ZiiGaat Lush Review
ZiiGaat Lush Review
Introduction:
The ZiiGaat Lush is a studio-grade in-ear monitor engineered for precision, blending a hybrid setup of one 10mm PET diaphragm dynamic driver and four proprietary balanced armature drivers. This configuration aims to deliver a neutral sound signature with deep, controlled bass, transparent mids, and smooth, detailed treble, catering to both professional audio engineers and audiophiles. Crafted from 3D-printed medical-grade resin with hand-painted faceplates, the Lush combines aesthetic elegance with durability. Its detachable 2-pin cable enhances versatility, allowing users to tailor their listening experience.
This review explores the Lush’s design, build quality, and sonic performance to evaluate its standing in the competitive IEM market.
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Linsoul and ZiiGaat for providing the Lush In-Ear Monitor for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Linsoul and ZiiGaat beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Price & Availability:
The actual price of the ZiiGaat Lush Hybrid In-Ear Monitors is 179.00 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;
Package & Accessories:
The ZiiGaat Lush arrives in a compact, elegant cardboard box featuring the ZiiGaat logo and a image of the IEM.
Inside the box are the following contents/accessories;
- 1 x pair of ZiiGaat Lush In-Ear Monitors
- 1 x Detachable Cable with 2-Pin Connectors
- 3 x pairs of Silicone Ear Tips (1 pair pre-installed)
- 1 x pair of Foam Ear Tips
- 1 x Zipper Case
- 1 x Print Material
Design & Build Quality:
The ZiiGaat Lush features a design that balances visual appeal with a good build quality. The housing is primarily made of 3D-printed medical-grade resin. The shells, constructed from resin, are lightweight and intended to be hypoallergenic, common traits for IEM materials. The outer faceplates have a glittery pattern, available in silver or silver-blue, designed to reflect light and offer a varied visual effect.
The faceplates are designed with a hand-painted, glittery pattern available in silver or silver-blue. This marbled effect includes light flecks that vary in appearance depending on the viewing angle, making each unit unique. The glossy finish is resistant to fingerprints. The ZiiGaat logo is subtly placed. This design aims to combine a distinct visual style with refined aesthetics.
Inside the ZiiGaat Lush, each earpiece utilizes a hybrid driver configuration. This setup includes one 10mm PET diaphragm dynamic driver, which functions as a dedicated subwoofer for bass frequencies. Complementing this are four Balanced Armature (BA) drivers, custom-tuned to handle the midrange and treble. Specifically, dual custom composite full-range drivers manage the midrange, while a custom dual tweeter system is responsible for upper treble detail. This 1 Dynamic Driver + 4 Balanced Armature arrangement is supported by a three-way passive crossover network, which distributes the audio frequencies to the appropriate drivers for optimal performance.
The top of the shell includes a single vent located near the 0.78mm 2-pin connectors. This vent is intended to regulate pressure for bass response. The connectors are flush with the resin body, designed for a secure connection with the detachable cable.
The sound nozzle features a pronounced lip to secure ear tips and a metal mesh to protect against debris. Its standard diameter ensures compatibility with aftermarket tips, though the nozzle’s slightly shallow length may affect treble perception for users with longer ear canals.
The rear surface features an opening with a fine mesh on the top that probably serves as a pressure relief.
The stock cable, constructed from high-purity copper with a braided nylon sheath, is lightweight and resists tangling but feels slightly stiff, detracting from overall comfort.
The 3.5mm plug, housed in a durable metal casing with plastic strain relief, adds reliability for daily use, though a modular plug option at this price level would have been a welcome addition.
The overall build of both the earphones and their removable cable shows a mix of good looks and practicality, aiming for a flexible and pleasant listening time.
Fit, Comfort & Isolation:
The ZiiGaat Lush is a very ergonomic IEM, fitting snugly in medium-sized ears due to its contoured, lightweight resin shells. The smooth surface avoids pressure points, enabling hours of fatigue-free listening. The passive noise isolation is commendable, effectively reducing ambient noise in environments like public transit or busy offices, though it falls short of fully sealed IEMs. Overall, the Lush excels in comfort and isolation for most users.
