EPZ Q1 Pro

Summary
The Epz Q1 Pro is a very popular budget offering from Epz. The Q1 Pro is single dynamic driver iem coming in at around 30$. This has a mild V shape sound signature with subtle emphasis on the upper mids and treble. This provides a well controlled bass performance with clean, clear and energetic mids and treble. Technical performance is above average when compared to similarly priced iems. Other than sound, build and design, fit and comfort, packaging and accessories are quite decent for the price.
So is this any good? Yes, I think this is one of the best all rounder iems at this price range and is also a great starting point for beginners looking for a more balanced sound.



Intro
Hey Guys, whats up….
Today I am checking out the Q1 Pro from EPZ. This is a single dynamic driver iem priced around 30$. So is it any good? Lets discuss…

About the brand:
First, let’s get to know the brand, EPZ is a fairly new player in the budget Chifi Audio space. But so far they have some pretty decent products at a good price. I recently purchased a couple of their other products to check out, and I think they are making some legit budget products, more EPZ reviews coming soon. Anyways, lets get back to the Q1 Pro, starting with specs.

Disclaimer: this unit was purchased with my own money at its retail price. Please note that this review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion. I strive for transparency in all my reviews, whether the product is self-purchased, a free sample, loaned or received at a discount.



Specs
>Main process: 3D printing cavity + hand-painted panel
>Frequency response range: 20Hz-20Khz
>Sensitivity: 100db(+-3db)@Vrms
>Impedance:32Ω@1kHz
>Total harmonic distortion: <0.5% (@1kHz, 100db)
>Plug diameter: 3.5mm
>Wire: 4-core single crystal copper
>Cable length: 1.2M
=PRICE: 30$ to 40$ (could not find a exact price)

Packaging
Continuing on to the packaging section, this comes in a simple yet decent looking packaging. Opening the lid you are presented with iems. Below that, you will fine the eartips, cable, papers and a pouch. The eartips are of decent quality for the price and it is quite rare to see a pouch at this price. The cable is decent, I will talk more about it below. List of box contents:
-Q1 Pro
-Cable
-Eartips
-Papers
-Pouch


Build and Design
Moving on to the build and design of the Q1 Pro, it is quite impressive. It is made of decent quality resin. The faceplate is gorgeous with a gradient blue finish and simple “EPZ” branding, such beautiful design is very rare at this price. Other than the faceplate the shells are black. The shells are on the smaller side, and they have a light weight design. Fingerprints and scratches were not much of an issue in my use case. The shells have a ventilation hole. The nozzle insertion and width is standard. For connection this uses a 0.78mm flush 2pin connector.

Fit and Comfort
Talking about fit and comfort of the Q1 Pro, it is pretty good. This fits nice and snug in my above average sized ears, and is quite comfortable for loner listening sessions. Stability is pretty good, breathability is also good. Isolation is fine. All in all I find it quite comfortable for daily use.



Cable
Cables are not usually a very important aspect when it comes to such budget sets, but I or any user will appreciate a decent stock cable. Epz has provided a decent quality cable with the Q1 Pro, looks wise it has a combination of black and brown color, which I think goes quite well with the Q1 Pro. Build wise this uses oxygen free copper wires in a 4core braid. I wish the cable was a bit thicker, but it’s fine. Connectors casing and Y split seem to be made of metal, which is a plus point. The cable had a bit of memory. And there was slight microphonics, at this point I am just knit picking. The Q1 Pro is available is both “with mic” and “without mic” options, additionally you can also choose between standard “3.5mm” version or “type C” version.



Please note: Listening impressions are highly subjective and can differ depending on different ear shape, individual music library, choice of source, eartips, cable and personal preferences, so your experience may differ. I personally always use and test all my gear in various setups to get a generalized idea on it. You can find my “tested with” info below.

Now most importantly sound, Epz has gone for mild V shape sound signature for the Q1 Pro. In my opinion Epz has achieved a very good balance of good tuning and good technical sound at this price. Lets get into a bit more detail.

Bass
Let's delve into the bass performance of the Q1 Pro. Epz has gone for a more sub bass forward tuning, with strong but not overwhelming sub bass presence. Mid bass, although not as forward, retains good authority providing nice and tight punch. Bass speed and attack is standard, not too slow, not too fast. Body and layering is fine. Decay and reverberation is ok. Bass note separation is ok.

Mids
Moving on to the midrange, the Q1 Pro takes a clean and clear approach with extra shimmer and presence in the upper mids. Transition from the mid bass to the lower mids is clean with minimal bass bleed. Male vocals are clean but sound a bit recessed. Female vocals are more vibrant and a bit too crispy because of the forward upper mids region. I wish both male and female vocals were a bit more balanced. Instruments sound clean and clear. There is a bit of sibilance or harshness issue specially in female vocal centric or upper frequency centric tracks, this might be bothersome for treble sensitive listeners.

Treble
Proceeding on to the treble section, Epz has gone for a clean and clear type treble similar to the mids, and I can say it is executed well. Details are crisp without being too in your face. It is easy to spot intricate nuances. Higher treble is not as extended compared to the mid treble region. While there is no significant harshness or sibilance issues, treble sensitive listeners will find it bothersome. The speed is standard, Personally, I find this tuning quite enjoyable with my library. The airy presentation enhances the sense of space in the soundstage.



Technical Sound:
Soundstage of the Q1 Pro is above average. Stage depth is fine. Layering is fine.
Imaging is good.
Sound separation and layering is good
Cohesiveness is good
Resolution is good
Dynamics are standard
Timbre is standard

Tested With
Source: questyle m15, tempotec v3, jcally jm7, apple type c dongle
Eartips: stock, Final E Black, Soinfit w1
Cable: stock
Music: Tested with versatile genre of music

So far I have checked out quite a few iems in this price range and I would like to compare the Q1 Pro with some of them. Unfortunately I do not have them all at hand, so I will be going mostly by memory.

7hz Zero 2
The 7hz Zero 2 is a very popular budget single dynamic driver iem priced at 25$. Starting off the comparison the Q1 Pro has better packaging, build and design, fit and comfort and better accessories compared to the Zero 2. In terms of sound, Zero 2 has a warmer, smoother and more bass boosted signature compared to the Q1 Pro. Technical sound wise Q1 Pro is superior. If you like a warm balanced sound with good bass, go for the Zero 2. And if you prefer a more balanced and detailed sound, the Q1 Pro would be the better option.



Ziigaat Nuo
The Ziigaat Nuo is a very popular budget single dynamic driver iem priced around 25$. Starting off the comparison the Q1 Pro has better packaging, design, fit and comfort whereas the Nuo has better build and slightly better cable. In terms of sound, Nuo has a more extended bass with similar but slightly more smoother and well rounded mids and treble. Technical sound wise, they are very similar but the Q1 Pro is slightly better.



Simgot ew200
The Simgot EW200 is a very popular budget single dynamic driver iem priced at 40$. This has been my top fav set under the 50$ price point for quite a while now. Starting off the comparison, the EW200 has better packaging, build and design and accessories whereas the Q1 Pro has better fit and comfort. Sound wise the EW200 has a very similar sub bass presence but more forward mid bass and lower mids. The upper mids and treble are elevated like the Q1 Pro but it is more smoother and well finished. Technical performance wise, EW200 is superrior.



So to conclude the review, do I recommend this set and who is this for?
Yes, I do recommend this set. If you are looking for a high quality balanced to mild V shape sound with good detail and technical performance, this is a solid option at the sub 30$ to 40$ price point. Personally I quite liked this set and enjoyed my time with it. I think both general consumers and more experienced audiophiles will enjoy this set.


I hope, I was able to provide some idea about this product and help you make a purchase decision.
Big props to Epz for such a good all rounder set.
And huge thanks to you all for sticking around, see yall in the next one.

Audio Geek Türkiye Group; We have the Epz Q1 Pro, which was sent to me as part of the Türkiye Tour. Thank them very much And I will try to convey my thoughts impartially.

We can start with the content of what the many players in the entry segment offer us in their technical details.


What's offered in the Epz Q1 Pro box
magnetic box
Resin earphones themselves with blue-pearl mixture
Brown 4-core 3.5 mm 2-pin brown cable
3 pairs of silicone ear tips, small medium large
Pouch-shaped carrying bag
Warranty documents







Resources Used
Btr 7 XU09 LG V30 Epz Tp 20 Pro

It can offer details that will accompany almost any piece beautifully, with its bassy structure that tries to lean towards a V shape in its sound character, and its warm neutral structure that does not scratch the trebles.

Comfort: When you first hold the product, it fits very comfortably in your ear with its small and light ergonomic structure. It does not feel uncomfortable in your ears even after long-term use. The fact that the nozzles are made of aluminum makes it look rich.

Bass: Although its bassy structure is highlighted, it has a soft and soft bass, although it is a little more noticeable at high sounds. It does its job without leaking into the mid-range. It feels balanced since the sub-bass does not extend too much. It would have been better if it had a slightly stronger structure.

Mid: The mid range remains a little wider and warmer due to the bass not being extended enough.
In this case, it makes the vocals feel a little closer and thicker in texture. I liked that the female vocals were a little thinner and more energetic.

Treble: It has clear and bright trebles with high detail.
However, these highs are not harsh enough to scratch the ear.


Conclusion: Considering its price, its ergonomic structure; It is not tiring to listen to for a long time, it is easy to drive,
Seems like a reasonable option for daily use

EPZ Q1 Pro - "Looking Forward"




DISCLAIMER:


Thank you EPZ for providing this unit. I will evaluate this set as fairly as possible.


SETUP:

-Shanling M3X using UAPP, Hiby and stock player

- all stock, no changes

- UAPP and HIBY for PEQ



WHAT’S IN THE BOX?BUILD and COMFORT


It has decent package and all you need is included. It also fits fine. No issues. You know what? It might be better if you read other reviews regarding what’s in the box, comfort and build. They write better than me lol. Lets go straight to sound.



SOUND PROFILE


The tonality can be described as neutral with a bit of emphasis in upper mids and treble. EPZ is known to boost the area around 6-7k,which is not the case with the Q1 pro. They tamed that area a bit which results in a more palatable gain for most listeners. But why did I say it has an emphasis in the upper mids? It is because of the bass levels. Subbass is only 8-9db with a steady decline to midbass, only reaching 2-5db. This can be bass lite to compensate for the gain.


Bass is tight and fast, with good presence and decay, at least for my preferences. They are enough for me since it dances very well with midbass and lower mids. This translates into a very clean rendition of mids and instruments devoid of any bleed.


Mids are transparent sounding. Vocals and instruments sound correct. Although, the upper mids affect some instruments especially the overtones. For the most part, fundamentals are well executed. Female vocals are more favored in this kind of tuning. Male vocals sound fine, but may benefit from a little bit of heft, which is easily fixable with EQ.


Treble has energy, let me be straight. It can be perceived as thin sounding, especially if the track is cymbal heavy. Well, it doesn’t particularly affect cymbal timbre, but more of a boosted air that may sound unnatural for some people, including myself. If I only talk about the treble, it is acceptable. But since the bass is already low to begin with, it doesn’t seem to help with balancing out those unrefined areas. There is a treble peak around 10k and then a steady decline after that.


That little boost around 10k may help with some resolution. It does make the signature more Hi-Fi, since it is able to capture some nuance and air. Resolution is above average for the price and you will have fun looking for details, making an easter egg hunt a chore in comparison haha. This in turn affects instrument separation and layering to be in decent levels. It does really sound more expensive for its price. I think EPZ has been using quality drivers with their sets, and the Q1 Pro is no different.


EQ suggsestions:

The target curve of the Q1 pro closely follows my neutral target, and I thought it would sound much better and would benefit with some EQ. What this EQ does is just reducing a bit of presence to give the EPZ Q1 pro more balance, much better layering, and much better 3D space perception. Notice that I didn’t really boost any bass, however, you will immediately notice that bass presence is more observable only because I reduced some of the upper frequencies. You will understand tuning is relative, and reduction is more.

Very easy PEQ, only 4 bands.

#1 Frequency: 500, Gain: +1, Q: 0.2

#2 Frequency:4000, Gain: -2, Q: 1

#3 Frequency:6000, Gain: -2, Q: 1

#4 Frequency 10,500, Gain:-2, Q: 1


This is very easy to apply. You can just use Hiby App and use PEQ, and apply the values. And done. enjoy



PROS

clean sounding OOTB

tight and fast bass, no bleed

clean midrange and well rendered vocals and instruments, except cymbals

great detail retrieval


CONS

a bit forward upper mids, relative to bass levels

treble is a bit unrefined

not for bassheads, which is obviously not a CON, and I don't know why it's here haha



The above mentioned CONS are easily fixed with EQ..



SCORING

-Please be reminded that my scoring is always based on its price range.


TUNING - 2.5

BASS - 3

MIDS - 3

TREBLE - 2

TECHS - 3


P.P SCORE = 13.5

generally better than other sets. Very good for the price but the tonality might not match your preferences



Check my scoring here :


https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15WhgCgiMzWfF3ccgB8SK5-Cg7m87kpIShtxsyg2u-AI/edit?usp=sharing



GRAB SCORE:

This is easy, I just rate the set whether I would grab them for listening. Very subjective.


- I will never touch this again


- I grab if I remember


- Can be part of my rotation


- I break my rotation and grab this one today


- *** rotation, I’ll listen to these for the whole week


- Im selling everything, I will only listen to these haha.



GRAB SCORE: 3 with EQ..




COMPARISONS


EPZ Q5

Well, I would probably choose the Q1 pro because of how it is priced. Although the Q5 sounds more balanced, it also has a significant peak around 5-6k. It has the same compromise, and Q1 Pro is in an advantage just because the gain is more polished.


EPZ G10

This tuning is very close to the G10 which I really like. Hell, it might share the same driver lol. But yeah, the price difference takes the cake for the Q1 Pro. The Q1 pro also sounds more open. So yeah.


Simgot EW200

Oh well, the good old EW200 seems to have a competitor. It kind of follows the same gain, but the EW200 has midbass boost to compensate it. They still sound a bt too much tho, especially in longer sessions. But I think I will have to choose the Q1 Pro here because they are much cheaper, and the bass shelf is just really clean


Truthear Gate

Although the gate is also neutralish, it doesn’t seem to be in the same level with the Q1 pro in terms of detail retrieval. If you are really in a budget and don’t like EQ, well you don’t have a choice haha. But if you are open to some changes or EQ, the EPZ Q1 pro is worth 10 bucks more.


Celest Pandamon

Well the Pandamon is warm neutral set. Although the driver is different, the Pandaon is a well tuned neutral set. Get the EPZ Q1 pro if you want to learn about EQing haha.


OTHER more expensive stuff:


Honestly, if you notice yourself needing to upgrade from time to time, I think it is better to learn the basics of tuning, and PEQ is your friend. It will save you more and fixes your upgraditis. The reason why I suggest the EPZ Q1 pro to start is because, it already has a good base tuning. Not a lot of IEMS have that bass shelf if you are looking for a neutral tuning. As I mentioned, probably the closest one is the DZ4, which is also not great in the upper treble area.

