Yeah, as I said, KZ broke through a couple barriers that kept their flagships from competing upstream. Plus as I said, that bass curve, as you hear it, is real close to what I would EQ most sets. Not every set needs to resemble Dusk.
@@ToJoseGarcia I have owned the S12 for over a year and decided to try the ARTTI T10 and the Hidizs MP145. Both were an improvement over the S12 in tuning. The ARTI T10 is a smoother listening experience without losing the planar characters of detail and speed of attack. For only ~US$60, the T10 is IMO the hands down price/performance king of 2024. The MP145 is also superior to the S12 and I had no issues with fitment...though it's whale-size shell may be an issue for some. Incredible tuning, materials, design...for ~$120 it's my preferred IEM for at home/desk listening. Not to say that I do not enjoy the S12...it's still a VG planar. But these later generation planars are something special. Would like to see a head to head of the S12 Pro versus T10.
im glad to see that wire back because its probably one of the best wires you can get with an inline mic/play pause button also as a side note i do comprehend why kz sells basically everything with the two core flat cable. their iems are usually marketed for """"sports/gym goers"""" and honestly the flat cable works really well for that
Thanks to your review, I bought this IEM. It’s fantastic-the separation and soundstage is excellent for the price, and the tuning is engaging without being harsh. It might be the best value IEM that I have.
Hydro is tough to beat. The new KZ AS24 Pro is going to take a swing at it, but that is all BA. It will target a different listener but both sets are off the chart on value.
This hobby still pumping out great sets at increasingly cheaper prices. Given it's a 24 minute video I'd imagine at the very least it's one of your favorites around 100$ haha. Great review as always, will definitely keep an eye out for this set
Yeah, a couple sets got my attention recently, Dusk at 30 mins and this one. As I said, I am becoming a 2DD fan, it solves a lot of the 1DD problems when you try to tune both sub and midbass and then pairing with faster BAs.
Working on it soon. Its not Hydro but again, it is another better tuning, better drivers situation. Not radically different than Pro X for casual listening and they avoided ruining the name.
This is really tempting. This is basically my ideal frequency response for bass and mids, extremely close for treble. I'm just not sure about spending $120+ and risk getting burnt with a retuning like they've done so many times in the past.
Yes, no need to jump in today. As I said, the bass shelf is a 8mm and a 7mm so it sounds a bit different than a 10mm doing the same curve. More people will get the set, more impressions will come out and you can see it play out over time.
Hey there, man I was wondering, how do the Kiwi Ears Melody compare to the Hydro? They graph similarly. I have the melody but was about to order the Hydro...I know you like planars but which do you think is better, or how do they differ? Thanks alot
Great review, considering the ones you've compared the Hydro against, it sounds like a fine set. I only have DD and planar sets, no BA's, was thinking of getting a BA+EST set which would cost considerably more, but based on your review I'm considering a detour and possibly trying these first.
If you have EST money, you get EST. The tribrids are still amazing sets and these hybrids try to get there but BA timbre gets in the way. More BA, more trouble tuning. Or you drop $100usd and continue scoping out your endgame EST set.
Excellent review! Almost placed the order as soon as the video ended! :) The question I have, and can't answer because I've never tried a Sonion set is whether I should wait and get one of those $300 sets instead of getting the Hydro. 🤷 BTW, I order the TRN ST7 hoping you would eventually review it and give EQ settings to fix it. 🤣
Some people are really into Sonion. I like Sonion. But they are crazy expensive typically. Look, there is no rush here. As I said, 2DD sets are popping up, more hybrids are coming, just sit back and relax with your ST7.
I would say Hydro is still worth it as I am nitpicky. There is a 5-10% of resolve you get with Hydro that you don't get on Rhapsody or any other set near the price of Hydro. It swings into the $200 range easily on its BA performance. I think Akros said something similar and Tony has heard more than I have. Hydro is much closer to hearing what mid-fi sets can do than Rhapsody. Its not the tonality that makes Hydro special, its the drivers and design.
So, what we actually want to know in short is, does it sound better than any KZ and CCA models released until now? Does it give more range of Low, Mid and High ranges than KZ ZAR and AS24?
Yeah, Hydro is easily the best model they have released. Second is AS24 so if you have AS24, not sure I would jump to Hydro but the tuning is different.
TBH, it arrived before Hydro and I have not picked it up again. It is actually a solid set, a refinement on the previous Pro X and better drivers. Will get to it soon.
@@dulsanglama7412 It has good bass, if you use the memory foam you have to put the headphones in well so that the padding grips your ear canal well. This happened to me, I said I had little bass but I did that and boom! it improved a lot.
As I said, I am not a fan of most 1+4 sets as they typically are similar in performance. I never heard Pula so can't say much on that. There is no magic with lower BA count sets and I said the same thing with Cadenza4, nice set, sounds natural, but doesn't compete with higher end sets. Is Pula different? Probably not
@@PaulWasabiiyour response strikes a resonance that I did not know existed. I though the number of drivers, type of drivers don’t matter that much and what matters is the tubing making all the drivers working together. I recently had the chance to go to a local show and had a semi long session with the new Fiio FA19 (I think it’s the name and having 10 BAs if I remember correctly). It was expensive and I was skeptical going in but enjoyed so so much. I had a switch that boosts the base and making certain pop tracks more enjoyable. I think you are right the number and combination of drivers do matter. It basically gives you more levers to pull to make the tuning right. Simply like you would know how a 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder car would drive differently without the tuning from the get go?
