The new Linsoul’s Zero 2 comes in a simple box and inside is a newly designed cable.
It’s much thinner than the original, the connector says Salnote, the little round logo on the splitter says 7hz, and the 2-pin connector has an odd bend, but it doesn’t interfere with performance or comfort.
Linsoul 7hz X Crinacle Zero 2 Review
Build Quality
Considering that the design and construction of the IEMs are pretty much the same, aside from the new colors, the build quality is pretty much the same.
It now comes in three color options: clear, blue, and orange (pictured). If the OG Zero suits you, this one will too. I like the new colors a lot better than the options I had for the OG, and the translucent shell is a pretty nice touch.
Sound
Technology and resolution take a hit, but that’s to be expected at this price point. The sound stage seems a bit narrow, but overall satisfactory.
Base
The bass is probably one of the most modified areas of the Zero 2 due to the new drivers. It features a very extended bass with good rumble. The response is also rather powerful and technically competent without too much mid-bass bloat.
The added warmth is very tastefully done and transforms the tuning. Boosting the bass doesn’t raise it to bass-head levels, but the tuning is more consistent with a warm, neutral tuning.
Mid
Considering the Zero 2’s U-shaped tuning, the mids are very smooth and tame. Vocals are present but not very forward. The vocals don’t have much expressiveness or texture, and layering is somewhat limited.
That said, I wouldn’t have expected too much from a $20 IEM, so the tonality achieved here is already impressive. The Zero 2 deftly avoids sibilant peaks while maintaining excellent mid-range clarity.
Treble
The treble and high notes continue the docility of the mid-mid range. There’s just the right amount of peaks to provide headspace and spatial expansion that takes Zero 2 to the next level.
That said, the treble is considerably longer than the original Zero, giving it a somewhat laid-back vibe that can be listened to for hours without overall tuning fatigue.
I would say this also works well for watching videos or playing games for long periods of time.
Performance
The Zero2’s low-end is well-emphasized, with both subs and mids prominent. The bass is warm and thick, with just the right amount of speed and control.
It’s not the worst bass, but it’s not the best I’ve ever heard, and honestly, I think as quantity goes up, quality goes down. The bass is enjoyable for casual listening.
The midrange has appropriate weight and good separation. Surprisingly, while male vocals were decent, female vocals sounded more energetic. The female vocalist is positioned closer to the front, but she doesn’t scream at all, which is good.
The treble is tuned to be more secure and enjoyable, but can actually use more energy.
The soundstage is tight and offers average imaging, but can fall apart in busy recordings.
Conclusion
Tuning-wise, the Linsoul 7hz X Crinacle Zero 2 surprised everyone by sounding like any other IEM. Visuals aside, in a blind test it would have been difficult to see an immediate connection to the original Zero.
This seems much warmer and more powerful in the low end than the original Zero.
It’s not that obvious, but Zero 2 seems to have less detail than the original.
That said, both punch well beyond your expectations for their price range in terms of technology, and you won’t be disappointed with the detail you get from both.
Also read: Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk IEM Earphone 2024