THE EPZ Q1 Pro has a good bass shelf, not a lot to change in the mids, and only needs a few reductions in the upper frequencies. Good detail retrieval. Just a better choice overall in my honest opinion.




FINAL THOUGHTS



What I like about the EPZ Q1 Pro is how they tune the bass to mids area. I really haven’t seen a lot of single DD iems do this. Probably the IEM that gets this curve would be the Letshuoer DZ4 which is more expensive. I was surprised because it didn’t even need a crossover to get the levels I wanted. This is not a perfect IEM by any means, that is why I have the EQ for that.


I am very confident that with EQ, you don’t have to upgrade IEMS in the $100-$200 range. Yeah its crazy I know. But this is me telling from experience, and giving advice to look forward.


That experience is me being able to try hundred of sets when I lived in Osaka, Japan. You don’t have to take my word for it, but I know I sound very compelling haha. But yeah, let the EPZ Q1 pro users confirm my findings. Comment down if you have one. Cheers!





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WHERE TO BUY: non affiliate links


https://hifigo.com/products/epz-q1-pro



https://a.aliexpress.com/_opJxzvZ



MY LIBRARY:

I grew up listening to 90’s music. Alternative, punk-rock, screamo, rap, Philippine OPM, Anime songs, JPOP, KPOP, metal, reggae and a lot more.

The artists I regularly listen to are:


Rock-Alternative-Metal

Incubus, 311, BMTH, Matchbox 20, The Goo Goo Dolls, Paramore, Polyphia, The Calling,, Babymetal, Metallica, Slipknot, Bon Jovi, Coheed and Cambria, Deftones, Red Hot, Green day,


OPM(Original Pinoy Music):

E-heads, Slapshock, Parokya, Urbanddub, Up Dharma Down, Bamboo, IV of spade, Kamikazee, Rivermaya


POP:

IU, Yoasobi, Yorushika, Milet, Reona, Maroon 5, Coldplay, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Taylor, Dua Lipa, Oliva Rodrigo, Billie Eilish


OTHERS:

Carpenters, Micheal Learns to Rock, Celine Dion, Bob Marley, Sitti, Daft Punk, Pink Floyed, Earth wind and fire, Amber rubarth, Sia, Yosi Horikawa


I listen to more, but I can’t just list them all here.haha. Just giving you an idea on what I listen.


Thanks for reaching here. Hope you enjoyed reading.

Disclaimer:

The EPZ Q1 PRO IEM unit belongs to the EPZ brand. This review reflects my unbiased, subjective, and honest opinion of the IEM.

Sources Used:

• Nothing Phone 1 (Apple Music) + Jcally c to c + Lotto Paw S1

Eartips Used:

• EPZ M100 eartips used while reviewing. These eartips go perfectly with the EPZ Q1 PRO.

Cable Used:

• Stock cable, a nice lightweight cable that does not feel generic for the price.

Introduction:

EPZ is a brand known for its well-built quality in-ear monitors (IEMs), popular among audiophiles and professionals for their excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability. EPZ offers unique and good-looking IEMs with affordable price tags.



Sound Impressions:

EPZ Q1 PRO is tuned similarly to the Harman curve. Audiophiles who like the Harman signature will appreciate it. For the price tag it comes with, it is good in my opinion.

Bass:

Sub-bass:

The sub-bass quality is really good, but there is a desire for more quantity. Definitely not for bass-heads, but for the price tag, it is satisfactory.

Mid-bass:

The attack and decay are fast. Mid-bass is on the slightly lean side. The good thing is that it does not create any muddiness or bleed into the mids. Surprisingly, bass guitars feel good.

Mids:

Lower Midrange:

EPZ Q1 PRO has very clean male vocals, although they are slightly on the lean side, the texture is good. Surprisingly, the drums in the song 'Laid to Rest' by Lamb of God sound very good and lively. Snare drums feel good too.

Upper Midrange:

Female vocals sound lively, with slightly forward-placed vocals. There is no sibilance or shoutiness. Cymbals sound natural and surprisingly good for an IEM at this price point.

Treble:

With stock eartips, the treble feels less energetic. The EPZ M100 fixes the issue; eartips help and bring more energy in the treble. In my opinion, the treble is quite well done at this price offering and compared to some costly IEMs.



Technicalities:

EPZ Q1 PRO’s technicalities surprise me. It competes with IEMs that are double the price. The detail retrieval is very good for this price bracket. The soundstage is wide and has less depth. The instrument separation is quite good. In short, value for money.





Conclusion:

The EPZ Q1 PRO is a great IEM for its price. It offers clean sound, good comfort, and solid build quality. The sound is balanced, with satisfying bass, clear mids, and lively treble. While it needs some burn-in to reach its full potential, it competes well with more expensive IEMs. Overall, it’s a great value for anyone looking for high-quality sound on a budget. Happy Listening!

Design, Fit, and Accessories

The first thing that struck me after I got Q1 Pro was its design, specially its faceplate. It looks absolutely gorgeous. The pearlescent blue faceplate glistens in the sun. The quality of the resin used is also very good for the price. Shells feel well-built and sturdy, shells are on the smaller side and their shape is also excellent. So, fit and comfort is non issue for me. The isolation provided is also very good. I did not receive the whole box so I can only comment on the cable quality. The cable quality is good, a slight upgrade from 20-dollar sets. The cable has metal connectors, It feels sturdy enough.

Frequency Response

To do my sound analysis, I settled on Final Type-E tips. The Epz Q1 Pro has a Harman-inspired tuning, which I can describe as a brighter Harman.

Bass

The bass is decent. It’s there to complete the sound, nothing more, nothing less. While the attack is a bit blunted and the decay very fast, making it feel slightly unnatural, the bass remains clear and non-boomy. The sub-bass could benefit from more texture and rumble, and the mid-bass might need more thump and slam for those who prefer a richer bass experience. Tracks like "Limit to Your Love" by James Blake and "Low Life" by The Weeknd highlight these characteristics.

Mids

The mids are decent. The lower mids are on the dry side, so both male and female vocals lack the heft and body to sound natural. In addition to the dry lower midrange, the upper midrange is at the Harman target level, which can sound shouty on vocal-forward tracks. This combination results in dry and shouty-sounding vocals. The timbre of the instruments also sounds somewhat unnatural. Tracks like "Hotel California - Hell Freezes Over" by Eagles and "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele confirm my findings. However, the mids maintain clarity and separation, which is a positive aspect.

Treble
The treble is also decent, it is smooth enough for the price. But, I find it to be too aggressive, there is too much energy from 4-6khz for my personal preference. This makes the instrument metallic sounding. The SSs in the voice are pronounced. Mid-treble is at the perfect spot, there is a small peak at 10k, and after that the treble falls off gently. The treble extension is good for the price.

Detail retrieval and Technical Performance

Due to its lean and aggressive signature, the detail retrieval is good. There is decent micro detail pickup. Technical performance is also good, the laying and instrument separation is also decent. The stage is also good for the price, but don’t expect too much, it's still a 30-dollar set.

Conclusion

While Epz Q1 Pro impresses with its build quality and design, falling short in sound quality is a significant drawback. The faceplate is beautiful, and the fit is excellent, but the bass, mids, and treble could use improvement. It competes decently at its price point but is outperformed by some lower priced sets. I hope Epz takes the criticism mentioned above and works on the shortcomings to make the next release better and more competitive.

UNBOXING & ACCESSORIES :

1st unboxing is very simple enough for 32 usd, with 3 pairs silicone eartips size S,M,L.
And small pouch made from cloth.

Beautiful and solid house resin 3D Printed, with female connector 2-pin 0.78.
Fitting is good, not big shell housing, light weight. Steady enough in my ears.
Comfort. Isolation is average.

Single DD driver, with techology :
10 mm PU + LCP liquid crystal molecular dome diaphragm DD.
Not hard to drive when im using only with my smartphone, with impedance 32 ohm, sensitivity 100 dB.

The stock cable, is decent for it price, 4 core Single Crsytal Cooper, with Plug 3,5 Single Ended (SE).

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SOUND QUALITY :

Im already using this iem for several weeks, has passed 100 hours.
My source and players : laptop lenovo ideapad flex 5, dac/amp dongle Fiio KA17, youtube premium.
Im just using stock cable with jack 3,5 SE, and stock eartips size M.
My personal Sound Signature preference : W shaped tonal, treble lover.

Timbre :

NATURAL. instrument, and voacals. Free from metallic & plasticky timbre, sibillance, harsh.

Signature and Tonal :

Harman'ish, quiet balance. Pleasant tuning & mature sound.


Lows :

Sub bass quite deep, however not the deepest, with lil bit thumpy bass (NOT at BASSHEAD LEVEL), quite round, nice rumbly with good control , and not long of a tail types, .
Not powerfull, not boomy too, quite balance.

Mid bass quite balance and good control, tight.
Kick drum is punchy enough, with less impact for the punch, not heavy impact , the body isn't thick . Make it less fun for my taste. But after several weeks listening, more better punchy mid bass. Make this iem more in level well balance at it price.

Speed bass quite fast when I test for double pedals, never too left behinds, quite good well control.
The percussion is quite punchy.

The bass texture & body is a bit lacking at 1st time, but after several weeks more better and better,
For bass quantity is not for basshead set, if I can give score from 1-5, the bass quantitiy in level 2,5-3,5, Hzsound Heart mirror in level 2, basshead in level 4,5-5.


Mids :

Vocal is natural, quite clean, with add hint warm, good articulation.
Male vocals in lower mid not lush, but not thin too, and the articulation good, clean.
Upper mid have some energy.
(However when volume too louder, sometime upper mid can slight too intense, almost at borderline shouty, but after 100 hours its better and better.)
Female vocals in upper mid sweet , lively, slight wet, forward , the articulation is quite detail, sometime I can feel airiness,

The clarity of string accoustic guitar and piano is quite good.
Guitar electric some time can be spicy esp when the volume is too louder.


Highs / Treble :

Slight energetic but with sense of smoothing treble respons, and roll off make it less sparkle, so make it no piercing too.

Can be relaxed too, with just enough treble extend but not till upper treble.
Quite lively and engaging, without being too bright & no offensive treble,
Quite comfortable and no fatiguing for longer listening session.
Percussion instrumens have it bite, crisp, but still smooth.


Technicalities :

Micro details is great for it is price 30 usd, macro details is good enough,
Clarity & resolution is good,
Imaging, separation and layering are just average, quite good at it price,
The transients are quite fast and responsive,
Soundstage :
Soundstage width is slight above average..
Depth and tall are just average, for it price.
Not flat, nor 2D too, but slight ouval wide horizontal

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WHO IS THIS IEM FOR ?

*Newbie who 1st time start in this hobby, is 1 of the best low budget iem under 40 usd.

*For person who likes harman'ish , but treble sensitive, this good choice, no piercing, slight musical than general harman, not analytical, with quiet good technical chops for the price.
this entry budget with great perform iem at 33 usd.

*For people who have 100 usd iem above, and want second budget iem for using daily,and cheap, this is recommended budget iem with good Sound Quality. In office, and indoor this sound is good for itprice,
but forme not for daily outdoor activity, like in train or public transportation cozthe isolation in my ears jut average (very subjective, change the eartips, willbe very the best solution), and if the volume set louder can make sound tooforward, not relaxed anymore like usual or should.

*For people only have cheap source, or direct to laptop and smartphone, this verygood option. But with better source dac amp, will be scaling up the SQ.

CONCLUSION :

For my personal preference, if sub bass quantity can more, midbass more punchier, more thick, and treble more sparkly, it will be more fun sounding for me. But, like we know, this is harman target. But for low budget harmans target, this is the best iem,

Im using this iem several weeks, for personally me, at 1st day tbh for me this iem can be lil boring, but when using after several weeks till now, I can see this iem is recommended for using as a daily driver at entry budget 30usd,

This safety choice for 30usd, for using as a daily driver, with pleasant tuning, natural timbre, inoffensive treble, relaxed and calm, nice vocals, smooth treble with quite good extension, a bit musically, but with decent technicallities esp micro details at this price.

GENRE MUSIC :

Recommend for Pop, indie folk, rock, metal, accoustic, jazz, blues, small live concert cafe.

Not really for : hip hop, edm, electro heavy bass

SCORE SOUND QUALITY :

Objective score : 7,5 - 8,5/10 for harmanish lover with single DD, and at it price 33 usd.
Subjective me score: 7 - 7,5/10 For me, who likes sound signature of treble lover & likes W shaped.

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Disclaimer:

• I don’t read FR graphs. I only use my ears, as earphones should be used.
• EPZ sent this unit to me in an exchange for an honest, transparent review. Rest assured that this review will do its best to devoid from any bias/es as much as possible.
• The following remarks and observations shall be made and owned only by me.
• No monetary compensation is/was involved before, during, and after the period of creation of this review.
• Your mileage may (and always, will) vary.

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Burn-in time: 4-8 hours per day, 5 days.

Source/s used:

• - Non-HiFi smartphone (Infinix Note 12 G96), PC.
• - Tanchjim Space DAC
• - Hidizs S9 Pro DAC
• - Aiwa XP-V710C CD Player (12 sec. EASS)
• - Sony Xperia X Compact
• - Local Files via Foobar, YouTube Music, Deezer, and Qobuz with UAPP.

IEM/Earbud/Setup configuration: Stock medium eartips, any form of EQ or MSEB off, 40-60% volume.

=================================================================================================================
Sound signature:

• The EPZ Q1 Pro no doubt follows the Harmant Target, hence it is a u-shaped sounding set. On certain tracks and sources, some ears can perceive this set as a w-shaped sounding IEM due to its mids sounding very clean and open, giving the impression of its mids being a bit more elevated on those aforementioned scenarios.

Lows:

• The lows in this performance are raised, but not to basshead levels, as some ears would have expected and preferred. Despite the aforementioned qualities, it is present and packed across the majority of genres. It is also moderately subbass dominant, which may leave the midbass lacking in punch and thickness. The lows are crisp, tight, and decay quite quickly. Overall, I find that the EPZ Q1 Pro's bass is nicely done and quite flexible, regardless of the song being played.

Mids:

• As for the mids, it is mildly recessed, open, and quite vivid for an under 60 USD set. Lower mids are virtually clean and does not experience any midbass bleed to my ears. This in return can also cause a bit of “thinness” in this region to most ears. Still, it exhibits a good amount of thickness and texture, particularly on male vocals. Upper mids are elevated, airy, sparkly and has a very good amount of clarity. While this is nowhere near sibilant to my ears, I can still say that this region may sound shouty to some ears and tracks on higher volumes. However, a higher than usual amount of volume isn’t necessarily needed in this set as this set is very easy to drive and is not source sensitive, in a positive way. Overall, its mids profile are quite familiar if you are fond of Harman-sounding sets, as this IEM’s mids lean to that neutral-thin side of thickness.