@@k.w5804 The general idea that more drivers is more better is not always true. With BAs, if they are well implemented and complimentary tuning, you will hear a benefit from more drivers. KZ has really struggled with having a noticeable improvement every time they added a BA so I spent extra time talking about it. A set like FA19 should sound balanced and you should notice small parts of tracks that you didn't notice before. Everything becomes easier to hear because there is more resolution, more resolving happening. Not only in the higher frequencies, but lower too. End to end better is why Hydro is not like the previous sets.
@PaulWasabii thank you sir, ZAT is like 45 bucks in my place and Hydro is rare here, the only store that sell them only get 2 pairs Hydro for the last 4 months. And of course I wasnt fast enough to grab those. The new Shanling Tino' graph look appealing to me and ToneDeafMonk said they use quality drivers with nice tuning also. Maybe that the pair I go for. Are you going to review them?
EM6L is closer but again, it is real hard to beat the nicer 2DD if you care about bass. EM6L was also a more conservative tuning, focused on keeping it more natural than pushing resolution which is what you get on Hydro. EM6L is tuned more for casual users which is why it is very popular, Hydro and the switches will cover a wider range of users who don't get along with Simgot's house tuning style. Hard to compare those as they were tuned for different markets and preferences.
I get a bit confused with the explnations on swithces and how they're represented in squig link... You have the "On" direction and the numbers (1,2,3,4) direction on the switches themselves. Which correspondes to "0" and "1"? Just to be sure. 😄
I find the Rhapsody a damn good IEM and a steal at ~$35. I also own the ARTTI T10 planar...which at under ~$60 is THE leading price/performant planar. It definitely hangs with my MP145 and beats the venerable S12; given its smoother tuning (while retaining the planar details and speed of attack). I shift a lot between the Rhapsody, T10 and MP145, depending on music choice. In terms of switch settings on the Rhapsody, I seem to be happiest with a U-D-U-D setting. Frankly, if I were short on funds I would be quite happy with just the Rhapsody. Pretty impressive and well-tuned IEM, regardless of its price. As for the Hydro...I do not think I will ever purchase this particular IEM...the premium is substantial vis a vis the Rhapsody and I am not sold on the incremental benefit.
Yeah, interesting question. As I said, they tilted the subbass down to get rid of an boom but retain extension, this also creates a sharper or cleaner midbass. If you need a lot of subbass, not the one for you, but it was the right move to pair with the 8BA
You probably like Doscinco or Hydro but not both. Kinda what I explained in the beginning, if you hate midbass, then its Doscinco. That has the tucked bass, dropped down at ~250hz. Pretty much a subbass set.
Still more resolving than Super Mix 4 as you have the full 8BA and 2DD. Quintet was harsh for me so don't like that one much. On tuning, Simgot went Harman 2019, including the leaner bass shelf. Hydro doesn't do that so doesn't sound so Harman like SM4. Most people are going to buy Hydro because they want to hear a resolving traditional 8BA with BA techs. SM4 is like Quintet in that they tried to hit the same performance with fewer drivers. Not quite, but SM4 is a great value. Hydro is closer to EM10.
Paul, I want to ask currently, I'm using KZ ZSN Pro 2 daily, and after hearing the juzear 61t from my friend, I feel the need to upgrade, but unfortunately that is out of my budget range. Will the hydro be enough to "upgrade" the separation, technicality and micro detail from the ZSN Pro 2 (I'm using eq for ZSN Pro 2 to reduce the peaky treble and up the lower mids, so I think I will be okay with reduced treble overall). Thanks in advance, and thank you for all the graph data. Cheers
CCA Rhapsody is a mini Hydro. Ultimately if you heard a set you like, you may be better off saving a bit more for the 61t. If you can enjoy the ZSNP2 for a while, save for the set you want rather than trying something that you might regret.
Hey paul, i had kz zs10pro x rn for about a year, could this be on my recommendation list for an upgrade, i often listen to jpop and since zs10pro x is on bright side, i want a bit warmer one for now?
Yeah its an upgrade but also its a bigger shell so think about that. The ZS10 Pro 2 is similar, less bass, less brightness. Hydro is a nice set though.
@@PaulWasabiiSorry for all the replies but lot of good questions and input on this review! Do you think I'd see improvements in Zs10PrX if I put a filter on it? I just got it and like it as is and also with eq. Now I've got a ton of filters and I'm mod crazy. Lol. Amazing how much difference a tiny peice of paper makes, especially on some of my cheaper /spicier sets. On another note, my psycho dog decided my IEMS were his new chew toy and chewed off half of one of the metal nozzles. Trying to think of a creative fix since they are cheapies but goodies.
