ROSE Technics QT-X Review

  

Introduction:

ROSE Technics (aka Roseselsa) is a dynamic audio brand renowned for its dedication to high-fidelity sound and innovative designs in the portable audio space. Their flagship hybrid IEM, the ROSE Technics QT-X, exemplifies this commitment with a sophisticated driver array featuring a 10mm Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) Tesla diaphragm dynamic driver for powerful bass and six Knowles balanced armatures (BAs) for exceptional clarity. Engineered to deliver a fun, V-shaped sound signature, the QT-X emphasizes deep bass and sparkling treble while maintaining clear and articulate mids. With its premium build and thoughtful accessories, this model is designed for audiophiles seeking an engaging and immersive listening experience. This review examines its superior design, construction, and audio performance, tested with a diverse selection of music to showcase its strengths.

 

Disclaimer:

I would like to thank ROSE Technics for providing the QT-X Hybrid IEM as a review sample for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Rose Technics beyond this review, and these words reflect my true, unaltered opinions about the product.

 

Price & Availability:

The MSRP of the ROSE Technics QT-X In-Ear Monitor is $339.00 USD for the Value Edition, with the Deluxe Edition priced at $439.00 USD. More information can be found under the link below:

• ROSE Technics QT-X

 

Package & Accessories:

The ROSE Technics (aka Roseselsa) QT-X is presented in a premium, book-style box featuring a prominent “X” on the front. The interior is designed to display the contents layered within protective foam. This packaging method contributes to a high-end presentation that aligns with the product’s position as a flagship model.

The box includes:

• 1 x ROSE Technics QT-X In-Ear Monitors
• 1 x Grey ROSE Cable (Value Edition) or Blue ROSE Pro Cable (Deluxe Edition)
• 1 x RZ-300M DAC (Value Edition) or RZ-550 DAC (Deluxe Edition)
• 4 x Pairs of Silicone Ear Tips (XS/S/M/L)
• 4 x Pairs of Foam Ear Tips
• 4 x Spare Nozzle Filters
• 1 x Leatherette Carrying Case
• 1 x User Manual & Warranty Card

The generous accessories, including multiple ear tips and spare filters, allow for customization.

The DAC inclusion (RZ-300M DAC “Value Edition” or RZ-550 DAC “Deluxe Edition” is a standout feature.

The case, while compact, could be more spacious, but overall, the package enhances the value proposition.

 

Design & Build Quality:

The ROSE Technics QT-X offers a visually stunning and thoughtfully engineered design, drawing inspiration from the vastness of the night sky and the mystery of cosmic elements. The shells are crafted from medical grade resin using advanced 3D printing technology, resulting in a lightweight yet robust structure that weighs approximately 30g ± 3g per earpiece. This material choice not only ensures durability but also provides a smooth skin friendly surface that resists scratches and maintains its aesthetic appeal over time.

Available in four captivating color options starry blue, purple, white, and gray the shells feature a sprayed finish with a shimmering starry night paint that catches light in a mesmerizing way, creating a premium and unique look that stands out from more conventional IEM designs. This design element, combined with the starry shimmer, gives the QT-X a sense of depth and personality.

The faceplate features a stylized “X” logo that resembles an expressive almost angry face, adding a playful yet bold character that appeals to those who value individuality in their audio gear.

The ergonomic contours of the QT-X are designed for a secure and comfortable fit, with a shape that naturally conforms to the ear concha. The shells are slightly larger than average, with longer nozzles that promote a deeper insertion for enhanced isolation, but this may require tip rolling for users with smaller ears to achieve optimal comfort.

The brass nozzles, while acoustically effective, contrast with the premium resin body, and a more cohesive material like stainless steel could elevate the aesthetic further.

The 0.78mm 2-pin connectors are protuberant, ensuring a secure and reliable connection for cable swapping, and a small pressure relief vent near the connector optimizes acoustic performance by balancing internal pressure.

Build quality is exceptional, with no visible seams, rough edges, or manufacturing imperfections, reflecting Rose Technics’ meticulous craftsmanship.

The starry paint finish not only adds visual flair but also withstands daily wear, resisting fingerprints and minor abrasions. The design prioritizes long term comfort, with the lightweight resin reducing fatigue during extended listening sessions.

 

Detachable cable:

The Value Edition includes the Grey ROSE cable, a 4-braided 8-core 5N single crystal copper wire with a protective mesh outer layer, offering flexibility and durability.