Highs:

• Now for the treble, it is adequately extended, and has a good amount of clarity and air. To my ears, it isn’t as elevated or as bright when compared to the upper mids as it does not exhibit any form of sibilance or harshness, even when the most sibilant-prone cymbals on a track hits. Detail retrieval is average and is evident on my test tracks. It renders most details really well, but not clinical enough for me to call it an IEM suited for critical listening.

Soundstage, Imaging, and separation:

• In my opinion, the technical performance of the EPZ Q1 Pro falls under my “one-of-the-better-ones-under-60 USD” category, as it handles very busy tracks quite well with minimal congestion or hiccups. Soundstage is your usual wide with a decent amount of height and depth. Imaging is precise for the most part, even on FPS games, or games in general.

=================================================================================================================
Other IEM Comparisons!

Kiwi Ears Cadenza

• The Kiwi Ears Cadenza is a warmer, “safer” sounding in terms of the upper frequencies. Its overall sound is also thicker and smoother as well, but lacks the speed and tactility the EPZ Q1 Pro has. As for the technicalities, the EPZ Q1 Pro takes the cake, especially on the separation, layering, and imaging.

VS Simgot EW200

• In a nutshell, the EW200 is brighter, a bit more expansive in the soundstage department, and a bit more monotonous in the bass department. The Q1 Pro is less bright with a slightly smaller stage when compared.

VS Truthear Zero (Blue)

• The Truthear Zero Blue has more bass quantity and thickness when compared. It also has more treble definition as well, but falls short when compared to the EPZ Q1 Pro when it comes to refinement and speed. Technical performance is a bit better on the EPZ Q1 Pro, but not by much.

=================================================================================================================
Pros:

• Well-done, Harman-sounding IEM!
• All-rounder sound profile.
• Very clean, detailed, nearly non-lacking bass response!
• Clean, open, vivid mids!
• Airy, well-extended upper frequencies.
• Very good technical performance for its asking price.
• Excellent fit, comfort, and isolation!
• Aesthetically-pleasing driver shells (subjective)
• Easy to drive.

Cons:

• While this IEM is nowhere near sibilant, upper mids may be perceived as “shouty” on higher volumes.
• Mids may lack depth to some ears, especially if your ears are accustomed to warm, thicker sounding sets.
• Minimal accessories for its asking price. A hard case or another set of eartips would’ve been a good treat for everyone.

=================================================================================================================

I must say, among all of the IEMs I have owned, loaned, and auditioned, the EPZ Q1 Pro is by far the most refined, versatile, and “ear-friendly” Harman-sounding IEM under 60 USD! Its overall implementation, from its drivability, down to its tonal and technical performance, are well-thought of and caters almost all preferences and needs for an all-rounder, everyday carry IEM by most people. I can even confidently recommend this IEM to anyone who “just wants an IEM, but miles and leaps better from their stock earphones” as It’s that versatile and good for me to do so. If we’re talking about in the hobbyist context, it is still one of the better IEMs under 100 USD and it holds on its own despite following a common sound profile, but may bore out some ears who prefer something different every now and then. Highly recommended!


Pairing recommendation/s:

• Source: This IEM is easy to drive, therefore, a neutral sounding source will do. However, a warmer source is preferred to add a bit of thickness and warmth to the overall sound.
• Eartips: The eartips are more than enough and do not compromise the overall sound. You may still use your preferred eartips.
• Cable: The cable is more than enough and very light for everyday use. You may still use your preferred cable.

Thank you for reading!

Non-affiliated link here: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006467098821.html

Additional Photos Here:

I got this product as a review unit from EPZ. Except from the review unit I did not receive money or any other necessities to influence the review in anyway.

This is my honest and unbiased opinion on EPZ Q1 pro. My likes and dislikes on this IEM are based solely on my own personal experience.

If you're interested in buying EPZ Q1 pro checkout AliExpress.


EPZ Q1 pro is a budget contender. But the price says otherwise. Doesn't feel like a budget IEM. Unlike regular cover boxes, the box is closed by a magnet. Inside I saw a white paper with golden flower like designs. Beneath that I got the driver attached with the cable placed in a foam. The phone is attached with a pull tab, which assists to remove the foam and helps getting other box contents. Under that got a box made of hard paper, which they named storage box in an interesting font. Inside the storage box I got the rest of the accessories. Above average packaging for a budget IEM.

Accessories you'll get:

• EPZ Q1 pro drivers

• 3 Pairs of eartips

• Copper cable

• User Manual

• Cable organizer

• Carrying Pouch

• QC pass certificate






Process: Resin 3D printing

SPK: 70MM LCP+PU

Frequency response: 20-20000HZ

sensitivity: 100db (±3db)

impedance: 32Ω

Plug diameter: 3.5mm

Headphone plug type: 0.78 2-Pin

Wire: 4-core single crystal copper silver plated

Line length: 1.2M



Build quality wise Q1 Pro gets a solid number. The shells are made of raisin. Feels pretty sturdy as well. The design on the faceplate looks really artistic, it's a mixture of deep blue, blue, purple. I'm not sure about the purple shade, but on light's presence I can clearly see the shades unlike when it's dark. Has glittery effects on light's presence. The EPZ branding is on the middle with a silver tone, which I don't appreciate. On the lower portion there's the model name and left and right indicator as "L" & "R". On its opposite side, there's a vent that's covered with a golden metal like design, which I find really unique. And it looks good as well. The inner portion is of smooth texture and it's fully black.






The brown cable is pretty standard, has a usable splitter. Both the topping connectors and the jack has a curve design that makes it easier to grip and use. Again EPZ branding only jack, and it's a bit subtle this time. Left and right indicators on the pin connectors.



I'm surprised as well, the eartips are pretty comfortable for a stock tips. Even more comfortable than many aftermarket ear tips. But not the best sounding though, the only reason why I didn't put this in pros. But you can comfortably use them any given day. They kind of look like KBear 07. Also they've provide a cable organizer as well.

A few months ago, I lost my earbud-style earphones. I searched everywhere in my house but couldn't find them. After looking for about two hours, I finally spotted them hanging on the lowest part of my curtains right beside my bed, clinging on for dear life with the cable organizer. It was like they were playing hide-and-seek with me. I have to admit, that cable organizer is handy—maybe too handy for many people! But ever since that incident, I promised myself not to use them again.

I was planning to complain about the fabric pouch. But after seeing their price, I don't think I should even complain. I have even tried pricier IEMs without any pouch or case. They're not going to add any layer of protection or save your IEMs from water, but their definitely usable even for protecting them from dust and particles.



I hardly felt like wearing them. Their size is perfect for my ears as an IEM. Inner side is smooth and it is small enough to fit in people with small ears. The cable is memory free and plays a big roll in comfort. Oh yeah, and the Eartips! I've never tried such comfortable eartips in this price as stock tips. Even at higher price range. For traveling and going outside, this is almost perfect.


• EPZ TP30

• Moondrop Dawn Pro

• DDHIFI TC44C

• Questyle M15

I would suggest to pair a neutral or slightly bright sounding source, as they lack some treble sparkle. Slightly warm dacs will also do fine, but make sure that it's not too warm.


Eartips
• Stock
• Final E (Black)
• Spinfit CP100+
• Tri Clarion
• Kbear 08
• Dunu Candy

I find the TRN Clarion ear tips to be perfect for Q1 pro. It doesn't boosts or tame the treble in any way which I really liked. They're pretty cheap and you should definitely buy them for this IEM.


Cable
• Stock
• Kbear 4 core copper
• TRI Through SPC

Even though they like a bit of brightness, I personally like it's pairing with the copper cables. As they make the bass more fun and sweet sounding. The stock cable performs fine as well, is not essential to buy a new one. But if you have one in your arsenal, you should definitely try it.


It's a warm sounding IEM, which is more emphasized on the Sub Bass. It's pretty relaxing and musical sounding. Doesn't create any fatigue, even with sensitive ears can listen to them for hours. Initially I didn't liked the tuning that much, but after using them for a while, I'm loving it!


Sub Bass

The sub-bass on the EPZ Q1 Pro is a standout feature. It provides a fun and engaging listening experience. It's not overwhelming which makes it a perfect balance between depth and control. It's like a disciplined puppy-it knows when to sit and stay, providing depth without lingering too long. The sub-bass extends well and hits those deep notes with a satisfying rumble. This makes it particularly well-suited for genres like hip-hop and electronic music, where a strong sub-bass presence is crucial. The texture of the sub-bass is rich and detailed, allowing you to hear the nuances in bass-heavy tracks. The bass drums, for instance, come through clearly, adding a layer of enjoyment to your listening sessions. The controlled yet deep sound of the sub-bass ensures that it remains soothing and never becomes overbearing.

Mid Bass

Moving on to the mid-bass, the EPZ Q1 Pro offers a slightly less emphasized but still impactful bass response. The mid-bass is punchy and has a great body, has a smooth texture. Despite its punchiness, it never blends too much into the midrange, ensuring that the mid-section remains clean and distinct. This characteristic makes the EPZ Q1 Pro versatile, performing exceptionally well with genres like folk and classical music, where clarity and separation are essential. The mid-bass strikes a balance, being neither too fast nor too slow, which makes the bass sound sweet but not muddy. This balance is ideal for providing a natural and enjoyable listening experience across various music genres.

Overall Bass

Combining the sub-bass and mid-bass, the EPZ Q1 Pro delivers a balanced and satisfying overall bass performance. The sub-bass provides that deep, rumbling sensation that is both fun and controlled, while the mid-bass adds punch and body without muddying the midrange. This well-tuned bass response makes the EPZ Q1 Pro suitable for a wide range of music genres, from bass-heavy tracks to more nuanced, instrumental pieces. The overall bass is engaging and detailed, offering a rich listening experience that is both enjoyable and fatigue-free.

Mid-range

The mid-range on the EPZ Q1 Pro is like that perfect cup of coffee on a lazy Sunday morning – warm and inviting. The warmth is akin to a cozy blanket that wraps around the listener, making everything feel just right. One standout feature here is how clean the mids sound. Despite the powerful bass presence, which can sometimes overpower other frequencies, the mids on the Q1 Pro remain sweet and delightful. This balance is key to enjoying instruments like the piano and classical guitar, which come through with stunning clarity.Imagine sitting in a small jazz club, the kind where you can almost touch the instruments and feel the music. That’s what the mid-range on the Q1 Pro feels like. It’s natural and doesn’t try to steal the show by being too forward or too shy. Instead, it strikes a perfect balance, allowing each instrument to shine. You can hear the pluck of each guitar string and the delicate keys of the piano, which makes the overall listening experience soothing and truly musical.

Male Vocals

The male on Q1 pro feels slightly laid back. Vocals are rich and has a beautiful warmth to them. While some might argue that this laid-back nature means missing out on a bit of detail, but the texture makes up for it. It's smooth textured and sound full bodied. Even though the vocals are a bit laid back, they're always crystal clear. Rocks and metals with backward vocals don't sound the most pleasing. But for tracks with forward vocals? Pure bliss. The realism and pleasing nature of these vocals make every listening moment enjoyable. You might find yourself wishing for a bit more separation between the heavy instruments and the vocals, but overall, the experience is nothing short of delightful.

Female Vocals

If you love listening to powerful divas or sweet soprano voices, you’re in for a treat. Female vocals on the Q1 Pro are rich, with really good extension. You can catch a lot of the nuances and subtleties that make female singers so captivating.

Artists who sing on lower notes sound especially amazing, bringing out a great texture that adds depth to their performances. And those high notes? They’re soothing and filled with decent energy but never reach the point of being fatiguing. It’s like listening to a lullaby – comforting and pleasant, no matter how high the notes go. The overall experience is enjoyable and keeps you engaged, making you appreciate every little detail in the female vocal performances.

Overall Mids

The EPZ Q1 Pro does a fantastic job here. The mids are soothing and really musical, making the IEM a joy to listen to across various genres. Whether you’re into classical, jazz, or even some mellow pop, the mids deliver a performance that’s both engaging and relaxing.The clean and warm nature of the mids ensures that every instrument and vocal track has its place, contributing to a harmonious and well-rounded sound profile. It’s like having a well-conducted orchestra where every section knows exactly when to shine and when to support. The result is a balanced, musical experience that’s sure to please any audiophile.

Treble

The treble section on the EPZ Q1 Pro – it’s a bit like that friend who prefers to hang back and observe rather than dominate the conversation. The treble on these IEMs is a bit laid back, which has its perks and quirks.

Firstly, if you’re one of those folks who cringe at the thought of piercing highs, you’re in luck. The Q1 Pro’s treble is gentle enough that even if your ears are more sensitive than a teenager at their first breakup, you’ll be just fine. Seriously, no need for those narrow bore eartips here – they can make things worse by muffling the sound. Stick with wide bore tips, or even regular ones, and you’ll get a treble that’s pleasant without any harsh edges.

The treble on the Q1 Pro is slightly sparkly, but not in a disco ball kind of way. It’s more like a subtle shimmer that adds a bit of zest to your music. You get decent treble details without feeling like your eardrums are being poked with a stick.

When it comes to the upper treble, though, things roll off a bit. This means you won't get that super airy, ethereal feeling, but it’s still immersive enough to ke
ep you engaged. So, while it might not be the most airy presentation, it does a decent job of keeping the music lively and enjoyable.


Instrument Separation

The separation between instruments is on point. You can pick out each drum hit and piano note with ease. It’s like each instrument has its own little spotlight on stage. The guitar riffs? They slice through the mix like a hot knife through butter, each note clear and distinct. And the drums, oh man, they steal the show. The Q1 Pro seems to prioritize bass instruments first, which makes the drums feel full and powerful, while the mids follow closely behind, and treble takes a more supportive role.

Right now, I’m jamming out to some metal just because this IEM handles it so darn well. The punchy bass kicks in without that dreaded piercing treble, making it perfect for metalheads. Trust me, when you’re diving into some heavy riffs and thundering drums, the last thing you want is a treble that feels like a dentist’s drill. The Q1 Pro avoids that pitfall beautifully.

Listening to “Fall into the Light” by Dream Theater, the electric guitars and drums sound absolutely fantastic. The separation is so good, you can almost see the musicians playing in front of you. Each beat, each riff, each melody – they all have their own space to breathe and shine. So, if you’re into metal or any genre that thrives on complex instrumentation, the EPZ Q1 Pro won’t disappoint.

Soundstage & Imaging

When it comes to the soundstage and imaging on the EPZ Q1 Pro, there's not a ton to write home about, but let's dive in. The soundstage is about average – it’s not too narrow, but it won’t make you feel like you’re in a concert hall either. Thanks to its mild airy presentation, you do get a somewhat immersive experience, especially with the right tracks.


As for imaging, it’s pretty standard. You’ll have a general sense of where the instruments are, but don’t expect pinpoint accuracy. Think of it as knowing there’s a drummer somewhere to the right, but not being able to say he's exactly three feet to the right.



