Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review: Amazing Sweet vocal

Technical & in-depth presentation on "Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review" with details about build, design & sonic performance of the IEM.
  • Build & Design
  • Fit & Comfort
  • Bass
  • Midrange
  • Treble
  • Soundstage & Technicalities
  • Packaging & Accessories
4.5/5Overall Score

Zhulinniao is a Chinese IEM brand that starting in creating budget-friendly yet high-performing audio gear. While they might not be as well-known as some of the bigger audio brands, because they are new to this industry but famous for their awesome ear tips. To be honest, I had never heard of this brand or any of their IEMs before. So, when I first received the Z4 for review, I was curious but a little skeptical—wondering, "What is this?" But after spending a few weeks with this fantastic set and doing some research, I quickly realized that Zhulinniao is actually a serious brand in making. They seem to fall behind the more famous brands mainly due to their lack of visibility on social media. In this era, where vibrant and colorful marketing plays a huge role, they could benefit from being more active online. Their products deserve more attention, and they could really shine with a stronger digital presence.

Pros
  • Solid built
  • Tuning filters
  • Punchy Mid-bass
  • Melodic midrange
  • Detailed & textured vocals
  • Extended treble
  • Good accessories
  • Fantastic tune considering the price
Cons
  • Weak sub-bass for bass heads
  • Treble is extended but not airy
  • Tricky fitting
  • Supplied ear tips are good but not practical for Z4
  • Why this pouch?
Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review
Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review

Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 is an IEM that offers excellent value for its price, especially for those who enjoy clean and detailed sound with a bit of brightness. It features a sturdy zinc alloy housing with a Chinoiserie-inspired design, giving it a premium look and feel. One of its standout features is the inclusion of two interchangeable tuning filters, which allow users to customize the sound profile according to their preferences, adding to its flexibility.

If you’re a fan of vocal-centric IEMs or prefer a bright, neutral sound, the Qingluan Z4 is a strong option, especially considering it’s priced under $50. One challenge I noticed is the fit, which can be tricky due to the shorter nozzle. To fully enjoy the sound this IEM delivers, it’s important to find the right ear tips that provide a good fit and seal. Without this, you may miss out on the full sound experience it has to offer. I’ll cover more about cable and tip rolling later in the review.

Zhulinniao was kind enough to send me the Qingluan Z4 to review. I am not affiliated with Zhulinniao, and of course, I was not asked for any copy-checking before publishing. All opinions shared in this ‘Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 review’ are my subjective thoughts.

One thing more: The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear using different sources. Your experience may vary due to personal preference and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.

●   DAP: Cowon Planue R2, Tempo Tac V3
●   DAC: ifi Hip DAC 2, Cayin RU7, iBasso DC 04 Pro, Dunu DTC 480, Fosi Audio DS-1, Celest CD-10, Hidizs SD8 Pro Robin, Moondrop Dawn Pro.
●   Smartphone: Poco X3
●   Files: Spotify & local Hi-Res FALC & DSD files.

●   Driver: 10mm Dynamic Driver
●   Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz
●   Impedance: 32Ω
●   Sensitivity: 106dB
●   Cable: High-purity Silver plated Copper cable
●   Connector: 0.78mm 2 pin
●   Plug: 3.5mm
●   Ear tips: Premium liquid silicone

●   Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 IEMs
●   One set of tuning nozzle (Red)
●   Stock cable
●   3 types of silicon ear tips (S/M/L)
●   Carrying pouch
●   Some official papers

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When I first unboxed the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4, I was impressed by how well everything was presented, especially for its price. It arrived in a simple cardboard box, but inside, things were nicely organized, giving it a premium feel. The earphones were securely placed in foam cutouts, alongside the extra nozzles, which also had their own space. On one side of the box, you’ll find three different sets of ear tips, each in various sizes, including their well-known bamboo tips. I thought it was a really thoughtful touch to include these, but to be honest, I didn’t feel like they paired perfectly with the Qingluan Z4.

They just didn’t seem to bring out the best in the sound, which was a bit surprising. In addition to that, there was the stock cable and even some spare gaskets for the tuning nozzles, all neatly tucked away inside a small pouch. It was clear that a lot of care went into the packaging. Unlike some other budget earphones, where you often get random accessories you don’t really need, everything here felt intentional and useful.