@someoneusa With filters or even eq, it's more about you than me. I think it will help but don't worry as much about what other people day. You throw a filter on it, do you enjoy it more? That is the only thing that matters. Filters and eq will keep you from chasing every set as you will get more use out of the sets you have rather than buying new ones.
@@PaulWasabii thanks Paul! Not worried about what anyone else thinks, I shill the Rosefinch, like it's an end game set for bassheads, lol. Just curious if there would be some improvement in the sound. I've actually eqD to some other popular tunings and I think the stock tuning holds its own. I'm a basshead so I probably have some bias when the bass hits the spot. EQ and mods are really good for the wallet, especially for those of us with empty wallets 😜 BTW I saw someone ask you about a Pula comparison, I could be wrong but I think you reviewed the CKLVX D41, it's the same IEM. I'll double check your reviews.
I touched on this in the review, you are buying a set with a lot of drivers because it is very resolving. It will sound better on a dac that is more resolving. Or start with what you have and upgrade later.
I am a planar fan so I would take a planar but not everyone likes planars. But both sets are technically great for their prices. S12 Pro sounds like a planar, Hydro can sound like a BA. People will complain about both things on those sets.
Paul did you ever try the V80? I don't see it in your Squig or reviews. Was my first hybrid, and It could be spicy with certain music but still love it. Took me a bit to really enjoy them, I used to only like warm sets but my tastes have really expanded to enjoy more than just bass. I wasn't getting the bass until I found tips that worked for me. 😁 I just upgraded it with a Tanchjim filter the other night and wow, really made an improvement, smoothed everything out, improved soundstage and bass is even better. Great seperation and layering. They are one of my favorite looking sets too. Really small, metal with weight without being heavy. Haven't really felt the need to move on to a newer 2dd hybrid. It also Eqs well for when I want to hear a warmer sound. Using T-tips from other TRN sets and filters from Tanya. At $14 + $10 for Black Cat cable, the best value I've gotten so far.
I don't think so, had a V90 or two. Back then, TRN used to be a bit spicy and Tanchjim are exactly what you need. Or the cheap alternative is micropore tape. I keep a roll handy to try before using a filter.
@@PaulWasabii V80 is a 2+2, they switched to 1DD hybrids after that. Why-idk?! I think they were ahead of their time on this one. Had about 50-60% Less energy 2-5k but 50% more at 8k than v90. The bass is really good and most of the time did a good job overcoming the 8k until it came to music with a lot of energy there. I wish they would have stayed with 2DD and worked on the tuning rather than going with the trend of adding more and more ba's. I also started using tape before committing filter 😊 do you know the density of micropore and T/filters? 450-ish? I also have 350 filters, experimenting. Sometimes it's enough to only cover half or 3/4 of the nozzle.
Wait a little bit. I would say yes, but AS24 was also a great set. I am not sure everyone would agree and as I said, the bass is more of my preference than perhaps others. Should be more reviews out soon. I prefer the balance on Hydro over AS24.
@@denisbasshead7787 We made the same mistake then. Did you get a good seal? I got foam tips aswell, ill be trying them if silicone tips dont work well. If it does turn out to not have big bass then I can just slap on some bass with eq.
Never heard Nova or Chopin, but both have that classic U-shape, not much midbass. Sounds clean but if you prefer more warmth or like male vocals, Hydro is better.
Hi sir ik its late to the scenes. Im planing to get either hydro or kz pr1 pro, which one is best in ur opinions? Im new to Planar and hybrids. love ur review and honest+detailed in many ways im subs now
Probably Dusk and Hype4 are your closest comparison. Its not actually the techs that vary as much as how close to a natural tone can you get from the BAs. That is KZ's struggle against Sonions, Knowles, and Moondrop. Even with Dusk, you need to EQ to hear it at its most resolving and while it will sound more natural than Hydro, the techs aren't that far apart. Similar ideas, 2DD for tight bass, 8ba vs 2ba/2planar to handle the techs. Hype2 had a more impactful bass which you can tweak with the switches on Hydro.
I'd still say Hydro has better stage, part is that bass curve, part treble. People don't get the tight balance that you need for a really nice stage and its better on Hydro because of the balance. AS24 is a super nice set though.
The hobby is all about paying more for small refinements, that is Rhapsody to Hydro. If you are just using a phone, I'd stick with Rhapsody. If you have nicer dac/amps, used to more critical listening, that is Hydro. Rhapsody is a great value set
Let's say i have access to Full Eq. What will you suggest me to choose between Hydro and SuperMix 4 or anything that's under 200$. I prefer bass to keep up midrange and trable not like other DD which doesn't give cohesiveness with midrange. Not to very old subscriber and viewer of your channel, i just like that way you explained. Thanks
Symphony is quite bright, not sure I would want to watch a movie with it. Just to watch movies, I'd get something cheaper like CCA Trio, KZ ZS10 Pro 2, or even CCA Polaris
KZ ZAR is more like a basshead set. Hydro is tuned to sound more like a balanced hybrid in the $200 range. ZAR is still popular for its bass level, but Hydro is a much more balanced, resolving sound.