Why should you consider it:
• If you like Bass
• If you like their packaging or design
• If you like musical sound
• If you love instrument seperation
• If you like relaxed treble
• If you like sweet mids



Why should you look elsewhere:
• If you like bass heavy sound
• If you like bright IEMs
• If you're a serious gamer
• If you like forward vocals





EPZ Q1 pro performers excellent is delivering musical performance. If you're someone who is used to balanced or a little bright sounding IEMs you might not like them initially, but after a couple of sessions, you're going to love them. If you want any comparison between this and any IEM at it's price range, feel free to comment and let me know.


Thank you for reading all the way! I'd love to hear your thoughts on this IEM. I'll be back with another review soon.


Until then,

Keep on listening ·͜·♡

Introduction​

The EPZ Q1 Pro is a budget-friendly in-ear monitor (IEM) that has garnered attention for its impressive build quality and balanced sound signature. Priced around $37, it competes in the ultra-budget tier but manages to stand out with its clean, crisp, and slightly warm tonality. Designed for versatility, the Q1 Pro is easy to drive, making it suitable for use with a variety of devices, including smartphones and dedicated audio players. Its neutral sound profile, with a hint of warmth, appeals to a broad audience, offering a relaxed listening experience that avoids harshness and fatigue. While it may not cater to bass or treble enthusiasts seeking extreme emphasis in those areas, the Q1 Pro delivers a well-rounded performance that makes it an excellent daily driver for commuting or office use.

Context​

I tried the Q1 Pro with the Xduoo XD05 Basic, ddHiFi Tc44c, and the LG V60, in regular configuration and with pure copper, mixed cable, and numerous tips such as Divinus Velvet, Spinfit W1, 145, TRN T, and Penon Orange. I enjoyed it best with Penon Orange and TRN T tips.

Disclaimer
‘EPZ’ sent me this IEM for review purposes. And there is no guidance by the respective company about what to write and what not. The whole review is my unbiased experience and honest opinion with the sound I listened to.

One thing more. The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear using different IEMs. Your experience may vary due to personal preference and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.

Note: I use this set of iems with this cable, eartips, and sources. That is the basis for my overall review.

If you want to buy this iem, visit EPZ. If you are from Bangladesh, you may visit GeekMart.



TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION:

• Driver: 10mm dynamic driver
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Sensitivity: 100dB
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Cable: 4-core single-crystal copper
• Cable length: 1.2M
• Connector: 2-pin 0.78mm

WHAT’S IN THE BOX:

• EPZ Q1 Pro earphones
• Copper cable
• 3 pairs of silicone ear tips (Small, Medium, Large)
• Carrying pouch
• Official papers

Build Quality​

The build quality of the EPZ Q1 Pro is notable for its price range. The IEMs feature a solid, lightweight construction with resin and aesthetically pleasing faceplates that give them a premium look. The materials used are robust, and the overall craftsmanship is comparable to higher-end models, such as the EPZ Star One. The Q1 Pro comes with a removable 0.78mm two-pin cable, which adds to its durability and allows for easy upgrades or replacements. The cable itself is of good quality, avoiding the tangling and fragility often found in budget IEMs. Additionally, the packaging is well-designed, providing a good unboxing experience with adequate accessories included.

Fit and Comfort​

In terms of fit and comfort, the EPZ Q1 Pro excels with its ergonomic design. The lightweight shells fit snugly in the ears, making them comfortable for extended listening sessions. The shape and size of the IEMs are designed to provide a secure fit without causing discomfort, even during long periods of use. The Q1 Pro remains stable during various activities, making it a reliable option for both stationary and on-the-go listening. The included ear tips come in different sizes, ensuring a good seal for optimal sound isolation and bass response.

Sound Impression​

The sound signature of the EPZ Q1 Pro is characterized by a neutral profile with a slight warmth, providing a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. This tuning ensures that no single frequency range is overly emphasized, making it suitable for a wide variety of music genres. The overall sound is dynamic and engaging, with good timbre and a natural tonality that avoids being overly analytical or harsh. While it may not be the most detailed IEM in its price range, the Q1 Pro offers enough detail and clarity to satisfy most listeners.

Bass​

The bass on the EPZ Q1 Pro is clean and precise, with a focus on sub-bass frequencies. It provides a deep, controlled rumble that enhances the listening experience without overwhelming the midrange or treble. The sub-bass extension is impressive for a budget IEM, delivering a satisfying punch that is both tight and well-defined. However, the bass is not overly dominant, making the Q1 Pro unsuitable for bass heads seeking heavy, booming lows. Instead, it offers a balanced bass response that complements the overall sound signature, maintaining clarity and separation across the frequency spectrum.

Mids​

The midrange of the EPZ Q1 Pro is slightly forward, ensuring that vocals and instruments are clearly articulated. Voices come through with good presence and detail, though they might lack a bit of warmth and thickness. Instruments are well-represented, with accurate tones and natural timbre, although some users might find them a bit recessed compared to the vocals. The upper midrange is well-controlled, avoiding the harshness that can sometimes plague budget IEMs. Overall, the mids are clean and engaging, contributing to a balanced and coherent sound signature.

Treble​

The treble performance of the EPZ Q1 Pro is smooth and non-fatiguing, with enough sparkle to add excitement without becoming harsh or sibilant. High-frequency details are present and well-resolved, providing clarity and airiness to the overall sound. The treble extension is decent, though it may not reach the same heights as more expensive models. Nevertheless, the Q1 Pro manages to strike a good balance, offering a pleasant treble response that enhances the listening experience without causing discomfort during extended use.

Instruments​

Instrument separation and imaging on the EPZ Q1 Pro are commendable for its price range. Each instrument is distinct and well-positioned within the soundstage, allowing for a clear and organized presentation of complex musical arrangements. This level of separation ensures that even dense tracks do not sound congested, with each element retaining its individuality. The natural timbre of instruments further enhances the listening experience, making the Q1 Pro a versatile choice for various genres, from classical to rock and everything in between.

Soundstage​

The soundstage of the EPZ Q1 Pro is surprisingly wide and spacious for a budget IEM. It creates a realistic sense of space, with good depth and layering that allows listeners to perceive the placement of instruments and vocals accurately. While it may not rival the expansive soundstages of higher-end models, the Q1 Pro provides an immersive listening experience that belies its affordable price. The imaging is precise, contributing to a coherent and engaging sound that enhances the enjoyment of both simple and complex tracks.

Gaming Performance​

The EPZ Q1 Pro IEMs offer a commendable performance for gaming, particularly given their budget-friendly price. Their balanced sound signature, with a slight emphasis on sub-bass, ensures that explosions and other low-frequency sounds are impactful without overshadowing mid and high-frequency details. This balance helps in creating an immersive gaming environment where ambient sounds and special effects are clearly audible.

One of the standout features for gamers is the EPZ Q1 Pro's soundstage and imaging capabilities. The wide and spacious soundstage allows for better spatial awareness, which is crucial in games that require precise audio cues for locating enemies or navigating environments. The good instrument separation further aids in distinguishing between different sound elements, making it easier to identify footsteps, gunfire, and other in-game sounds.

Comfort is another significant advantage. The ergonomic design and snug fit ensure that the IEMs remain comfortable even during extended gaming sessions. This is particularly important for gamers who spend hours playing without breaks.

Conclusion​

In conclusion, the EPZ Q1 Pro is an impressive budget IEM that offers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. Its build quality, fit, and comfort are excellent, making it a reliable choice for daily use. The sound signature is neutral with a slight warmth, providing a dynamic and engaging performance that suits a wide range of music genres. While it may not satisfy those seeking extreme bass or treble emphasis, the Q1 Pro excels in delivering a clean and natural sound that is both detailed and musical. For its price, the EPZ Q1 Pro represents a fantastic value, making it a strong contender in the ultra-budget IEM market.


Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the EPZ Q1 Pro! I hope this review helped you decide if these versatile IEMs are a good fit for your listening preferences. Happy listening!

Disclaimer:​

Thanks EPZ for sending up this unit . Epz doesn't provide me anything to influence their product .
I will be unbiased and honest. I will just share my thought about EPZ Q1 Pro .
I would like to mention one thing this review is based on my personal music preference and sources cause music preference varies person to person and sources
If you want to buy product check plz out:https://epzearphones.aliexpress.com/store/1102017126?spm=a2g0o.detail.0.0.230c8BL78BL7YX and those who live in Bangladesh can contact with https://geekmartbd.com/

Technical Specifications:​

Driver: 10mm dynamic driver
Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
Sensitivity: 100dB
Impedance: 32Ω
Cable: 4-core single crystal copper
Cable length: 1.2M
Connector: 2-pin 0.78mm

Box Contant:​

IEM themselves
3 pairs of eartips
Carrying pouch
Copper Cable
Paper works

Sound Signature:​

This IEM offers a balanced sound signature with a slight warmth, adhering to a version of the Harman target curve.

Testing Sources:​

DAP:​

Plenue R2

DAC dongle:​

Moondrop Dawn Pro
EPZ TP30

Eartips:​

Dunu S&S:​

This tips was the tips for me when I was testing this IEM. Cause this tips soundstage also vocals comes a bit forward . And this tips create the most Isolation .

Kbear 07:​

This tips makes stereo separation and imaging more lively .

Moondrop Spring Tips:​

This tips offers me the best comfort and makes the vocals bit fuller and bodied

Sound Quality:​

Overall Sound Impression :​

The EPZ Q1 Pro earphones offers balanced sound with a slight touch of warmth. They feature a detailed, crisp treble that avoids harshness, making them ideal for listeners who appreciate clarity without fatigue. The mids are well-represented, with vocals standing out clearly, though they can sometimes feel a bit thin. The bass is precise and clean, focusing more on natural sound rather than heavy impact, which might leave bass enthusiasts wanting more.The soundstage is impressively wide for the price, providing a good sense of space and instrument separation. Despite the lack of treble extension, the overall tonal balance is well-maintained, making the Q1 Pro suitable for various music genres, especially vocal and instrumental tracks. They deliver a coherent and engaging listening experience, particularly suited for those who prefer a balanced and smooth audio profile .

Bass:​

The EPZ Q1 Pro is known for its balanced and impactful bass. The overall bass response is well-tuned, providing a satisfying experience for bass enthusiasts. The sub-bass is particularly noteworthy, offering a deep and rumbling extension that adds a solid foundation to the music. This characteristic is not common in many budget IEMs, making the Q1 Pro stand out.

Sub-bass :​

The sub-bass performance of the EPZ Q1 Pro is one of its strongest features. The sub-bass extends deeply, offering a powerful rumble that is felt as much as it is heard. Tracks with heavy bass lines or deep electronic beats benefit significantly from this characteristic. For example, songs like "LYTD" by Daft Punk or "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish showcase the sub-bass capabilities of the thsi, delivering a visceral and immersive listening experience.
The sub-bass is not only deep but also controlled. It provides a solid foundation without becoming boomy or overpowering. This control is crucial for maintaining clarity and ensuring that the sub-bass complements rather than overwhelms the rest of the sound spectrum. The sub-bass also exhibits good texture and detail, allowing listeners to discern subtle nuances in bass-heavy tracks. This is particularly beneficial for genres like EDM, hip-hop, and certain types of classical music where deep bass plays a crucial role.
Despite its depth and power, the sub-bass on this thing has a relatively quick decay. This means that the bass notes do not linger longer than necessary, which helps in keeping the overall sound clean and precise. This characteristic is often lacking in budget IEMs, making them notable exception.

Mid-bass:​

The mid-bass performance of this IEM is another area where it excels. The mid-bass provides the necessary punch and thump that adds energy to the music. It is tuned to be impactful yet controlled, ensuring that it enhances the overall sound without becoming overwhelming. This balance is crucial for genres like rock, pop, and jazz, where mid-bass plays a significant role in driving the rhythm.
This IEM's mid-bass is characterized by its clean and precise delivery. Each bass note is well-defined, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricacies of the bass guitar, drums, and other low-frequency instruments. This precision is achieved without sacrificing the warmth and fullness that are essential for a satisfying bass response. The mid-bass has a quick decay, similar to the sub-bass, which helps in preventing any muddiness and maintaining the overall clarity of the sound.
One of the standout aspects of the mid-bass on this thing it's ability to stay distinct from the midrange. Many budget IEMs struggle with bass bleed, where the bass frequencies encroach into the midrange, muddying the overall sound. However, the Q1 Pro manages to avoid this issue, keeping the mid-bass punchy and tight while allowing the mids to shine.
Tracks with prominent mid-bass lines, such as "What You Won't Do For Love" by Bobby Caldwell or "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, sound lively and engaging on this. The bass thump is palpable, providing a solid groove that makes these tracks enjoyable to listen to.

Overall Bass:​

Overall the bass performance of this is highly commendable, especially considering its price point. The combination of deep, controlled sub-bass and punchy, precise mid-bass creates a well-rounded bass response that enhances various genres of music. Whether you are listening to bass-heavy electronic music, rhythmic rock, or detailed orchestral pieces, this IEM delivers a satisfying and immersive experience.The bass is well-integrated with the rest of the frequency spectrum, ensuring that it supports rather than overwhelms the mids and highs. This balance is crucial for maintaining clarity and detail across the entire sound profile.

In summary, this IEM Pro offers a bass performance that is both impactful and controlled, providing a listening experience that is both engaging and enjoyable. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly IEM that does not compromise on bass quality.

Midrange :​

The midrange of this is one of its standout features. It offers a clean and well-defined sound that is characteristic of Harman tuning. The lower mids in some cases might feel a bit thin and distant, which can sometimes make them sound unengaging. However, the upper mids are forward, crisp, and clear, providing a nuanced and engaging listening experience, particularly for vocals. This balance makes the midrange feel both clean and detailed, although it may lack some body and warmth. Despite the occasional thinness, the midrange performance remains impressive for its price point, delivering a clarity and crispiness that many listeners will appreciate.

Male Vocals:​

Male vocals on this benefit from its midrange clarity and definition. The IEMs provide excellent reverb and a natural timbre, making male voices sound realistic and engaging. Tracks with deep male vocals reveal this IEM's ability to handle lower frequencies with sufficient detail, although the slightly thin nature of the lower mids can sometimes make the vocals feel a bit less full-bodied.
When listening to male vocal-centric tracks, this IEM manages to maintain a good balance, ensuring that the vocals are neither overshadowed by the instruments nor excessively forward. This balance is especially noticeable in genres like folk, acoustic, and classical, where the natural tone of male voices is crucial. However, in tracks with heavy midbass, the vocals remain clear and well-defined, albeit sometimes lacking the warmth and thickness that some listeners might prefer.
Overall, this IEM's treatment of male vocals is commendable, offering a natural and engaging listening experience that stands out in its price range. The slight thinness in the lower mids is a minor drawback but does not significantly detract from the overall performance.

