Aful Performer 5+2 VS JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Aful Performer 5+2 and JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant use 2DD+4BA+1Planar and 1DD+3BA driver setups respectively. Aful Performer 5+2 costs $229 while JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant costs $100. Aful Performer 5+2 is $129 more expensive. Aful Performer 5+2 holds a decisive 1-point edge in reviewer scores (7.7 vs 6.7). JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant carries a user score of 5.7. Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better bass with a 1.1-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has better mids with a 0.7-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better treble with a 1.4-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better dynamics with a 1.3-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better soundstage with a 1.5-point edge, Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better details with a 1.3-point edge and Aful Performer 5+2 has significantly better imaging with a 1.5-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Aful Performer 5+2 | JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8 | 6.9 |
| Mids | 8 | 7.3 |
| Treble | 7.6 | 6.3 |
| Details | 7.6 | 6.4 |
| Soundstage | 7.8 | 6.3 |
| Imaging | 7.9 | 6.5 |
| Dynamics | 7.6 | 6.3 |
| Tonality | 7.8 | 7.1 |
| Technicalities | 7.7 | 6.5 |
Aful Performer 5+2 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.7Strongly Favorable
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.7Cautiously Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jaytiss
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Aful Performer 5+2 lands as a hybrid of the beloved Performer 5 and the punchier Explorer. The unboxing is the familiar P5 affair—same case, same style of tips—nothing flashy, but solid. The shell mirrors the P5 in size with a comfy little stabilizing wing that locks in well. No metal nozzle or front filter here, yet tip retention is secure and hassle-free. The flat 2-pin socket is straightforward, and the stock cable feels thick and supple with a reliable chin slider and handy red/blue channel markers. Overall: understated build, great ergonomics, daily-driver ready.
Sonically, this one aims neutral with a very distinct top end—clean, dynamic, incisive. Think switching from black-and-white to color; cymbals and overtones pop with a slightly crunchy/pristine edge that energizes detail without turning harsh on good recordings. Bass isn’t about sheer quantity; it’s about slam and dynamics—quick on the draw, well-controlled, and satisfying when called upon. Vocals sit a notch forward, microdetail is strong, and the overall presentation is coherent, clear, and technical with convincing stage, resolution, and imaging. Not a treble-shy or bass-bombed tuning—more a refined all-rounder for those who want clarity and bite.
Versus the original P5, the 5+2 fixes the missing “air” and soft edges, trading them for crisper transients and better extension. Compared with Explorer (a value champ), the 5+2 brings superior upper-treble reach, detail, and vocal focus. Against Performer 8 and Cantor, it feels more visceral—the P8 is smoother and more relaxed, while Cantor pulls finer microdetail but with less bass slam. Sets like Dino Quattro or J’s Estrella bring bigger fun or treble theatrics, yet the 5+2’s balance and everyday versatility win more often. Net take: a neutral-leaning, highly technical upgrade that stands tall in its bracket—easy to recommend to anyone chasing clarity, speed, and controlled impact over pure warmth or excess bass.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Buy Aful Performer 5+2 on HiFiGO
Ad
Price: $213
Buy Aful Performer 5+2 on HiFiGO
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Jaytiss
7.3
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is a 1DD/3BA hybrid IEM that boasts a solid build quality with a comfortable, vented shell and a metallic nozzle that holds ear tips well. It comes with a modular cable that can be switched to a 4.4mm connector and a set of decent accessories, including a case that is described as nothing extraordinary but is overall quite nice. The physical package is reliable and functional, providing a good foundation for the experience.
Where the Defiant truly shines is in its fantastic tonality and tuning. It delivers a bassy and engaging sound with good treble that never gets too shouty or harsh, making it an excellent choice for long listening or gaming sessions. The graph shows it follows a very competent target curve quite closely, resulting in an all-around solid and highly enjoyable sound signature that is both relaxing and engaging without major faults.
