Well my KZ ATE-S IEMs arrived yesterday, and I tried them out today.
Compared to my iLuv iEP322's, the KZ ATE-S IEMs have little volume, almost no bass, and they do not block ambient noise very well.
In other words, they suck.
I'm glad I paid only $8.14 for them.
So disappointing.
I can honestly recommend panasonic rp-hje350. They are now discontinued, but you can still find them on ebay and other places, sometimes as low as under $10.
Their noise isolating isnt the greatest, but I find their sound quality really good. Crystal clear highs, and respectable bass. Not fake overbearing bass, but just clear bass, although this probably depends on how good of a fit they end up being for your particular ears. If you are a bass head, then these are probably not for you.
Ive tried many other earphones, including $100 eshure, and these $10 panasonic beat them easily, in my experience.
Las year I ordered another pair from groupon. When my current set dies, Ill have a new set waiting.
Some of the lower-tier offerings from JVC are pretty decent, and perform well above their price-point IMO.
With your criteria, I’d maybe look at the FX102 or even the older FX101 (or FX202/FX201 for the versions with an inline mic).
Or, you might take a stroll through your local Goodwill as well. I’ve scored a couple smoking deals on higher-end IEMs there. Just get some new tips and you are GTG.
Speaking of tips: They are not all created equal, and the amount of isolation you get is largely dependent on which ones you use. Personally, I use Comply Isolation tips (compression foam) with all of my IEMs, and they are excellent. You just have to find which size/shape works best for your ears. The only downside is that they tend to wear out rather quickly with regular use, and they are a bit spendy (if you sign up for their emails, you will get coupons/deals now and then). :+1:
What are you using them on?
On my desktop computer, playing Daft Punk.
lol
Hmmm can you play with some settings? Maybe get a program like razor synapse. They are very neutral sounding but that makes them good i use them on music player only. I wouldn’t say they have no bass but the bass is not over powering.
They sounds great all around without having to use a EQ.
Also sound is very different to every person interpretation.
I compared them to my iLuv iEP322’s, and in comparison the KZ ATE-S IEMs are terrible.
That's all the testing that I need.
I cant help ya lol!
I have 6 sets of earphones i use for different things. If you want good bass check out Pioneer earphones they are the most bass heavy set i have without spending to much.
Has anyone tried this:
I have read a few reviews on these they appear to be good. They are duel driver units a 6mm and 10mm my only concern is they may be hard to drive duel units with out an amp.
I bought the KZ ED12 after owning the ATZ they are both good especially for the price i was looking at the duel driver unit models i will get a pair soon. I just bought 3 Benjie DAPs to try out lol.
I’v bought 2 pairs of these, I quite like them as the ear pieces are really good. And it comes in under $10 budget as well.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Original-AWEI-ES-70TY-3-5MM-Plug-Stereo-Music-Deep-Bass-In-ear-Earphones-Headphones-with/32789065866.html
They are $16.19 right now. I’m tempted to buy them. I just ordered a new DAP and looking for some decent IEMs to go along with it, although I’m still pretty happy with my old trusty Panasonic HJE350.
Yep, I’ve tried those and the others (including the newer ZS6). They are WAY too bright (huge bump @ 10-12k). However, the ZS3 is actually very decent, and is one of the cheaper models.
With a coupon you should be able to get them for under $10. That is the only KZ offering I’d bother with at this time. YMMV… 
Is there a page in English? Can’t find click link for English.
What DAP did you buy?
Shanling M3s.
Are any of those mentioned remarkably good at just blocking ambient noise, without being used to play an audio file?
kids…or wife? 
I think those are called ear plugs.
Hey, if anyone is looking for some great bluetooth buds, get the Oontz Budz They’re $34, but sound as great as a $100+ wired pair I used to own. I tore up my first pair, and turned around and ordered another pair to replace them.