint: design is beautiful, build quality is perfect, made of annodized aluminum… I can continue this list forever.

This cradle plays an important role — it is the only charging option for X1, provides up to 15 full charges and secures IEMs from damages, scratches or loss. It has foldable structure with smooth functioning reliable aluminum bracket and top cover retaining magnet.

Inner part is made of precisely molded plastic, has special IEM cavities with the magnetic charging pins. Therefore, IEMs are also secured inside the cradle with the magnetic force — charging continues even if the cradle is placed upside down.

Cradle is quite heavy due to 18650 cell (or something similar) under the hood and makes a feel of cold and solid device in your hand. Funny thing that it seems that I love the cradle more than I like the complete product, at least — aesthetically.

X1 shells are made of two parts: plastic top cover and a base. Top cover shares the same color and rough surface with the cradle. Such elements as white TFZ brand name prints, LED indicator, microphone opening + counter mic opening and two buttons per channel are situated there.

Sound output nozzles are a part of the base and protected by aluminum grills. Base also contains 3 magnetic pin pads for charging. Of course, no cable ports are available (wonder when manufacturers would start to use this idea — providing both types of connections — wireless and wired — in the same IEMs).

Fit:

My first experience with wireless IEMs (for example Xiaomi MI Mini) was not that great due to terrible fit. First — I couldn’t find the best eartip or position, worring that I would loose it one day.  It also produced some vacuum effect and caused the headache after couple of hours. Since than, I have decided that wireless IEMs should consit of L|R channels instead of using mono devices and that the ergonomics must be close to perfect. TFZ X1 is a good choice for me. Stock set of eartips allows to have a secure fit, shape is quite comfortable and the weight is totally ok. At least, X1 is not trying to jump out. I have already spent 2 weeks with X1, doing common tasks — no pain, no loss, not even a single attempt to be lost. Having 2 channels solves the problem of headaches when your brain (or third ear) cannot adapt to the vacuum effect on only one side. The only problem that is common for wireless IEMs equipped with the buttons — button press is not that easy and would push the output nozzles deeper inside the ear channels. Good practice is to switch to sensor type button like used in similar AKG IEMs.

X1 in operation:

Charging the cradle takes about 3 hours if IEMs are out or fully charged. There is a microUSB charging port located on the right side of the cradle and small red LED indicator to inform of the status.

Another green|red LED is located inside the cradle, between the charging cavities. This LED informs about the charging state of IEMs. Since the battery in each channels is only 60mAh — charging is done quite fast and IEMs are ready to be used for another 7 hours.

Moreover, it is not necessary to use both channels simultanously. If using it as BT hadnsfree IEM for the phone calls — either one could do the trick while the other rests in cradle. Literally, this doubles the battery life for phone calls and reaches up to 14 hours. And, what is most important — there is a certain software logics behind that: if you take out only one IEM from the cradle — it powers on and connects to your phone in mono mode. If taking out both — both channels would be functional. If you would like to take both IEMs out and use only one — just switch the other one off with the help of the power button located on each of the channels…

Just to summarize possible usage scenarios:

• a set of X1 IEMs could be used for regular stereo audio or binaural phone calls
• either one channel can be used for music or as BT handsfree unit in mono mode since it has own buttons, battery and two mics
• charging can be done simultanously for both IEMs + cradle, separately for each device or in any other combination

Pairing with the regular Android-based smartphone happens very fast, charge level is available in the status bar upon connection, operation is smooth and totally glitch-free. Didn’t notice any problems, unexpected disconnections, radio interference or other bugs during two weeks of heavy everyday use.

Maximum volume level is more than enough in comparison to regular type of BT handsfree units by Jabra, Platronics, etc. BTW — there is a female voice with language options that informs about the working and charging state of IEMs.  Information about switching to different language is located in the user manual.

Working distance that X1 is capable of is ~20m in openspace and ~10 meters in highly crowded office area. That are the best figures that I’ve managed to acquire.

Sound quality:

I would not go deep into details here. Why? Because I treat TFZ X1 as convenient BT handsfree unit with the possibility to play music whenever required. Furthermore, the list of BT audio codec doesn’t include the most advanced ones such as aptX, LDAC or UAT. It means that audio quality would always hang behind good and wired IEMs.