Priced at around $100, the Defiant is deemed a highly competitive offering in its segment. It goes head-to-head with other popular sets like the Letshuoer S08 Planar and the 7Hz Aeroso, trading blows depending on whether one prefers a hybrid or planar driver presentation. While it may not have the absolute best treble extension and isn't going to "light the world on fire," it represents a great value with its excellent tuning, making it an easy set to recommend for anyone seeking a fun, well-tuned, and comfortable IEM.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Buy JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant on HiFiGO
Ad
Price: $86
Buy JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant on HiFiGO
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audio Amigo
8
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The AFUL Performer 5+2 (Performer 7 / P7) takes the P5 recipe and adds a second 6 mm dynamic for the lows and a micro-planar for the highs, nudging MSRP to $240. Unboxing mirrors the P5: nine pairs of tips and a decent case, but the accessories feel bare-bones at this price—no foam tips and a non-modular cable, even though the included 8-wire is supple and well-behaved. Build is classic AFUL: 3D-printed resin, blended nozzle (no mesh or lip—watch tip retention), single rear vent, and striking blue-green mosaic shells inspired by Suzhou gardens—cool-wall approved with four compliments to one “meh.” Fit is semi-custom and a touch chunkier than P5; comfortable for most, a conditional pass for small ears. Note a sporadic batch quirk: some units have over-tight 2-pin sockets; exchanges fixed it for affected buyers.
Tuning sits in warm-leaning neutral territory. The dual dynamics deliver punchy, textured bass that rumbles without bloating; guitars and drums carry convincing weight. Mids are the star—rich, full-bodied, vocal-forward without shout, with clean separation and natural tone. Treble from the micro-planar is smooth yet energetic: cymbals and vocal harmonics sparkle, special effects have bite and body, and only treble-sensitives may find hot mixes a bit lively. Technicalities impress for the money—detail retrieval and nuance feel a class up—while stage and imaging are solid rather than showy.
Against peers: the Tangzu x HBB budget pick mirrors the overall tonality but P7 offers higher resolution and more treble finesse; the planar “Heyday” alternative is brighter/faster with leaner bass; versus Performer 5, P7 brings tighter low-end, smoother treble, and better extremes detail; the Fresh-collab competitor pushes vocals further forward with bigger stage but leaner lower mids. Verdict: a versatile all-rounder that suits broad libraries and even content creation thanks to its balanced tonality and detail. Not for bassheads, trebleheads, or strict Harman-lean seekers, and the accessory pack/cable quirk holds it back from a slam-dunk. For roughly $240, though, it’s a brilliant, resolving upgrade in the AFUL line.
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Audio Amigo
7
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant comes in hot at $100 with an accessories game that punches up: a solid leather case, cleaning cloth, tips (silicone + foam), and a surprisingly nice modular cable (“Flare”) with 3.5 mm plus 4.4 mm included. The 3D-printed resin shells feel tidy, with metal nozzles and clean branding, and the mother-of-pearl finish paired to the cable looks downright sub-zero on the cool wall. Comfort is light and secure on paper, but recurring pressure build-up can spoil long sessions; tiny-ear fit is iffy, so trying before buying is wise.
Sonically, this is a mild V-shape with a gentle warm tilt: sub-bass rumble and punch without sloppy mid-bass, clean lower mids that keep body in horns and male vocals, and forward female vocals that pop without turning nasal. Upper-mids/treble bring energy and crisp percussion while staying shy of sibilance; a touch more air up top would add “expensive” sheen. Technicals are “very good for the class” rather than show-stopping: above-average stage and imaging, satisfying texture, and only minor shifts with higher-impedance sources (a hair more bass, a hair less top-end).
Stacked against peers, it reads like a brighter, zippier counter to the warm-relaxed AFUL Explorer; a calmer, less fatiguing alternative to the more resolving but brighter SIMGOT EM6L (Phoenix); and a BA-toned counterpart to the punchier mid-bass “Padsmith” hybrid. Graph-sniffing against the Ziigat x Fresh Reviews Arētē paints the Defiant as a budget mini-take—less air and ultimate resolution, but more dynamic bass and nicer pack-ins at half the price. Verdict: an excellent all-rounder and easy first-IEM recommendation if ear pressure isn’t an issue—more “this is brilliant” than “you should buy this” solely because of that comfort caveat. Treble or bass extremists—and reference hunters—may want something spicier or flatter.
