In this article, I’m reviewing the QKZ x HBB Hades IEMs. Hades features dual 9mm LCP diaphragm dynamic drivers and stylish resin shells. It’s priced at $50.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Linsoul for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
QKZ x HBB Hades
Table of Contents
Specifications
Driver: 9mm+9mm dynamic
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20000Hz
Sensitivity: 95dB
Impedance: 16 ohms
In the Box
- QKZ x HBB Hades IEMs
- Detachable 0.78mm 2-pin OFC cable
- Plastic storage case
- 3* pairs of silicone eartips
- Commemorative brand coin
Design
Hades has smoky translucent shells and blue-purple faceplates with a ripple effect. It’s a unique and interesting design and I think they did a good job with it. There’s a vent just behind the 2-pin sockets and another one on the inner side of the shells.
Included in the box is a generic black braided cable with a microphone. The cable performs well in regards to microphonics but it’s very prone to tangling due to the pre-formed ear hooks and thinness above the Y-splitter.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the FiiO KA17, Shanling UP4 2022 and SMSL DO300EX. Hades is reasonably easy to drive but performs slightly better with a more powerful source.
Bass
Hades is unabashedly tuned for bassheads. Both the sub-bass and mid-bass are raised way north of neutral and bass is the dominant aspect in the frequency spectrum. That’s not necessarily a bad thing if that’s your preference but unfortunately, the quality of Hades’ bass is sub-par. It’s thick, boomy and lacks texture and definition.
Midrange
The midrange is burdened and bloated under the weight of the excessively dominant bass response. This overbearing low-end presence not only smothers the midrange frequencies but also clouds the overall presentation, hindering clarity and separation between instruments and vocals.
Treble
Hades’ subdued treble fails to provide the necessary contrast to the dominating bass frequencies, resulting in a dark sound that feels flat and lacks dimensionality. Without the presence of crisp high frequencies to complement the midrange and bass, the overall sound signature of this IEM feels unbalanced and devoid of the excitement and vibrancy that a well-extended treble response can bring.
Soundstage and Technicalities
As the bass pumps, the stage quickly resembles a bustling nightclub at capacity. The air between instruments thickens, enveloping you like the haze of a smoke machine. While this might suit some listeners looking for that intimate, up-close experience, those craving expansive soundscapes might feel like they’re trapped in a musical mosh pit, desperately seeking breathing room.
Verdict
The QKZ x HBB Hades is a one-trick pony – it does big bass. Unfortunately, the bass lacks quality and becomes an unsurmountable burden on the rest of the spectrum. In conjunction with the attenuated treble, the weight of the bass creates a dark and congested sound signature. Still, there are sure to be people who appreciate this type of tuning. On a positive note, the treble is inoffensive and the shells look pretty cool.