The Deluxe Edition upgrades to the Blue ROSE Pro, a 6N single crystal copper and silver blend that enhances conductivity for improved signal clarity. The metal Y-splitter and plug are robust, with effective strain relief to ensure longevity.

Transparent 2-pin connectors with clear left/right indicators enhance usability, and pre-formed ear guides provide a comfortable over ear fit.

However, a modular plug system could add versatility, but the included cables are more than adequate for the price point.

 

Fit & Isolation:

The ROSE Technics (Roseselsa) QT-X offers a generally comfortable fit, with its contoured resin shells sitting securely in the ear concha. The longer nozzles promote a deeper insertion, which enhances passive noise isolation, blocking up to 26dB of ambient noise, making it ideal for noisy environments like public transport or busy cafes. However, the larger shell size and extended nozzles may cause discomfort for users with smaller ears during prolonged use. Tip rolling with the included silicone or foam tips, or aftermarket options can optimize the seal and comfort. The foam tips, in particular, enhance isolation and bass response, creating a more immersive experience. Overall, the QT-X provides strong passive isolation, suitable for both casual and focused listening.

 

Paring & Drivability:

An efficient design with an impedance of 18Ω and a sensitivity of 108dB allows the QT-X to be easily driven by common devices such as smartphones and laptops. While it offers a pleasant listening experience with these sources, its full sonic potential is unlocked when paired with a high-quality source. For optimal performance, a source with an output of at least 75mW is recommended, such as the ROSE Technics RZ-550 DAC or FiiO M21 DAP, which enables the listener to appreciate its intricate details and dynamic range.

 

 

Technical Specifications:

• Model: QT-X
• Driver Configuration: 1DD + 6BA
• Driver Type: 10mm LCP Tesla Diaphragm Dynamic Driver + Knowles Balanced Armatures
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 108dB
• Impedance: 18Ω
• Cable Material: 5N Single Crystal Copper (Value Edition) / 6N Copper Silver Blend (Deluxe Edition)
• Connector Type: 0.78mm 2-Pin
• Cable Length: 1.2m
• Plug: 3.5mm Single Ended / 4.4mm Balanced
• Weight: 30g ± 3g

 

1DD + 6BA Hybrid Driver Configuration:

The QT-X’s hybrid driver setup combines a 10mm Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) Tesla diaphragm dynamic driver for powerful bass with six Knowles balanced armatures for precise mids and highs. The LCP diaphragm, known for its rigidity and low mass, ensures fast transient response and minimal distortion, delivering impactful yet controlled low end. The Knowles BAs handle midrange and treble with exceptional clarity, maintaining coherence across the frequency spectrum. Advanced crossover tuning ensures seamless integration, avoiding phase issues common in multi driver setups. This configuration results in a dynamic detailed sound that balances musicality with technical precision.

 

Equipment’s used for this review: 

• IEM’s              : ROSE Technics QT-X, MOONDROP Harmon
• DAP/DAC      : ROSE Technics RZ-550, FiiO M21 

 

Albums & Tracks Used for this Review:

Vocal Jazz / Smooth Jazz

• Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
• Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Sting – Englishman in New York (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Otto Liebert & Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)

Soul / R&B

• Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Prayer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Adele – My Little Love (Apple Lossless)
• George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)

Pop / Rock Classics

• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Elton John – Rocket Man (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Apple Lossless)

Electronic / Experimental

• Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Apple Lossless)
• Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Apple Lossless)
• Toutant – Rebirth (Apple Lossless)

Alternative / Indie / Art Rock

• Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Lossless)
• Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Lossless)
• Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Lossless)
• Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Bear McCreary – Valkyries (Apple Lossless)

Classical / Orchestral

• Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Chopin – Nocturne No. 20 in C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Apple Lossless)
• Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Vivaldi – Le Quattro Stagioni “The Four Seasons” (Apple Lossless)
• Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)

Jazz / Instrumental

• Miles Davis – So What (Apple Lossless)

World / Traditional

• Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)

Metal / Progressive Rock

• Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Apple Lossless)
• Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove It) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Rush – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Slayer – Angel of Death (Apple Lossless)
• Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Apple Lossless)

 

The Sound:

The ROSE Technics QT-X delivers a vibrant V-shaped sound signature that balances technical precision with musicality, powered by its 1DD + 6BA hybrid driver configuration. This tuning emphasizes deep impactful bass and sparkling detailed treble while preserving clear expressive midrange, creating a lively engaging listening experience across many genres. Paired with sources like the ROSE Technics RZ-550 DAC and FiiO M21 DAP, it unveils nuanced micro details and scales impressively, offering excitement and subtle warmth for versatile appeal.