I think they wanted to avoid that point of view, but didn't do a great job marketing why the there is a large price gap. They sort of jumped to comparing Hydro to expensive sets rather than why its better than Rhapsody
@@PaulWasabii How do these compare to Supermix 4 and full planars like S12 pro and MP145 in terms of technicalities ? I don't how wise it is to give kz a chance , but I might .
Yes. the import tax in my country of over $50 is bizarre. I basically buy one for myself and one for the government. Brazil is just sad with the current government. 🇧🇷😢
@@PaulWasabii l use Topping E70 velvet DAC and SMSL SH-6 Amp Hi RES Audio w1 ear tips upgrade cable , Moonriver DAC AMP, IFI ZEN DAC AMP, nothing helps it's separation and at the same time all instruments playing on it's own with no coherence ,it's a disappointing set , that's why they don't sell in a higher price.
I think they would reply that they gave you a driver configuration found in more expensive sets. The truth is somewhere in between the two as KZ has nicer accessories but tends to focus on barebones packaging and accessories. Joyodio tried the more premium packaging and accessories so I won't rule it out as it happened at least once.
The most enthusiasm I've ever heard in your voice! Just ordered directly from KZ.
Yeah, as I said, KZ broke through a couple barriers that kept their flagships from competing upstream. Plus as I said, that bass curve, as you hear it, is real close to what I would EQ most sets. Not every set needs to resemble Dusk.
Got it today😒 ......got the Letshuoer S12 pro today too😮..............
The Hydro was obliterated.. decimated.. annihilated by the S12 pro.😔
@ToJoseGarcia in terms of what? To me, my s12's were annihilated by the Castor bass LOL.
@@ToJoseGarcia I have owned the S12 for over a year and decided to try the ARTTI T10 and the Hidizs MP145. Both were an improvement over the S12 in tuning. The ARTI T10 is a smoother listening experience without losing the planar characters of detail and speed of attack. For only ~US$60, the T10 is IMO the hands down price/performance king of 2024. The MP145 is also superior to the S12 and I had no issues with fitment...though it's whale-size shell may be an issue for some. Incredible tuning, materials, design...for ~$120 it's my preferred IEM for at home/desk listening. Not to say that I do not enjoy the S12...it's still a VG planar. But these later generation planars are something special.
Would like to see a head to head of the S12 Pro versus T10.
@@jb678901T10 is great! Apperantly planar can't do stage nearly as well as DD. No way S12 took the stage category lol.
im glad to see that wire back because its probably one of the best wires you can get with an inline mic/play pause button
also as a side note i do comprehend why kz sells basically everything with the two core flat cable. their iems are usually marketed for """"sports/gym goers"""" and honestly the flat cable works really well for that
Its really nice, as I said, I bought it a long time ago.
Whats the cable called
Thanks to your review, I bought this IEM. It’s fantastic-the separation and soundstage is excellent for the price, and the tuning is engaging without being harsh. It might be the best value IEM that I have.
Hydro is tough to beat. The new KZ AS24 Pro is going to take a swing at it, but that is all BA. It will target a different listener but both sets are off the chart on value.
This hobby still pumping out great sets at increasingly cheaper prices.
Given it's a 24 minute video I'd imagine at the very least it's one of your favorites around 100$ haha.
Great review as always, will definitely keep an eye out for this set
Yeah, a couple sets got my attention recently, Dusk at 30 mins and this one. As I said, I am becoming a 2DD fan, it solves a lot of the 1DD problems when you try to tune both sub and midbass and then pairing with faster BAs.
@@PaulWasabiiwhat about all BA bass (6+BAs tuned iems)
Thanks for the review Paul.
Really looking forward to your review on the ZS10 Pro 2 soon, I'm interested in picking it up tbh since it looks pretty interesting.
Working on it soon. Its not Hydro but again, it is another better tuning, better drivers situation. Not radically different than Pro X for casual listening and they avoided ruining the name.
Great review! This one is now on my radar. I have Rhapsody and I think it's a really good sounding IEM.
Yeah, you are mostly the demographic for Hydro. People who appreciate a hybrid and this one is even a step or two different than Rhapsody.
This is really tempting. This is basically my ideal frequency response for bass and mids, extremely close for treble. I'm just not sure about spending $120+ and risk getting burnt with a retuning like they've done so many times in the past.
Yes, no need to jump in today. As I said, the bass shelf is a 8mm and a 7mm so it sounds a bit different than a 10mm doing the same curve. More people will get the set, more impressions will come out and you can see it play out over time.
This will be my first upgrade from my PR2. Will save for it
Hey there, man
I was wondering, how do the Kiwi Ears Melody compare to the Hydro? They graph similarly. I have the melody but was about to order the Hydro...I know you like planars but which do you think is better, or how do they differ?
Thanks alot
Nice review.....can't wait to get my set and hear it!
Paul, I bought the set based solely on your enthusiastic recommendation. It better be really good.
We'll see
@@PaulWasabii Just received it. It's really good, not just for the money. Good period. (But the upper bass needs EQ to my ears).
