After the massive success of the original 7Hz Zero, audiophiles have been eagerly waiting for its successor. The 7Hz Zero 2, developed in collaboration with renowned audio reviewer Crinacle, promises enhanced bass, improved sound quality, and better overall value at just ₹1,800-2,300. But does this budget IEM live up to the hype created by its predecessor? After extensive testing with various music genres, gaming sessions, and comparing it against competitors in the same price range, here’s everything you need to know before making your purchase decision.
Table of Contents
7Hz Zero 2 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹1,800 (without mic) / ₹2,300 (with mic) |
| Driver | 10mm Dual Cavity Dynamic Driver |
| Diaphragm | PU (PolyUrethane) + Metal Composite |
| Frequency Range | 10Hz – 20,000Hz |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 108dB |
| Cable Connection | 0.78mm 2-Pin Detachable |
| Sound Signature | Warm V-Shape |
| Best For | Music lovers, gamers, casual listeners |
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
- The 7Hz Zero 2 costs ₹1,800-2,300 and offers exceptional value for budget-conscious audiophiles
- Features enhanced bass response compared to the original Zero with improved sub-bass extension
- Warm V-shaped sound signature makes it beginner-friendly and enjoyable for long listening sessions
- Lightweight, comfortable design with excellent fit and noise isolation
- Cable quality is average with tendency to tangle—the main weakness of this IEM
- Perfect for gaming with clear footsteps and excellent depth/imaging
- Significantly improved over original Zero with smoother treble and more engaging sound
- Highly recommended for first-time IEM buyers and music enthusiasts under ₹2,500 budget
Quick Verdict
Rating: 4/5
The 7Hz Zero 2 is an outstanding budget IEM that delivers way beyond its price point. With enhanced bass, smooth mids, comfortable fit, and excellent soundstage for gaming, it’s one of the best entry-level options available in India. While the cable could be better, the overall package at ₹1,800-2,300 makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to step into the world of quality audio without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality for the price
- Enhanced bass without sacrificing clarity
- Comfortable, lightweight design
- Excellent for both music and gaming
- Great noise isolation
- Multiple eartip options included
- Good microphone quality (with mic variant)
Cons:
- Cable tends to tangle and lacks smoothness
- Build feels slightly cheap (all plastic except faceplate)
- Not ideal for hardcore bassheads
- Cable durability concerns
Unboxing and Package Contents
Opening the 7Hz Zero 2 package reveals a well-thought-out accessory bundle that justifies the ₹1,800-2,300 price tag. Inside the box, you’ll find the IEM shells with their distinctive transparent design, a detachable cable (available with or without microphone depending on the variant you choose), and an impressive selection of eartips in different sizes and colors.
The variety of eartips is particularly noteworthy—7Hz includes multiple options to ensure you find the perfect fit for your ear canal. This attention to fit customization is rare in the budget segment and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to user experience.
Build Quality and Design: Premium Looks on a Budget
The Zero 2 sports a transparent resin/plastic shell construction with an aluminum brushed faceplate that adds a touch of premium aesthetics. The transparent finish is not just for show—it allows you to see the internal driver, creating a visually appealing design that stands out from typical budget IEMs.
The faceplate features subtle branding that doesn’t scream for attention. The shells lean toward the smaller side and are notably lightweight, making them ideal for extended listening sessions without causing ear fatigue. While the construction is primarily plastic, it doesn’t feel flimsy. However, the build quality is adequate rather than exceptional for the price point.
One design highlight is the pentagonal shell shape, which might look unusual at first glance but proves functional in practice. The connection system uses the industry-standard 0.78mm 2-pin connector, allowing for cable upgrades in the future should you desire better quality.
Fit, Comfort, and Isolation: All-Day Wearability
Comfort is where the 7Hz Zero 2 truly shines. The ergonomic shell design sits flush in the ear canal without any sharp edges or pressure points. During my testing, I wore these IEMs for 4-5 hour listening sessions without experiencing any discomfort—a testament to their well-executed ergonomics.
