The TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 in-ear monitors (IEMs) represent a significant leap forward in the budget audiophile market. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the Zero Blue 2 boasts a refined dual dynamic driver setup, offering a more accurate and detailed sound profile closer to the Harman target curve. This iteration addresses key criticisms of earlier models, including a significantly reduced nozzle size for improved comfort and fit. Improvements extend beyond just audio quality; the package now includes both a standard cable and an optional microphone cable, increasing its versatility for gaming and communication.This review delves into the enhancements of the Zero Blue 2, comparing it to its siblings – the original Zero and the Zero Red. We'll examine the upgraded drivers, the refined tuning that brings it closer to the Harman In-Ear 2019 target, and the improved treble extension and bass response. We'll also discuss the importance of impedance matching to avoid potential sound quality issues when connecting directly to a PC motherboard and explore the benefits of using a dedicated DAC/Amp for optimal performance. Ultimately, we'll determine if the TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 truly earns its title as a "budget IEM king."
Pros And Cons
- Improved drivers with better distortion performance compared to the original Zero.
- Even more compliant to Harman IE 2019 target than the original Zero.
- Bigger treble extension.
- Smaller nozzle (6.2mm) compared to original Zero (6.8mm).
- Upgraded cable.
- New mic option with additional microphone cable.
- Base plus adapter with 5dB base boost and minimal volume loss.
- May require a good audio source (output impedance under 1 ohm) to avoid muddied sound, especially when plugged directly into a PC motherboard.
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
What's New in the Zero Blue 2?
The TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 builds upon its predecessor with several key improvements. The dual dynamic driver setup remains, but features upgraded drivers similar to the Zero Red. This results in a more refined sound profile, closer to the Harman target curve.
Tuning has been further refined for even better compliance with the Harman In-Ear 2019 target, leading to improved distortion performance across the frequency range. Treble extension has also been significantly improved, extending further into the higher frequencies than the original Zero and Zero Red.
Another significant change is the reduced nozzle size. Many users complained about the larger nozzle of previous models, so the Blue 2 features a more manageable 6.2mm nozzle at its widest point. Finally, an upgraded cable and optional microphone cable are included.
Evolution of the TRUTHE Zero Series
The TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 is the third iteration of the popular Zero series. The original Zero, often called the Zero Blue, was groundbreaking for its dual dynamic driver setup with a proper subwoofer crossover, unheard of in budget IEMs at the time.
The Zero Red followed, offering a tuning more to the reviewer's personal preference, with less upper mids and bass. Improved drivers with better distortion and bass extension were also included. The Zero Red also introduced the Base+ adapter, providing a bass boost.
The Blue 2 combines the best aspects of its predecessors, refining the sound signature and addressing previous criticisms with improved drivers and the smaller nozzle. It represents a continuous evolution, seeking to make the original Zero concept even better.
Sound Quality and Tuning
The Zero Blue 2's tuning is even more closely aligned with the Harman In-Ear 2019 target than its predecessors. This focus on accuracy results in a well-balanced and detailed sound profile.
The improved treble extension provides a more expansive and airy sound, improving upon the original Zero's limitations in this area. The bass response is also refined, with a reshaped bass slope and improved extension.
The inclusion of the Base+ adapter, now with a 5dB boost, allows for personalized bass adjustment. However, using the IEMs directly with a PC motherboard is strongly discouraged due to potential impedance issues.
Gaming Performance and Microphone
The Zero Blue 2 addresses a key request from the community: a microphone. It now comes with an additional microphone cable, along with the standard cable. This makes it suitable for gaming and other uses requiring voice communication.
While its Harman tuning is generally known for immersiveness and clarity, making it suitable for gaming, directly connecting to a PC motherboard is advised against. The motherboard’s audio output often has high impedance, which negatively impacts sound quality. A better alternative is using a low impedance device like an Apple dongle.
For optimal audio, using a dedicated DAC/Amp, like the JCKelly JM6 Pro (part of an exclusive bundle from hangout.audio), is recommended to avoid the impedance mismatch issues from directly using a PC motherboard.
Conclusion: Is the Zero Blue 2 Worth It?
The TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 represents a significant upgrade over its predecessors, addressing many user criticisms and enhancing its strengths. The improved drivers, refined tuning, smaller nozzle, and included microphone cable make it a compelling package.
The improved treble extension, and refined sound stage make this in-ear monitor far superior to previous generations. The base plus adapter is now much more efficient. Avoiding impedance mismatch from a PC is still key to achieving ideal sound quality.
Overall, if you're seeking a budget-friendly IEM with excellent sound quality and several added features, the TRUTHE Zero Blue 2 is certainly worth considering. For gaming, consider it in conjunction with a low-impedance audio output device for optimal sound.