Great review, considering the ones you've compared the Hydro against, it sounds like a fine set. I only have DD and planar sets, no BA's, was thinking of getting a BA+EST set which would cost considerably more, but based on your review I'm considering a detour and possibly trying these first.
If you have EST money, you get EST. The tribrids are still amazing sets and these hybrids try to get there but BA timbre gets in the way. More BA, more trouble tuning. Or you drop $100usd and continue scoping out your endgame EST set.
@@PaulWasabii Good to know, thanks dude.
I ordered it yesterday hope it fits me.I listen a lot of classical music i need the layering and the stage.Nice review Paul.
For classical, you need to play with the switches as the set will reflect your source warmth.
@@PaulWasabii thanks Paul I will do it
Excellent review!
Almost placed the order as soon as the video ended! :)
The question I have, and can't answer because I've never tried a Sonion set is whether I should wait and get one of those $300 sets instead of getting the Hydro. 🤷
BTW, I order the TRN ST7 hoping you would eventually review it and give EQ settings to fix it. 🤣
Some people are really into Sonion. I like Sonion. But they are crazy expensive typically. Look, there is no rush here. As I said, 2DD sets are popping up, more hybrids are coming, just sit back and relax with your ST7.
Thanks. 👍
Awesome explanation!!
do you think its worth it to get the hydro if you have the rhapsody, does EQing the rhapsody get you close to the tonality/performance of the hydro ?
I would say Hydro is still worth it as I am nitpicky. There is a 5-10% of resolve you get with Hydro that you don't get on Rhapsody or any other set near the price of Hydro. It swings into the $200 range easily on its BA performance. I think Akros said something similar and Tony has heard more than I have. Hydro is much closer to hearing what mid-fi sets can do than Rhapsody. Its not the tonality that makes Hydro special, its the drivers and design.
I hope kz make an update to cca polaris. It got very safe sound sig with relaxed pinna
What does it need? I thought it was quite good..
@@wahid-lg1kk good for It's price. They should make a higher quality iem with similar graph.
@@NewDarkKnight I see what you mean.. They don't have the driver for that, I don't think..would be a good idea. Competition for Simgot.
Polaris is good and I would love to hear it with the new super linear DD. Maybe it would be better, maybe not. That set is great for the price.
Between celest phoenixcall and hydro which one you recommend for rock music ?
Hydro is a more resolving set and you have switches to adjust bass level within a small range for your preferences
Great revieuw👍
Do you think It would be good idea to get some type of adapter for my kzas24? does it scale with source 9:00 like mentioned?
Not like Hydro, but yeah, most sets will improve depending on your phone. Most people should buy at least one to try it for themselves.
@@PaulWasabii thankss
So, what we actually want to know in short is, does it sound better than any KZ and CCA models released until now? Does it give more range of Low, Mid and High ranges than KZ ZAR and AS24?
Yeah, Hydro is easily the best model they have released. Second is AS24 so if you have AS24, not sure I would jump to Hydro but the tuning is different.
@@PaulWasabii Waaw thank you for reply. Alright I will take your advice.
How is the KZ zs10 pro 2?
TBH, it arrived before Hydro and I have not picked it up again. It is actually a solid set, a refinement on the previous Pro X and better drivers. Will get to it soon.
@@PaulWasabii I didn't like it... No Bass.. at all😢😢😢😢
@@dulsanglama7412 It has good bass, if you use the memory foam you have to put the headphones in well so that the padding grips your ear canal well. This happened to me, I said I had little bass but I did that and boom! it improved a lot.
how refine is the sound compared to em6l(same price) or the pula pa02/cklvx d41 a bit pricier?
I would like to know as well..
As I said, I am not a fan of most 1+4 sets as they typically are similar in performance. I never heard Pula so can't say much on that. There is no magic with lower BA count sets and I said the same thing with Cadenza4, nice set, sounds natural, but doesn't compete with higher end sets. Is Pula different? Probably not
@@PaulWasabiiyour response strikes a resonance that I did not know existed. I though the number of drivers, type of drivers don’t matter that much and what matters is the tubing making all the drivers working together. I recently had the chance to go to a local show and had a semi long session with the new Fiio FA19 (I think it’s the name and having 10 BAs if I remember correctly). It was expensive and I was skeptical going in but enjoyed so so much. I had a switch that boosts the base and making certain pop tracks more enjoyable. I think you are right the number and combination of drivers do matter. It basically gives you more levers to pull to make the tuning right. Simply like you would know how a 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder car would drive differently without the tuning from the get go?
@@k.w5804 The general idea that more drivers is more better is not always true. With BAs, if they are well implemented and complimentary tuning, you will hear a benefit from more drivers. KZ has really struggled with having a noticeable improvement every time they added a BA so I spent extra time talking about it. A set like FA19 should sound balanced and you should notice small parts of tracks that you didn't notice before. Everything becomes easier to hear because there is more resolution, more resolving happening. Not only in the higher frequencies, but lower too. End to end better is why Hydro is not like the previous sets.
Is the Kz ZAT still worth it? There is a discount in my place but I'm considering this or the ZAT as the Hydro is riskier for me to get
ZAT at a big discount maybe, but Hydro is a better set. If you just want something similar, ZS10 Pro 2 is a more reasonable ZAT.