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Super* Review
8*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Aful’s Performer 5+2 upgrades the original hybrid with 2DD + 4BA + 1 micro-planar tweeter and lands around $240–$250. The unboxing is practical: three sets of silicone tips, a pocketable puck case, and a soft, nicely draping cable (available in 4.4 or 3.5), though the braid can look a bit loose and the pre-formed hooks run large. The resin shells shift between blue and green under different light; fit is medium-large, very stable, and comfortable once the right tips are found. Note the narrow nozzle without a retaining lip and partially exposed bores/filters—tip grip is key and a little care prevents ear-gunk ingress.
Tonally this leans mild V-shaped: a clean midrange with a confident bass boost, a touch of lower-treble presence for bite, and well-extended air up top. The result is more incisive and punchy than the original P5, with clearer on/off transients that aid separation and layering. Trade-offs show as a hint of gritty/plasticky treble texture on cymbals and brushes—not harsh, but less natural than ideal—while the bass stays tight and exciting.
Against Aful’s Explorer, this sounds brighter, more spacious, and more technical; Explorer plays warmer/denser with smoother treble but less openness. Versus the pricier Thieaudio Oracle MK3, tuning is broadly similar: Oracle is smoother and deeper with a softer attack, while the Performer 5+2 brings more snap and engagement for less money. As a modern mid-tier hybrid, it absolutely still has a place—energetic, spacious, and well-executed—earning a solid four stars.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelJUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Super* Review
7*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is a shockingly good hybrid IEM that absolutely demolishes low expectations. For under $100, this collaboration delivers a surprisingly well-tuned sound that stands out in a crowded budget field. The package is compelling, featuring a nice carry case, a plethora of ear tip options for dialing in the fit, and a cable with swappable terminations that is functionally excellent, even if its red-and-blue "candy cane" aesthetic is a matter of taste.
Sonically, the Defiant boasts a tasteful V-shaped signature with a significant, well-executed bass boost that is tight, impactful, and devoid of muddiness. The treble is surprisingly clean and extended, coming across brighter than measurements might suggest, giving the entire presentation an exciting, engaging, and contrasty character. This tuning results in surprisingly good imaging and instrument separation for the price. While the fit is comfortable for most, the semi-custom shells are a bit "slabby" and rely on the ear tips for security rather than locking into the ear's folds.
When compared to a close competitor like the Aful Explorer, the Defiant's more exciting, contrasty, and imaging-focused sound is a clear differentiator. The Explorer offers a warmer, more relaxed, and natural alternative with better mid-range body. Ultimately, the Defiant earns a solid four out of five stars, representing a fantastic and highly competitive option for anyone seeking a bassy, engaging, and well-built hybrid under $100.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelAful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Kois Archive
7.8
Reviewer Score
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Kois Archive
7.6
Reviewer Score
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audionotions
7.5
Reviewer Score
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Audionotions
7
Reviewer Score
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
7.5
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelJUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
6.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is an absolute standout in the $100 IEM category, delivering a performance that feels like it belongs in a much higher price bracket. It comes packed with fantastic accessories, including a hard-shell carrying case and an awesome modular cable with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, which is a rare find at this price. The build is compact and ergonomic, offering superb comfort for long listening sessions and even sleeping, with above-average noise isolation.
Where the Defiant truly shines is in its sound, described as a fantastically balanced all-rounder that is engaging and never boring. The bass is a major highlight, offering a deep, rumbling sub-bass and a hard-hitting mid-bass with excellent texture and detail that avoids muddiness. The mid-range is natural and forward, giving vocals superb clarity and pop without ever becoming shouty. The treble is crisp and detailed with a clean sparkle, providing plenty of micro-detail without a hint of harshness or sibilance, making it great for treble-sensitive listeners.
Technically, the Defiant punches way above its price, boasting impressive resolution, a wide and deep soundstage, and phenomenal imaging and layering that can compete with many sets under $200. While it may not suit those seeking a reference, warm, or extremely bass-heavy signature, it earns a solid 4.5-star rating and stands as a new benchmark, offering a staggering level of performance that defies logic for a hundred dollars.