Anyway, the impression about the sound quality is very positive, in overall. Even despite the absence of lossless codecs, TFZ has managed to provide clear, balanced and detailed sound that perfectly hides wireless nature of X1 IEMs. Lows are well-exposed, don’t stand out too much, mids are full-bodied and detailed, treble is kind of limited in extension but still clear and enjoyable. Most of the clarity, detalization and overall balance comes from the choice and tuning of good BA drivers.

Dynamic BT IEMs would usually sound worse due to multiplying the initial flaws of wireless encoding and transmission (interference, noise, limited treble extension, limited resolution). BA drivers, instead, help to mask out most of the problems and provide mostly pleasing experience even for an experienced person with trained ears like me. Haven’t noticed sound being harsh, moody or unnatural. Everything is smooth and enjoyable.

One more important thing to mention in SQ section is the quality of voice calls. TFZ X1 shine in that — noise canceling function work very well in various conditions. Even if you drive a car with the opened window — the other party doesn’t have any problems hearing what you say. At the same time, the voice of the other party is always clear, natural and loud. This is the best BT unit for voice calls so far, if to compare to similar products from Xiaomi, AKG, Samsung, etc. Usually, such devices would suffer much more from voice interruptions, radio interference and other unexpected audio problems.

Conclusion:

What I like about TFZ company is that they don’t try to release raw product before conducting all necessary tests. X1 IEMs is a quite sophisticated and mature product in terms of build quality, usage scenarios, firmware stability and solid user experience. Can’t tell that its main purpose is to satisfy the audiophiles but it perfectly fits the demands of everyday use. Voice calls are clear, noise free and stable. Even the resulting music quality of regular BT codecs is compensated by the rich and detailed sound of high-quality balanced armature drivers. No surprise why TFZ X1 became «indispensable» assistant for me since the first day of use. Surely, this product would carry on helping me out in different situations in future.

TFZ X1 available at PenonAudio store

Even during the high season saturated with many activities and lots of work in my main business (motorcycles), can’t miss the chance to play with TFZ Tequila 1 and share the opinion about this unexpectedly good model of IEMs. Rarely there is a chance to find IEMs that would greatly differ soundwise and appeal towards bassheads in the best sense of this word. It is common for overheads that entry level models would hide all shortcomings of limited capabilities behind huge amount of lows, but TFZ Tequila 1, despite high accent on bass, is definitely not the case. This model belongs to newest luxury series of TFZ IEMs (TFZLux) and gives odds to many more expensive models.

TFZ Tequila 1 technical specifications:

Specification

• Driver type: dual-magnetic two-way graphene driver
• Magnet: NdFeB N50
• Diaphragm diameter: 8.9mm
• Voice coil material: copper clad aluminum wire
• Frequency response range: 5Hz ~ 40KHz
• Harmonic distortion: 0.7%
• Impedance: 20Ω
• Sensitivity: 105dB
• Cable connectors: 2pin, 0.78mm
• Wire: cores 4x18x0.05 5N, OFC, high flexibility transparent PVC
• Color options: green, red, blue, red+blue

Other features:

• Ultra-large sound field, large dynamic transients
• Aluminum CNC processed shell

Buy TFZ Tequila 1 in PenonAudio store. 

Packaging, design and build quality:

TFZ Tequila 1 box has its own unique design and doesn’t share any similarities with King or SG series. It has matt black slipcover that hides white box with transparent protective top underneath.

Not much of information, except for the shiny silver brand and product name plus the sticker with color option.

Tequila IEMs rest in special openings of the top foamy podium while all of the accessories are located beneath.

Box contents:

• Tequila IEMs
• audio cable
• storage case
• 7 pairs of silicone eartips
• 1 pair of memory foam eartips
• 3.5mm jack protective cover

Storage case looks very familiar — another type supplied by third party vendors and commonly used by many manufacturers. Very good build quality and secure locking mechanism.

If anyone is also into another great hobby of radio controlled models as I am — you have probably noticed the similarities in the design on Tequila 1 shells and current lineup of brushless motors for racing quads:

I understand that this is only a peculiar coincidence but couple of my friends have already asked me what type of motors are those  ?

Shells are made of CNC aluminum and have golden insterts in the middle with brand name and serial number imprints.