@PaulWasabii thank you sir, ZAT is like 45 bucks in my place and Hydro is rare here, the only store that sell them only get 2 pairs Hydro for the last 4 months. And of course I wasnt fast enough to grab those.
The new Shanling Tino' graph look appealing to me and ToneDeafMonk said they use quality drivers with nice tuning also. Maybe that the pair I go for.
Are you going to review them?
I just looked at the zs10 pro 2, they are 30 bucks, is the gap of 15$ worth for the ZAT?
How this compare with Simgot EM6L/ Ea500LM in sound quality ?
EM6L is closer but again, it is real hard to beat the nicer 2DD if you care about bass. EM6L was also a more conservative tuning, focused on keeping it more natural than pushing resolution which is what you get on Hydro. EM6L is tuned more for casual users which is why it is very popular, Hydro and the switches will cover a wider range of users who don't get along with Simgot's house tuning style. Hard to compare those as they were tuned for different markets and preferences.
I get a bit confused with the explnations on swithces and how they're represented in squig link... You have the "On" direction and the numbers (1,2,3,4) direction on the switches themselves. Which correspondes to "0" and "1"? Just to be sure. 😄
1 is on...
right, 0000 is all switches down or OFF, 1111 is all up or ON
My rhapsody only 2 months old 😂 should i pull the trigger 😢 i broke af😅
You answered your own question, save your money. These are luxuries, not necessities.
I find the Rhapsody a damn good IEM and a steal at ~$35. I also own the ARTTI T10 planar...which at under ~$60 is THE leading price/performant planar. It definitely hangs with my MP145 and beats the venerable S12; given its smoother tuning (while retaining the planar details and speed of attack). I shift a lot between the Rhapsody, T10 and MP145, depending on music choice. In terms of switch settings on the Rhapsody, I seem to be happiest with a U-D-U-D setting.
Frankly, if I were short on funds I would be quite happy with just the Rhapsody. Pretty impressive and well-tuned IEM, regardless of its price. As for the Hydro...I do not think I will ever purchase this particular IEM...the premium is substantial vis a vis the Rhapsody and I am not sold on the incremental benefit.
@@jb678901 thank you
How is the base compared to Rhapsody?
Rhapsody bass is just perfect for me. Interested to know how the Hydro fares
It's bass, not base.
They dont have deep subbass
Yeah, interesting question. As I said, they tilted the subbass down to get rid of an boom but retain extension, this also creates a sharper or cleaner midbass. If you need a lot of subbass, not the one for you, but it was the right move to pair with the 8BA
Paul..great review. I love my eqd T800 the BA bass and crazy details. Should I go for this CCA or save money for Ziigaat Doscinco?
You probably like Doscinco or Hydro but not both. Kinda what I explained in the beginning, if you hate midbass, then its Doscinco. That has the tucked bass, dropped down at ~250hz. Pretty much a subbass set.
It seems like you are quite happy about this set. How would you say these stack up against the Supermix 4 or the Kiwi Ears Quintet? Thanks!
Still more resolving than Super Mix 4 as you have the full 8BA and 2DD. Quintet was harsh for me so don't like that one much. On tuning, Simgot went Harman 2019, including the leaner bass shelf. Hydro doesn't do that so doesn't sound so Harman like SM4. Most people are going to buy Hydro because they want to hear a resolving traditional 8BA with BA techs. SM4 is like Quintet in that they tried to hit the same performance with fewer drivers. Not quite, but SM4 is a great value. Hydro is closer to EM10.
Thanks for the detailed response. Seems like they are right down my alley and I might have to grab a set. Cheers!
Will you say that this competes with things like em10? Or more things like hype 2?
Not sure about EM10 yet, but yeah, its in the ballpark of Hype 2. If you have Hype 4 money, get Hype 4. If you have Hydro money, get Hydro.
Paul, I want to ask currently, I'm using KZ ZSN Pro 2 daily, and after hearing the juzear 61t from my friend, I feel the need to upgrade, but unfortunately that is out of my budget range. Will the hydro be enough to "upgrade" the separation, technicality and micro detail from the ZSN Pro 2 (I'm using eq for ZSN Pro 2 to reduce the peaky treble and up the lower mids, so I think I will be okay with reduced treble overall). Thanks in advance, and thank you for all the graph data. Cheers
CCA Rhapsody is a mini Hydro. Ultimately if you heard a set you like, you may be better off saving a bit more for the 61t. If you can enjoy the ZSNP2 for a while, save for the set you want rather than trying something that you might regret.
Hey paul, i had kz zs10pro x rn for about a year, could this be on my recommendation list for an upgrade, i often listen to jpop and since zs10pro x is on bright side, i want a bit warmer one for now?
