How to Wear In-Ear Earphones Correctly

Reviewed 6 Oct 2026 · Data from KZ’s official spec sheetsFor: Everyday and sport Listening to music Playing live and rehearsing

The most common complaint from people new to IEMs is “they have no bass” or “they fall out”. It is almost always a problem of fit or ear tip size, not of the earphone. With a good seal, the same earphone sounds completely different.

In short

The cable goes over and behind the ear, not hanging straight down.
The ear tip must seal the canal: if air gets in, the bass disappears.
Try every size in the box; each ear may need a different one.

How to put them in

1. Identify each side. They are marked L (left) and R (right).
2. Run the cable over your ear. The curved section of the cable hugs the back of the ear.
3. Insert the earphone with a slight twist. Place it at the entrance of the canal and rotate it backward until the body rests in the hollow of your ear.
4. Help it along by pulling your ear. Gently pulling the outer ear up and back opens the canal and makes sealing easier.

How to tell if they seal well

Outside noise drops clearly when you put them in.
The bass sounds full; if it sounds thin or tinny, air is getting in.
They do not move when you move your jaw or walk.
Both sides sound equally loud.

Choosing the ear tip size

KZ earphones include several sizes of silicone ear tips. Start with the medium. If the earphone slips out or the bass is missing, try a larger one; if it is uncomfortable or will not go in, a smaller one. It is normal to use a different size in each ear.

Silicone or foam

	Silicone	Foam
Seal	Good if the size is right	Very good: it expands and adapts
Sound	More open in the treble	A little warmer
Lifespan	Long, washable	Shorter, replaced with use
Fitting	Straight in	Needs compressing before you insert it

Some models, such as the KZ Zenith, include foam tips as well as silicone ones.

Common mistakes

Wearing the cable hanging down, like regular earbuds.
Not inserting them far enough for fear of hurting yourself: they should seal, without forcing.
Sticking with the ear tip that comes fitted without trying the rest.
Mixing up left and right: the shape is designed for each ear.

Care and cleaning

Clean the ear tips with a damp cloth and let them dry before use. If the earphone mesh gets clogged with wax, the volume drops on that side: clean it carefully and dry.

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal for them to feel uncomfortable at first?

You may notice them for the first few days. If they hurt, the ear tip is too big.

Why does one side sound quieter?

Almost always because of a poorer seal in that ear or a dirty mesh.

Do they block out noise?

Yes, passively: the seal itself reduces outside noise. If you want active cancelling, look at the KZ Carol Pro.

Keep reading

Every KZ Componentes order comes with a 3-year warranty, 30-day returns and support from our team in Spain. Torn between models? Write to us and we will help you choose.