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Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review-03
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The first thing I noticed about the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 is how solid it feels in your hand—it’s built like a tank! Seriously, this thing is made from zinc alloy, which gives it some noticeable weight despite its relatively small size. But that only adds to its premium feel. The face plate is stunning, with a blend of matte and glossy finishes that make it look like a piece of art. When you hold it, you can tell right away that it’s made to last.

The tuning nozzles, also made from zinc alloy, fit snugly and don’t loosen over time, which is great. I was also impressed with the ear tips—they’re made from high-quality liquid silicone and feel incredibly soft and comfortable (though they don’t go well with Qingluan Z4). The included cable is a mix of silver and pure copper, with a 3.5mm connector. The cable itself is soft, doesn’t tangle easily, and has virtually no microphonics, so you won’t get that annoying rustling sound when you move around.

As for the carrying pouch, it’s made from PU leather, and I have mixed feelings about it. It’s on the thinner side, and personally, I found it a bit impractical. There isn’t much depth, so if you use a thicker cable—like the NiceHCK Starry Night, one of my favorites—it’s tough to fit everything in comfortably.

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Here the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 suffers a bit. Due to its unusual shell shape, fit is tricky and it effects comfort and the sound quality too. I tried all the ear tips that came with the set, but none of them gave me the perfect fit I was looking for. So, I turned to my own collection of ear tips to find something better. Once I found the right tips, everything changed. When the Qingluan Z4 fits properly, it’s actually quite comfortable, even during long listening sessions.

Though it’s a bit heavier than other IEMs of a similar size, it didn’t bother me once I had the right setup. The soft cable is another nice touch—it’s comfortable to wear over the ear and doesn’t add any extra pressure. I’m a marathoner and listen to music 4-5 hours straight, and I didn’t have any problem with fit & comfort with right ear tips. 

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Now, onto the most important part—the sound! The Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 has a bright sound signature, and I was impressed by how punchy the mid-bass is. The midrange is incredibly detailed, and the vocals—whether male or female—come through with such texture and fullness. In fact, I’d say the Qingluan Z4 is one of the best IEMs for vocal reproduction, not just in its price range, but even above that. The treble is nicely extended, and while it’s not overly sharp, it’s still enjoyable. There’s a bit less air in treble than I’d expect from a bright-sounding IEM, but that’s not a deal breaker.

My only real complaint is with the sub-bass—it’s too faint for my taste, especially as a bass lover. Even with the transparent tuning filter, which is supposed to lower the midrange, the sub-bass still doesn’t quite hit the mark for me. That said, the Qingluan Z4’s overall presentation of music is so melodious that it’s easy to overlook this.
● Here are the frequency graphs with two filters:

Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review: Amazing Sweet vocal
Zhuliniao Qingluan Z4 Review: Amazing Sweet vocal

When I first listened to the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4, I noticed the sub-bass wasn’t immediately striking. It’s there, but it stays more in the background, kind of under the surface. You really only feel its presence when playing tracks that have a stronger bass focus, like Bob Marley’s or Sade’s music, where the sub-bass makes itself known more clearly. But if you’re listening to something like classic rock, country, or blues, it’s easy to miss that deep rumble. With the red filter, the sub-bass is far from what you’d call ‘bass head’ levels. But switching to the default transparent filter sub-bass is audible just a little more—though still not overwhelmingly so.

The Qingluan Z4, in general, has a bright tuning, which keeps the sub-bass in check, as expected. Despite this, it does a good job for general listeners and anyone who enjoys a brighter sound signature. It might not satisfy the bass-hungry crowd, but for those seeking clarity and control, it doesn’t disappoint.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 is its mid-bass—it’s textured, punchy, and has a solid presence without overpowering the other frequencies. The timbre is natural, delivering a satisfying impact with each note. Unlike the sub-bass, the mid-bass is clearly audible with both the transparent and red filters, which is a big plus. Listening to classic pop tracks like “Take on Me” by A-ha was an absolute blast—it sounded so good I couldn’t help but start dancing. The same goes for “La Bamba” by Los Lobos. With every beat and stroke, you can feel the rhythm come alive, and the music has this perfect, pure flow that’s hard to resist.

