TRN IM1 and KZ Saga Balanced use 1DD+1BA and 1x Dynamic (KZ "ultra wideband") driver setups respectively. TRN IM1 costs $22 while KZ Saga Balanced costs $23. KZ Saga Balanced is $1 more expensive. KZ Saga Balanced holds a decisive 1.8-point edge in reviewer scores (4.7 vs 6.4).
Insights
| Metric | TRN IM1 | KZ Saga Balanced |
|---|---|---|
| Tonality | 5.5 | 8 |
| Technicalities | 5 | 7 |
TRN IM1 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
4.7Generally Unfavorable
KZ Saga Balanced Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.4Mixed to Positive
Reviews Comparison
TRN IM1 (more reviews)
TRN IM1 reviewed by Super* Review
TRN IM1 reviewed by Web Search
The TRN IM1 is a budget 1DD+1BA hybrid with detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin connectors and a lightweight, custom-style shell. Specs list a single 8 mm dynamic driver plus a balanced armature per side, aligned with retailer and review listings . Typical street pricing sits in the low-$20s, keeping it in entry-level territory . :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Sonically, the IM1 leans V-shaped: punchy, elevated bass with lively treble, while the midrange sits a touch behind. Review measurements and notes point to audible mid-bass bleed and occasional sibilance on hot recordings, though detail in the upper range is present for the class . Community impressions broadly match: energetic, fun tuning with a smooth-ish but sometimes spicy top end for the price . :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Technicalities are serviceable: staging and separation are average, but isolation is strong and the fit is stable and comfortable for long sessions—useful traits at this price . If a neutral/Harman balance is the goal, the bass emphasis will feel overdone; if a budget “fun” set for pop and EDM is needed, the IM1 remains a viable nostalgic pick. Just be aware of the treble peaks and bass coloration before diving in. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
KZ Saga Balanced (more reviews)
KZ Saga Balanced reviewed by Kois Archive
Kois Archive Youtube Channel
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KZ Saga Balanced reviewed by Audio Amigo
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
TRN IM1 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+1BA
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Price (Msrp): $22
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KZ Saga Balanced Details
Driver Configuration: 1x Dynamic (KZ "ultra wideband")
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Brand: KZ Top KZ IEMs
Price (Msrp): $23
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TRN IM1 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
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KZ Saga Balanced User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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TRN IM1 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
5.2Gaming Grade
C+KZ Saga Balanced Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.3Gaming Grade
A-TRN IM1 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
B-- It sounds pleasant overall, with some uneven spots that hint at room for refinement. Vocals remain pleasant despite the imperfections.
Average Technical Grade
C+- Technical ability is serviceable, keeping basic detail intact across simpler tracks. It keeps up with acoustic tracks without much fuss.
KZ Saga Balanced Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- The tonal balance is polished and expressive, highlighting emotion without sacrificing accuracy. It keeps emotional weight without sacrificing accuracy.
Average Technical Grade
A-- It manages detail and layering well enough, even if the stage feels only moderately sized. You get a clear sense of left and right, if not depth.
TRN IM1 User Reviews
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