Yeah its an upgrade but also its a bigger shell so think about that. The ZS10 Pro 2 is similar, less bass, less brightness. Hydro is a nice set though.
great, thank you Paul i'll wait for it to get discount
@@PaulWasabiiSorry for all the replies but lot of good questions and input on this review! Do you think I'd see improvements in Zs10PrX if I put a filter on it? I just got it and like it as is and also with eq. Now I've got a ton of filters and I'm mod crazy. Lol. Amazing how much difference a tiny peice of paper makes, especially on some of my cheaper /spicier sets. On another note, my psycho dog decided my IEMS were his new chew toy and chewed off half of one of the metal nozzles. Trying to think of a creative fix since they are cheapies but goodies.
@someoneusa With filters or even eq, it's more about you than me. I think it will help but don't worry as much about what other people day. You throw a filter on it, do you enjoy it more? That is the only thing that matters. Filters and eq will keep you from chasing every set as you will get more use out of the sets you have rather than buying new ones.
@@PaulWasabii thanks Paul! Not worried about what anyone else thinks, I shill the Rosefinch, like it's an end game set for bassheads, lol. Just curious if there would be some improvement in the sound. I've actually eqD to some other popular tunings and I think the stock tuning holds its own. I'm a basshead so I probably have some bias when the bass hits the spot. EQ and mods are really good for the wallet, especially for those of us with empty wallets 😜 BTW I saw someone ask you about a Pula comparison, I could be wrong but I think you reviewed the CKLVX D41, it's the same IEM. I'll double check your reviews.
In your opinion, would the sound output be better with the addition of a DAC, or is it not necessary?
I touched on this in the review, you are buying a set with a lot of drivers because it is very resolving. It will sound better on a dac that is more resolving. Or start with what you have and upgrade later.
I got into a rabbit hole Between the letshuoer s12 pro and these, which one do you recommend? I can't decide
I am a planar fan so I would take a planar but not everyone likes planars. But both sets are technically great for their prices. S12 Pro sounds like a planar, Hydro can sound like a BA. People will complain about both things on those sets.
Black background?
Yeah, the point at which subbass fills the background, you have lost the black background. Listen between vocals or notes.
Paul did you ever try the V80? I don't see it in your Squig or reviews. Was my first hybrid, and It could be spicy with certain music but still love it. Took me a bit to really enjoy them, I used to only like warm sets but my tastes have really expanded to enjoy more than just bass. I wasn't getting the bass until I found tips that worked for me. 😁 I just upgraded it with a Tanchjim filter the other night and wow, really made an improvement, smoothed everything out, improved soundstage and bass is even better. Great seperation and layering. They are one of my favorite looking sets too. Really small, metal with weight without being heavy. Haven't really felt the need to move on to a newer 2dd hybrid. It also Eqs well for when I want to hear a warmer sound. Using T-tips from other TRN sets and filters from Tanya. At $14 + $10 for Black Cat cable, the best value I've gotten so far.
I don't think so, had a V90 or two. Back then, TRN used to be a bit spicy and Tanchjim are exactly what you need. Or the cheap alternative is micropore tape. I keep a roll handy to try before using a filter.
@@PaulWasabii V80 is a 2+2, they switched to 1DD hybrids after that. Why-idk?! I think they were ahead of their time on this one. Had about 50-60% Less energy 2-5k but 50% more at 8k than v90. The bass is really good and most of the time did a good job overcoming the 8k until it came to music with a lot of energy there. I wish they would have stayed with 2DD and worked on the tuning rather than going with the trend of adding more and more ba's. I also started using tape before committing filter 😊 do you know the density of micropore and T/filters? 450-ish? I also have 350 filters, experimenting. Sometimes it's enough to only cover half or 3/4 of the nozzle.
Is it worth going from the AS24 to the Hydro?
Wait a little bit. I would say yes, but AS24 was also a great set. I am not sure everyone would agree and as I said, the bass is more of my preference than perhaps others. Should be more reviews out soon. I prefer the balance on Hydro over AS24.
Theres also a new set that I might get called TRN ST7. It has 2DD+5BA. I did order the AS16 Pro X, should be here in a couple of days.
Big mistake the 16 pro X
@@denisbasshead7787 why it's a big mistake?
@@Titanike is worst than 16 pro ,, they dont have bass
@@denisbasshead7787 We made the same mistake then. Did you get a good seal? I got foam tips aswell, ill be trying them if silicone tips dont work well. If it does turn out to not have big bass then I can just slap on some bass with eq.
@@SpacedOutDoonie the first i do is the seal they dont have bass thin sound very thin
vs the nova,chopin?
Never heard Nova or Chopin, but both have that classic U-shape, not much midbass. Sounds clean but if you prefer more warmth or like male vocals, Hydro is better.
Hi sir ik its late to the scenes. Im planing to get either hydro or kz pr1 pro, which one is best in ur opinions? Im new to Planar and hybrids. love ur review and honest+detailed in many ways im subs now
Hydro or Rhapsody. Wait a while on KZ planars, they will eventually release another that will be better than the others. LetShuoer S08 is coming too.
@@PaulWasabiiRoger that
how does this compare to stuff from other brand in technicalities like ea1000, dusk, hype 2/4, etc
Probably Dusk and Hype4 are your closest comparison. Its not actually the techs that vary as much as how close to a natural tone can you get from the BAs. That is KZ's struggle against Sonions, Knowles, and Moondrop. Even with Dusk, you need to EQ to hear it at its most resolving and while it will sound more natural than Hydro, the techs aren't that far apart. Similar ideas, 2DD for tight bass, 8ba vs 2ba/2planar to handle the techs. Hype2 had a more impactful bass which you can tweak with the switches on Hydro.
