The flagship is the ship that carries the fleet or squadron's commanding officer and displays a unique flag or pennant. Flagships stand out as the most prestigious vessels in the group. As the leader, the flagship is superior, with all others following its direction. QT-X is the flagship IEM of Rose Technics. Does it have what it takes to lead the pack?
The Rose Technics QT-X will set you back $390 from the bank account. Currently at the time of this review, the QT-X is available directly from Rose Technics for $340.
I purchased the Rose Technics QT-X with the financial support from Patreon and YouTube followers, as well as my personal funds.
Purchase/More Information (non-affiliate link):
Various Purchase Options:
The Rose Technics QT-X comes in various colors such as Nebula Purple, Platinum Silver, Starry Blue, and Obsidian Black. Our review will focus on the Obsidian Black variant.
Additionally, Rose Technics provides two package options: the Value package, which we will be examining, includes the Grey Rose cable and the RZ-300m dongle.
The Deluxe package, currently priced at $440 (originally $520), includes the Blue Rose Pro cable and the RS9039 dongle.
The sound quality of the QT-X remains unchanged; only the cable and dongle vary based on the package you choose.
Specifications:
The Rose Technics QT-X features a 7-driver hybrid design, incorporating a 10mm LCP Tesla diaphragm dynamic driver for the bass, two 30018 balanced armatures for the mid-lows, two 29689 balanced armatures for the mid-highs, and two 30019 balanced armatures for the highs. It offers an impedance of 18 ohms, a sensitivity of 108 dB, and a frequency response range spanning from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Unboxing/Box Contents/Accessories:
Rose Technics is skilled at attracting attention with their packaging, and the QT-X lives up to expectations.
The black outer sleeve features a gold X on the top, gold QT-X branding on the sides, and the back provides details and specifications about the QT-X.
Upon removing the outer sleeve, a black box with the word "Rose" engraved in silver on top is revealed.
The box opens up to reveal an attractive display.
To the right, there is a colorful paper (both front and back) detailing the design and technology of the QT-X.
On the left side, you can see the QT-X displayed along with several accessories.
The accessories include a high-quality dark grey leather hard shell carrying case featuring Rose Technics branding on the top.
Inside, there is a small pocket suitable for a dongle or extra tips, while the spacious bed of the case comfortably accommodates the QT-X and cable.
Rose Technics includes 4 pairs of both foam and silicone tips in the package.
The silicone tips are stored in a compact case.
While both types of tips offer excellent sound quality, I found the foam tips to be more comfortable and to enhance the body, note weight, and warmth of the sound slightly
The Grey Rose is an 8-core headphones cable with a dual-twisted 4-braided design, made of 5N Single-crystal Copper wire.
The cable is connected by a 2-pin connector. This cable features a fabric wrapping, providing good tension with the ear hooks, and exudes a high-quality appearance and feel. I didn't detect any microphonics coming from the cable.
Rose Technics includes the RZ-300m USB-C DAC/Amp dongle. A detailed analysis of its sound quality will be provided when we explore the QT-X compatibility with different audio sources.
The top of the device features branding, while the middle area includes a play/pause button. Headphone output is 3.5mm, there is no balanced output. It comes with a flexible fabric-covered cable that is permanently attached. Despite its lightweight construction, the RZ-300m feels sturdy and durable.
The RZ-300m is available for $46, with a current discounted price of $28.
You can purchase the RZ-300m here (non-affilate link): https://rosetechnics.com/products/rz-300m-hifi-headphone-amplifier-dac-adapter
Build/Design/Comfort/Isolation:
The construction of the Rose Technics QT-X is remarkable. As previously stated, I own the Obsidian Black model.
Both the shell and face plate are made of aluminum. The face plate includes subtle grooves and features small branding at the bottom.
The back of the shell is ergonomically designed, with a wing and a long nozzle. I appreciate how well the angle of the nozzle fits my ears, and the positioning of the wing is just right.
The comfort provided by the QT-X is perfect for me as I can wear them for extensive periods without experiencing any discomfort.
The noise isolation is outstanding, particularly when using the foam tips. I estimate that around 70% of external noises are effectively blocked, making it difficult to engage in conversations and significantly reducing the impact of loud sounds such as vehicles, vacuum cleaners, and coffee grinders.
The Rose Technics QT-X is quite simple to drive; my dongles, DAP, and desktop sources all worked without any problems. With an impedance of 18 ohms and a sensitivity of 108 dB, the QT-X is not very picky when it comes to source gear. I discovered that the QT-X performs effectively when using more powerful and higher quality sources, allowing it to reach its maximum potential.