Technical Specifications:
- Model : Lush
- Driver Technology : 10mm PET diaphragm DD and 4x Custom Balanced Armature Drivers
- Frequency Response : 20Hz ~ 25 kHz
- Sensitivity : 103dB
- Impedance : 17Ω
- Connector Type : 0.78mm Diameter 2-Pin Connector
- Plug : 3.5mm Single Ended
- Cable Length : approx. 120cm
Drivability & Pairing:
The ZiiGaat Lush, with an impedance of 17Ω and sensitivity of 103dB, is a highly efficient in-ear monitor that pairs well with a variety of devices, from smartphones to Digital Audio Players (DAPs). Sources like the FiiO JM21 and HiBy R3Pro II can fully bring out its potential, offering detailed dynamics and clarity. Even more modest devices, such as a USB DAC dongle, can provide satisfactory performance. Its neutral tuning adapts effectively to different sources, although warmer DAPs enhance the bass texture. This makes the Lush a versatile option for both portable and stationary audio setups.
Albums & tracks used for this review:
- Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Apple Music Lossless)
- Adele – My Little Love (Apple Music Lossless)
- Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
- Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Music Lossless)
- Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Music Lossless)
- U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
- Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
- Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
- Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Music Lossless)
- Hans Zimmer – The Dark Knight OST (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
- Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Apple Music Lossless)
- Pink Floyd – Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Apple Music Lossless)
- Miles Davis – So What (Deezer HiFi)
- Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
- Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
- Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)
Equipment’s used for this review:
- IEM’s : ZiiGaat Lush, EarAcoustic SPA-Hi End Ultra
- DAP&DAC’s : FiiO JM21, HiBy R3Pro II, Neutron HiFi DAC V1
- Burn-in Period : 60 hours
- Ear Tips : Stock silicone
- Cable : Stock 2-pin copper cable
The Sound:
Sound Introduction:
The ZiiGaat Lush provides a neutral sound signature, emphasizing accurate tonality and balance. This presentation prioritizes clarity across the frequency spectrum. Its low-frequency response is controlled, complementing other frequencies without undue prominence. The midrange aims for transparency and a natural quality, reproducing vocals and instruments with detail. High frequencies are presented smoothly, offering clarity without sharp characteristics. With a broad soundstage and defined imaging, the Lush offers an engaging experience that is suitable for various music genres, positioning it as a capable IEM within its price category.
Bass:
The ZiiGaat Lush’s bass response is characterized by its control and definition. It provides a low-end presence that integrates with the overall sound without dominating it. Sub-bass extends, creating a discernible presence, as demonstrated in Massive Attack’s “Angel,” where the foundational bassline maintains distinction from the mid-frequencies. Mid-bass is presented with texture and control, adding substance to elements like kick drums and bass guitars, evident in Muse’s “Hysteria.” In this track, the bassline contributes to the drive with articulated presence, managing rapid sequences clearly.
The Lush handles layered low frequencies effectively, allowing distinct elements, such as synthesized tones and acoustic drums, to be heard without becoming indistinct. While it does not deliver the elevated impact found in some bass-focused IEMs, its balanced approach offers adaptability across genres, from rock to orchestral music. The bass exhibits agility, with a natural decay that avoids prolonged resonance, making it suitable for complex recordings. For listeners seeking a defined yet engaging low end, the Lush offers a controlled performance.
Midrange:
The midrange of the ZiiGaat Lush offers a clear and natural presentation, bringing vocals and instruments forward. Lower midrange frequencies exhibit a subtle warmth, contributing to the richness of male vocals, as heard in Sting’s “Englishman in New York,” where his voice carries depth. The upper midrange is slightly emphasized, allowing female vocals to project, as demonstrated in Norah Jones’ “Come Away With Me,” where her voice is presented with clarity and discernible nuances.
The ZiiGaat Lush maintains a smooth transition across midrange frequencies, avoiding sharp or thin characteristics, which contributes to a cohesive sound. Instruments such as pianos and acoustic guitars retain their natural character, with subtle textures in string plucks and key presses adding to the realism. The midrange’s ability to resolve detail is notable, revealing vocal harmonies and instrumental subtleties without an overly analytical quality. This balanced approach supports vocal-centric genres like jazz and pop, allowing for a listening experience that encourages extended periods of enjoyment. The midrange is both engaging and adaptable.
