KZ Tuning Switches: What Each One Does

Reviewed 6 Oct 2026 · Data from KZ’s official spec sheetsFor: Listening to music Recording and mixing at home

Several KZ models have four small switches on each earphone. They adjust the sound with no apps or equalizer: they change the internal circuit. Each model uses them differently, so here we gather what each position does according to official KZ information.

In short

The switches make small adjustments (1 to 3 dB) to the factory tuning.
On almost all models, the first three raise the bass progressively.
The fourth varies by model: it raises the whole range or lowers the treble.
You need to set both earphones the same.

How to change them

Use the tool that comes in the box (a thin pin). With the earphone out of your ear, move each switch toward the “ON” position marked on the shell. Do it carefully: they are small parts. Repeat the same combination on the other earphone.

What each position does, model by model

Model	Switches 1, 2 and 3	Switch 4
KZ Zenith	+1, +2 and +3 dB of bass (switching on 1; 1 and 2; 1, 2 and 3)	With all four: boost across the whole range
KZ ZS10 Pro 2	Bass up one, two and three levels	Lowers the treble one level
KZ Krila	+1, +2 and +3 dB of bass	With all four: −1.5 dB in the treble
KZ D-Fi (Tuning version)	Bass, each one adds a step	Whole-range adjustment
KZ Castor Pro	1: +1 dB of bass; 1 and 2: +2 dB; 3: +1 dB in mids and treble	3 and 4: +2 dB in mids and treble
KZ Castor	Two switches for bass	Two switches for treble

Data from the official KZ product pages (kz-audio.com).

The KZ ZS12 Pro X and the KZ ZA12 also have switches, but only in their Tuning version.

Where to start

Listen first with everything off. That is the base tuning.
Not enough bass? Switch on 1; if that is not enough, 1 and 2.
Treble too forward? On the Krila and the ZS10 Pro 2, switch 4 softens it.
Change one at a time and listen to the same song to notice the difference.

What they do not do

The switches do not turn one earphone into another. They are 1 to 3 dB tweaks: you notice them, but they do not change the overall character. If you want a big change, an equalizer on your phone goes further.

Hi-Fi & pro audio IEMs, Everyday earphones, Dynamic drivers, KZ
KZ ZENITH – In-Ear Monitors with Adjustable Tuning
138,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Hi-Fi & pro audio IEMs, Hybrids, KZ, Musicians & stage
KZ ZS10 PRO 2 – Hybrid In-Ear Monitors with Adjustable Tuning
87,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Everyday earphones, Hybrids, KZ, Musicians & stage
KZ KRILA – Hybrid In-Ear Monitors with Adjustable Tuning
43,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Hi-Fi & pro audio IEMs, Dynamic drivers, KZ, Musicians & stage
KZ CASTOR – Dual Dynamic Driver In-Ear Monitors
43,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Hi-Fi & pro audio IEMs, Dynamic drivers, KZ, Musicians & stage
KZ CASTOR PRO – In-Ear Monitors with Dual 10 mm Drivers
61,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Everyday earphones, Dynamic drivers, KZ
KZ D-FI – In-Ear Monitors with Dual-Cavity Driver
52,95 €
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Frequently asked questions

Can they wear out if I change them a lot?

They are made to be moved, but they are small parts: use the tool and do not force them.

What if I set each earphone differently?

Each ear will sound different. Unless that is what you want, set both the same.

Do they change the impedance?

Yes, slightly; that is why these models state an impedance range instead of a single figure.

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.