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelAful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Tim Tuned
7
Reviewer Score
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Tim Tuned
6
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant executes on an old meta, IE 2020 tuning with a bass boost, and it does it exceptionally well. The bass is present but not overwhelming, and the treble is smooth and never piercing. The true star of the show is the forward, full, and thick mid-range that provides a fantastic vocal experience without becoming shouty. This is all backed by excellent timbre that makes vocals and instruments sound largely natural, resulting in a colored yet highly engaging sound signature.
While the overall tuning is praised, the bass is noted as the one area for a slight nitpick. It has good power and control but lacks a completely natural decay, a minor shortfall attributed to the sheer forwardness of the mid-range stealing the spotlight. Technically, the Defiant is a standout, landing ahead of competitors like the Aria 2 and being one of the most detailed IEMs around $100, on par with the TruthEar Hexa.
In comparisons, the Defiant is positioned as a fun, exciting, and colored alternative to the neutral Hexa and the warm, relaxing Aria 2. It also differs from the Dunu Titan S by offering a fuller vocal presentation and greater versatility thanks to its actual bass shelf. For its $99 price, it receives a very high B grade for sound and a wholehearted recommendation, especially for those new to the hobby or anyone who loves a forward, engaging vocal presentation.
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jays Audio
6.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Performer 7 lands with a neutral-balanced, laid-back tuning and good treble reach. The presentation is clean and generally safe, though there’s a touch of sizzly “planar-ish” timbre up top. Technicals are solid for ~$200—slightly behind sets like Quintet and Super Mix 4, about on par with Nova. Bass from the dual 6 mm DDs is tight, controlled, and free of bleed, but lacks the slam and rumble of competitors using larger drivers; mids are well separated with decent layering.
The weak spot is vocal extension: a push around 1.5 kHz tries to bring them forward, but a dip through 3–6 kHz keeps them from opening up. Tamer upper-mids help avoid fatigue for rock/metal, yet the modest low-end impact leaves drums and basslines feeling uneventful. It’s a mid-volume set that doesn’t scale well—turning it up accentuates the 1.5 kHz emphasis and treble sizzle. Treble isn’t peaky, just a bit glassy at times; for K-pop the smoother mids can work if less extended vocals are acceptable.
As a value play, there are stronger options: Nova, Chopan, and Super Mix 4 offer better bang-for-buck; for a similar clean/neutral target, Tanchjim Origin sounds more natural with better bass texture and vocal reach, and DynaQuattro adds sub-bass and fuller vocals—none with the planar-ish timbre. Even AFUL’s own P5 is cheaper and more fun, while the Explorer undercuts the price and scales impressively. In today’s crowded market, P7 is a competent all-rounder but not distinctive enough to stand out.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Jays Audio
6
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Web Search
7.7
Reviewer Score
The AFUL Performer 5+2 (also listed as “Performer 7”) uses a 2DD+4BA+1 micro planar driver array and AFUL’s LC-network crossover plus a 3D-printed acoustic tube system, aiming for clean band splits without smearing. The shell also integrates a high-damping air-pressure balance system, a design AFUL has used across its line. Official listings put MSRP around $229 and outline the same core tech features.
Tonally it trends neutral with a sub-bass lift: bass has solid depth and texture, mids stay relatively linear, and the presence/treble region adds energy without veering into sharpness on most chains. Multiple reviews characterize it as warm-neutral with bass boost or slightly V-shaped depending on perspective, which matches listening notes about a lively but controlled upper end. Sensitivity and load are portable-friendly (≈109 dB, 15 Ω), so it reaches performance without demanding amplification.
Technicalities are competitive for the class: imaging is tidy with good instrument separation, micro-detail retrieval is above average, and soundstage is moderate (more width than depth). Build and comfort are typical resin-shell fare; some users note occasional lower-treble bite depending on tips and recordings, so treble-sensitive listeners may wish to pair accordingly. Overall value is strong at its price, especially if a clean, bass-supported neutral curve is the priority.