All joints are very neat, no spacing between the elements. Openings at the back are protected by nylon lathing and I guess that those serve a purpose of making bass more open (like in open back overheads).

Output nozzles end up with 3 openings and special sockets for securing eartips at place.

Transparent plastic 2pin cable connectors are externally placed, have very tight cable fit and no free play whatsoever.

Stock cable looks pretty nice: OFC, aluminum audio jack housing, flexible earguides, transparent plastic connector housings and good banding protection. Seems that this cable is somewhere inbetween stock King II series and TFZ TC-3 upgrade cable in terms of build quality.

Fit:

Tequila IEMs looks to be heavy and feels heavy (in fact  ) Shape is quite strange and don’t add much to the overall comfortability either. Despite that, thanks to good stock cable earguides, this model is not a disaster and feel more or less ok especially in not trying to run or excercise. Yes, you need to get used to Tequila fit and to find the best position but it would become fine, eventually. But remember that there are many other models out there with much better fit.

Sound quality:

Tested with HiBy R6Pro DAP

Lows and midbass:

Main characteristic of Tequila 1 sound can be exressed in one word — bassy. Bass has quite heavy presence with good amount of texturing and details. It fills the scene width and sometimes even tends to mask the less evident midrange. Bassheads would probably love these, but too much of bass to my own liking. The good thing is that it is detailed and not too obscure… Yes, it is overemphasized but also discloses some new details which have been shadowed by other models with less bass-heavy tuning. It also feels quite open and rich instead of being too dark and conjested. But the entire feel of lows is as if the scene got rearranged and backstage instruments like bass guitars have been brought to front.

On the other hand, midbass is decent in terms of speed, power and drive. Puchy sound with more than enough volume and air.

Mids and vocals:

There is an evident recession of mid portion and voices in comparison to lows and treble. Voices sound a bit distant but at the same time have pretty good thickness due to enourmous amount of lows. Female voices are more exposed, emotional and accented, although not overly crisp and shouting. «HD» description of Tequila 1 gets evident here — resolution is pretty high for one dynamic driver model which is affecting mostly female vocals, strings and horns. The entire picture is kept in good balance between warmth and virtual higher detalization caused by the influence of treble. Although, it might have been even better if mids were more exposed in overall. Sometimes, in bass-heavy tracks lows might overlap and shadow out some instruments in mids.

Treble:

Very satisfying and even surprising experience. It would be hard to guess whiсh driver technology does this model belong to in a blind test. Treble is very bright, crisp, fast and clean which is very close to armature models. Only in some benchmarks for treble you’d get the understanding that it is not really catching up but for the most of the tracks it performs surprisingly good. Not so delicate and extended as in respected armature IEMs but quite competing. This range is also overexposed and accented to the extent of balancing the overemhasized lows.

Soundstage:

Good soundstage width derived from volumetric bass and airy treble. But not that good depth due to mixing between lows and mids while the bass is also trying to constantly overlap with other ranges. In some less bassy tracks lows are perfectly layered but when it gets to more bass presence in a track — it shifts forward and narrows the scene depth.

Sound in overall:

TFZ Tequila 1 sound can be described as V-shaped, warm and bassy, with good bass texturing, very good mids and treble resolution, recessed mids and emhasized, clean and crisp treble.

Compared to Whizzer Kylin:

Very close models in terms of approach towards tuning and overall sound. Similarly overexposed lows, accented and crisp teble and recessed mids. Althoug, Kylin have less bassy feels in overall but the bass it produces suffer more from being too slow and feels more disconnected from the rest of the ranges. It is also less textured and more moody. At the same time, Kylin’s treble is more extended and even more transparent and airy. Fit-wise, both IEMs are not great while Tequila feels a little bit better… I can live with that, at least.

Compared to iKKO OH1:

iKKO OH1 feel more balanced (surprise, isn’t it?  ) in overall — less emphasis on lows and treble and better layering between the instruments and ranges. Tequila feels much warmer and less shouting on female vocals. Resolution of both models is close to each other with OH1 behaving slightly better detalization due to hybrid driver combination.

Compared to DB Monroe:

DB Monroe are warm and bassy dynamic IEMs with better fit and more balanced sound. Bass depth and presence is not that huge as well as the treble is not that accented. On the other hand — DB suffer from less resolution in overall, less bass texturing and a bit moody sound due to lack of treble. Those IEMs are much closer to other balanced dynamic models in comparison to highly deviating nature of Tequila 1.

