Current testing methodology is v1.2
May 8, 2022
Price not available
FAAEAL_KZ_EDX Ultra
2.08 oz
3.74 x 2.8 x 1.3 in
The KZ EDX Ultra is the newest version in the EDX series from the Chi-fi brand KZ Audio. This series also includes the EDX and EDX Pro.
One main feature that sets the EDX Ultra apart in this series is its updated 10mm Dual Dynamic Magnetic Driver, which aims to produce better sound clarity and bass response.
With numerous budget IEM offerings on the market today, is the KZ EDX Ultra a good option? Let’s find out!
KZ EDX Ultra
A versatile pair of IEMs under $25.
TL:DR;
The KZ EDX Ultra is a solid budget IEM offering from KZ.
Although it has no features that make it stand out among its competitors, it still has excellent sound quality and build quality for an affordable price.
Don’t let the lack of features discourage you, as these IEMs are a safe option for those just getting started in the audio hobby. The KZ EDX Ultra might surprise you with the quality experience it offers.
The Specs
- Driver: 10mm Dual Dynamic Magnetic Driver
- Cable: 3.5mm L-plug cable
- Frequency: 20-40000Hz
- Impedance: 26Ω
- Sensitivity: 111db
What’s in the Box?
- KZ EDX Ultra earphones
- 3 x pairs of silicone ear tips
- 2-pin detachable cable
- User guide
Stuff I like
- Warm V-shaped sound signature
- Great amount of detail
- Punchy and elevated bass
- Lively sound
Stuff I like less
- Treble peaks when listening to sibilant-prone tracks
- Definitely needs a slight lift on bass
Where to get it
Comparable products to consider
Even though it’s the predecessor of the KZ EDX Ultra, the KZ EDX is still a good option among ultra-budget IEMs
One of the better budget options for its price point, the TRN MT1 made waves when it first came out and certainly made a name for itself in the IEM community
First Impressions
The unboxing experience of the KZ EDX Ultra is nothing special. These IEMs came in simple packaging, which is expected at this price point.
Apart from the earphones with a pair of pre-installed ear tips, the box also houses the detachable cable and two extra pairs of silicone ear tips.
The EDX Ultra looks phenomenal out of the box, as it sports a resin shell with a circle aluminum faceplate similar to the EDX Pro. These IEMs look stunning and I like how the brand implemented this bold look for the EDX Ultra and Pro version.
Build Quality
The build quality of the KZ EDX Ultra is good enough for its price.
The resin shell seems robust, and the IEMs feel durable, reducing my worry of accidentally breaking them.
The included accessories, such as the silicone ear tips, are of average quality but I can’t really complain given how much these IEMs cost.
On the other hand, the included silver-plated detachable cable is awesome. I like how these types of cables are beginning to be more common with budget IEMs.
Fit and Comfort
The KZ EDX Ultra features a familiar shape and comes in a standard size. The form and shape of these IEMs make them a good fit for average ear sizes.
Since the shell is made of resin with an aluminum faceplate, the EDX Ultra has little to no weight, making them comfortable to wear.
The included silicone ear tips were also comfortable enough and can give a good amount of noise isolation to prevent sound leaks.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, one particular thing that I immediately noticed with the KZ EDX Ultra is its warm sound signature. I thought it was quite reminiscent of my QKZ X HBB.
Since the QKZ x HBB is one of my favorites, I immediately fell in love with the sound of the EDX Ultra.
I’ve tried the base EDX model and I can say that I prefer the sound performance of the EDX Ultra as it’s noticeably better in terms of tuning and tonal balance. I’ve yet to try the Pro version to see how it does in comparison to the other EDX models.
These IEMs are also enjoyable to use, and I like the energetic sound it produces when listening to pop music tracks.
Bass
The bass on the KZ EDX Ultra packs a punch, making it stand out in a mix. Although it’s elevated, it didn’t seem overpowering.
The punchy bass response contributes significantly to how lively and energetic these IEMs sound.
Mids
Since the KZ EDX Ultra has a V-shaped sound signature, its mids are recessed but still present in the mix.
It still has a good amount of body to them and the vocals were presented with good quality, although the recession is slightly noticeable.
I also observed that these IEMs suffer from a mid-bass bleed in the low mid ranges.
Overall the EDX Ultra can still present a clean and warm tone to the mids, which I am satisfied with considering its price.
Treble
The KZ EDX Ultra’s treble is brighter when compared to IEMs with a similar tuning. This allows the treble to be more present in the mix, which in turn makes it sound a whole lot clearer.
There were times when the treble sounded thin, but it’s situational and mostly present on poorly mastered tracks.
Test Tracks
To get a proper understanding of how these IEMs sound, I’ve tested them with different genres of music, and here are my findings.
- Metal/ Rock – When listening to some heavy tracks compared to other genres, I’ve noticed that the KZ EDX Ultra reacted differently. The lows sound balanced, and the mids are more upfront in a mix making the vocals and instruments more present. Tracks used: Cherub Rock (Smashing Pumpkins), Rest In Peace (Extreme), Enter Sandman (Metallica)
- K-Pop – The KZ EDX Ultra’s lively sound performed well when paired with some K-Pop songs, as this genre tends to have an overall lively, fun, and entertaining sound. The bass performed well in presenting the punchy kicks in the test tracks. The sound imaging and layering were present in the vocals, and micro-details can be observed. Tracks used: Hype Boy (NewJeans), OMG (NewJeans), Russian Roulette (Red Velvet)
- Hip-hop – The KZ EDX Ultra was able to catch up with the busy and fast-paced characteristic of the tracks that I’ve used. The bass was rumbly and punchy, and when you combine that with the bite of the treble, you get a vivacious and very forward sound presentation. Tracks used: After Party (Dan Toliver), Goosebumps (Travis Scott)
- Indie – I’ve picked various tracks with a wide-spacey sound to test out the sound imaging and sound-staging capabilities of the KZ EDX Ultra. These IEMs produced an immersive sound stage, and the detail retrieval also worked wonders. Tracks used: Over the Moon (The Marias), Space Song (Beach House), Wings (So Yoon and Phum Viphurit)
- R&B/Soul – When testing these IEMs, the R&B/Soul genre made me realize how versatile they are. The KZ EDX Ultra smoothly presented the vocals on the test tracks. The instruments sounded natural and organic, and the low end was present. Tracks used: Melting (Kali Uchis), Get You (Daniel Ceasar), Telepatia (Kali Uchis)
After testing the KZ EDX Ultra, I’ve discovered that they’re versatile and can work well with any genre you throw at them.
Conclusion
The KZ EDX Ultra is one versatile pair of IEMs. It’s easy to love and has many features that would make you appreciate it.
I love how it can present a warm sound that’s great for chilling out while still able to produce a lively and energetic sound with more catchy tracks.
The KZ EDX Ultra can cater to a broad palette of users. Whether you’re a bass head or someone leaning towards a more relaxed sound, you’d surely love how these IEMs sound.
A man of many interests, Querho is passionate about discovering new things that stimulate the mind. When he is not writing about the things he is passionate about, Querho can be found making music at his home studio.
This post was last updated on 2023-09-27 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.