As I promised, I will share some insights on the sonic capabilities of the included RZ-300m dongle.The RZ-300m serves as a good additional accessory to the QT-X, delivering a clean, slightly warm, neutral sound with moderate details and resolution. With an output of 75mW @ 16 ohms, the RZ-300m may not be the most powerful option available. While it holds its own in its price category of sub $50, I personally believe that it falls short of the quality expected for the QT-X. Although the RZ-300m is satisfactory, for a significant upgrade in quality, consider using the RZ-550 or RS9039 instead.
Some of the Gear Used in Testing:
Rose Technics RZ-300m
Rose Technics RZ-550
Rose Technics RS9039
Fiio KA17
Aune Yuki
AFUL Snowy Night Hiby FC3
Fiio K11
Fiio K19 Geshelli Labs J2
Geshelli Labs Erish 3
Fiio K9 AKM
Mytek Liberty DAC ii
Mytek Liberty THX HPA Hiby R5 Gen 2
My Review Process: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/honest-audiophile-review-process
My Terms & Definitions: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/the-honest-audiophile-s-terms-and-definitions-guide My Reference Music: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/does-your-music-preference-impact-your-sound-impressions
So how do the Rose Technics QT-X sound?
Bass:
The Rose Technics QT-X delivers a clean and precise bass with a satisfying impact. It exhibits a slight boost in the sub-bass range while the mid and upper frequencies are subtly tucked. Rather than focusing on quantity, the emphasis lies on detailed and high-quality bass reproduction. It is characterized by excellent control, speed, and agility. The tone and timbre are both natural and precise.
Mids:
The midrange performance of the QT-X is truly outstanding. It delivers instruments and vocals with precision and clarity. A subtle touch of warmth adds a natural tone and timbre to the sound. Additionally, there is plenty of air and space that maintains a balanced and cohesive separation between the instruments and vocals. The mids take center stage as there is a forwardness to there presence but not in an aggressive, forthright manner. The midrange frequencies become prominent with a sense of forward presence, yet without being overly forceful or assertive.
Treble:
The Rose Technics QT-X treble skillfully navigates between being too much and not enough. For those sensitive to treble, the QT-X might seem slightly intense, while treble enthusiasts will appreciate its sharp, clear, and non-tiring performance. The QT-X offers a balanced level of energy and sparkle without coming across as overly pushy or hot. The tone and timbre are mostly natural when reproduced, occasionally sounding slightly metallic.
Technical Abilities:
The Rose Technics QT-X offers a realistic soundstage. Although not exceptionally wide, it effectively conveys the size of different venues. The imaging of the QT-X is precise and allows for easy identification of stage details from one side to the other. Transitions between sides are seamless and accurate. While the depth may not be the greatest, it still allows for discerning details a few rows back. The layering is skillfully managed, providing each instrument and vocalist with their own distinct space for performance without any overlap.
The QT-X excels in revealing a remarkable amount of details, leaving no stone unturned. The level of detail is outstanding, although there is occasionally a slight issue with harshness in the uppers.
The tone and timbre are generally natural and accurate except for occasional instances of metallic sound in the treble.
It was somewhat challenging to compare the Rose Technics QT-X since 1DD 6BA IEMs are not very common, and I do not have any available for comparison at the moment. Therefore, I will evaluate the QT-X in comparison to products at a similar price point and intended use.
vs SoftEars Studio 4:
The Studio 4 is slightly more neutral compared to the QT-X, but they share many similarities. The mids on the QT-X are a bit more forward and emphasized. While both have comparable sub-bass presence, the Studio 4 offers a bit more mid and upper bass due to it not being as tucked as the QT-X. In the treble, the Studio 4 provides an edgier, crisper, more defined sound. The soundstage of the Studio 4 is refined with better layering and depth. Its tone and timbre are more natural and accurate, without the occasional metallic quality found in the QT-X. Detail retrieval and resolution are almost identical between the two. While both are reliable stage monitors, the Studio 4 is considered a true stage monitor, while the QT-X has a more versatile, all-around performance.
vs Tanchjim Kara:
The Tanchjim Kara is priced at $180, significantly lower than the QT-X, yet it offers a similar mid-centric sound presentation. While the QT-X boasts more sub-bass, it lacks in mid and upper bass compared to the Kara. The Kara delivers punchier bass, while the QT-X has better texture. Both have forward mids with the Kara displaying slightly more energy and emotion. When it comes to treble, both the Kara and QT-X tend to offer a relaxed presentation, although the Kara exhibits slightly more energy and emotion.. The QT-X provides a wider stage, while the Kara offers a deeper soundstage. Instrument and vocal layering are comparable between the two. The QT-X has a slight edge in detail retrieval, while the Kara stands out for its resolution due to its sharper, crisper sound. The Kara produces more natural tone and timbre, particularly in the upper frequencies, avoiding a metallic sound.