Treble:
The ZiiGaat Lush’s treble is presented smoothly and with extension, balancing clarity with a non-fatiguing quality in the high-frequency range. It provides clear articulation for elements like cymbals, as in Gogo Penguin’s “Raven,” where strikes are distinct with natural decay, adding presence without harshness. The upper treble contributes to a sense of spaciousness, as heard in Hans Zimmer’s “The Dark Knight OST,” where high strings exhibit detail while remaining composed.
The IEM’s treble processes complex percussion with refinement, preserving subtle details like hi-hat nuances and avoiding sibilance, making it tolerant of brighter recordings. While it may not be as prominent as treble-forward IEMs, its approach prioritizes listenability over extended periods, potentially suiting users sensitive to high frequencies. The treble complements the bass and midrange, contributing to a cohesive sound suitable for diverse genres, from classical to electronic music. For listeners valuing detail without sharpness, the Lush’s treble offers a clear presentation that enhances the overall listening experience.
Soundstage & Imaging:
The ZiiGaat Lush presents a soundstage that appears broad for its price point, with notable width and moderate depth. It presents orchestral elements and individual instruments with distinct separation, contributing to a sense of a three-dimensional space. Imaging is precise, allowing for the identification of instrument locations, where different components of a track occupy defined areas without sounding crowded. While not as deep as some higher-priced IEMs, the soundstage’s width and accurate imaging contribute to an immersive quality in complex tracks, reducing the perception of sound being confined within the ear. This performance is suitable for both detailed listening and general use, offering a spacious and engaging experience.
Comparison:
ZiiGaat Lush versus EarAcoutic SPA-Hi End Ultra:
The Lush delivers a neutral bass with fairly deep, quite controlled subbass, providing a clean and tactile rumble. Its midbass is articulate, prioritizing precision in its low-frequency presentation. The SPA-Hi End Ultra, conversely, offers a punchier and more resonant bass, with stronger subbass impact. It can exhibit a slight mid-bass warmth that might reduce separation in some tracks. The Lush emphasizes control in its bass, while the Ultra leans towards a more energetic low-end.
Regarding the midrange, the Lush provides a transparent presentation with a natural warmth that enhances vocal and instrumental clarity. The SPA-Hi End Ultra’s midrange appears somewhat recessed, which can make vocals less prominent, potentially being overshadowed by the bass and treble frequencies. The Lush offers a more forward and detailed midrange, which may be preferred for tracks where vocals are central.
In terms of treble, the Lush’s high frequencies are smooth and extended, delivering crisp articulation for elements like cymbals without causing listening fatigue. It also presents airy highs that contribute to overall spaciousness. The SPA-Hi End Ultra’s treble is brighter, adding vibrancy but feeling intense with certain recordings. The Lush prioritizes comfort and long-term listenability, while the Ultra emphasizes a more vivid high-frequency response.
For soundstage and imaging, the Lush offers a wide soundstage with precise imaging that excels in separating individual instruments and orchestral elements. The SPA-Hi End Ultra provides a generally wider and more atmospheric stage, creating a grander sense of space. The Lush is well-suited for applications requiring detailed spatial accuracy, while the Ultra favors a more immersive listening experience.
Conclusion:
The ZiiGaat Lush, priced at $179, is a standout studio-grade IEM offering a neutral, reference-quality sound profile. Its hybrid configuration of one 10mm dynamic driver and four balanced armature drivers ensures tight bass, clear mids, and refined treble, suitable for both professional audio work and casual listening across diverse genres. The ergonomic, lightweight resin shells paired with hand-painted faceplates provide comfort and visual appeal, while the detachable cable enhances versatility. Though its soundstage depth is slightly outclassed by higher-end models and the packaging feels basic, the Lush delivers exceptional value for audiophiles and professionals seeking precision and balance.
Pros & Cons:
- + Studio grade neutral sound with precise bass, transparent mids, and smooth treble
- + Ergonomic, lightweight medical-grade resin build
- + Comfortable fit for extended wear
- + Eye-Catching, hand-painted faceplate design
- + High efficiency, pairs well with various devices
- + Detachable, tangle-resistant cable for flexibility
- – Soundstage depth not the best in its class
- – Basic packaging lacks a premium touch
- – No cable with 4.4mm Balanced plug option
Thank you for the Read!