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The fit is secure enough for commuting and light physical activity, though these aren’t specifically designed for sports use. The pentagonal shape initially seems unconventional, but it actually helps with achieving a stable fit that doesn’t shift during movement.
Passive noise isolation is impressive for an IEM at this price. The combination of proper fit and quality eartips blocks out a significant amount of ambient noise, making these suitable for use in noisy environments like public transport or busy offices. You’ll barely notice you’re wearing them after the first few minutes—they simply disappear on your ears.
Cable: The Achilles’ Heel
Here’s where the 7Hz Zero 2 shows its budget roots. The included cable, while functional, is the weakest link in an otherwise excellent package. The cable lacks the smoothness you’d want for daily use—running your hand along it doesn’t provide that premium, tangle-free feel of higher-end cables.
Tangling is a frequent annoyance. Despite my best efforts to store it properly, the cable seems to develop knots seemingly on its own. This is a common issue with budget IEMs, but it’s still disappointing given how well-executed the rest of the package is.
On the positive side, the cable appears durable enough for its price point, and the microphone quality (on the mic variant) is surprisingly good. For voice calls and gaming communications, it performs admirably. However, if you’re particular about cable quality, you might consider investing in an aftermarket cable upgrade down the line—thankfully, the 0.78mm 2-pin connection makes this straightforward.
Sound Performance: Where the Magic Happens
Driver Technology and Tuning Philosophy
The 7Hz Zero 2 employs a 10mm dual-cavity dynamic driver with a PU (PolyUrethane) and Metal composite diaphragm. This represents an upgrade from the original Zero, which used a purely metal diaphragm. The dual-cavity design and composite material work together to produce enhanced bass response while maintaining clarity across the frequency spectrum.
The frequency range spans from 10Hz to 20,000Hz, with an impedance of 32 Ohms and sensitivity of 108dB. These specifications mean the Zero 2 is easy to drive—your smartphone or laptop will power them adequately without requiring a dedicated amplifier.
Overall Sound Signature: Warm V-Shape Perfection
The tuning of the 7Hz Zero 2 can be described as a warm V-shaped sound signature—significantly different from the more neutral approach of the original Zero. This new tuning makes the Zero 2 more approachable for beginners and more enjoyable for casual listening.
Comparing the frequency response graphs of the Zero and Zero 2 reveals a noticeable spike in the bass region, near-identical mids, and smoother highs in the Zero 2. This refined tuning addresses one of the main criticisms of the original: lack of bass presence for those who enjoy a more exciting sound.
Bass: Enhanced and Engaging
The bass is undoubtedly the star of the show with the Zero 2. The sub-bass region receives special attention—it’s extended, well-textured, and boosted compared to the original Zero. This creates a strong presence that adds weight and body to music without overwhelming other frequencies.
Sub-bass takes the lead here, providing that satisfying low-end rumble in bass-heavy tracks. The mid-bass, while positioned slightly behind the sub-bass, remains punchy and tight. This tuning ensures you get impact without the muddiness that plagues many bass-focused budget IEMs.
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However, it’s important to set realistic expectations: these are not for hardcore bassheads. If you’re looking for skull-rattling, overwhelming thump, you’ll need to look elsewhere. The Zero 2 provides tasteful bass enhancement—there’s presence, punch, and texture, but it’s balanced rather than excessive.
Midrange: Smooth and Natural
The midrange on the Zero 2 is where Crinacle’s tuning expertise becomes evident. It’s smooth, relaxed, and natural-sounding—avoiding the common pitfalls of recessed or overly forward mids that plague many V-shaped IEMs.
The transition from mid-bass to lower mids is warm and seamless, giving male vocals a soft, relaxed character. Female vocals shine with more vibrancy and detail, standing out in the mix without becoming harsh or sibilant.
Instruments maintain a balanced and natural timbre. String instruments, guitars, and pianos sound organic rather than artificially colored. During testing, I found no issues with sibilance or harshness—even in tracks known to reveal such problems in poorly tuned IEMs.
