In this review, I’m looking at the EPZ Q1 Pro. Q1 Pro has a single dynamic driver and stylish medical-grade resin shells. It’s priced at $29.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by EPZ for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
EPZ Q1 Pro
Specifications
Shells: 3D printing cavity + hand-painted panel
Driver unit: 10MM dual cavity dual magnetic circuit PU+LCP liquid crystal molecular dome diaphragm
Frequency response range: 20Hz-20Khz
Sensitivity: 100db(+-3db)@Vrms
Impedance:32Ω@1kHz
Design
The first thing I want to say is that these shells look nice – like Cadenza nice. They’re small too, so they should be ideal for people with small ears. Q1 Pro has gorgeous blue celluloid faceplates that shimmer under light.
The rest of the body is made from 3D-printed resin with a glossy black finish. A single vent is placed just behind the flush 2-pin sockets and the aluminium nozzle is average in diameter and has a lip to hold eartips on securely.
Q1 Pro is super comfortable for my ears and I can wear them all day. The passive noise isolation is above average, making it a good option for commuting and distraction-free listening.
The included cable is better than average for IEMs in this price range. It features an OFC braided design with metal components, including a chin slider. The cable is supple, handles well, and has minimal microphonics.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the FiiO KA17, Hidizs AP80 Pro X and SMSL DO300EX. Q1 Pro doesn’t require a powerful source as it’s fairly efficient.
The Q1 Pro is characterized by a slight V-shaped but mature sound. It has similarities to other recent popular budget IEMs like the ZiiGaat Nuo and Truthear Gate, offering a fairly neutral presentation with a gentle sub-bass boost.
Bass
The bass is characterized by its lean and clean profile, preventing any bleeding into the midrange. While this clarity opens up the lower mids, it sacrifices impact and rhythm and ultimately leads to less engagement.
There’s a nice lift in the sub-bass that adds some depth but the mid-bass lacks punch and body. This is likely to be the most contentious aspect of the Q1 Pro’s sound signature. It’s not suitable for bassheads but I also feel that average listeners will also find the bass generally lacking.
Midrange
The midrange is spacious and clear, thanks to the subdued mid and upper bass. This results in articulate vocals, but they lack richness and can sound nasal. String instruments also suffer, lacking resonance and warmth, which diminishes their natural vibrancy and emotional impact. The upper midrange can get shouty at higher volume.
Treble
The treble is the best aspect of the Q1 Pro’s sound signature. It’s crisp and detailed and has a surprisingly good timbre for a budget IEM. Despite the lack of bass to counterbalance it, the treble isn’t particularly forward or overly assertive.
Comparisons
Simgot EW200 ($39)
The EW200 (review here) maintains a comparable sub-bass level but enhances the mid-bass and lower-midrange presence. This creates a more organic and natural tone, in contrast to the Q1 Pro’s somewhat hollow and unsaturated sound.
Mids are richer and have more note weight whereas the Q1 Pro lacks power and depth in its midrange. EW200’s lower treble is more upfront but it has a warmer tone. Both IEMs have comparable soundstage dimensions but the EW200 has superior resolution and instrument separation.
Kiwi Ears Cadenza
ZiiGaat Nuo
Verdict
Despite its sleek aesthetics and ergonomic shells, the EPZ Q1 Pro’s sound signature might leave bass lovers wanting more and audiophiles desiring a more nuanced performance. It’s close to being a great IEM but needs more meat on the bone to boost engagement.