Sound Impressions
The following impressions were completed using a One Plus 12 smartphone, Shanling’s M6 Ultra, and the FiiO M11 Plus ESS.
Summary
The ZE8000 MK2 is one of the TWS earphones that almost makes you question if wired earphones are still superior. It exhibits an excellent timbral balance and excels in detail retrieval, also sounding nicely opened up.
The inclusion of a Class AB amplifier likely contributes to its extension and sufficient bass presence, providing ample air and punch. Furthermore, even at higher volume levels, the earphones continue to showcase strong technical performance and resolution.
It’s important to note that the above impression is based on using the 8K SOUND+ mode without enabling the noise cancellation function. With DSP engaged, the sound becomes even more delicate and refined, exhibiting enhanced performance on both ends of the audio spectrum.
Timbre
The ZE8000 MK2 is skillfully balanced in tone, devoid of spikes, and delivers good bass texture while maintaining clear separation for instruments and vocals. A smooth articulation is maintained, with a slightly V-shaped dynamic and clean tuning that works well with streaming content.
The bass is well-controlled, and defined, holding up well at high volume levels. It kicks rather deep down making it ideal for R&B and house music when on the go.
The 8K SOUND+ DSP implementation allows even better balance and coherence, making micro-details more detectable and string instruments more wet and engaging.
There is just a tiny bit of brightness and crispiness to more livelily present brassy instruments, or woodwinds and hi-hats.
However, generally, you will find it nicely round yet loyal to the original recording without a noticeable roll-off in the higher frequencies. This also works well for vocals that are distinctly positioned, separated from the mix, and clearly imaged.
As a wireless IEM, it is very potent in capturing texture and air in the lows while giving it sufficient control to not blur over the vocal and hampers clarity.
Before DSP is on the vocal is slightly rawer and when toggling on the 8K SOUND+ function it is more refined with enhanced dynamics. There is a slight compressing/de-essing effect strengthening the texture and contrast of the output, but it still sounds melodic and naturally extended.
Staging & Dynamics
The ZE8000 MK2 shines in its ability to deliver exceptional definition and control, resulting in a structured and lively soundstage.
The vocals are clear and well-positioned, striking a balance by not being overly forward, thus allowing other instruments to share the spotlight equally.
The bass exhibits good layering and depth, contributing to a holographic output and providing spacious headroom. This is particularly impressive for TWS in-ear monitors that sometimes lack power and extension.
Additionally, experimenting with the voice-through mode while listening to music can add a perception of openness to the sound. This mode seamlessly blends the ambient sounds into the mix, creating a more immersive experience that mimics some of the traits of an open-back headphone.
Wireless Performance
The pairing experience with Qualcomm solutions is promising and instantaneous. I encountered no glitches or dropouts, even during video playback. Also, the aptX Adaptive codec ensures minimal latency for gaming.
In terms of range, the ZE8000 performs satisfactorily, maintaining a stable signal over at least 20 feet when streaming from my phone or laptop.
In theory, with Bluetooth 5.2, the range has the potential to extend up to an impressive 200 meters. Additionally, when paired with a phone, disruptions or interference are extremely rare.
Select Comparisons
final ZE8000 MK1
Technical
Initially, there may have been skepticism when leaks of the ZE8000 MK2 surfaced, as the design appeared similar and much of the hardware remained unchanged.
The addition of shield fin ear tips, which may not have a significant impact on sound quality, could have furthered these doubts.
However, it is important to note that the enhanced inner structure of the ZE8000 MK2 does make a noticeable difference, as does the introduction of the new 8K SOUND+ tuning. These enhancements contribute to an improved perception of technical performance.
While the ZE8000 MK2 may not cater to those seeking completely new aesthetics or flashy technologies, it is commendable that final has made the effort to refine the existing design and diligently address improvements.
Additionally, the maximum volume has been increased by 5dB, which was a highly requested feature by users of the first-generation ZE8000.
Design
The most noticeable difference in the design of the ZE8000 MK2 is the decorated body with the two stripes and the shield fin enhancement on the tips.
