Between the ZAR and Nova, the ZAR comes out ahead in driver count, while the Nova wins on sensitivity and impedance. Overall, the ZAR scores 65.4 and the Nova scores 73.9 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The Nova is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 8.5 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the ZAR if you care most about driver count. The biggest gaps in its favor are driver count.
Pick the Nova if you care most about sensitivity and impedance. Its strongest claims are sensitivity, impedance.
Both ship with comparable detachable cable, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the Nova is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why KZ - ZAR wins
- ▲Driver count — 3.00 more. 8 vs 5.
Why Truthear - Nova wins
- ▲Sensitivity — 13.89% more. 123 dB vs 108 dB.
- ▲Impedance — 11.00 Ω less. 15 vs 26.
Spec comparison
Drivers
| Spec | KZ - ZAR | Truthear - Nova |
|---|---|---|
| Driver count | 8lead | 5 |
| Driver types | 1DD + 7BA Hybrid | 1DD + 4BA Hybrid |
| Impedanceⓘ | 26 Ω | 15 Ωlead |
| Sensitivityⓘ | 108 dB | 123 dBlead |
Build
| Spec | KZ - ZAR | Truthear - Nova |
|---|---|---|
| Detachable cable | true | true |
| Connector | 0.78mm 2-pin | 0.78mm 2-pin |
Spec-level deep dives
vsMars is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.