Female Vocals:​

Female vocals on this are handled with a good amount of sparkle and clarity, making them sound lively and engaging. The forward nature of the upper mids plays a significant role in this, ensuring that female voices are crisp and well-articulated. This characteristic makes this particularly well-suited for genres that feature prominent female vocals, such as pop, jazz, and classical.
The clarity and sparkle in female vocals are complemented by a non-fatiguing treble, which ensures that the high frequencies do not become harsh or sibilant. This balance allows for an extended listening session without causing listener fatigue, which is a common issue with some other IEMs in this price range.
While the upper mids can sometimes be a bit too forward, leading to a shouty presentation in poorly mixed tracks, the overall handling of female vocals is impressive. This IEM manages to deliver a lively and engaging performance, making it a great choice for listeners who enjoy female vocalists.

Overall Midrange:​

In conclusion, this thing offers a commendable midrange performance that stands out in its price range. The midrange is clear, detailed, and well-defined, although it can occasionally feel thin and distant in the lower mids. The upper mids are forward and engaging, providing a crisp and nuanced sound that enhances both male and female vocals. For listeners seeking a natural and clear midrange with a good balance of detail and engagement, this is an excellent choice. It offers a well-tuned midrange that excels in vocal-centric genres, making it a versatile option for a wide range of musical styles. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the thinness in the lower mids and occasional shoutiness in the upper mids, the overall performance is impressive, particularly for an IEM in this price category.

Test track used for midrange:"Time in a Bottle " by Jim Croce and "Happy Nations " by Ace of Base.​

Treble:​

The treble on the EPZ Q1 Pro is characterized by its clarity and brightness. It manages to deliver high frequencies without sounding harsh or sibilant, making it suitable for extended listening sessions. The treble is detailed enough to highlight subtle nuances in the music, such as the shimmer of cymbals or the delicate plucking of string instruments. This IEM strikes a balance between being bright and non-fatiguing, providing an airy and spacious feel to the overall sound signature.

Lower Treble:​

In the lower treble range, this IEM excels in offering a smooth and engaging listening experience. The lower treble is where much of the vocal clarity and presence resides, and it handles this frequency range adeptly. Instruments such as guitars and pianos also benefit from this tuning, sounding clear and well-separated from the rest of the frequency spectrum.
This IEM’s lower treble does a great job of maintaining detail and resolution without becoming overly analytical. This makes it a versatile choice for various music genres, from pop and rock to classical and jazz. The IEM manages to keep the treble lively and engaging, providing a sense of energy and dynamism to the overall sound. However, for those who prefer a warmer and more laid-back treble, this IEM might come across as slightly too bright. Nonetheless, it avoids crossing into harsh territory, making it a well-rounded performer in the lower treble range.

Upper Treble:​

The upper treble of the EPZ Q1 Pro extends well into the higher frequencies, providing a good amount of air and sparkle. This extension adds a sense of openness and space to the sound, making it feel less congested and more three-dimensional. The upper treble is smooth and refined, avoiding the pitfalls of harshness and sibilance that can plague lesser IEMs. This results in a treble response that is both detailed and pleasant to listen to.
The upper treble performance of this IEM is particularly notable given its price point. It manages to deliver a level of detail and extension that is often found in more expensive models. This makes it an excellent choice for listeners who appreciate a clear and articulate treble without the fatigue that can come with excessive brightness. Cymbals, high hats, and other high-frequency instruments are rendered with a natural and lifelike quality, adding to the overall realism of the soundstage.
Despite its strengths, the upper treble might not satisfy those who are looking for the ultimate in treble resolution and separation. While it performs admirably, it does not quite reach the levels of detail and precision found in higher-end IEMs. However, for its price, the Q1 Pro offers a very commendable upper treble performance that enhances the overall listening experience.

Overall Treble:​

Overall the treble performance of this IEM is impressive, especially considering its budget-friendly price. It delivers a well-balanced and detailed treble that enhances the listening experience without causing fatigue. The treble is bright enough to add excitement and clarity to the music but is carefully tuned to avoid harshness. This makes this IEM a versatile IEM that can handle a wide range of music genres with ease.
The combination of a smooth lower treble and a well-extended upper treble results in a cohesive and enjoyable sound signature. Though it may not be the best option for treble enthusiasts who crave extreme levels of detail and separation, it offers a very satisfying performance for most listeners. In conclusion, this IEM provides excellent value for money, delivering a treble response that is both engaging and easy on the ears.

Test track used for treble:"Pale Blue Dot " by Dream Theater and "Thunderstruck " by AC-DC​

Technical Stuffs:​

Instrument Separation:​

This excels in providing clear instrument separation, a vital feature for those who enjoy intricate compositions. This IEM offers a remarkably clean and balanced soundstage, ensuring each instrument is distinctly audible even in complex musical passages. This level of separation enhances the overall listening experience, allowing the listener to pinpoint the position of each instrument with precision.
In busy instrumental tracks, this maintains clarity without any hint of muddiness. The bass, while present, does not overpower the mids and highs, thus preserving the integrity of each instrument's sound. The midrange is well-defined, providing a natural timbre that adds to the realism of the sound. This is particularly noticeable in tracks with heavy midbass, where each note is rendered cleanly and distinctly . For example " Bohemian Rhapsody " by Queen or " Just The Two of Us " by Grover Washington, Jr this kind of track performance excellent you can hear every instrument separately.
Moreover, this IEM manages to avoid sibilance, even at higher volumes. This is a significant advantage for listeners who are sensitive to harsh or piercing high frequencies. The treble is smooth and controlled, which complements the instrument separation by preventing any single frequency range from dominating the sound profile.

Soundstage and Imaging:​

The EPZ Q1 Pro offers a commendable soundstage and precise imaging, providing an immersive listening experience that exceeds expectations for its price range. These qualities make it a strong contender for casual and audiophile use alike.

Soundstage:​

The soundstage of the EPZ Q1 Pro is notable for its width and depth, creating a spacious auditory environment. This is achieved without overemphasizing any particular frequency, allowing for a natural and balanced sound. Listeners will appreciate the sense of space and the ability to distinguish between different instruments and vocals. This expansive soundstage is particularly effective in genres such as classical and live recordings, where a wide auditory field enhances the listening experience.

Imaging:​

In terms of imaging, the EPZ Q1 Pro excels by offering precise and accurate placement of sounds within the soundstage. This allows listeners to pinpoint the location of instruments and vocals with clarity. The Q1 Pro handles complex tracks with multiple layers of instruments well, maintaining separation and coherence. This makes it suitable for genres that require detailed and accurate sound reproduction, such as jazz and orchestral music. While it may not match the imaging capabilities of higher-end models, this IEM delivers exceptional performance for its price.
In summary, this thing excels in providing a spacious and well-defined soundstage with accurate imaging, making it a solid choice for audiophiles seeking an engaging and detailed listening experience without breaking the bank.

Overall, this stands out for its technical abilities in this price range. While it may not match the micro-detail retrieval of more expensive IEMs, its ability to separate instruments cleanly and maintain a coherent soundstage makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious audiophiles who do not want to compromise on clarity and separation.

Mobile Gaming Performance:​

For having good soundstage and imaging this thing can give you proper support for long run at a time they are super comfy if you fit them right eartips you can cover up long gaming session .
The gunshot and foot-stape are accurate . Explosion also sounds well.
For more you can check out @MotherX1when he will cover this IEM

Who should consider this IEM:​

- Balanced sound
- Good sub-bass extension
- For listening long session
- Great fit and comfort
- Fits almost every genre
- Treble sensetive people can consider this
- For mobile gaming

May look elsewhere if you need these:​

- If you're a basshead
- Treble lovers
- If you don't like relaxing sound
- If a bit laid-back vocals isn't your priority

This is my thought about EPZ Q1 Pro. Let me know your thought.
Till then keep listening
Bye..

Intro/Disclaimer​

2024 has been a crazy year for budget IEM releases and EPZ definitely wanted to be part of the action. The EPZ Q1 Pro is a $37 single DD IEM that is tuned following the Harman 2019 curve. AKA. V-shaped sound signature.

This set was loaned to me by a good friend and fellow IEM reviewer Jaytiss. Thanks again for the opportunity. All thoughts and opinions below are my own and not influenced by any external party.

My impressions are solely based on what I hear with my own two ears as this is a very subjective hobby. My ratings are also based on how I think this IEM fares against others in the same price category.

My primary litmus test when it comes to audio gear is whether or not vocals and instruments sound natural/organic. Regardless if the IEM has the biggest bass or the most technical treble. If it doesn’t sound natural to my ears then it’s a red flag. SPOILER: The Q1 Pro definitely delivers on this front.

Packaging and accessories​

Standard cardboard packaging that you see amongst all other IEMs around this price range but it’s what’s inside that matters. Along with the IEMs, you get three pairs of silicone tips and a decent 4N Single Crystal Copper cable . You have the option of a 3.5 with no mic, 3.5 w/ mic, or a USB-C termination.

Build, Comfort and Fit​

The build of this IEM consists of a 3D-printed resin shell with a beautiful blue jade faceplate. The shell is of medium/small size and mimics a more custom mold than more generic ones. It fits extremely well in my ear and did not experience any discomfort after hour long listening sessions. I am extremely impressed with the build and design of the Q1 Pro.

Specs​

Product name: Q1Pro
Main process: 3D printing cavity + hand-painted panel
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
Total harmonic distortion: <0.5% (@1kHz, 100db)
Plug diameter: 3.5mm
Headphone plug type: 0.78MM double pin
Wire: 4-core single crystal copper
Cable length: 1.2M

Sound​

Sources Used
EPZ Q1 Pro <- Chord Mojo 2 <- MacMini M1 <- Apple Music Lossless

Songs played






Initial impressions (before brain burn in)
I usually like to jot down my first impressions within the first few minutes of listening to a new IEM. Because, believe it or not, brain burn-in is a real thing.

Upon listening to the first few songs in my library, I was immediately impressed with the vocal forward presentation and natural timbre of instruments. The timbre and tonality on the Q1 Pro is spot on. Male and female vocals can sometimes overshadow the instruments in the background due to its forward presentation. Male vocals can occasionally sound shouty depending on the artist and mix. The treble is well extended but lacks sparkle and air.

Lows (Bass)

• Sub bass has good extension if the song calls for it
• Mid bass lacks impact and weight
• Modern music will feel not as exciting

Mids

• Vocals are pushed forward in the mix
• Male vocals can become shouty
• Female vocals are energetic but doesn’t cross the line
• Lower midrange is sterile

Highs (Treble)

• Lacks sparke and air
• Smooth and detailed without being sibilant
• Inoffensive treble

Technicalities (Soundstage/Separation/Imaging)

• Below average layering and imaging
• Lacks micro-details
• Soundstage is average
• Great coherency due to single transducer

Comparisons​

I’ll be comparing the Q1 Pro to the Kinera Celest Wyvern Abyss ($30) (Graph credit: Paul Wasabi)

Kinera Celest Wyvern Abyss

Compared to the Q1 Pro, the Wyvern Abyss is quite similar in both price and tuning. You can hear and see that both follow the Harman 2019 target almost exactly. However, the bass on the Wyvern is definitely more pronounced and impactful. Giving songs that have bass a much more exciting presentation.

The midrange on the Wyvern is also a step up in clarity and resolution. Male and female vocals take a step back compared to the Q1 Pro but still sound great in the mix. A much more balanced presentation.

The treble extension on the Wyvern is also much more balanced and not as peaky.

Winner: Wyvern Abyss

Conclusion​

EPZ did a good job with the Q1 Pro. They created a well-tuned Harman set with excellent timbre and tonality. People will definitely enjoy the more forward vocal presentation if you listen to a lot of vocal centric music.

While it may not provide the best detail or technical performance, it offers a comfortable and enjoyable listening experience, particularly for those who prefer a non-fatiguing sound.

As long as you understand what the Q1 Pro can and cannot do, I think you will be quite happy with this budget set.

EPZ Q1 PRO: PRODUCE SOUNDS LIKE A ‘PRO’
_________________________________________________________________________________________


INTRO:

While audiophiles are typically after the top-of-the-line flagships, there's something attractive about finding exceptional value amongst the more affordable options: the Q1 Pro, going for a single dynamic driver approach—a philosophy some might argue is a little old school—is equipped with design choices that are nothing if not interesting and capable of challenging your expectations of budget audio. The Q1 Pro has been noted for its smooth sound that won't tire your ears, and it's quite comfortable to wear. But then, can a single driver really give such a balanced and enjoyable listening experience? Well, let's talk about EPZ Q1 Pro and if it is actually as good as many people say.


CONTEXT:

So, being a big music fan, I have tried many IEMs and headphones through the years. EPZ Q1 Pro gets a lot of praise from other enthusiasts, so I was rather excited to put these to the test against different musical styles and use cases. They sound very smooth and balanced, with good weight in the lower frequencies, and the mids and highs are rather excellent. So, in my testing, my Planue R2 totally nailed it since the R2 is pretty famous for being strong when it comes to driving DDs.

Hiby R3 is also fantastic, and when I paired the IEM with my Moondrop Dawn Pro, surprisingly enough, the midrange opened up and let me enjoy the sweetness of mids. My ifi Hip DAC 2 gave a new character to the IEM by enriching the bass region and making it livelier. I shuffled the cable and ear tips too to find the best synergy. I'll go into more detail about this in a later part of this review.




DISCLAIMER:

EPZ is kind enough to send me the Q1 Pro to review. I am not affiliated with the respective company, and of course, I was not asked for any copy checking before publishing. And this review is totally unbiased, based on my listening experience.

One thing more: The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear from different sources. Your experience may vary because of personal taste and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.


For your personal purchase:

Geek Mart is the place if you are in Bangladesh.
Check out EPZ if you live elsewhere.


GEAR USED:

● DAP: Cowon Planue R2, Hiby R3
● DAC/AMP: iFi Hip Dac 2, Moondrop Dawn Pro
● Smartphone: POCO X3
● Music Sources: Local FLAC files


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION:

• Driver: 10mm dynamic driver
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Sensitivity: 100dB
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Cable: 4-core single crystal copper
• Cable length: 1.2M
• Connector: 2-pin 0.78mm

WHAT’S IN THE BOX:

• EPZ Q1 Pro earphones
• Copper cable
• 3 pairs of silicone ear tips (Small, Medium, Large)
• Carrying pouch
• Official papers

​

UNBOXING EXPERIENCE:​

Unboxing the Q1 Pro is a straightforward yet satisfying experience. The packaging is minimalistic, with a sturdy outer box. Upon opening the box, the earphones are neatly presented, giving a good first impression of their design and build quality. The carrying pouch is a basic one that you can find with any of their cables, and it’s not a protective case. The included ear tips are also basic but get the job done and are comfortable too. It’s a simple yet effective presentation that makes you feel confident in the quality of the earphones.