For gaming enthusiasts, the midrange performance translates to clear audio cues. Footsteps, reloading sounds, and environmental audio are easily audible and well-positioned in the soundstage, giving you a competitive advantage in games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty Mobile, or Valorant.
Treble: Refined and Fatigue-Free
The treble region is clean, clear, and notably smoother than the original Zero—a change I personally appreciate. While the original had excellent detail, it could occasionally verge on being too aggressive for extended listening. The Zero 2 addresses this perfectly.
Details remain crisp and well-articulated without any aggressive peaks that cause listening fatigue. The treble steps back slightly from the spotlight compared to its predecessor, creating a more laid-back presentation that’s comfortable for hours of listening.
Micro-details are still easily discernible—cymbal crashes, hi-hats, and acoustic guitar strings all come through with sufficient clarity and air. The refinement here means you can enjoy analytical listening without the discomfort that overly bright treble can cause.
Soundstage, Imaging, and Technical Performance
For a budget IEM, the Zero 2 punches well above its weight in technical performance. The soundstage offers good depth and decent width, creating a three-dimensional audio experience that belies the ₹2,000 price point.
Imaging—the ability to pinpoint where sounds are coming from—is excellent. This makes the Zero 2 particularly good for gaming, where directional audio cues can mean the difference between victory and defeat. In competitive shooters, you’ll have no trouble identifying enemy positions based on footsteps or gunfire.
Instrument separation is another strong point. Even in complex musical passages with multiple instruments playing simultaneously, each element maintains its own space in the mix. This layering capability adds to the overall listening enjoyment, allowing you to appreciate the intricacies of well-produced music.
Gaming Performance: A Competitive Edge
The 7Hz Zero 2 excels as a gaming IEM. The combination of good bass for impactful explosions and gunfire, clear mids for voice communication, and excellent imaging for positional audio creates an immersive gaming experience.
During testing with various mobile games, footsteps were easily audible even in chaotic situations. The depth and imaging allow you to accurately judge distance and direction of enemy players—a crucial advantage in competitive gaming.
The comfortable fit means you can game for hours without discomfort, and the passive noise isolation helps you focus on in-game audio without external distractions.
7Hz Zero 2 vs Original Zero: What Changed?
The most significant difference lies in the diaphragm material and internal structure. While the original Zero used a metal diaphragm, the Zero 2 employs a PU+Metal composite with dual-cavity design. This change enables the enhanced bass response that defines the Zero 2’s sound signature.
The tuning philosophy has shifted from neutral to warm V-shape, making the Zero 2 more engaging and fun-sounding for mainstream listeners. The smoother treble also makes it more forgiving with lower-quality source files and less fatigue-inducing for extended listening.
Build-wise, both share similar lightweight plastic construction with metal faceplates, though the Zero 2’s transparent shells give it a more distinctive aesthetic.
Who Should Buy the 7Hz Zero 2?
The 7Hz Zero 2 is ideal for:
First-time IEM buyers looking to upgrade from basic earphones without spending a fortune. The forgiving tuning and comfortable fit make it perfect for beginners.
Music enthusiasts who enjoy a variety of genres and want an engaging, fun sound signature that doesn’t sacrifice too much detail.
Gamers seeking competitive audio advantages through excellent imaging and soundstage at a budget price.
Casual listeners who want better sound quality than wireless earbuds but don’t want to invest in expensive audiophile gear.
Students and commuters needing comfortable IEMs with good isolation for daily use in noisy environments.
Who Should Skip the 7Hz Zero 2?
Consider alternatives if you’re:
- Hardcore bassheads who need overwhelming, room-shaking bass quantity. The Zero 2’s bass is tasteful and balanced, not excessive.
- Neutrality purists who prefer completely flat, reference-style tuning. The warm V-shape might not suit analytical listening preferences.
- Cable quality perfectionists who can’t tolerate tangly cables. You’ll need to budget for an aftermarket cable upgrade.
- Those seeking premium build with metal shells and luxury materials. The plastic construction, while functional, won’t satisfy premium build quality expectations.
