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KZ AS16 Pro X specifications and in-depth review

KZ AS16 Pro X

Manufacturer: KZ Audio

The KZ AS16 Pro X is an in-ear monitor built around a fully balanced armature driver setup, reflecting KZ's focus on multi-driver IEM design. Its shell is constructed using a 3D-printed resin process, a method commonly associated with custom-fit audio products that allows for precise internal driver placement and a lightweight form factor. The cable is detachable, giving users the flexibility to swap or replace it independently of the earphones themselves.

On the technical side, the AS16 Pro X houses eight balanced armature drivers per side, with an impedance rated at 19 Ohms. The included cable is made from silver-plated copper, measures 1.2 meters in length, and terminates in a standard 3.5 mm connector. It connects to the earphone shells via a 2-Pin 0.75 mm interface. The unit does not include a built-in microphone, an in-line control panel, or a travel bag.

Pros
  • The detachable cable allows for straightforward replacement or swapping without affecting the earphone shells themselves
  • Eight balanced armature drivers per side points to a complex internal driver arrangement for this form factor
  • The 3D-printed resin shell construction enables a precise and lightweight housing
  • The silver-plated copper cable is a higher-grade material than standard bare copper alternatives
  • A 19 Ohm impedance rating means the earphones can be used with a wide range of consumer source devices without additional amplification
  • The 2-Pin 0.75 mm connector is a widely used standard, making cable replacement options broadly available
Cons
  • No built-in microphone means the earphones cannot be used for calls or voice input without a separate solution
  • The absence of an in-line control panel removes the ability to adjust volume or playback directly from the cable
  • No travel bag is included, leaving users to source their own storage solution for transport and protection
Who is this for?

This model is well-suited to listeners who prioritize a multi-driver balanced armature setup in a compact in-ear form factor, and who already own or prefer to use their own source devices with a standard 3.5 mm output. The low 19 Ohm impedance makes it straightforward to drive from smartphones, DAPs, or portable dongles without needing dedicated amplification. Users who value the ability to swap or upgrade cables independently will also benefit from the detachable 2-Pin 0.75 mm connection system.

Who is this NOT for?

This product is not a good fit for users who need hands-free calling or voice communication, as it lacks a built-in microphone entirely. Those who prefer to manage playback or volume adjustments without reaching for their source device will find the absence of an in-line control panel a meaningful limitation. Additionally, users who frequently travel with their audio gear and expect a dedicated carrying case or travel bag included in the package will need to source protective storage separately.

General info:

Driver configuration 8BA
Type of drivers Balanced armature (BA)
Shell material/process 3D-printed resin
has a built-in microphone ✕
travel bag is included ✕
Has an in-line control panel ✕

The KZ AS16 Pro X uses an 8BA driver configuration, meaning all eight drivers per side are of the balanced armature type, a design choice associated with detailed sound reproduction in compact IEM housings. The shell is formed through a 3D-printed resin process, which allows for precise internal geometry and a relatively lightweight build. This model does not include a built-in microphone, an in-line control panel, or a travel bag.

Specifications:

drivers count 8
impedance 19 Ohms

The KZ AS16 Pro X is equipped with a total of 8 drivers, and its impedance is rated at 19 Ohms, a relatively low figure that generally indicates the earphones can be driven without requiring particularly high output levels from a source device.

Cable:

Connector type 3.5 mm
Pin connector 2-Pin (0.75 mm)
Cable material Silver-plated copper (SPC)
cable length 1.2 m
has a detachable cable ✓

The included cable is detachable and connects to the earphone shells via a 2-Pin 0.75 mm interface, terminating at the other end in a standard 3.5 mm connector. It is made from silver-plated copper (SPC) and measures 1.2 meters in length, providing a typical reach suited to most everyday listening setups.

Final Verdict

The KZ AS16 Pro X is a technically focused in-ear monitor that centers its entire proposition around a full eight-driver balanced armature configuration housed in a 3D-printed resin shell — a setup that reflects a clear intent toward driver density and precise internal construction. The detachable silver-plated copper cable and broadly compatible 19 Ohm impedance rating add practical flexibility for users who want to tailor their listening chain. That said, the absence of a microphone, in-line controls, and included carrying case means it is designed purely for dedicated listening rather than everyday all-purpose use. For users whose needs align with those priorities, the AS16 Pro X represents a well-specified option within the multi-driver IEM segment.