Between the IER-Z1R and Nova, the IER-Z1R comes out ahead in several specs, while the Nova wins on impedance and sensitivity. Overall, the IER-Z1R scores 50.3 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 23.6 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.
The IER-Z1R doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the Nova if you care most about impedance and sensitivity. Its strongest claims are impedance, sensitivity, driver count.
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 Sony - IER-Z1R wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Truthear - Nova wins
- ▲Impedance — 25.00 Ω less. 15 vs 40.
- ▲Sensitivity — 19.42% more. 123 dB vs 103 dB.
- ▲Driver count — 2.00 more. 5 vs 3.
Spec comparison
Drivers
| Spec | Sony - IER-Z1R | Truthear - Nova |
|---|---|---|
| Driver count | 3 | 5lead |
| Driver types | 2 Dynamic + 1 Balanced Armature | 1DD + 4BA Hybrid |
| Impedanceⓘ | 40 Ω | 15 Ωlead |
| Sensitivityⓘ | 103 dB | 123 dBlead |
Build
| Spec | Sony - IER-Z1R | Truthear - Nova |
|---|---|---|
| Detachable cable | true | true |
| Connector | MMCX | 0.78mm 2-pinlead |
Spec-level deep dives
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