Value Proposition and Final Recommendation
At ₹1,800 without microphone or ₹2,300 with microphone, the 7Hz Zero 2 represents exceptional value in the budget IEM market. The combination of enhanced bass, smooth tuning, comfortable fit, and gaming-friendly sound characteristics makes it one of the strongest contenders in its price bracket.
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The only significant compromise is the cable quality, which while functional, falls short of the excellence demonstrated by the IEM itself. However, this is a common trade-off in budget audio products, and the detachable cable design means upgrades are always possible.
For anyone looking to step into the world of quality IEMs without breaking the bank, the 7Hz Zero 2 is an easy recommendation. It successfully builds upon the strengths of the original Zero while addressing its weaknesses, creating a more accessible and enjoyable listening experience for mainstream audiences.
7Hz Zero 2 Review
Should you buy the 7Hz Zero 2? Absolutely, if you’re looking for your first quality IEM or upgrading from basic earphones. The 7Hz Zero 2 delivers outstanding sound quality, comfortable fit, and excellent versatility for both music and gaming at an incredibly competitive price of ₹1,800-2,300. The enhanced bass and smooth tuning make it beginner-friendly without sacrificing detail or clarity. While the cable could be better, it’s a minor complaint in an otherwise stellar package. For budget-conscious audio enthusiasts and gamers in India, the Zero 2 is one of the best investments you can make under ₹2,500.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best budget IEMs under ₹2,000 in India?
The 7Hz Zero 2 (₹1,800-2,300) leads the pack alongside Moondrop Chu 2, Tangzu Wan’er S.G, and KZ ZSN Pro X. The Zero 2 stands out for its enhanced bass, gaming performance, and comfortable fit. For pure value, it’s hard to beat in this price segment.
Can 7Hz Zero 2 be used for calls and meetings?
Yes, if you purchase the variant with microphone (₹2,300), the mic quality is surprisingly good for calls and online meetings. Voice clarity is adequate, though it’s not studio-quality. For Zoom calls, gaming communications, and phone calls, it performs well above expectations for the price.
How does 7Hz Zero 2 compare to Moondrop Chu 2?
Both are excellent budget IEMs with different strengths. The Zero 2 has more bass presence and warmer sound, while the Chu 2 offers more neutral tuning and metal build. Zero 2 is better for bass lovers and gamers, while Chu 2 suits those preferring accuracy. The Zero 2 is generally considered more beginner-friendly.
Is 7Hz Zero 2 better than wireless earbuds for music?
Yes, for pure sound quality, the wired 7Hz Zero 2 significantly outperforms wireless earbuds in the same price range. Wireless introduces audio compression and latency, while wired IEMs like the Zero 2 deliver uncompressed audio. However, wireless earbuds offer convenience that wired IEMs can’t match.
Can 7Hz Zero 2 be used for professional audio work?
While the Zero 2 offers good sound quality, its warm V-shaped tuning isn’t ideal for professional mixing or mastering work where neutral, reference-quality sound is required. For casual music production, podcasting, or content creation, it’s acceptable, but professionals should invest in studio-grade monitoring solutions.
How is the bass on 7Hz Zero 2?
The bass on Zero 2 is enhanced compared to the original Zero, with good sub-bass extension and punchy mid-bass. It provides satisfying presence and texture without being overwhelming. However, it’s not designed for hardcore bassheads—the bass is tasteful and balanced rather than excessive.
Is the 7Hz Zero 2 worth buying in 2025?
Yes, the 7Hz Zero 2 remains one of the best budget IEMs available in 2025. At ₹1,800-2,300, it offers enhanced bass, smooth tuning, comfortable fit, and excellent sound quality that rivals IEMs costing twice as much. It’s particularly recommended for first-time IEM buyers and gamers.
Is 7Hz Zero 2 good for gaming?
Yes, the 7Hz Zero 2 is excellent for gaming. It offers clear footsteps detection, good depth and imaging for directional audio, comfortable fit for long sessions, and balanced sound that doesn’t sacrifice voice communication clarity. Many users specifically praise it for competitive mobile gaming.
