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KZ ZSA vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red - Outstanding overall at around $65.

Score breakdown

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

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • KZ ZSA
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
39
82
Sound
5.1
8.1
Value
-
8.8
Price (USD)
$48
$65

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 Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red is 4 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. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • ZSA2019
  • x Crinacle Zero Red20234 yr newer

Specifications

ZSAx Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$48
$65
HearWiki score
39
82
Released
2019
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 1BA hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 1BA
2DD
Driver size
8 mm
-
Drivers per side
2
2
Frequency response
7 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
18 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
101 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Weight
19 g
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Microphones
1
-

What reviewers said

KZ ZSA

The KZ ZSA is a budget-friendly hybrid IEM with a warm, energetic sound, highlighted by deep bass and crisp, detailed treble. Its sturdy metal build and detachable cable add value, though the forward treble and sometimes heavy bass may not suit all listeners. Fit can be inconsistent depending on ear shape.

  • Pro:Sturdy metal construction
  • Pro:Deep, impactful bass
  • Pro:Clear mids and detailed highs
  • Con:Bass can be overpowering for some
  • Con:Treble may come across as sharp
  • Con:Fit issues reported by certain users

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

This wired in-ear monitor pairs a 10 mm and a 7.8 mm dynamic driver in a dual-driver setup, tuned for a warm, natural sound signature. It’s designed to be comfortable for extended listening, making it a solid pick for those who prefer a relaxed, non-fatiguing presentation. With no ANC, it relies on passive isolation from its fit.

  • Pro:Warm, natural tuning for long sessions
  • Pro:Dual dynamic drivers for rich bass and detail
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended wear
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Requires a source with enough power (17.5 ohm impedance)
  • Con:Bulky shell may not suit small ears

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonKZ ZSATruthear x Crinacle Zero Red