The decorative stripes add a touch of uniqueness and resemble a design commonly associated with robotics or mechas, which gives the MK2 a cool and youthful aesthetic.
On the other hand, the shield fin enhancement on the tips may come as unexpected but is beneficial. Despite the ZE8000 MK2’s relatively large and protruded design, these shield fin tips provide a weightless and secure fit.
Performance
The previous gen ZE8000 did well at the time but the MK2 is proof that there is always room for improvement.
It is obvious in quite some ways, for example when ANC is on, the ZE8000 MK2 displays stronger dynamics, and a darker background with more details being heard.
While both IEMs sound dense and textured, the ZE8000 MK2, especially with the enhanced 8K SOUND+ DSP turned on, sounds more effortless in treble delivery with a more refined and smoother vocal range.
When more instruments come into the mix, the ZE8000 MK2 also showcases a marginally superior level of definition.
When comparing performance without the noise reduction function and the 8K SOUND+ enhancer, the ZE8000 MK2 contributes to a stronger perception of overall clarity.
final ZE3000
Technical
The ZE3000 is like a smaller brother to the ZE8000 MK2 and also features the F-Core driver with an F-Link damping system.
It also uses Bluetooth 5.2 and supports around 2 more hours per charge and 20 more hours compared to the ZE8000 MK2 with its cradle> A major factor in this is how much more power the ZE8000 MK2 uses for its higher-quality DSP processing.
There is no active noise cancellation (ANC) function on the ZE3000 nor the digital filters and Beamforming mics features.
Design
The ZE3000 has a very Japanese, origami-like faceted design sharing the frosty paint job from the ZE8000 MK2 and the ZE8000.
It uses a normal final ear tip, however, it is also IPX4-rated so you can take it out for a job under light rain.
The ZE3000 is small in size and can sit on the outer ear almost weightlessly, though compared to the fully silicone-wrapped ear-tips on the ZE8000 MK 2 with the Shield Fin design, it is comparably less secure when moving quickly and not as comfortable.
Performance
The ZE3000 offers a natural tuning that doesn’t emphasize specific frequencies, providing good clarity and articulation for relaxed listening. The vocals are smoothly rendered without being pushed forward, exhibiting adequate separation and a slight boost in the upper mids for enhanced clarity.
When compared to the ZE8000 MK2 it becomes apparent that the ZE8000 MK2 is superior in various aspects. One notable improvement is the boost in definition, resulting in vocals that sound more full-bodied, weighted, and refined.
The ZE8000 MK2 also handles harmonics with greater precision, maintaining airiness while effectively managing sibilant tones.
Furthermore, the ZE8000 MK2 excels in presenting other instruments with enhanced clarity and accuracy, effectively and clearly panning them across the soundstage.
At higher volume levels, the ZE8000 MK2 maintains its composure, remaining distortion-free and highly engaging. Conversely, the ZE3000 struggles to preserve its performance and can exhibit signs of distortion or loss of fidelity.
Our Verdict
The final ZE8000 MK2 TWS exemplifies the virtues of Japanese product design by refining its existing design and setting higher standards instead of solely pursuing flashy appearances or gimmicks.
The improvements are notable, particularly the improved practical noise reduction and DSP features. The subtle and delicate touches on the design add an artistic and refreshing element to its aesthetics.
The ZE8000 MK2 delivers excellent performance across a wide range of genres and seamlessly integrates with Android and iOS devices, catering to individuals who frequently switch between different sources.
While the maximum 5-hour listening session duration may be a consideration, it remains one of the most versatile choices with a top-tier performance in this category.
final ZE8000 MK2 Technical Specifications
- Bluetooth version: 5.2
- Supported Codecs: SBC, AAC, Qualcomm® aptX™ Snapdragon Sound™, aptX™ Adaptive
- Playback time: Up to 5 hours, cradle supports 3 charges up to 15 hours
- Fast-charge playback time: 45 minutes after 5 minutes charge
- Charge Time: 1.5 hours (earphone body) and 2 hours (cradle)
- Waterproof Rating: IPX4