BUILD QUALITY:

This earphone impresses with its build quality. The earphones, made with 3D-printed resin, have a sleek, glossy finish that visually looks pretty premium and feels good and solid in the hand. The build of the earphones will give you confidence in their durability. And light attention to detail speaks for itself with seamless leading and robust materials used. The beautiful blue-textured face plate is hand-painted. The 2-pin connector is made strong and provides a secure connection with the cable. The cable itself is single-crystal copper, of good quality, and braided, which does help to prevent tangling and adds to the general durability.

FIT & COMFORT:​

The EPZ Q1 Pro is great in terms of fit and comfort; they can be worn for quite a time without any problems at all. This makes the ergonomically designed earphones sit very well inside the ears. Edges are smooth, the body is lightweight to add comfort. The ear tips are soft and flexible, being made of silicone, thereby ensuring good isolation of sound and a comfortable seal. Adding to this comfort is the lightweight design of the IEMs, which do not clamp down much on the ears. Whether you are a casual listener or a marathoner like me, the IEM sits just fine and feels good to listen to.

​

SOUND IMPRESSION:​

In the main, Q1 Pro performs a sound, which can be called well-balanced and detailed. The general signature of this model has an extended light U-shape with a good accent on the sub-bass and treble, while mids are clear and natural with no trace of harshness. This way, they would be just fine for pop and rock genres, electronic music, and even classics.



Let’s dive deep …

SUB-BASS:​

The Q1 Pro sounds nothing but impressive for sub-bass; the deep and powerful sub-bass foundation sets it off a notch and adds an extra dimension to the listen. Sub-bass extension is exemplary, going deep down into the lower frequencies, and visceral impact provides some excitement to the music.

Listening to “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons, the deep bass lines are rendered with clarity and punch, making the music feel immersive and dynamic. This solid sub-bass presence is maintained even at higher volumes, with no signs of distortion, which is a testament to the quality of the dynamic driver. The IEMs achieve this powerful bass without any compromise on the overall balance, placing the sub-bass in an accompanying rather than dominant position to the rest of the frequencies. This makes this IEM a great choice for bass enthusiasts who are looking for richness and full-bodiedness in their listening.

MID-BASS:​

While the sub-bass is a highlight, the mid-bass is somewhat different in this earphone; the response is clean and controlled. Yes, the mid-bass is there, punchy, giving the needed rhythm and groove. A balanced approach it is, meaning the bass won't mess the whole sound up, which the other elements can sail through with clarity.

This is particularly true of more complicated arrangements, like "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen. The IEM finds a decent balance between having enough mid-bass presence to keep the music interesting and lively, yet clear and separated in the lower mids. That makes it quite versatile for many different styles of music. However, I find that mid-bass is somewhat recessed, especially on tracks that need more forward and aggressive bass response to enjoy.

MALE VOCALS:​

Male vocals on the earphones are rendered with a natural and engaging presence that captures the depth and texture of the singer’s voice. "Someone You Loved" by Lewis Capaldi is a track portraying strong emotions and gentle details of his voice, clear and warm, which makes it personal and attention-catching. The in-ear monitors lift the male singing, making sure that it is clear and not lost in the background music. The general clarity and natural feel of the male vocals make these earphones a treat to listen to if you enjoy music centered around the vocals.

FEMALE VOCALS:​

Vocals are extremely clear and detailed on the IEM for females, really letting their vocal performances shine into perfection across genres. Songs such as "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele show how well the earphones perform at producing powerful emotional vocals with precision and depth. Adele’s voice is rendered with a richness and clarity that captures every nuance, from the subtle breathiness to the full-bodied delivery in the chorus. The Q1 Pro excels in delivering a natural and lifelike portrayal of female voices, ensuring that they remain engaging and expressive.

INSTRUMENT SEPARATION:​

The Q1 Pro impresses with good separation, where each instrument can be heard and felt in a track. This clarity is more pronounced in serious compositions, such as "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen, where the numerous instruments and layers of voice could be well-defined and placed within a soundstage. The earphone maintains that separation during the dense musical passages to make sure that no piece of the instrumental mix gets lost or muddied. The IEM’s ability to deliver such detailed instrument separation makes it a great choice for those who enjoy complex and multi-layered music, as it allows for a deeper appreciation of the artistry and arrangement of each track.

TREBLE:​

The treble in these earphones sounds very clear and bright, adding a sense of sparkle and air to the music. High-frequency details have great precision, which makes elements like cymbals, hi-hats, and strings pop with remarkable clarity. In tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin, the treble details are crisp and well-defined, contributing to the overall dynamic and engaging sound signature. The treble frequencies sound quite balanced so as not to overshadow the midrange and bass.

Nevertheless, there are moments when the treble brightness sounds a little too sharp. This usually occurs with songs that have a lot of high-frequency components like "Sultans of Swing" by Dire Straits. For some listeners, this might lead to listening fatigue during extended sessions.

SOUNDSTAGE:​

The soundstage on the Q1 Pro is super wide, which makes for a really immersive and broad listening experience. That sense of space makes live recordings and orchestral music a lot more enjoyable because it feels like you are in a bigger, more open place. In tracks like “Hotel California (Hell Freezes Over Live, 1994)” by the Eagles, the earphones creates a broad and realistic soundscape, with instruments and vocals well-positioned across the stage. This spatial accuracy enhances the feeling of depth and dimension, making the listening experience more engaging.

Somehow, the IEM manages to create this expansive soundstage without losing any of the intimacy and detail in the music; it's pretty impressive and a joy to listen to.

CABLE & TIP ROLLING:​

The stock cable on the Q1 Pro is pretty solid, but if you change it to an aftermarket one, you can really boost the sound quality. I tried quite a few, like the NiceHCK Stardream, MixPP, and some custom pure copper cables; I noticed they can slightly tweak the signature sound, giving you more of a personal listening vibe.

You know, tip rolling—trying different ear tips—can really change how your earphones fit, how comfy they are, and how well they block out sound. I have found that using Dunu S&S made the isolation better and the fit snugger, while those TRI Clarion ear tips brought a more natural sound with an enlarged soundstage. The different ear tips and cables let you tweak the IEM for your vibe and make it way more fun and flexible.

Who should get it:​

• Balanced Sound Profile Enthusiasts.
• Genre Versatility
• Clarity Lovers
• Comfort Seekers
• Durability and Build Quality Admirers

Maybe look elsewhere if:

• Bass heads
• Those have bright treble sensitivity

​

CONCLUSION:​

The EPZ Q1 Pro carves a niche in the crowded budget IEM market, offering a sound signature that prioritizes comfort and listenability. While it might not be the ultimate audiophile tool, its strength lies in its ability to deliver a smooth, non-fatiguing listening experience that makes you want to keep your music on repeat. The single dynamic driver approach proves sufficient for portraying a relaxed and warm soundscape, perfect for those who find overly analytical presentations fatiguing.

Sure, the sub-bass extension might not rattle your eardrums, and the soundstage might not be the most expansive. But for the price, the Q1 Pro excels in its core function: making music enjoyable. The well-balanced mids ensure vocals remain clear and engaging, while the smooth treble avoids harshness. The comfortable fit and lightweight design further elevate the listening experience, making it perfect for extended sessions without discomfort.

EPZ isn’t exactly a newcomer in the IEM market, but it has recently gained popularity. EPZ's latest releases have been well-received, with the Q5 being particularly successful. Although I haven’t tried it yet, their 5 Balanced Armature set, the 530, is receiving very positive reviews despite being released two years ago.



The Q1 Pro is EPZ’s latest single dynamic driver IEM, released a couple of months ago and priced around $30. It's garnering a lot of praise from reviewers, and I intend to find out if it's justified.

Disclaimers​

The EPZ Q1 Pro was provided to me by EPZ for free. As always, keep in mind that everyone has biases, so take everything you read with a grain of salt. I aim to be concise and to the point in my reviews, without worrying about word count. If you have any questions, please ask in the comments, and I will do my best to answer them.

Packaging, Build, and Accessories of EPZ Q1 Pro​

EPZ consistently offers one of the best unboxing experiences with each of their IEMs in their respective price ranges and the Q1 Pro is no exception. The box is compact with a magnetic lid. When you open it and remove the protective patterned paper, you are greeted by the earpieces with the cable already attached. One friend mentioned that he appreciates IEMs that are ready to use out of the box, but I don’t mind either way. The blue EPZ-branded ribbon to pull out the protective foam is a nice touch. Below the IEMs, there's a small accessory box containing a carrying pouch, a set of tips, and the usual literature.



The Q1 Pro earpieces are made of resin and feature beautiful blue patterns on the faceplates. The shells are molded to fit regular ear contours, providing good fit security and seal. They could serve well as affordable stage monitors. The cable is a 4-core crystal copper one, according to the information on the box. It has a little memory but feels nice with small metal EPZ-branded hardware. The provided eartips are of decent quality too.

Sound of EPZ Q1 Pro​

Tonality​

The Q1 Pro has a rather neutral tonality with a minimal bass boost. I would describe them as mid-centric, with vocals taking the forefront.

The bass on the Q1 Pro isn’t exaggerated. It has a healthy boost, similar to most recent IEMs, but it doesn’t sound particularly warm or thick. The Q1 Pro has good subbass extension and rumble, which is a highlight of its bass rendition.



The mids are emphasized on the Q1 Pro and are its selling point. If you enjoy upper mids and vocals, the Q1 Pro sounds very fulfilling but can be slightly shouty, especially at higher volumes.

Overall, the Q1 Pro is a bright set but not harsh. The lower treble is pronounced, giving a good presence to guitars and similar instruments. Interestingly, sibilance is not an issue at moderate listening levels. The rest of the treble is pretty even without any real peaks.

Technicalities​

For budget IEMs, it’s important to have realistic expectations. The Q1 Pro isn’t an overachiever, but it is among the good ones in its price range. It has good staging and imaging capability. Timbre is also very good, thanks to its even and balanced tonality with no weird peaks in the treble. While resolution and layering are not the best, they are pretty good for the price.

Comparisons​

EPZ Q1 Pro vs. EPZ Q5​

• Bass: The Q5 has more note weight, bass impact, authority, and subbass rumble.
• Mids: The Q1 Pro has more even mids, with both having forward vocals. However, the Q1 Pro highlights vocals more. The Q5 is slightly shoutier and more V-shaped, making the mids relatively recessed compared to the bass and treble.
• Treble: Neither has immediate harshness or sibilance at moderate listening volumes. The Q1 Pro has more tendency towards sibilance at higher volumes. The Q5 has more upper treble zing, which can be fatiguing, while the Q1 Pro is smoother and more even.
• Technicalities: The Q1 Pro has slightly better timbre. Neither is particularly wide, but the Q1 Pro feels slightly wider and more spacious. The Q5 is more resolving and has more precise imaging and layering capability.

EPZ Q1 Pro vs. Truthear GATe​

• Bass: The GATe is slightly warmer and thicker, with slightly more impactful bass. The Q1 Pro has more subbass extension.
• Mids: The Q1 Pro has more prominent mids and is shoutier than the GATe in the upper mids.
• Treble: The GATe has a more relaxed and slightly blunted treble, while the Q1 Pro sounds livelier without being harsh or sibilant at moderate listening volumes. The GATe can be pushed more without getting harsh.
• Technicalities: The Q1 Pro is more technically capable with better timbre and resolution. It has a slightly wider and deeper headstage, and more precise imaging.

Conclusion​

The Q1 Pro is a well-tuned and well-priced set of IEMs. It’s better than many ultra-budget offerings, but it doesn't make its older siblings like the Q5 redundant. If mids are your priority and you want a clear and crisp presentation with no real caveats, the Q1 Pro is one of the best options available under $50.

𝑬𝑷𝒁 𝑸1 𝑷𝒓𝒐 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: 𝑮𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒆𝒐𝒅𝒆, 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒎 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒂


|| 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 ||

EPZ Audio wasn’t quite such a common name like now even after having quite a number of sets under their belt. Offering a wide range of sets from $18, all the way up to $350 depending on where you get yours.



We are featuring the Q1 Pro for this review, which is priced more on the budget end with a price tag of $28. Packed with a single LCP+PU dynamic driver and 2-pin connection, the Q1 Pro is adequately kitted out for the price range.


|| 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 ||

I am in no way, shape, or form affiliated with the brands I review and do not give out preview privileges.
This set is sent in exchange for an honest review. There is no material or financial incentive for me to do this review and I guarantee no exchange has been done by both parties to influence or sway our opinions on this product.

My thoughts and opinions are of my own. My experience will entirely differ from everybody else. The contents of this review should not be considered factual as this hobby heavily leans on subjectivity. YMMV.

I don’t do rankings or tier lists as they can get outdated immediately as a reviewer can change their thoughts of a product to a certain extent. If you do want a recommendation then feel free to reach out so I can help out


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𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮 𝗳𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗵𝗼𝗯𝗯𝘆𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲. 𝗡𝗼 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝘁𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

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| 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗨𝗻𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 |

EPZ packed the Q1 Pro in a simple hard shell cardboard black box with an exploded outline of the IEM drivers along with your bells and whistles information and text. Flipping the magnetic top cover off will showcase the Q1 Pro IEMs encased in foam for shock protection with the stock cable connected on the get go. Underneath that foam is the cardboard box containing the remaining parts of the cable along with a pouch, some eartips, and paperwork.




𝗜𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻:
Paperwork
EPZ Q1 Pro IEMs
4-core bronze single crystal copper cable (3.5mm)(Mic or no mic)
Felt string pouch
3 tips normal bore translucent eartips (S/M/L)




The inclusions are pretty sparse, but for the price range, I couldn’t really complain as the Q1 Pro has all the necessities to start using it. The eartips remind me of the common KB EAR 07 with the look that it has and the cable is more than adequate.


| 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 & 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |

EPZ proudly highlights the amazing resin build of the Q1 Pro, and I agree with that sentiment.
The resin build of the Q1 Pro feels really high quality and nice in the hand. The shell is very smooth with no rough edges as well. The Q1 Pro had no right to be this high quality in its build for the asking price. Other competitors don't quite reach up to this level of build quality.


Design-wise, the Q1 Pro has a nice looking faceplate that seems to be embedded within or underneath the resin build. This makes the faceplate design have depth.
Delving more on the faceplate, it has this blue design that looks like a geode gem with glittering accents that gives the Q1 Pro character and pop. It is not as subdued as other sets but the design doesn’t look tacky when on ear.


Moving to the form, the Q1 Pro has a universal fit with a really small bump akin to a fin to help it sit nice and snug in one’s ear. The nozzle is made out of aluminum with a lip for a secure ear tip placement. It protrudes quite well from the body allowing it to have a nice depth for insertion. Lastly, a small vent with a gold trim is located on the rear of the IEMs.


| 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |

Isolation on the Q1 Pro performs adequately well for passive noise canceling. This can be a nice choice for commuters looking to block unwanted sound from the outside world.


| 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 |

Comfort is subjective, but the Q1 Pro can provide comfort to almost everyone with its universal fitment. During my use case, the Q1 Pro fits nice and snug in my ear, staying in place even with the most drastic head movement. The Occlusion effect is a bit less noticeable here on the Q1 Pro probably due to the rear vent.


