Come with me as I take a look at the KZ Krila, KZ’s “kilobuck killer” IEM priced at an insane bargain of $18. Marketing aside, this is another tunable IEM from KZ which is similar in appearance to the D-Fi, but features a Balanced armature to compliment the single DD. Can this Krila krill the competition? Let’s find out!
FIRST IMPRESSIONS:
- Virtually identical unboxing experience to the D-Fi with less inclusions (only comes with KZ Starlines vs D-Fi’s widebores + spiral tips)
- Virtually identical aesthetic to the D-Fi, but with a half metal and half resin build
- Same tuning settings (with one side upside down)
- Balanced sound signature, similar to D-Fi with more air but less natural timbre
- Bass is variable from lean to thumpy
- Mids are clean, but leaning a little thin and light
- Upper mids are forward and very energetic, potentially leading to a little bit of harshness
- Treble is elevated, sparkly with decent microdetails but potentially sibilant
- Superb technicalities for $18
While very similar to the D-Fi, the Krila provides a much more analytical and crispier sound compared to its older sibling as the treble is noticeably more elevated which gives higher frequency instruments extra sparkle while still retaining a very solid balance with the bass sounding even tighter and the mids having extra bite and clarity. Technicalities are also very good for the price with separation being quite impressive along with it being quite a resolving IEM.
However, its brighter nature definitely takes a hit on its timbre as there is a very distinct metallic tinge to the treble area that can and often get a little bit sharp and sibilant. This also has an effect on the lower mids as it sounds considerably thinner than its sibling, the D-Fi, and the upper mids having more bite is a double-edged sword as now it’s even more prone to being harsh.
The question on many people’s minds about the Krila is whether it is a “kilobuck killa” which I have to be real, it depends. Some kilobuck sets out there are just absolutely horrendous and sound like they were tuned by a monkey, in which the Krila has a chance of winning. But regardless, the Krila is a very competitive choice further along in its own price range as it provides a very solid, variable sound for a very affordable price. Just be wary of the metallic timbre that the treble has that might turn timbre heads off.
Stay tuned for the full review!
If you would like to order one, consider using the non-affiliated link below:
https://kz-audio.com/kz-krila.html
https://ph.xiapibuy.com/product/345922933/22847252871/
If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact me on my Facebook page or on my email at obodioreviews@gmail.com