Conclusion:

TFZ Tequila 1 should be considered as one of the most interesting IEMs by the bassheads and other fans of warmth in sound without sacrificing bright and crisp reproduction of treble. If V-shaped tuning is of a personal preference — Tequila 1 is a good representative, also delivering high resolution in mids and good texturing on lows. In fact, haven’t heard any rivals with such interesting combination of sound characteristics and only a few shortcomings. At one hand you get bassy and warm sound and on the other — evidently high amount of micro details with armature-like feel on treble. Such interesting experience and fun sound override the imperfection while forcing to return to Tequila 1 over and over again…

Buy TFZ Tequila 1 in PenonAudio store. 

Another take on TFZ (The Fragrant Zither) brand and their single dynamic driver IEMs — No.3. Last time I have been dealing with TFZ King Exclusive Upgraded dynamic IEMs and was quite impressed with the clarity of treble and amount of lows a single driver of this type can reproduce. Let’s see how this model would do…

Prior to start, we would like to share some of TFZ brand (which stands for The Fragrant Zither) background. This brand was found in year 2015 by a group of audio enthusiasts whose idea was the product personalization and precise niche targeting. Since that time, TFZ has managed to release more than 15 products and their subsequent versions in IEMs and overheads categories, whereas sales of some of those are measured in thousands (like KING, for example). Currently, TFZ is not only selling in more than 30 countries, but also cooperating closely with professional musicians and music bands which derives the further experience for this brand in audio equipment design and tuning. Furthermore, TFZ won Japanese VGP award twice (you can find the record about that on VGP website). This award is given for the best innovations, market developement or most popular products.

Consequently, we would consider TFZ brand as already matured that automatically shift our expectation a bit higher.

You can buy TFZ No.3 at PenonAudio store

TFZ No.3 technical specifications:

• Driver: 11.4mm double cavity & voice coils, tesla magnetic group
• Magnet material: NdFeB N50
• Diaphragm: diamond diaphragm
• Frequency response range: 5Hz-40kHz
• Impedance: 20Ω
• Sensitivity: 108dB
• Cable connectors: 2pin, 0.78mm
• Cable: 1.2m, silver-plated cable, 3.5mm jack

Packaging, design and build: 

TFZ No.3 comes in tall white box with brand logo, name and contact data imprints which is a standard for TFZ packaging.

IEMs are held in place by the soft top insert, cable and additional accessories are located in separate smaller boxes.

Box contents:

• TFZ No.3 IEMs
• audio cable with 3.5mm jack and 2pin, 0.78mm connectors
• 7 pairs of silicone eartips
• cable clip
• soft protective pouch
• short user manual

Absolutely love the look of  No.3 IEMs… Transparent plastic body exposing the hardware part was always more attractive for me than anything else. I would not trade that even for stainless steel as long as the sound would not be improved.

Presence of metallic layer with surface grinding and model name under the top cover is another good design element that makes transparent case less vulgar   Anyway, driver and its veins are still exposed through the transparent inner side.

Shells are made of two parts but you would hardly see the joint and there is no gap whatsoever. I’ve also been able to find two tiny compensational openings per each channel. One is located above the central part of the driver and another one is shifted to the top edge.

Sound output nozzles are made of aluminum, covered with aluminum mesh and look as if held by thread. No chance to screw it out cause it is glued at place (pity, isn’t it?).

Channel indicators are printed on the inner parts of the shells.

2pin connector bases are stiff, don’t have any free play and stand out from the shells. Сorresponding cable connectors fit nicely, thanks to the special sockets in their housings. This design works better than having flat connector bases and provides better protection from the side load.

Stock cable features very thick semi-transparent braid, silver-plated cores, sringy earguides, aluminum jack, Y-splitter and length limiter housings and connectors made of transparent plastic. Mic effect is not an obvious issue here.

Fit:

Natural shape, low weight, fairly thin profile and good earguides provide quite comfortable fit with the moderate level of outer noise isolation. Fit might be even better with less resilient earguides that tend to pull IEMs up but this is easy to improve by heating earguides and giving it more comfortable shape.