**𝗞𝗶𝘄𝗶𝗘𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗼 (𝗦𝗘) | 𝗦𝗼𝗳𝘁𝗘𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗨𝗖 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀 (𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹) | 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 (𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴)**


| 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 |

This can be easily run even with a meager Apple Dongle. I did not find any sound profile difference aside from the volume when giving it more power.


|| 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 ||

Summarizing the overall sound profile of the Q1 Pro by EPZ, it seems to me that it is very tamed and relaxed. It doesn’t scream with huge amounts of details but it also does not have bombastic bass.



It is basically a warm neutral sound with non-fatiguing highs.


| 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝘀 |

The EPZ Q1 Pro presents a relaxed bass response. Both midbass and subbass are present but do not dominate the soundstage. The midbass is quick with decent decay, offering a subtle punch without overwhelming the overall sound. The subbass, while present, lacks rumble and texture.

There is a bass tuck, which provides a smoother transition from the bass to the midrange, adding a touch of warmth to the sound signature.


| 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝘀 |

The midrange of the Q1 Pro is warm but lacks detail and extension. Note weight is balanced, providing a nice heft without being overly heavy. Vocals sound warm and balanced, with no particular emphasis on either male or female vocals.

However, the midrange performance is not the standout feature of the Q1 Pro, as it tends to lack the detail and clarity found in higher-end models.


| 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘀 |

The highs are relaxed and non-fatiguing, making for a comfortable listening experience. However, this relaxed nature results in a lack of detail and intricacies in the treble.
While the highs are smooth and pleasant, they do not provide the sparkle and energy that some listeners might prefer.


| 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 |

In terms of technical performance, the EPZ Q1 Pro is quite average. The soundstage is just average, and the layering, imaging, and separation are middling.
This IEM is more suited for immersive entertainment rather than analytical use. It provides a pleasant listening experience but does not excel in precision or detail retrieval.


|| 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 ||

The EPZ Q1 Pro offers a relaxed and warm sound signature with a smooth transition from bass to midrange. While it may not provide the best detail or technical performance, it offers a comfortable and enjoyable listening experience, particularly for those who prefer a non-fatiguing sound.



The Q1 Pro is best suited for immersive entertainment rather than critical listening, making it a solid choice for casual listening sessions.

EPZ Q1 Pro Review: CONSISTENCY IS KING!​

WATCH REVIEW HERE:​

PROS:​

• Beautiful faceplate
• One of the most comfortable IEMs under $100
• Very clean Harman-tuned sound
• Clean, tight but deep-reaching bass
• Clean and open vocals
• Very energetic and nuanced vocals
• Well-extended and detailed treble
• Clean instrument separation

CONS:​

• Shout tendencies
• Thin lower mids
• Not the most technical sounding set
• Lacking bass tactility and impact

WHO THIS SET IS FOR​

• Harman lovers
• People who want a clean and open sounding set
• People who want a upper midrange vocal centric set
• People who want a very comfortable and stable fit

WHO THIS SET ISN’T FOR​

• Shout sensitive people
• People who want a thicker and richer sound
• People who a more engaging sound
• People who want the most technical sounding set

RECOMMENDED GENRES​

• Vocal Pop
• Instrumentals
• Warm funk

SHORT REVIEW:​

The Q1 Pro is a very consistent IEM from EPZ repertoire with a familiar Harman tone that sounds clean and energetic. Harman lovers will adore this style of IEM, but those who complain about the Harmanification of IEMs today will find this IEM rather unoriginal. The fit and aesthetics arguably save the Q1 Pro and make it a rather comfy recommendations under $50. RECOMMENDED WITH CAVEATS!

FULL REVIEW:​

Consistency is one of the most important things for any kind of company to achieve. This means that their audience would feel confident that whatever product they release, they’ll follow a standard that they can trust. But is consistency always a good thing? Can a product that follows the general guideline that the company has set work against the way the company is perceived?

This is a very common occurrence in audio. The infamous “house sound” is something that many attribute to certain brands. Whether that’d be Moondrop’s VSDF or Simgot’s Classic Target, there are those that critique brands for following a target for most of their sets and sounding “samey”. EPZ has recently been criticized for the same thing, but is it really a bad thing? Let’s find out in today’s review of the EPZ Q1 Pro!

DISCLAIMER:
The Q1 Pro was sent over by EPZ in exchange for my honest thoughts. Rest assured all my thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not compensated or paid to say anything about the product.

THE Q FACTOR!​

EPZ is well known for their solid value IEMs with rather beautiful looking shells. Their Q series is one of their most well-received product line-up with the Q5 leading the charge. The Q1 Pro is an update to the Q1 and shifts the tonality completely from its predecessor. And for $40, these keep the status quo of good value and good sound. Or does it? Let’s start with the unboxing!

UNBOXING​

The unboxing of the Q1 Pro is pretty basic overall. It comes in a very boxy black box that is easy to open and discover all the treasures deep within.

Here is the full list of accessories:

• EPZ Q1 Pro
• 3.5mm 2-pin cable
• 3 pairs of eartips
• Paperwork

The accessory list reminds me of the EW200 a LOT. Basic cloth pouch and some decent tips on top of the IEMs and cable. Not a lot to talk about since the cloth pouch provides very basic protection and the tips are 07 style ear tips.

BUILD & FIT​

The Q1 Pro, hands down, is one of the best fitting IEMs I’ve ever worn. No, not under $50, not under $100. Ever. The fit is GENUINELY so perfect in my ear even with the stock tips and gets even better when using better eartips. Stability is virtually perfect, seal is fantastic and the size is just right to give it a snug but fatigue free fit.



This is aesthetically one of the better looking IEMs in this price. It doesn’t really try to do anything new or weird but it achieves such a simple design with finesse and beauty. The shade of blue genuinely looks like the sky on a good day and it just feels so refreshing to look at. Of course, you wouldn’t expect this to be the most premium feeling set in the world. But as a reason build, it is well-built.



Internally, it doesn’t complicate things either. Using a single LCP+PU 10mm Dynamic Driver, it stays true to the tried and tested configuration that many have used before.



The cable is also very impressive for the price, but not a cable I’d personally use on a daily. It’s braided nicely and looks very pretty, but it’s quite stiff and very tangle prone. The cable is also not behave which makes these an absolute pain in the butt to take photos of. Despite looking more premium, I’d honestly take the Q5 cable over this.

SOUND​

Sound Signature​

The Q1 Pro features a bright U-shaped sound signature with extra upper midrange energy. This is basically the bog standard Harman sound, all the way to the upper treble rolling off in a smooth way.

Source Pairing​

The Q1 Pro is a relatively easy-to-drive IEM that sounds good even through cheaper sources. It gets marginally better with better sources, but it’s perfectly enjoyable on my Huawei Nova 7 SE. The Q1 Pro favors warmer sources over neutral or brighter sources.

Bass:​

Probably the most unremarkable part of the Q1 Pro, the bass is lean, and clean and extends well but lacks impact and life in most tracks. It does provide a sufficient amount of rumble and low end when the tracks call for it, but it sounds tame and light by default. This has the benefit of the bass sounding very tight and does not color the midrange at all.

Listening to tracks with heavier midbass by default like Hey Barbara by IV of Spades sounds very clean on the Q1 Pro at provides a better balance in the overall mix. Each note is cleaner and better defined with the Q1 Pro.

Mids​

As you might expect from a Harman mids, the lower mids are basically pushed back to the point of sounding a little thin and distant. Thankfully, the treble complements the mids to not sound too thin or distant and somehow keeps the midrange sounding well defined, albeit lacking body. It’s an odd mix of thin yet nuanced that most sets are not able to do. This does however make the lower mids unengaging and occasionally lifeless. The upper mids on the other hand bear the mark of the Harman by being forward, engaging and very nuanced. Vocals sound very well defined with superb crispiness and clarity without sounding overly skewed to the upper mids and sounding unnatural. Shout sensitives beware as this definitely has the tendency to be a tad bit too forward in some tracks, especially poorly mixed ones.

This sounds perfect on Laufey. One of the best sets under $50 to do so as it keeps the lowest of lows present but cleans up the mids to make Laufey’s vocals sound a little cleaner and more nuanced. Listening to a track like Dreamer on the Q1 Pro feels like a dream with how clean and dreamy Laufey’s vocals sounded.

Treble​

The Q1 Pro’s treble is surprisingly tame despite what its overall sound signature may show it to be. The energy in the upper midrange tones down when it reaches the lower treble and keeps it consistent. There is a very distinct sparkle that provides a lot of energy in the upper frequencies that make cymbals, air instruments, and sopranos sound very energetic and lively. It does occasionally sound a little grainy and edgy at times, but I never found it to sound sibilant or stabbing in my ears. The air, while not the most extended, perfectly tops of the treble with a natural sense of extension that doesn’t sound overly airy or choked.

Listening to tracks from An Evening with Silk Sonic with the rather soft attack on the percussive and air instruments, the Q1 Pro can give extra life in the top end without pushing back the rest of the mix. I found the warmer mix of the album to sound perfect with the tuning of the Q1 Pro, similar to how I felt when listening to Laufey and Samara Joy’s tracks with their warmer tone giving their vocals much-needed airiness.

Technicalities​

Technically speaking, the Q1 Pro is average overall. Nothing stands out besides a decently clean separation. Imaging, headstage, dynamics and resolving ability were all average, especially for the price. It doesn’t stand out like the Q5 which is $10 more or the EW200 which is the same price. But for what it does well, it does quite well. Separation of instruments sound very clean with very little to muddy the overall mix.

REAL WORLD USAGE​

Casual Use​

The Q1 Pro tells two stories when it comes to real world usage. It’s perfect in some ways but undesirable in others. Starting with the fit, this has got to be one of the most comfortable IEMs to wear on long listening periods and when going out for walks. The fit is both comfy and stable and it ticks everything I want in an IEM when it comes to comfort. However, I’m not a big fan of its sound when consuming media. It’s a little too thin on most content and the midrange can get quite shouty when there are a lot of midrange presence. This is its Achilles’ Heel as it’s a wonderfully fitting and comfortable set barred by a rather thin tuning

Gaming Use​

The same can be said for gaming. It’s very comfortable for long gaming sessions but the tuning might fatigue you over time, especially when there are a lot of things happening in the upper mids section like in action games. Valorant is the exception to this rule as you bring out a lot of the minute details quite well due to the shout, but the lack of midbass makes it quite hard to hear the footsteps and the like.

COMPARISONS​

vs Simgot EW200​

Both sets follow the Harman target quite faithfully, but the EW200 does it just a little bit better in everything. The bass is more tactile, engaging and impactful, the mids doesn’t sound as thin, the treble has cleaner details and better extension and the EW200 is the more technical set overall. The only reason I’d pick the Q1 Pro is if I’m specifically listening to Laufey or Samara Joy and I want a VERY well fitting IEM. Otherwise, I’d take the EW200

vs EPZ Q5​

The older and more expensive brother still remains as the better set between the two for the main reason that the Q5 has a cleaner yet more technical sound that has more bass to make the overall sound more engaging. The Q1 Pro, however, has better and more secure fitting with an objectively better cable than the Q5.

vs Zhulinniao Qingluan Z4​

Two sets that have a similar, vocal sound signature and technical ability, the Q1 Pro is the more fun and engaging set overall but also has a thinner sounding midrange compared to the Z4. The Z4 is considerably more bass shy and lacks the low end engagement than the Q1 Pro has just a little bit more of to make it a better all-rounder set. However, the Z4 features the better overall value due to the build being metal and features interchangable nozzles, a better case and better tips

vs Simgot EW100P​

An odd comparison considering the EW100P being half the price, but a valid one because I think the EW100P is 95% of what the Q1 Pro is. That 5% is the very slight improvement in the overall refinement of sound that the Q1 Pro has that the EW100P doesn’t, but everything else is basically the same.

CONCLUSION​

The Q1 Pro is a very consistent IEM in EPZ’s lineup of Harman-based releases which can be seen both in a good and bad way. Consistency is great when you can maintain a level of quality in your releases that allows your buyers to know that their next purchase from your brand will be as good as they expect it to be. The Q1 Pro achieves that expectation, no problem.

However, it’s also consistency where a brand starts to stagnate and forces them to try something different or die off. I don’t doubt that EPZ is unaware of this issue as I know they’ve been releasing sets that vary in turning. However, the Q1 Pro is positioned at a very unfortunate positioning of being $10 cheaper than a set that can compete with sub $100 sets but itself compete at its own price. That guarantees this won’t be a bad set to get, especially if you care about fit and comfort like I do, but if you wanted something that performs like the most expensive Q5, this set is not for you.

The Q1 Pro is a Harman-based set with bass that hits when needed to but remains tame to keep the rest of the soundscape clean and snappy without overblowing the treble at the cost of being a little thin and shouty on some tracks. It’s a very comfortable set that many would absolutely adore, but a set that specifically looks for those who puts the Harman sound to heart and want something safe to get in that regard.

Thank you for reading my review on the EPZ Q1 Pro. If you would like to order one, consider using the non-affiliated link below:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256806280784069.html?gatewayAdapt=glo2usa4itemAdapt

EPZ Q1 PRO



MANDATORY INTRODUCTION

Dear reader, please keep in mind that whenever there is an opinion in a review, it is my opinion, which may differ significantly from yours. We are all different from each other and have different tastes, and something that does not give me an accelerated heartbeat, you can have great fun, so I always recommend listening before buying if there is such an opportunity. I would also like to point out that in the evaluation of individual parameters, as well as the entire set, I try to relate to the price level that has been set for them, which simply means that any opinion I give should be followed by the thought “.... for its price”. I believe this is the only fair form of evaluation and best represents the value of the reviewed item.

PROPER INTRODUCTION

The Q1 Pro is the latest budget product from EPZ. Courtesy of EPZ, I have the opportunity to try this product in person and write this review, for which I am very grateful.



... has recently made quite a stir in the world of budget chi-fi headphones, with the Q5 and just the Q1 Pro. The moment I'm writing this review is a while after the Q1 pro made headlines in the budget Chi-Fi world, but that doesn't change the fact that it's currently still the top recommended model in the price range of around $50.

PRESENTATION



We receive the headphones in a pretty nice black package, bearing lettering in a reflective blue color, which in my opinion may not be the best choice and sometimes makes it difficult to read, but without too much exaggeration, it's fine and the packaging looks quite stylish. Inside, right under cover of a paper sheet bearing patterns and the manufacturer's logo, we find, of course, the headphones themselves already connected with the included 2pin cable and embedded in a foam "bed". The cable is a 4-core single crystal Cooper SPC, 1.2 meters long, terminated with a 3.5mm mini-jack port. The cable is quite thin, covered with something resembling plastic rubber, and rather does not give the impression of high quality, nevertheless, it allows quite comfortable use of the headphones, so I don’t want to nitpick (Blon Bl-03 is still the king of the most tangling cable ever). In the package, you'll find a few more tips, some paperwork, and a fabric pouch for storing the headphones, probably made of suede, confusingly resembling the pouch you get with, for example, the Tanchjim Zero.