Bass:

The bass performance of the QT-X is a notable aspect, delivering a combination of depth, speed, and control that is competitive within its price range, and with some IEMs in higher price brackets. The 10 mm LCP Tesla diaphragm dynamic driver produces a robust and textured low end, with a focus on both sub-bass extension and mid-bass punch that contributes energy to the overall sound signature. In Massive Attack’s “Angel,” the sub-bass is rendered with authority, extending low to establish a dark atmospheric foundation. The low frequencies are well defined, with a natural decay that helps prevent muddiness, ensuring the bass remains articulate even in complex passages. Lorde’s “Royals” highlights the mid-bass, where kick drums and bass synths hit with a tight, full-bodied impact, adding warmth and rhythm to the track without dominating the vocals or instruments. The pulsating beat feels controlled, with the QT-X maintaining clarity in the low end to ensure that bass lines remain distinct.

Gogo Penguin’s “Murmuration” demonstrates a good level of the bass’s agility, handling rapid double-bass runs and electronic percussion with precision and speed. The dynamic driver’s ability to move air ensures that bass notes are rendered with good texture, capturing the subtle nuances of plucked strings and drum hits in jazz arrangements. In Bro Safari and UFO!’s “Drama,” the QT-X delivers powerful electronic drops with a controlled rumble, maintaining resolution even at high volumes, making it suitable for bass-heavy genres.

In Armin Van Buuren’s “Vini Vici,” the bassline drives the track with intensity, yet the QT-X keeps it distinct from the surrounding synths and effects, ensuring a clean and dynamic presentation.

 

Midrange:

The midrange of the ROSE Technics QT-X offers a clear, detailed, yet slightly recessed presentation due to its V-shaped tuning, but it remains emotionally engaging with a natural timbre that brings vocals and instruments to life. The six Knowles balanced armatures ensure a smooth and cohesive midrange, avoiding the nasal or overly forward qualities sometimes found in hybrid IEMs.

Male vocals, such as those in Barry White’s “Just The Way You Are,” are rendered with a velvety warmth and richness, capturing the soulful depth of his baritone with a lifelike quality. The lower mids are full-bodied, adding weight to instruments like cellos and acoustic guitars, as heard in Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight,” where guitar strums are presented with a natural woody resonance that feels intimate and authentic. Female vocals shine equally in the upper midrange, with Sertab Erener’s “Aşk” delivered with energy and expressiveness, offering clear articulation and no trace of sibilance. Diana Krall’s “So Wonderful” showcases the QT-X’s ability to handle jazz vocals with a smooth intimate quality, highlighting the nuances of her phrasing. In Sting’s “Englishman in New York,” the midrange maintains excellent separation, with the saxophone’s warm timbre and guitar textures standing out distinctly in the mix.

The midrange also excels in instrumental tracks like Fazıl Say’s “Nazım Oratoryosu,” where pianos, violas, and clarinets are rendered with a natural tonality and balance, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. The slight recess in the mids ensures that vocals and instruments don’t overpower the bass or treble, maintaining the V-shaped character while still offering enough detail for vocal-driven genres like pop, soul, and jazz. The QT-X’s midrange is versatile, making it suitable for extended listening sessions without fatigue.

 

 

Treble:

The treble performance of the ROSE Technics QT-X is detailed and well-extended, with the Knowles balanced armatures providing crisp, airy high frequencies that contribute clarity. In Metallica’s “Sad But True,” cymbal crashes and hi-hats cut through the mix with precision, possessing a metallic character that enhances the track’s energy without presenting as sharp or piercing. The treble exhibits a natural decay, ensuring that percussion elements are rendered realistically, as demonstrated in Charly Antolini’s “Duwadjuwandadu,” where snare drums and cymbals show a snappy attack and smooth resolution. Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” illustrates the treble’s ability to highlight the shimmer of violin sections and the delicate plucking of harpsichord strings, adding airiness and clarity to classical arrangements without thinning the overall tonality.

In Slayer’s “Angel of Death,” the treble contributes energy with bright guitar riffs and cymbal hits, maintaining control to avoid harshness even in aggressive recordings. Yosi Horikawa’s “Bubbles” showcases the QT-X’s ability to handle micro-details, with subtle environmental sounds like water droplets and chimes rendered with transparency and precision.