Sound quality:

Tested with HiBY R6Pro & Hidizs AP80 DAPs

Lows and midbass:

Lows are undoubtely the most developed and accented range of TFZ No.3 IEMs. Bass reach is deep, extension is quite impressive. It is not too fast but not too slow either to sound detached. Despite quite big amount of presence the resolution and textring are only moderate — bass is kind of diffused, bleeding and might overshadow other ranges. Such bass behavior clearly influences the overall tonality and makes IEMs sound fairly warm and dark. Bassheads would appreciate 

Midbass is decent — powerful, tight and full bodied. Same moderate speed of lows does affect drum articulation and dynamics but it doesn’t make drum sound less engaging. Warmth and thickness created by the bass influence and secondary role of the treble result in rare but interesting drum reproduction with the emphasis on volumetric parameters of soundstage.

Mids and vocals:

Mids have been tuned to sound stirking and emotional by elevating upper mid range and lowering the opposite range. Consequently, male vocals sound a bit thin and distant whereas female vocals are brought to front, better exposed and feel more appealing. This sometimes leads to a bit of shouting and harsh peaks with female singers that would greatly depend of the quality of recording and audio source tonality. Apart from that, midrange is quite warm and show good resolution for a dynamic driver. Most of the instruments have enough room and defined boundaries and would not tend to mix. I would prefer upper mids to be less agressive and vivid to call those IEMs trully warm.

Treble:

In contrary to TFZ KING series, treble is the least present and accented range here. Feels to be located behind both — lows and mids, also influenced by the lower end and sometimes even gets overshadowed in the most bass-heavy tracks. Teble and especially its lower range is enough here to supplement and enrich the sound but not quite enough to add the exceptional clarity or transparency in order to neutralize the emphasis of bass. Therefore, treble extension and presence are moderate and might require to play with different eartips for those who like more crispness or brigtness (silicone eartips would sound righter than foamy ones). TFZ No.3 are definitely made as an opposing and warm sound towards bright KING series.

Soundstage:

Scene width and depth are more than average due to deep and volumetric lows, good instrument separation in mids and exposed female vocals. It might been even larger if treble had more gain but this would also change the entire tonality and make No.3 IEMs less distinguashable from the rest of the gang.

Sound in overall:

TFZ No.3 sound can be described as fairly warm and dark, with the emphasis on lower end, decent midbass, resolving, emotional and appealing mids and recessed treble. Mostly suitable for slow music genres like blues, soul, lounge, jazz, etc.

Compared to Tanchjim DarkSide:

Tanchjim DarkSide is very good and close rival in terms of sound quality and tonality. Similarly warm and dark, those IEMs also stand aside from various indistinguashable bright tonality models. The main difference with TFZ is better texturing of lows and better presence of treble. At the same time, mids are similarly skewed towards female vocals, bass is not that deep and fit is worse. So, I would recommend TFZ No.3 for bassheads and Tenchjim DarkSide for more universal listening.

Conclusion:

Despite some sound tweaks that might apply to upper mids portion, I consider TFZ No.3 as a good choice for audio fans who prefer the sound of dynamic drivers over any other technology. Along with great deep bass reach, decent midbass, wide stage and emotional mids, these IEMs possess quite unique warm and dark sound signature which is very rare nowadays. Most of the models from other brands in this price range would be sounding more similar to each other and tend mostly towards the brighter tonality. Good that TFZ wasn’t afraid to create something different and brought us this option. Therefore, whoever thought of bassy and warmer sound of comfortable dynamic IEMs should put an eye on this choice.

You can buy TFZ No.3 at PenonAudio store

We should admit that before starting to write this review we’ve seen lots of articles, pictures and feedback describing different TFZ brand IEMs. By the time we’ve got our unit on hands we were already concerned with its huge popularity, reaching Western audience as well. We are like hanging behind in this respect but ready jump in this train by providing our impressions of their latest incarnation of KING Exclusive Upgraded IEMs (we would call it KING Exclusive UPG to make it a bit shorter).

