Lypertek is back with the PurePlay Z7 which really does feel like this brand is developing into a premium brand. The Z7 is ideal for those who want quality audio but at a budget price point.
Lypertek is a brand we have reviewed a few of the range now from the Soundfree S20, Lypertek pureplay Z3 and most recently the Lypertek pureplay Z5. In this review, we have been testing the Z7 model which currently costs £69 via Amazon which is an incredible value.
First Impressions
The earbuds compared to the previous Z5 model have improved the Bluetooth performance now provide triple hybrid driver technology and revamped the design.
Lypertek PurePlay Z5 Vs PurePlay Z7
The Key features of the pureplay Z7 include:
- triple-hybrid-driver technology
- PureControl app – Access to 7-band EQ
- LDX Audio mode
- 80 hours battery life – 10 hours on a single charge with 7 full charges in the case.
- Bluetooth 5.2
- aptX & AAC codecs
- Wireless charging
- HearThrough mode
Design
The PurePlay Z7 design has removed the teardrop design that the Z5 model has and gone back to its roots the Z7 model looks more like a pair of Z3. The reason for that is they felt this design provided a better fit and assisted with the noise-isolating seal.
Lypertek assists the user with getting that perfect fit by providing additional silicone ear tips and FlexiFit foam tips if you need to adjust the seal. The PurePlay Z7 also comes with an IPX5 rating meaning they are water resistant perfect for when you get caught in a rain shower or when you hit the gym and work up a sweat.
I have been using these for long periods of time while travelling to the office and also using the buds to listen to a series of podcasts and had no issues in regards to comfort. You will also notice the Z7 model has physical buttons that allow you to control the buds and are very responsive. The only downside to this design is every time you press that button you might be pushing the bud further into your ear which might cause some discomfort for some users.
The Physical button provides you with the following controls:
| Control | How to Activate? |
| Play/Pause | A single tap on either bud |
| Previous rack | Tripple tap on Left bud |
| Next Track | Tripple tap on the right bud |
| Volume Up | Double tap on the right bud |
| Volume Down | Double tap on the left bud |
| Answer call / End Call | A single tap on either bud |
| Reject Call | Hold for 1 second either bud |
| Enable/Disable voice assistant | Hold for 1 second until 1 beep sound |
| Ambient sound | Hold for 2 seconds until 2 beeps sound |
The charging case is not much different from the Z3 model it’s still wrapped in grey fabric that has the Lypertek logo on the top and a small LED in the centre of the case that will light up when the case is open and move to the rear there is just the sole USB-C port.
The case will provide 10 hours of playtime on a single charge and then the case holds 7 additional charges giving you a total of 80 hours of battery life which is quite impressive.
The Z7 charging case also provides fast charging and the case is Qi compatible allowing for wireless charging. Lypertek does also allow you to purchase an additional charging plate if you wish but they will work on any wireless charging device you currently have like the Twelve South HiRise we have at home.
Features
The Lypertek Pureplay Z7 keeps with that noise-isolating design so if you are looking for ANC keep looking for the noise isolation in the Z7 model does keep a good level of unwanted noise out of your ears.
You are provided HearThrough mode but the fact the buds come with a noise isolation design kind of kills off the object of having this feature. When I tried the buds with the HearThrough mode on I will be honest I could not tell any difference so my advice is just to keep that feature off.
Features that do work include Bluetooth 5.2 which is paired with AAC, SBC and aptX codecs. I was very impressed with the aptX feature normally when I walk around London Liverpool St station many buds have just lost signal with only a few survivors you will be pleased to hear the Z7s are one of the few survivors.
The buds also allow you to take and receive calls and include the Qualcomm cVc 8.0 microphone noise cancelling technology but unfortunately, the quality was not what we expected our voice was described as distant and Qualcomm mic technology picked more unwanted outside noise than what I wanted it to pick up which was my voice.
You also get access to the PureControl app which has access to a selection of EQ presets with the option to create 2 custom 3-band EQ. The EQ presets include:
- Treble-
- Bass+
- Rock
- RnB
- Hip Hop
- Dance
- Jazz
- Pop
The app also includes finding my earbuds which will indicate the current location handy if the wife puts them in that magical place on the side! The app also provides firmware updates when possible apart from that the app is a little basic nothing really standout.
Sound Quality
The Lypertek Pureplay Z7 is built with a hybrid combination of balanced armature drivers and a titanium-coated driver. Let’s take a deeper dive into the overall sound quality, First up is the bass of the Z7 model. They use a single dynamic driver for the low end and it’s tuned very well. They provide just the right amount of punch without them sounding bloated.
When required there is a good level of extension when needed and they retain a controlled and smooth presentation. Midbass has a moderate kick that is not enough to really please if you want more of an engaging sound. You can make small adjustments to the bass via the Purecontrol app.
Moving to the midrange you will find a more balanced and neutral approach and when listening to someone like Sam Smith the vocals sound a touch warmer with great tonality and smooth but balanced presentation that just makes them enjoyable to listen to for long periods of time.
They sound effortless which is exactly what you want for a pair of TWS earbuds. I also found the midrange did a good job for female vocals they sounded with great clarity.
Finally, the treble is refined but not too much it’s detailed and has good extension but is not overdone and will provide a smooth presentation. If you need to adjust the treble you can do it via the app. If I had to find fault I would say the treble can lack a little energy but that was my personal preference.
Overall the Z7 are smooth and refined which is perfect for more of a slower track Sam Smith fans rejoice. However, they also work well with more acoustic sounds thanks to the natural midrange. If you wanted to listen to something a bit more upbeat turning on the LDX mode via the app does make the sound that bit more dynamic.
I found tracks with low frequencies have more depth and presence and vocals are well-defined satisfying enough detail and balanced approach. The Z7 did not include ANC but has excellent passive noise isolation and this actually enhances the overall sound quality.
Verdict
The PurePlay Z7 offers excellent value for money at only £69 they provide you with good quality sound, long life battery life, and an app to adjust the EQ but the design feels a little dated its very similar to the Z3 model.
Features wise is also a little bit of a mixed bag I was pleased to see Bluetooth 5.2 and the inclusion of AAC, SBC and aptX codecs which are a joy to have. However, the Qualcomm cVc 8.0 microphone was really disappointing and the HearThrough feature just does not make sense considering the inclusion of passive noise isolation.
Overall the price point is the big plus here they do have a decent level of sound that provides a bag full of clarity. The Z7 are pleasant to listen to but an audiophile won’t be too impressed the use of the PureControl app should allow them to make the required change to the EQ. The average user will be pleased with the sound quality and the fact they are Qi-compatible makes these a good option if on a budget.
Product Rating:
Design: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Features: 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Audio Quality: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0
Value for Money: 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0
Overall ranking: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars – 4.2 Stars!
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