How would you compare these CCA Hydro to KZ AS24 in terms of soundstage and overall quality?
I'd still say Hydro has better stage, part is that bass curve, part treble. People don't get the tight balance that you need for a really nice stage and its better on Hydro because of the balance. AS24 is a super nice set though.
@@PaulWasabii Good to know, i wasn't sure which one to get, Thanks!
yeah how is it compared to rhapsody?
The hobby is all about paying more for small refinements, that is Rhapsody to Hydro. If you are just using a phone, I'd stick with Rhapsody. If you have nicer dac/amps, used to more critical listening, that is Hydro. Rhapsody is a great value set
@@PaulWasabii are you saying the improvements are marginal even if I use a decent DAC / DAP?
Let's say i have access to Full Eq. What will you suggest me to choose between Hydro and SuperMix 4 or anything that's under 200$. I prefer bass to keep up midrange and trable not like other DD which doesn't give cohesiveness with midrange.
Not to very old subscriber and viewer of your channel, i just like that way you explained. Thanks
If you have EQ, I'd still get Hydro. SM4 is nice though, but still trying to take a swing at high BA count set when you can get a high BA set and 2DD
Hello Paul Wasabii
CCA Hydro VS KZ Symphony
Which iem is better for watching action movies between these two ?
Thank you 🙏
Symphony is quite bright, not sure I would want to watch a movie with it. Just to watch movies, I'd get something cheaper like CCA Trio, KZ ZS10 Pro 2, or even CCA Polaris
How would you Rank the KZ ZAR against CCA Hydro?
KZ ZAR is more like a basshead set. Hydro is tuned to sound more like a balanced hybrid in the $200 range. ZAR is still popular for its bass level, but Hydro is a much more balanced, resolving sound.
Rhapsody on steroids 😗
I think they wanted to avoid that point of view, but didn't do a great job marketing why the there is a large price gap. They sort of jumped to comparing Hydro to expensive sets rather than why its better than Rhapsody
@@PaulWasabii Rhapsody is my biggest set, its a tank. Hydro must be massive, is it, compared to Rhapsody?
@@SpacedOutDoonie Same size.
Does this do female vocals well?
It does
Is this better than kz zar plz plz plz reply 🙏🏻
Yes, this is the best hybrid unless you are looking for even more bass, more subbass, then that is ZAR.
@@PaulWasabii thankyou soo much
@@PaulWasabii Is hydro has enough bass for feel in chest plz reply 😭
Well.. it is 3D printed and has a ton of drivers.
You are correct
Rhapsody is honestly very underwhelming except for the bass. This will need to be a significant improvement to justify the premium.
... But what if they re-tune it too ? lol
They will eventually. Hydro Pro or something like that
@@PaulWasabii How do these compare to Supermix 4 and full planars like S12 pro and MP145 in terms of technicalities ?
I don't how wise it is to give kz a chance , but I might .
@blitz6167
I think the Hydros are better than the SM4.
@@jamesbb4 Do you have both ?
Damn over a 100 dollars
Yeah, KZ has a tough time with this price point. We'll see how it goes this time
Yes. the import tax in my country of over $50 is bizarre. I basically buy one for myself and one for the government. Brazil is just sad with the current government. 🇧🇷😢
Quite expensive for a brand like CCA, interesting
Occasionally they put out a set in this range, usually their all BA series.
Hydro vs kiwiears quintet?
Quintet is a tough one. Some people notice harshness right away, some people don't. I'd take Hydro everyday
I just got the hydro, its trash😔
@@PaulWasabii i'm using 1010, still mids feel bloated, bass lacks body treble is good.
I ordered 100€
after a good listen , the cohesion is not so good , mids are natural but the highs is not enough sparkle Thank you .
On hybrids, you do need to pay attention to output impedance and source. KZ sets tend to rotate clockwise, more bass, less upper treble.
@@PaulWasabii l use Topping E70 velvet DAC and SMSL SH-6 Amp Hi RES Audio w1 ear tips upgrade cable , Moonriver DAC AMP, IFI ZEN DAC AMP, nothing helps it's separation and at the same time all instruments playing on it's own with no coherence ,it's a disappointing set , that's why they don't sell in a higher price.
Bass rating no more than 7/10 no clarity and punch , may be 6/10 only.
For over $100, i think KZ/CCA could do better on the accessories department
I think they would reply that they gave you a driver configuration found in more expensive sets. The truth is somewhere in between the two as KZ has nicer accessories but tends to focus on barebones packaging and accessories. Joyodio tried the more premium packaging and accessories so I won't rule it out as it happened at least once.
kz is a company which verifiably acts in bad faith. I won't buy anything from them and I don't think it's a good look on your channel to review them
its a hobby, people review what they like
I really do not care if the reviewer does not carry virtue-signaling baggage. I actually prefer it.