I. Introduction
JUZEAR has recently collaborated with the ever-popular Zeos from Z Reviews to launch an exciting new in-ear monitor: the Defiant IEM. Priced at just $99 (expected to retail under ₹10,000 in India), the Defiant features an impressive driver configuration—1 dynamic driver and 3 balanced armature drivers—which is quite rare at this price point. It is available in two stunning color options: Rainbow and Jade Green.
This review unit was generously provided by Mr. Pulkit from Gadget Generations. I’d like to sincerely thank him for sharing this IEM with me ahead of the official launch. Please note that all thoughts, impressions, and conclusions in this review are completely my own—Mr. Pulkit or the brand has not influenced my opinions in any way.
I’ve spent the past two weeks using the Defiant as my daily driver, and I’ve poured my heart into this review. Let’s deep dive into what this IEM brings to the table.
II. Design and Build Quality
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is, in my opinion, one of the most visually striking IEMs under $100 that I’ve come across recently. My unit is in the Rainbow color variant.
The shell is crafted from premium resin, with a vibrant rainbow-toned faceplate. The JUZEAR branding is subtly placed on the right earpiece, and the logo adorns the left. The inner shell is a classy black resin, which adds to the premium look and feel.
It comes with a modular Flare cable that complements the design beautifully and adds a premium touch. The modular connectors also enhance the IEM's versatility.
Overall, the build quality—both of the IEM shell and the cable—is excellent for this price range. It looks and feels like something much more expensive.
III. Comfort and Fit
The Defiant’s shell is medium in size, and for my ears, it fits perfectly with the stock eartips. I’ve had no discomfort even during extended listening sessions. The ergonomic design ensures a secure and fatigue-free fit, making it suitable for long hours of musical immersion.
IV. Sound Quality
I began my testing with the stock 3.5mm cable and eartips, but eventually switched to the 4.4mm balanced termination. When paired with my HiBy R8 II DAP, I found that the 4.4mm setup provided more note weight, better dynamics, and overall improved performance. While the Defiant is easy to drive, it scales noticeably with better amplification.
General Sound Signature
The Defiant delivers a clean, crisp, and detailed presentation with well-rounded edges—a sound that’s both technically proficient and emotionally engaging. The tuning is nearly perfect for a $100 IEM. In fact, I believe Zeos and JUZEAR have done a phenomenal job, crafting an IEM that could become a new benchmark in this price bracket.
This is an IEM that strikes the ideal balance between technicalities and musicality.
Bass
The bass is tasteful and non-fatiguing, with no bleeding into the mids or highs. The sub-bass rumble and texture are satisfying, and bass decay is well-controlled—it arrives precisely when needed and disappears just as swiftly.
This is quality bass over quantity. It doesn't overwhelm but still gives enough impact for genres that demand it.
Midrange
The midrange is the true highlight of the Defiant. Both male and female vocals sound natural, clear, and emotionally rich. There’s no harshness or sibilance in female vocals, despite the crisp tuning.
The edges are clean but never sharp, which makes the Defiant a joy to listen to for hours on end. The tonality is a masterstroke—smooth yet vibrant.
Treble
The treble is musical, smooth, detailed, and clean. Tonally, it leans realistic rather than artificially sparkly. Instruments are rendered with finesse, offering clarity without fatigue.
The custom-made balanced armature drivers from JUZEAR contribute significantly to the exceptional midrange and highs. This is refined treble tuning done right.
Soundstage & Imaging
The soundstage is on the intimate side, but there’s good height and depth. Imaging and instrument separation are precise and well-defined, allowing instruments to be positioned confidently within the mix.
V. Value & Competition
In India, the JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is expected to retail under ₹10,000. At this price, its closest competitors are the Sennheiser IE 200 and the Dunu Titan S2. I’ve compared all three using frequency response graphs and critical listening.
Defiant vs. Sennheiser IE 200
| Region | Defiant | IE 200 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass (20Hz–250Hz) | More elevated sub-bass with deeper rumble. | Flatter, lighter bass—controlled but less impactful. |
| Mids (250Hz–2kHz) | Slightly fuller vocals and instruments. | More neutral and transparent. |
| Upper Mids & Treble (2kHz–10kHz) | Smoother, less fatiguing. | Forward, detailed, slightly brighter. |
| Air (10kHz–20kHz) | Rolls off slightly, smoother treble. | More air, sparkle, and clarity. |
Summary:
-
Defiant: Warm, smooth, fatigue-free with strong sub-bass.
-
IE 200: Neutral, airy, and detailed—ideal for clarity-focused listeners.
Defiant vs. Dunu Titan S2
| Region | Defiant | Titan S2 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass (20Hz–250Hz) | Deeper sub-bass presence. | Cleaner but less impactful low-end. |
| Mids (250Hz–2kHz) | Slight dip, but crisp. | Warmer and fuller lower mids. |
| Upper Mids & Treble (2kHz–10kHz) | Smoother, less forward. | More aggressive, energetic upper mids. |
| Air (10kHz–20kHz) | Better upper-treble extension. | Slight roll-off after 10kHz. |
Summary:
-
Defiant: Smooth, warm, and laid-back.
-
Titan S2: Bright, analytical, and energetic.
VI. Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| All-rounder under ₹10,000 | Soundstage is intimate |
| Natural, clear midrange | |
| Crisp, smooth, detailed treble | |
| Controlled bass with satisfying punch | |
| Eye-catching faceplate design | |
| Comfortable fit for long sessions | |
| High-quality modular cable, case, and eartips | |
| Excellent value for money |
VII. Conclusion
The JUZEAR x Z Reviews Defiant is a standout performer in the sub-₹10,000 IEM market. With its striking design, solid build quality, and well-executed tuning, it offers an experience that outshines many competitors.
What truly impressed me is how musical yet technically capable this IEM is. The bass is satisfying yet restrained, the midrange is immersive and lifelike, and the treble is smooth yet rich in detail.
Against heavyweights like the Sennheiser IE 200 and Dunu Titan S2, the Defiant holds its own with a warmer, smoother, and more fatigue-free signature—perfect for long listening sessions.
Whether you're a casual music lover or an emerging audiophile, the Defiant offers something truly special. JUZEAR and Zeos have created an IEM that doesn’t just compete—it redefines what’s possible under ₹10,000. If you want an all-rounder that looks as good as it sounds, the Defiant is an easy and heartfelt recommendation.
Special thanks to Mr. Pulkit and JUZEAR for giving me the opportunity to experience the Defiant IEM firsthand. As always, all opinions shared here are entirely my own.
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