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Web Search
6.8
Reviewer Score
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is a budget hybrid with a 1DD+3BA configuration and a 3-way crossover, housed in precise 3D-printed shells—specs that are unusually complete around the ~$100 bracket . Street pricing and reviews consistently place it near $99, positioning it against popular value sets rather than mid-fi hybrids . Build is notable: clean resin work, metal faceplates, and a modular Juzear x Flare cable add perceived value without inflating the BOM on drivers .
Sonically, consensus points to a U-shaped tuning: a punchy, elevated low-end, slightly set-back mids, and an energetic but safe treble, yielding good macro-contrast without obvious glare . Technical performance is competitive for price: imaging is tidy with moderate stage width, detail retrieval is solid, and dynamics sit a touch reserved versus class leaders—adequate rather than explosive . Taken together, the Defiant prioritizes a broadly agreeable tonality and attractive industrial design over bleeding-edge resolution, which is a rational trade at this price point .
Aful Performer 5+2 (more reviews)
Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Z-Reviews
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Naming drama aside (P5+2? just call it Performer 7), this Aful packs a quirky driver party: 2DD for low end, 4 BA split across mids/treble, plus a tiny micro-planar for the highest sparkle, all marshaled by Aful’s neat miniature crossover. The shells are lightweight, comfy and prettier than they need to be; the cable feels “don’t bother swapping” nice, with 3.5 or 4.4 options. The box is loaded with silicone tips but no foam—a miss, because the right seal changes everything. Price target sits around $250, which sets expectations high but not ridiculous.
Stock silicone yields a surgical, respectful tuning with bass that skews neutral and controlled. Swap to well-sealing foam or hybrids and feed a juicy source (warm Class A or tubes) and the set wakes up—stage snaps into a cohesive scene right in front, imaging gets laser-etched, and that micro-planar adds a pinch-of-salt treble spice without turning harsh. It’s an up-close presentation—sometimes almost claustrophobically detailed—in the best way: think “men with trumpets in the head,” precise placement, and excellent extension up top. Not as rowdy as the Explorers; more like a surgeon in a Hawaiian shirt—technical, but with a wink.
Practical upside: the clarity and positioning make this great for gaming and even viable for mixing/mastering checks; just don’t crank it into pain territory. Bass stays tight and responsive, treble sails high, and coherence holds. Tip and source matter a lot: with foam + warm power, it sings; with plain silicone, it’s merely polite. Final tally: a confident 8.5/10—doing a lot right at its price, dinged half a point for making everyone do math on the name.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant (more reviews)
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Precogvision
6
Reviewer Score
Precogvision Youtube Channel
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant reviewed by Head-Fi.org
6.3
* score rescaled + normalized
Aful Performer 5+2 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA+1Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: AFUL Top AFUL IEMs
Price (Msrp): $229
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+3BA
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Brand: Juzear Top Juzear IEMs
Price (Msrp): $99.99
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
Aful Performer 5+2 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 2 user reviews
5.7Mixed
Aful Performer 5+2 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.7Gaming Grade
AJUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.7Gaming Grade
B+Aful Performer 5+2 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Tuning feels well executed, keeping a natural flow across the spectrum. Switching genres feels seamless.
Average Technical Grade
A- Overall technical control is strong, presenting instruments with clarity and sensible staging. Textures are portrayed with satisfying clarity.
JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- A smooth, agreeable balance keeps the presentation engaging without obvious flaws. Only sensitive ears will nitpick the bumps.
Average Technical Grade
B+- An honest, middle-of-the-road performance preserves structure without chasing micro-detail. It's respectable for everyday listening sessions.
Aful Performer 5+2 User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewJUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewDefying my sanity
Pros
Great fit, detailed midsCons
Average soundstage, horrible timbre in the highs, cymbals sound distorted, lifeless mids, bloated bassThrilling bass-forward performer with impressive technicalities at its price point, though not for neutral seekers.
Pros
Excellent bass texture with powerful slam, premium build quality and comfortable fit. Engaging V-shaped tuning ideal for energetic genres.Cons
Upper mids occasionally sharp with certain tracks, average isolation for noisy environments.Find your next IEM:
IEM Finder Quiz
newIEM Comparison Tool
newVS