Prior to start, we would like to share some of TFZ brand (which stands for The Fragrant Zither) background. This brand was found in year 2015 by a group of audio enthusiasts whose idea was the product personalization and precise niche targeting. Since that time, TFZ has managed to release more than 15 products and their subsequent versions in IEMs and overheads categories, whereas sales of some of those are measured in thousands (like KING, for example). Currently, TFZ is not only selling in more than 30 countries, but also cooperating closely with professional musicians and music bands which derives the further experience for this brand in audio equipment design and tuning. Furthermore, TFZ won Japanese VGP award twice (you can find the record about that on VGP website). This award is given for the best innovations, market developement or most popular products.

Consequently, we would consider TFZ brand as already matured that automatically shift our expectation a bit higher. Desperately waited and rubbed our hands while TFZ KING Exclusive UPG was on its way. Spent 4 days examining its sound and ready to present our impressions!

You can purchase TFZ KING Exclusive UPG at PenonAudio store

TFZ KING Exclusive UPG technical specifications: 

• Driver type: 12mm, double magnetic circuit graphene driver
  
• Impedance: 12Ω
• Sensitivity: 110dB
• Frequency response: 5 — 40kHz
• Lowest power: 8mW
• IEMs connectors: 2-pin 0.78mm
  
• Audio jack: 3.5mm, gold-plated
• Cable length: 1.2m

One more word about a bit of a mess in TFZ lineup — they have released so many IEMs followed by upgraded versions that it is kind of tricky to identify which one to buy and which one is the latest. In our case it is KING Exclusive Upgraded. TFZ states that KING series IEMs are high-resolution, non-stained monitor earphones, providing transient performance, 5~40kHz frequency response range, showing high on-site restoration and music details. Suitable for most styles of music, especially for ACG and classics. At the same time, KING Exclusive is based on the structural appearance of SERIES 5S, features the new generation of 12MM dual magnetic circuit self-divided graphene unit. KING IEMs are recommended to use with smaller diameter eartips and with the warm sources.

Packaging and box contents:

TFZ has its own point of view how their products should be packaged, exhibited and delivered to customers.

We wouldn’t call this unique but their approach towards box design is deviating from numerous Chinese brands at least. Tall white box, colorful  imprints, transparent front cover to expose IEMs, plenty of information about the product inside.

IEMs are placed on stiff nylon podium with special openings, cable is underneath in separate compartment and there is one more box for the additional accessories. The box contents are:

• IEMs
• cable with aduio jack protection cover
• 7 (!!!) pairs of silicone eartips (S|M|L x 2 + 1 M)
• plastic cable clip
• soft pouch for storaging
• short user manual and warranty leaflet

The amount of exchangeable eartips makes us think that most of the people would constantly loose it according to TFZ research…  But we are greedy enough not to compain about that.

Design, build quality and materials:

Each channel of TFZ KING IEMs is made of two pieces — top aluminum cover and plastic base. Parts aligment is great, no rattling, no sharp borders and no free play.

Top cover has a shiny polished look with model logo and name printed right at the center. One compensation opening is also located there. Another one is located on the inner part of the base together with channel indicators. Output nozzles are protruding from the bases and covered with aluminum filters.

Bases are made of glossy black plastic and feel very solid. IEMs connectors have trasparent plastic housings and sit very tight between shell parts.

Stock cable is 4 core silver-plated OFC, twisted, with standard 0.78MM 2pin connectors. It features elastic trasparent earguides, transparent plastic connector housings with channel indicators, plastic Y-splitter, aluminum casing of 3.5mm gold-plated stereo jack. As TFZ mentiones — there is always an option to upgrade from stock cable to more advanced TFZ TC-3:

• 8 shares, OFC, mixed copper/silver-plated, braided
• Jack: 3.5mm, gold-plated
• Length: 1.2m

featuring the same additional elements except the earguides. We have decided to give it a try and would give our impressions on that upgrade as well.

You can purchase TFZ TC-3 upgrade cable at PenonAudio store

TFZ KING fit is nice, not causing any kind of discomfort during long use. No problems even with TC-3 cable which doesn’t have earguides. Not the best IEMs for exercising due to other factors like the absence of sweat protection, but could be used like that if no other more suitable options are available.

Sound quality test:

Tested with Hidizs AP80 DAP (neutral sound), Hidizs AP200 DAP (neutral sound).

