This review dives into the Kotori Audio Zephyr IEMs, a pair of in-ear monitors priced around $150. The Zephyr boasts a striking hexagonal design, mirrored in its packaging, which, while not luxurious, offers solid protection and a pleasing aesthetic. The included accessories are practical, featuring a selection of ear tips and a durable, double-braided cable with a distinctive triangular metal splitter. This review explores the Zephyr's complete sonic profile, examining its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it lives up to its energetic reputation.The Kotori Audio Zephyr delivers a W-shaped sound signature, characterized by impactful sub-bass and a bright, expansive treble. However, this energetic presentation comes with some caveats. The midrange can feel recessed, impacting the overall punch and detail. While the treble adds vibrancy, it may exhibit sibilance on brighter recordings. This review critically assesses the balance of these elements, including soundstage, imaging, and overall listening experience, to offer a comprehensive evaluation of the Zephyr's performance and value proposition within its price range.
Pros And Cons
- Good value for its price (around 2.5 million)
- Good sub-bass with immersive positioning, thickness, and long rumble
- Fast speed mid-bass, suitable for double pedal songs or rock/metal
- Air, open, and natural vocals, well-delivered, especially energetic sounds
- Very wide and open soundstage, comfortable to listen to
- Energetic and sparkling treble, long extended treble
- Good 3D imaging and rotation
- Mid-bass punch is shallow
- Treble can be sibilant (harsh high-frequency sounds)
- Micro-detail is not the best in its price range
- Sound layering is lacking, instruments feel flat and lack separation
- Vocal delivery might be lacking for very energetic singers like Beyonce
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Kotori Audio Zephyr arrived in a hexagonal-shaped box, echoing the design of the IEM faceplate. The packaging was understated but functional, a hard case protecting the IEMs well during shipping. It wasn't overly luxurious, but certainly not cheap feeling either; a good balance for the price point.
Inside, I found the IEMs, a carrying case, and ear tip selection. The inclusion of multiple ear tip options was appreciated, catering to different ear shapes and preferences.
Ear Tips and Cable
Two types of ear tips were provided: a taller, narrower design for deeper insertion and a wider, shorter design. The material felt soft and pliable, but the wider tips were a better fit for my larger ear canals.
The cable is a double-braided design, offering durability and a clean look. The connector is a two-pin design, a common standard but not universal. The splitter is a unique triangular shape, made of metal, and a pleasant surprise.
Sound Impressions: Bass and Midrange
The Zephyr exhibits a W-shaped sound signature, leaning slightly brighter overall. The bass response is impressive, offering a deep, impactful sub-bass with a good amount of rumble, making it satisfying for fans of sub-bass heavy music.
The midrange, however, feels somewhat recessed. While reasonably wide in presentation, it lacks punch and impact. The speed is good, but the lack of punch may disappoint those who prefer a more powerful midrange presence.
Sound Impressions: Vocals and Treble
Vocals are positioned centrally, slightly forward in the mix, with an airy and open presentation. This makes them sound natural and clear, particularly suitable for energetic female vocals, but may feel a bit less powerful for male voices.
The treble response is bright, energetic, and expansive, making the cymbal crashes vibrant and detailed, but it can lean towards sibilance, particularly with bright source material. This might be slightly fatiguing for some listeners.
Soundstage, Imaging, and Overall Impression
The soundstage is wide and open, providing a comfortable listening experience. However, the imaging could be improved, feeling somewhat flat with a lack of layering between instruments; the separation between instruments isn't as distinct as ideal.
The Kotori Audio Zephyr offers an energetic and engaging sound signature, especially for treble-focused music, but certain aspects like the midrange and imaging could be improved. The sibilance can be managed by using different ear tips and a less bright audio source.
Conclusion and Recommendations
For around $150, the Kotori Audio Zephyr offers a compelling combination of energetic treble, impactful sub-bass, and a wide soundstage. However, the slightly recessed midrange and sometimes sibilant treble might not suit all listeners.
The Zephyr is best suited for those who prioritize energetic and bright sound signatures, and who listen to music with strong treble presence, but those looking for highly detailed, balanced sound might consider other options in this price range.