Alternative Faust Cable:
Rose Technics sent me their Faust cable for evaluation, which I tried out on the QT-X. The Faust is a double-braided, fabric-wrapped copper and silver hybrid cable that exudes a sense of luxury. The blue fabric, split connectors, and gold terminations convey a high-end feel. The ear hooks are precisely managed with optimal tension, and the cable is both lightweight and pliable. In terms of sound quality, I observed a subtle improvement in clarity and resolution when compared to the original Grey Rose cable.
You can purchase the Faust cable here: (non-affiliate link):
Conclusion:
Does the Rose Technics QT-X meet the expectations of being a flagship product? In my honest opinion, Yes. The QT-X meets the standards of a flagship product in my opinion; it has a premium appearance, offers a premium experience, delivers high performance, and competes with or surpasses its similarly priced rivals. While I wouldn't choose the Rose Technics QT-X exclusively for stage monitoring, there are more qualified alternatives available. However, this doesn't imply that it's incapable of fulfilling that role. On the other hand, I would indeed use the QT-X for everyday listening purposes. Rose Technics showcases its commitment to superior sound quality with the flagship model QT-X, which embodies the brand's exceptional audio standards.
I am Dave the Honest Audiophile. Thanks for reading, and I will catch you in the next one. Don't forget to enjoy the music and that honesty is the BEST policy! I am not a professional sound engineer, producer, musician, or vocalist, etc. I have not done any scientific research, measurements, or in-depth testing of any kind; just my own listening, comparing and internet reading/research. I have limited, real-life experience with recording, mixing and mastering gear. I have been involved since my teenage years with various churches as an amateur sound booth technician.
Please take these thoughts, opinions and reasonings as just that, my honest audiophile thoughts, opinions and reasonings.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TalkDbs @TalkDbs
Website: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com
YouTube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgMj7xJ1SDxGqqxZ5l3g_jg/join
The Honest Audiophile research/review process: https://youtu.be/UkSnoZZNyYc Tierlist:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing
Audio Terms/Definitions: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/the-honest-audiophile-s-terms-and-definitions-guide
Test Tracks: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/does-your-music-preference-impact-your-sound-impressions
Amazon playlist: https://music.amazon.com/user-playlists/afb5506483ba4ae3be17c2184797ebb6sune?ref=dm_sh_ycUHvBw1lOkeqCrwPFcc45NAl
Tidal Playlists:Jazz: https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ea7f58ba-f05d-466f-9714-936d0ab7fa0f
Recommended Gear:
Audeze LCD-5: https://www.audeze.com/products/lcd-5
Rosson Audio Design RAD-0: http://www.rossonaudiodesign.com/
Meze Empyrean: https://mezeaudio.com/products/meze-empyrean
Hifiman Ananda: https://hifiman.com/products/detail/290
Sennheiser HD660s2: https://www.sennheiser-hearing.com/en-US/p/hd-660s2/clcrij55r0b570bw9bubufphu/
Austrian Audio Hi-X60: https://austrian.audio/headphones/hi-x60/
Audeze LCD 2 Closed: LCD-2 Closed Back (audeze.com)
CTM Da Vinci X: https://cleartunemonitors.com/products/da-vinci-x-universal
Westone Mach 60: https://westoneaudio.com/product/mach-60/
Tin Hifi T2: https://www.linsoul.com/products/tinhifi-t2?_pos=1&_sid=7cddd72dc&_ss=r&variant=34447375302811
Sony NW-A105: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwa105-b
Sony NW-WM-1a: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwwm1a
Mytek Liberty DAC ii: https://mytek.audio/shop/lbrt-dac-ii-287#attr=Mytek Liberty THX HPA: https://mytek.audio/shop/liberty-thx-285#attr=
HeadAmp GSX-Mini: https://www.headamp.com/products/gs-x-mini
Tor Audio Roger: https://toraudio.com/main.html#
Schiit Audio BiFrost 2: https://schiit.com/products/bi-frost-1
Massdrop THX AAA 789:
Massdrop THX AAA One Linear: https://drop.com/buy/drop-thx-aaa-one-linear-amplifier?utm_source=linkshare&referer=FTSS2S
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