The treble rolls off slightly in the upper frequencies, which may be perceived as lacking the extreme airiness of some higher-end IEMs, but this characteristic can make it more forgiving with brighter recordings, as observed in Muse’s “Hysteria,” where electric guitars retain their bite without becoming fatiguing. In Rush’s “Leave That Thing Alone,” the treble adds sparkle to cymbal taps and guitar harmonics, enhancing the track’s dynamic energy.

The silicone tips included do enhance treble clarity, making them suitable for analytical listening in genres like classical and jazz, while the foam tips soften the highs slightly for a smoother presentation, suitable for rock and metal. Across genres, the QT-X’s treble strikes a balance between detail and smoothness, making it a versatile option.

 

Soundstage & Imaging:

The ROSE Technics QT-X has an intimate, yet well-layered soundstage with a natural width for a hybrid IEM at its price. While not as expansive as higher-end models, it creates a great sense of immersion, especially with complex tracks. It excels at imaging, pinpointing instruments with near-holographic separation in busy arrangements. With vocal-driven songs, the soundstage creates a moody, intimate space with precise placement of vocals and backing instruments. The QT-X’s imaging and layering make it a strong choice for genres like jazz, rock, and classical, where accurate instrument placement provides a cohesive and immersive soundscape.

 

Comparison:

ROSE Technics QT-X ($339) versus Moondrop Harmon ($350):

The ROSE Technics QT-X and Moondrop Harmon both feature advanced multi-driver configurations, delivering high-quality audio but with distinct tuning profiles. The QT-X employs a 1DD + 6BA hybrid setup with a lively V-shaped sound, while the Harmon uses a triple dynamic driver design tuned to a warmer, more balanced Harman-inspired profile.

In bass, the QT-X delivers deep, textured sub-bass and punchy mid-bass with excellent control, offering a slight edge in impact and versatility for energetic genres, while the Harmon provides refined, textured lows with good extension but slightly less emphasis, resulting in a cleaner, less visceral low-end. For midrange, the QT-X offers clear, expressive vocals with a subtle recess that maintains a lively focus and natural timbre, edging out the Harmon’s warm, forward mids, which prioritize vocal intimacy and instrument body but feel slightly less dynamic. In treble, the QT-X produces lively, sparkling highs with solid detail and airiness, rolling off earlier to ensure comfort, while the Harmon delivers refined, extended treble with excellent clarity and richness, though it can be more assertive in the lower treble for sensitive listeners. Regarding soundstage, the QT-X presents an intimate yet well-layered soundstage with precise imaging, closely matched by the Harmon’s spacious, spherical soundstage with strong width, depth, and height, offering a slightly more immersive spatial experience.

Overall, the QT-X narrowly excels for listeners seeking an energetic, versatile V-shaped sound with strong build value, while the Harmon appeals to those prioritizing a warmer, balanced tuning with excellent spatial qualities.

 

Conclusion:

The ROSE Technics QT-X is a compelling flagship in the $300 to $400 IEM market, offering a vibrant V-shaped sound signature that balances technical precision with musical engagement. Its 1DD + 6BA hybrid driver configuration delivers deep, controlled bass, clear mids, and lively, detailed treble, making it versatile across genres. The premium medical grade resin shells, with their starry shimmer finish, are both durable and aesthetically striking, while the ergonomic design ensures comfort for most users. The inclusion of a high-quality cable and multiple ear tips adds to its value. The slight recess in the mids and an early treble roll-off contribute to a fatigue-free sound that remains engaging for long sessions. The QT-X is a standout option in its price class for those who value a fun yet technically proficient listening experience.

 

Pros & Cons:

• + Vibrant V-shaped sound with deep bass, clear mids, and detailed treble
• + Exceptional bass texture and control across genres
• + Precise imaging and layered soundstage for immersive listening
• + Premium medical grade resin shells with starry shimmer finish
• + Generous accessories, including DAC and multiple ear tips
• + High quality detachable cable with minimal microphonics
• + Easy to drive, scales well with quality sources

 

• – Mids slightly recessed due to V-shaped tuning
• – Larger shell size and longer nozzles may affect comfort for smaller ears
• – Nozzle with long profile may affect comfort for smaller ears
• – A modular cable with Interactable headphone plugs would be welcome

 

Thank you for the Read!