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CCA PLA13 vs KZ Zenith: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the KZ Zenith comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 80. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: KZ Zenith - Great overall at around $47.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

KZ Zenith leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • CCA PLA13
  • KZ Zenith
HearWiki score
65
80
Sound
7.0
8.5
Value
6.5
8.0
Price (USD)
$64
$47

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The KZ Zenith is 2 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • PLA132022
  • Zenith20242 yr newer

Specifications

PLA13Zenith
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$64
$47
HearWiki score
65
80
Released
2022
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Discontinued
Driver
planar magnetic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
planar
dynamic
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
-
20 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
16 Ω
41 Ω
Sensitivity
-
128 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Controls
-
none
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
3.5 mm

What reviewers said

CCA PLA13

The CCA PLA13 is a budget-friendly wired in-ear monitor featuring a planar magnetic driver for fast, detailed sound. Its lightweight resin build and aluminum faceplates offer durability, while the balanced tuning appeals to those seeking an affordable entry into planar technology.

  • Pro:Fast, detailed planar sound
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable resin shells
  • Pro:Balanced tuning suitable for various genres
  • Con:No noise cancellation
  • Con:Requires a capable source due to low impedance
  • Con:May lack bass impact for bass-heavy listeners

KZ Zenith

The KZ Zenith is a wired, single-dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a balanced, non-fatiguing sound with punchy bass, detailed mids, and smooth treble. It's highly sensitive and easy to drive, making it a versatile choice for portable use, while its build quality and fit are praised. Despite a few minor caveats, it offers strong technical performance and competes well above its modest price point.

  • Pro:Balanced, non-offensive tuning with textured bass
  • Pro:Clear and detailed mids with refined treble
  • Pro:Very easy to drive and highly sensitive
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or controls
  • Con:Cable is detachable but not USB-C
  • Con:Minor caveats in overall technical refinement

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonCCA PLA13KZ Zenith