Final Audio has recently released the upgrade on the Final ZE8000 we recently reviewed and called them the ZE8000 MK2. Now first impressions of the MK2 are they are identical to the previous model so let’s take a deeper look into if you should purchase the MK2 and if they have improved the issues we brought up with the sound last time out.
Final ZE8000 MK2 (Left) Vs Final ZE8000 (right)
First up is the price of the Final ZE8000 costs £289 and the ZE8000 MK2 now costs £299 so there is only a slight difference in the cost. Final have put these in the premium market for a pair of headphones let’s see if it’s worth the investment.
Unboxing
The Final ZE8000 MK2 come in identical packaging to the previous model and you are also provided with the same accessories so in the box are the following:
- Final ZE8000 MK2 Earbuds & Charging Case
- USB-C Charging Cable
- Ear Tips (5 Sizes)
- Acoustic Tool
- Dust Filters
Design
The Final ZE8000 MK2 just like the previous model are a modern pair of earbuds. They keep the speckled matte finish with a simple logo that adds a touch of shine. The charging case still shows they are a premium model as the lid is a sliding lid. However, the case is a little on the large size and removing the buds and placing them back into the case felt a little clumsy but you soon get used to it.
In terms of comfort, I had no issues and wearing them for long periods was no problem. There is a two-tier seal which makes them very snug and provides a natural sound isolation.
Moving to the controls these are accessed from the touchpads on the earbud stems and you can do the following:
In addition to this you can also you the touch controls for switching between ANC and ambient mode. There are also further controls via the companion app that offers features such as an EQ and 4 modes of noise control.
Battery Life
The Final ZE8000 MK2 offers the listener 5 hours of use from a single charge but this is paired with 15 additional hours from the charging case. This feels a little lower compared to the competition it is held against.
Connectivity
The Final ZE8000 MK2 supports Bluetooth 5.2 and pairing them for the first time was very easy to do. I even tested this at London Liverpool Street station and suffered no issues. In terms of Hi-Res audio the MK2 are supported by aptX and aptX Adaptive perfect for iPhone users.
ANC (Active Noise Cancellation)
Just like the previous model I just did not notice much from the ANC mode as the seal on the MK2 is very good it creates its natural sound isolation so some might question the need for ANC.
If you want to get more of the outside environment into your ears you can switch to ambient mode and this will let in the sound of your surroundings perfect if you are at a busy train station or cycling down a busy road.
Sound Quality
The Final ZE8000 MK2 have stepped up here this is one of the most multidimensional soundstages you will find. The MK2s provide you with tons of depth with instruments reaching way behind and in front of the ear when required this provides colorful clarity. There is also a great level of separation that injects plenty of distance and a sense of space.
Moving to the lows, Mids and highs of the ZE8000 MK2 the bass is powerful and provides the listener with ample punch and weight to pop tracks and modern genres. At the same time, the bass comes with a good level of discipline always staying in its lane and never causing issues to the highs. They also reveal an impressive amount of transparency providing rich colour to the instrumental of your song.
The Mids are cleaner compared to the previous model, especially in the low mids providing more of a definitive break from the controlled bass. Separation and layering in the MK2s are amazing they ensure no element is lost even when listening to the craziest mises and at the same time sounding warm. Move up the frequency range and there is more of a delicate delivery in the forward upper mids. This brings vocals up close to create tons of detail.
Last but not least the highs when you listen to something like “Freya Ridings Lost Without You” the vocals are just stunning at the very top registers. They offer just the right amount of sparkle without becoming too sharp. The Piano Instrumental achieves a nice balance of smoothness and texture without missing out on any detail.
Verdict
The Final ZE8000 MK2 are 100% an upgrade in terms of sound quality of the previous model. Yes there is still question marks on the companion app, low battery life. I was hoping both issues would have been resolved from the previous model but this has not happened yet. Perhaps a software update might fix the app.
That to one side the MK2s offer excellent audio quality with a powerful bass without being too much paired with expressive mids and airy highs.
If I had to find fault I would say the app needs some improvement the charging case is a little on the large size and the lack of battery life makes you question why it’s so large.
For those who are willing to spend more than normal to get a pair of earbuds with an addictive sound signature that are among the most nuanced and detailed pairs of true wireless. I also found them excellent if you are a subscriber to the likes of Apple Music or Tidal the high-res offering is a big tick.
Product Rating
Design: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Comfort: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0
Features: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Sound: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0
Value for Money: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall ranking: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars – 4.4 stars
The Final ZE8000 MK2 are available via Amazon for £299
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