Lows and midbass:

KING Exclusive UPG are able to deliver deep bass with good extension and more than average texturing. Its presence is well pronounced and contoured but the amount would not tend to overlap with other frequencies. Lows can go very deep to make you feel it instead of hearing, which is a benefit, we would say. Despite its good pronunciation and presence, severe bass addicts might still leave unsatisfied — the nature of bass here is more about textures rather than boomy sound. KING would only slightly elevate lows to compensate great extent of treble range.

Midbass is full-bodied, have enough power and air to recreate all drum sessions with excellent expression and articulation. Good overal speed and control but sounding a bit brighter than we would prefer.

In overall, KING Exclusive UPG showing very good performace on lower end, especially if considering its sound picture in full. Give it more lows and it would result in overemphasis and a bit less would lead to lack of good balance.

Mids and vocals:

Lower mids are a bit laid back whereas upper mids are slightly elevated. Male vocals would sometimes sound thin and distant. This is true for some tracks while others would sound normal. Perhaps, depends of the initial track EQ. Female vocals are brought to front, sound very natural, transparent and engaging. Resolution of mids is decent, less than we’d expect from bright armature IEMs but much more than in the most of signle dynamic driver models. Moreover, the tonality of mids is on the brighter side and closer to BA drivers. The result is lively and detailed performance on mids but a bit prone to lisping on female vocals, consequently.

Treble:

This is where TFZ KING Exclusive UPG really shines. If you ever thought that single dynamic driver cannot compete in airy feel and presence of treble with balanced armature models — you were wrong. KING treble is sparky and the amount is stunning. It lacks the micro details and articulation of armature driver models but has airy and transparent feel and forms the bright essence of the tonality. It might even become too much at highest volume but stays balanced at normal or lower volumes. This is probably why TFZ mentioned that warm sound sources would be more suitable — amount and extention would stay high while the excess of brightness would be eliminated by the source. Anyway, TFZ KING treble is decent for dynamic IEMs and not so overly emphasized as in some hybrid models. We would say that fans of dynamic IEMs once tempted by hybrid/BA higher end would love TFZ KING as the best compromise.

Soundstage:

Special demo recordings with precise instrument locations show moderate distance from the center. Stage feels neither too tight, nor too wide. Slower music genres sound good, leaving enough space for each instrument.

Difference in cables (TC-3 V|S stock):

There is a difference mostly about the additional overtones in slow rock songs with tube-amp powered guitar playing solely and more thickness to sound in mid section in overall. When it comes to faster music or larger amount of instruments — our ears are not trained well to spot much changes. We do understand that the reason to upgrade is mostly for the sake of conscience because the stock cable is ok but even our rare experience with different cables would let us hear a bit of advantage. IMO.

Sound in overall:

TFZ KING Exclusive UPG sound can be described as U-shaped, tend to brighter and cooler side of the tonality, with very good lower and higher ends extension, powerful midbass, recessed lower and elevated upper mids. Suitable for most of the genres, especially those that are filled with drums, instruments in mids|treble section and female vocals.

Compared to EARNINE EN1J:

EARNINE EN1J are single BA driver IEMs with mids-oriented tuning, more neutral sound and lack of bass and midbass presence. Direct comparison to TFZ KING is not fair, despite the similar pricing. Just completely different worlds, for completely different scenarios. If you’d like to monitor mids — EN1J is the better option. All other purposes would be served better by KING.

Compared to TANCHJIM DARKSIDE:

As it is understood from it’s name — TANCHJIM DARKSIDE were developed with great lower end extension in mind. We wouldn’t say that they are more bassy, no, it is just about the additional resolution and texturing of lows that makes DARKSIDE IEMs a better performer in this respect. On the other hand, KING have more treble presence and better resolution. KING sound much brighter, whereas TANCHJIM sound is warm and dark.

Conclusion:

As the matter of fact, the closest rivals in terms of sound quality would be something more expensive from up to $130 range. The main KING advantage is the astonishing treble KING is capable of despite its single dynamic driver. This can be considered as its highest virtue or the worst drawback…this would depend of the initial customer understanding of its sound signature. Despite exhibiting a bit more brighter sound than we would prefer, our conclusion is that TFZ KING Exclusive UPG are excellent IEMs in terms of build|sound quality, slightly underpriced and definitely one of the best options to consider.

You can purchase TFZ KING Exclusive UPG at PenonAudio store