Nice HCK Himalaya VS Technics AZ80 TWS

Z-Reviews original ranking

The NiceHCK Himalaya is a single 10 mm CNT dynamic driver (1DD) IEM housed in a titanium-alloy shell, paired with a modular cable offering 3.5/4.4/2.5 mm plugs and replaceable tuning nozzles (grey/gold/blue). Official listings show a current price of $269 with a regular price of $329, positioning it in the mid-range segment; core specs include 22 Ω impedance and 110 dB/mW sensitivity.

Sonically it leans neutral to mildly V-shaped depending on the nozzle: the blue filter reduces upper-mid energy for a smoother, warmer tilt, while gold sounds more W-shaped and grey adds upper energy and clarity. Reviewers note good staging and layering for a single DD, with clear separation and a generally controlled, non-fatiguing treble (though not for treble-seekers).

Trade-offs include a heavier shell and relatively short nozzles that may affect fit for some ears; treble can feel soft with certain filters. Still, the Himalaya provides coherent single-DD timbre, solid imaging, and practical accessories at its price, with easy drivability from portable sources.

The Technics AZ80 delivers a warm sound profile with a well-balanced bass boost and mostly flat mids, providing crisp vocal and instrument reproduction. Its 10mm free-edge dynamic driver supports LDAC for high-resolution audio, though the passive soundstage feels somewhat confined . The standout feature is three-device multipoint connectivity, enabling seamless switching between multiple sources, though LDAC streaming is restricted to two devices simultaneously . Battery life reaches 7 hours with ANC active, extending to 24 hours via the case, and Qi wireless charging adds convenience .

Active noise cancellation is effective for low-frequency rumble like plane engines but trails class leaders like Sony and Bose in mid-range attenuation . Transparency modes include a standard ambient option and a voice-focused "Attention" setting, though both sound less natural compared to AirPods Pro 2 . Call quality is inconsistent: the JustMyVoice technology with eight mics suppresses background noise effectively but can render voices thin or muffled in noisy environments .

Comfort is a strong suit thanks to the ergonomic concha-fit design and seven included ear tip sizes, ensuring stability during workouts or travel . However, the bulky earbud chassis may cause fit issues for smaller ears, and the circular nozzle design can compromise seal for some users . At $299, they face fierce competition from rivals with superior ANC or more compact designs, though their unique triple multipoint and expansive tuning remain compelling for multitaskers .