The point could be argued that comparing a $250 and a $50 IEM is unfair, but I’d argue that this comparison highlights just how competitive the planar market has been that $50 planars can reasonably compete with something 4-5 times its price while still having a very clear reason why it’s not quite a “killer”.
The PRX is, by far, the best KZ IEM in terms of “sound value”. What I mean by this is that, compared to its single DD and hybrid brethren, the PRX balances the technical and musical aspects the best by having a speedy yet engaging sound that caters to those who love the more “warm” sound that planar IEMs have. Its separation and layering ability is second to none in that regard and is genuinely one of the coolest looking KZ with the blue accents and green planar driver.
Now the million dollar question is whether or not it’s better than the Legend. Short answer, absolutely not. But the full story isn’t as clear. The Legend is the far more refined, balanced and most of all, technical sounding planar IEM between the two. The way that the Legend utilizes the two planar drivers allows for it to be some of the most compelling planar IEMs when it comes to airiness and clarity while maintaining a really solid note and vocal weight.
But interestingly, the PRX doesn’t stray too far off. While not as technical, the PRX can handle complex tracks just as well as the Legend, but struggles with clean layering and separation. Imaging and stage is surprisingly more immersive, but at the cost of midrange clarity and congestion in the bass and especially treble region. The treble in particular is a pain point worse than the overcooked air of The Legend and makes the sound a little bit spicy at times. These are both great for trebleheads, but The Legend just does it in a considerably more mature way. The PRX has a bit more tactility than the Legend, but the Legend’s midrange tonality is far, FAR better than the PRX’s borderline dipped
I can’t think of a fancy analogy for this comparison. But one thing is for sure. Planars IEMs have gone a very long way to the point where you can get a $50 and be totally satisfied or deck out $250 and have a similar but considerably improved listening experience.