The notes have just the right weight and speed—not loose or wooly like some bass-heavy earphones, rather punchy, and rich with texture. If you love mid-bass or enjoy genres like progressive rock or metal, you’re going to love how the Qingluan Z4 handles these sounds. It brings out the energy and natural feel of the music, making it an exciting experience every time.

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 The vocals on the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 are truly the standout feature. As a warm sound lover, I didn’t expect to be so captivated by the male vocals of a bright IEM, but I find myself listening to them all day long. There’s something special about the way the Qingluan Z4 presents vocals—natural, with a touch of brightness and just the right amount of texture. Singers like Mark Knopfler, Richard Marx, Seal, Sting, and David Coverdale sound fantastic on these earphones. The vocals aren’t overly thick or too bright, which is common in some bright-sounding IEMs. It doesn’t push the vocals too far forward, but they still stand out, perfectly positioned alongside the other midrange instruments.

Even on busier tracks, the vocals don’t get lost or blend into the background—they remain clear and distinct. I was especially impressed with how the Z4 handled high-pitched vocals on Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again.” The vocals came through beautifully, without any sharpness or discomfort. The Qingluan Z4 manages to keep everything smooth and enjoyable, which makes it a joy to listen to.

If you’re looking to experience bright and “shiny” female vocals without the fatigue that usually comes with it, the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 is the perfect choice. Listening to female vocals on these earphones feels like pure melody pouring into your ears. The vocals have strength and power, but they’re never sharp or harsh. You get all the texture and emotion without any discomfort, which is a rare find for a bright-sounding IEM.

I usually avoid listening to female vocals on bright earphones because they tend to tire me out quickly, but the Qingluan Z4 completely changed my mind. Powerful voices like Laura Branigan, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, and Celine Dion sound incredibly controlled and smooth. At the same time, softer vocals, like those of Sade or Madonna, come through naturally and full of life. If you’re an audiophile who enjoys female vocals, you absolutely have to try the Qingluan Z4. I’m confident it’ll win you over, just like it did with me.

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One of the biggest strengths of the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4, especially considering its price, is how well it handles instrument separation. Each instrument in a track has its own space, and you get a real sense of where everything is placed. The sound is detailed and sharp, but not so sharp that it becomes uncomfortable. Even when multiple instruments are playing in the same scale or tune, like in some of Kitaro’s compositions where the piano, violins, guitars, and saxophone all play together, you can still tell each one apart clearly.

This doesn’t just apply to instrumental tracks either. In heavy and busy rock or metal songs, where it’s easy for things to get muddied, the Qingluan Z4 keeps everything in its right place. The different instruments remain well defined, and the sound never feels cluttered. It proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get a high-quality, well-balanced sound.

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 Let me start by admitting that I’m usually sensitive to treble and tend to shy away from sharp, piercing highs. But the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4’s treble really surprised me in a good way. It’s vibrant and detailed without being too sharp or uncomfortable. The upper frequencies extend beautifully, providing a smooth, melodic experience that I wasn’t expecting. While it doesn’t have the same airy quality as some other bright IEMs, the treble extension is still satisfying, giving a great sense of depth and clarity.

When I listened to fast-paced tracks from Metallica, Iron Maiden, or Aerosmith, the treble was present and smooth, blending well with the other frequencies without being overwhelming. The same goes for slower, more laid-back tracks from artists like Mark Knopfler, John Denver, and Lionel Richie—the treble was detailed but never harsh. Qingluan Z4 strikes the perfect balance for a bright sound signature, offering a lively but controlled treble that’s enjoyable for both treble lovers and those who, like me, are more sensitive to high frequencies.

If I had to describe the soundstage of the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 in one word, it would be “moderate.” But don’t take that to mean it’s cramped or narrow—far from it. The soundstage feels somewhat intimate, but not in a boxy or closed-off way. Thanks to the Qingluan Z4’s excellent instrument separation and strong sense of placement, it still gives you a wider feel than you’d expect. The stereo imaging, or horizontal soundstage, is particularly impressive. When instruments are panned to the left or right in a track, you can clearly sense their position.

The only area where I felt it could be improved is the headroom, or vertical stage. It’s not as expansive in the vertical sense, but honestly, for the price point, does that really matter? I don’t think so. Sure, as audiophiles, we always want more from our gear, even entry-level sets, but for me, the Qingluan Z4’s balanced soundstage and remarkable instrument separation are more than enough.

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Don’t worry about powering the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4—it’s actually very easy to drive. With an impedance of 32Ω and a sensitivity of 106dB, it doesn’t require a high-powered setup to perform well. Even an entry-level DAC, like the Moondrop Dawn Pro, can drive it without any issues. That said, as with most IEMs, the more power you give it, the better it sounds! It’s a general rule with earphones: feed them a bit more juice, and they’ll really come to life. The Qingluan Z4 is no exception.

Though I wouldn’t recommend using just a basic dongle to power it, as you might miss out on its full potential. While it will work, you won’t get to experience the richness and detail that the Qingluan Z4 is truly capable of. To get the best out of it, pairing it with a decent DAC or amp is the way to go—it really makes a difference in bringing out its full performance.

The Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 can be a bit tricky because it’s quite sensitive to the source you pair it with. If you want to enjoy its original, uncolored tuning without any enhancements, I’d recommend using a neutral DAC like the Dunu DTC 480. This DAC delivers a true-to-life sound, preserving the natural tone of the Qingluan Z4 without boosting any specific frequency range. But if you prefer a little more emphasis on the mids and improved soundstage and instrument separation, the iBasso DC04 Pro would be a great match. It brings out the midrange a bit more while expanding the soundstage for a more immersive experience.

But if you’re a bass lover and want to highlight the low-end, you should pair the Qingluan Z4 with a Hip DAC 2 or 3 and turn on the ‘X-Bass’ feature. This will take the bass performance to another level, and you’ll be blown away by how much punch and depth the Z4 can deliver. The only downside is that you might lose some of the Z4’s excellent instrument separation, but if bass is your priority, it’s a trade-off that won’t leave you disappointed.

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As I mentioned earlier, the supplied ear tips, while high-quality—especially the Bamboo tips—but they aren’t the best match for the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4. None of the stock tips provide the proper seal needed to fully experience the IEM’s true musicality. After experimenting with several ear tips, including Spinfit W1, Omni, Dunu Candy, Dunu S&S, Divinus Velvet (both regular and wide bore), and TRI Clarion, I finally settled on the Dunu S&S. These tips offer an excellent seal and provide exceptional comfort, allowing the Qingluan Z4 to shine in terms of sound quality.

As for the cable, I ended up using a custom-made pure copper cable ans DUNU Lyre Mini to add some thickness to the notes. While the stock cable is actually pretty decent and perfectly usable, its 3.5mm jack just doesn’t cut it for me.

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●   Budget-conscious audiophiles
●   Fans of vocal-centric music
●   Listeners who prefer bright sound signatures
●   Those who appreciate good instrument separation
●   Mid-bass lovers
●   Treble-sensitive listeners
●   Audiophiles looking for entry-level gear

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●   Bass-heads seeking deep sub-bass
●   Listeners who prefer a large soundstage
●   Those who dislike bright sound signatures

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The Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4 is an IEM that truly surprises, especially when you consider its price. It’s important to keep the price point in mind when evaluating any audio gear, as higher-end models are expected to deliver a top-tier experience, while budget-friendly options often come with compromises. But the Qingluan Z4 punches well above its weight with its impressive performance. If you can consider the slightly lacking sub-bass (unless you have something like the iFi Hip DAC 2 or 3 to boost it) and its moderate soundstage, this IEM is a strong contender.

At this price, finding an IEM that offers punchy mid-bass, enjoyable and textured vocals, extended treble, excellent instrument separation, and a soundstage that, while moderate, is still very manageable, is not easy to find. One thing’s for sure—you’ll fall in love with its vocal presentation. It’s guaranteed not to disappoint in that area. If you ever get the chance to audition the Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4, don’t miss it. It’s definitely something worth experiencing and owning, in my opinion!


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