LISTENING IMPRESSIONS



I have not yet had such a situation where I had so much trouble determining whether the sound was warm or bright. As it turned out over time, this was influenced by the pairing with the source, because the EPZ Q1 Pro when paired with, for example, the Moondro Dawn Pro ( 2xCS43131), or the MuseHiFi M1 and the ddHiFi TC35C (ALC5686) plays a little brighter than, for example, the KiwiEars Allegro (ES9028Q2M), or the Fiio e07k (WOLFSON WM8740 chip). This would explain why you will find on the Internet that the Q1 Pro is a "neutral warm" sound, or "neutral bright". Well, and this common feature is acutely true, the sound is "neutral", whereby, after checking on all the sources I had at my disposal, I mostly got the impression that this neutral leans towards brightness. It is worth mentioning here that the changes are rather negligible but audible. At this point, it's worth noting that by using the right tips, you can also amplify or e star attenuate certain frequencies a bit to more closely match your preferences (I refer you to: https://www.audioreviews.org/guide-to-iem-silicone-eartips/ , where you will find a huge database of tips, along with information on how they will affect the sound - highly recommended).

Coming back to the sound, overall I think it's a balanced sound, with a little more energy in the upper-mid area than mid-bass, but these are not very significant deviations from what I consider balance.

Well, something that makes itself known from the first notes is the very interesting holography and clarity of sounds - I will write a little more about this in the section with examples.

Let's move on to the individual registers:

BASS

Evidently, you can hear an increased emphasis on sub-bass than on mid-bass, making the bass impact more deep rather than punchy. Mid-bass overall is ok, soft, and pleasant, but it is the sub-bass that is partly responsible for the sense of space (holography) and in my opinion, performs better. The bass texture is there, but it’s not the star of the show. In tracks with a prominent bass guitar, one can hear that the author of the sound is an instrument equipped with strings, subjected to the laws of physics - it performed especially well in tracks tuned on "dropped-D", so typical of rock, grunge, or hard rock. The bass does not sound like a sub-woofer, which is good IMHO, but I must also add that in terms of its quantity, it is possible to feel a certain deficiency - at least I had.

MIDS

The midrange is very pleasant. The saxophone impresses with its mellowness for this price ceiling. Vocals are very pleasant, very natural, but rather those in the lower registers (male), because the female vocals, while continuing to sound quite natural, have too much energy in them, which sometimes made them a bit too shouty, which bothered me a bit. Personally, I would like a little more warmth in the sound and less energy in the upper-midrange.

Occasionally, but really rarely, I encountered a sound from the upper-midrange, like a splash or similar, which sounded like it was a bit distorted. Examples of this can be heard in the sound of the hi-hat in the song “Her Favourite Song” by Mayer Howthorne, or the sound of the snare and hi-hat in the song “Taste of You” by Allen Stone and Jamie Lidell. I don't know what is the reason for this. Maybe the driver is handling these registers great.

TREBLE

Quite an impressive treble sound for a 1DD at this price. Honestly, I sometimes found the clarity and brilliance of the treble lacking - it's either slightly withdrawn or just covered up by slightly boosted high-mid registers. Nevertheless, they do make their presence known at times, and in some tracks, the gentle hiss of drumsticks against cymbals draws attention to itself, with the ability to distinguish the different sources of these sounds, which is impressive.

TECHNICALITIES

Stage - it can be deep at times, but it is the width that is more impressive here, and in my opinion exceeds expectations for headphones in this price range.
Instrument separation: You can hear that the instruments are separated, but at the same time they are not located very far apart from each other.
Layering rather average: instruments and added tracks do not lay at different depths to the listener, but rather at similar distance
Detail catching is rather average - sometimes I was surprised that the Q1 caught some sounds that I had not heard before, but I can't say that this is a characteristic of this set

PAIRING

As I wrote earlier, pairing can affect your experience quite a bit, so it's worth trying it out and finding the variant you like best. My experience is as follows:

MuseHiFi M1 and ddHiFi TC35C (ALC Chip) - holography is nice, but a little too much energy in the upper-mid registers at times caused a sense of garishness that bothered me sometimes.
Moondrop Dawn Pro - good balance at all frequencies. Good pairing
SONY A55 DAP - very good; balance; nothing glaring or disturbing. very good pairing (also in Bluetooth mode)
Kiwi Ears Allegro - good; however, due to the DAC itself, I would not recommend it for music genres characterized by energetic sound, such as metal, as it can sometimes sound muddled and flat.
VE ODO - this small and quite inexpensive dongle pairs quite nicely with the Q1 pro, providing a fairly clean and quite balanced sound, with a slightly warm characteristic. As for the volume, 50% completely satisfied my requirements. I think a little more holography in the sound than with the Moondrop Dawn pro

EXAMPLES OF TRACKS

Whenever I listen to a set, I always look for tracks where something worked for me i.e. tracks where I paid attention to some elements, some sound that I could attribute to the set I am listening to, so below you can find some examples:

Mayer Hawthorne - Her Favourite song

- at the very beginning, you may be pleasantly surprised by voices spreading somewhere in the headspace, and then choruses whistling in the chorus - nice holography
- the hi-hat unfortunately can be a bit annoying with its juiciness, dangerously approaching sibilants (okay, annoying even), especially when the additional vocals appear around 2:33
- the presentation is more on the bright side, due to the greater exposure of the high midrange

Mighty Mo Rodgers - The Boy who stole the blues

- well, and here's an example of a track where the amount of energy in the high registers bothered me personally too much - that snare sound along with the hi-hat, hitting somewhere around 6kHz, is just too loud for me
- As for the vocal presentation, there is quite a lot of it around the upper-midrange, which also has a significant amount of energy in it and is a bit too bright for me, but is nevertheless clear and quite natural

Massive Attack - Five man army

- great sounding male vocals
- background rich in backing vocals (clearly deeper on stage than the main vocals)
- nice rich sounding sounds of mouth

Chris Isaak - Baby did a bad bad thing (remastered)

- great holography
- guitar sound nicely
- drums average i.e. cymbals a bit unnatural sounding and at times irritating
- you can hear the space in the sounds
- background details nicely enrich the experience (percussion hits, whistling, clicks). not bad for catching something at this price

… and now, something completely different

Mudvayne - Everything and nothing

- sound full of energy
- During the intro: the bass guitar is clear and distinct; you can hear that it's a real instrument, while deeper in the song, when the other instruments appear, the bass guitar gets a little lost at times, while the kick drum remains clear all the time.
- Vocals good: clear, natural, clear
- quite audible additional vocal tracks (voices), even when they are played simultaneously (from 1:56), you can hear how they are separated from each other

COMPARISON

In its price range, the EPZ Q1 Pro competes with models such as the Simgot Ew200, Epz Q5, 7kz Sonus (on sale) and Ziigaat Nuo, for example. As it happens, unfortunately, I only have the Ziigaat Nuo in my collection, but as I like it a lot I'm happy to do a little comparison, so…:

… vs Ziigaat Nuo



- Nuo has less emphasis on the high midrange, for that the trebles sparkle a bit more
- Q1pro exposes more, for example, the sound of guitars in the upper-middle range
- Nuo has more note weight, the sound is fuller, with a more lush midrange,
- in Nuo more db in the mid-bass area gives more dynamics to the songs
- female vocals in the Q1 Pro are dangerously close to sibilants, with Nuo it is safer and more natural
- male vocals in both sets are very cool and natural, although a little different: in Nuo more intimate, and forward in relation to the guitars, while with Q1 it’s the other way around
- guitars more pronounced in Q1 Pro, they dominate the tracks
- Nuo has better layering, as sounds not only appear around the head but also at different depths
- The bass in Nuo is like a tank that drives the track and gives it dynamics, in Q1 pro it sounds a bit like an add-on to the music
- the sounds of percussion instruments like bongos are more natural and engaging in Nuo
- the voices of the choristers and the added vocal tracks are more separate from the main line in Nuo

Both sets provide an enjoyable holographic listening experience, but I personally lean toward the NUO, mainly because of my own preference, but also because of its more natural sound and calmer upper-midrange



SUMMARY

For its price, I consider the EPZ Q1 pro to be a very good iem that offers what any good headphone should: good tuning, with a pretty holographic sound. At a price of about $40, they exceeded my expectations and I think they can compete worthily in the market with sets from a similar price range. My biggest problem I've had with them is that while they do most things correctly, they don't do anything great, and thus have unfortunately failed to impress me with anything special. Of course, the reason for this could be my preference, so please: don't cross them out because of me, but test them for yourself, because at this price, they are definitely WORTH it.

PS. Some more photos of EPZ Q1 Pro

I am an audiophile from sunny South Africa

These in ear monitors was send to me by EPZ as part of the Audio Geek Reviews South African tour. This review is totally my own opinion and I receive no compensation in any way from the company as my integrity and name are much more important than any financial gain. Dealing with the company was such a pleasure as they were kind enough to send two pairs of ear tips extra for each reviewer in the tour. If their aftersales service is as good as the service, they gave me then I can really rate them highly as a company not just for their products because service is just as important. The packaged took about two weeks to reach me and was delivered by courier to my door.



Unboxing

These IEM sell for R640 in my country and I have to say the packaging is a step up from the ultra-budget offerings with very small boxes. The Q1 Pro comes in a big thick black cardboard box and the lid is magnetic and flips over. You are then greeted by a beautiful piece of paper which covers the sponge containing the two IEM’S and reminds me of some very expensive Turkish delight sweets I use to buy for my mother on mother’s day. So I think that paper is a nice touch as it brought back fond memories. Once you remove the sponge containing the IEM’s and cable there is another little black box containing a velvet carrying pouch, one pair of ear tips in three sizes and your instructions off course. I am really happy about the packaging you get for the price and I really can not think of anything more they could have added for the price.



Specs

MODEL: EPZ Q1 PRO

IMPEDANCE: 32Ω

SENSITIVITY: 100dB

FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz - 20KHz

CABLE LENGTH: 1.2M

PIN TYPE: 0.78mm 2-PIN CONNECTOR

PLUG TYPE: 3.5mm, TYPE-C

DRIVER UNIT(S): 1 DYNAMIC DRIVER



Connectivity

When buying these, EPZ gives you the option of a normal 3.5mm cable or you can choose one ending in a USB-C termination with its own little Dac section. The unit I got featured a 3.5mm connection and it gave me many sources I could plug it into. I narrowed my sources down to My Astell & Kern AK70 MKii and like always one of The LG V series phones I own and for this EPZ I chose the V40 as the tuning by Meridian on that phone to me is awesome. I also connected it to my Oppo A78 to watch some Tik-Tok and YouTube videos on and to my PC for some gaming.



Look & Build

In the looks and build department I have to commend EPZ because not just is this a beautiful IEM and I have to confess aesthetics plays a very important part in my decision making when I look for an IEM. The faceplate has this blue marble look and the one IEM has this purple part in it which no matter how I tried to capture it with various phones I just could not do it justice. These things look way cooler in reality. The bottom part housing the drivers looks black but when you hold it up to the light it looks like red wine. The other awesome part is because EPC resin prints their own IEM’S they have the option of giving you a custom faceplate. How awesome is that to send them a cool design and they make these to your spec. Not a lot of companies offer this. This opens up another use for the Q1 Pro as a personalized gift. The cable is very soft and the only thing I can fault is that irritating cable organizer that gets stuck to everything that has fabric. Your pants, shirts anything fabric that thing gets stuck on. Luckily you can remove it. The ear tips provided are very decent. Also the ear hooks that hook at the back of your ears are not that stiff so don’t go to the gym with these.

Sound

The Q1 Pro is offered as a Harman target tuned set. I can describe the sound as a very safe tuning. I hooked these up to the LG V40 and went to my favorites Tidal folder. I always use that playlist as a reference because its songs from all genres I know very well and how they must sound. Male voices did not come through very strongly. I can use Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris - Real Live Road running, the track was Romeo & Juliet and what struck me was that Mark’s voice was a little bit in the back and the guitar was more prominent but not in a bad way. It was as if the guitar was isolated so that you could hear it more. Either I was to focused on the beautiful sound of the guitar to not note the vocals but I really think these have very good instrument separation. I could pick up no sibilance on anything I listened to and that is a huge plus for me. The bass to me was very midbass focused and I wondered if sub bass was even there until I watched some Tik-Tok videos and the sub bass revealed itself. I also think because I did not give the unit a lot of burn in the driver needed some playtime to get a bit loose and preform some sub bass. The midbass is very dynamic and punchy but not boomy at all. It is very well controlled. Have you ever listened to a pair of Monk Plus earbuds? These sound like Monks with a bit more bass to me. Very non fatiguing sound. I spend a lot of hours in a week listening to these and never once did I feel the need to take them off. What got me with these was when I fed them some 16 bit .WAV files from old cd’s I ribbed onto my pc through my M-Audio audio interface and man that sound was something else. Very neutral with nothing out of place. I tested out most genres and it did not suck with one of them so this is a great all-rounder. The treble to me did not have a lot of sparkle. It is just done well with nothing piercing your ears. I used these for some gaming as well and as a guy playing strategy games these did not work that well for gaming.



Conclusion

If I was stuck on an island with just a solar charger and my phone and memory card with my favorite music and these EPZ Q1 Pro, I would be happy. These have really excellent sound and I can recommend them to anyone who is looking for a nice pair of daily driver IEM’s which you can use for casual listening and all the other musical rituals we audiophiles preform.

TLDL:

if you want relax(non harsh treble ) yet fun (sub bass emphasis) for daily use ,it won't be wrong decision to purchase this IEM .

PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES


IEM : EPZ Q1 Pro (nozzle is relatively on bigger side)
Carrying pouch (Soft)
3 * pairs of silicone ear tips (S, M, L)
4 core Single Crystal Copper Wire (3.5mm)






Sound Impression :

source: Dongle: Fosi audio DS2
desktop: Questyle CMA fifteen




Cable & eartips rolling :


For cable i used 4.4mm copper balance cable .
using spinfit w1 , ZEOS Render Memory Foam Eartips , Final e seris silicone eartips , Divinus velvet .
I got the best result with spinfit w1 Eartips cause it elevated bass quality with little smoothing on female vocal .





[BASS]

The sub-bass is very dynamic with low end punch retrieving details but bass texture was not on the level of that it will vibrate your skull.
The decay and attack are both on slow side with warm thicker tonality.
EDM tracks will benefit from the little sub-bass rumbling.
But mid bass isn't that satisfactory it lacks a bit on mid bass punch maybe for tuning reason to give space for mid to be expressive .



[MIDS]

keep it mind it is sub bass emphasis wanna be clean mid section iem .
lower mid is slightly dented this effects on male vocal making it non shouty , upper mids is boosted to have energy on treble making female vocal on thinner side .
But thinner female vocal isn't that much thin to be on shouty region that is a big plus point on this budget iem .




[TREBLE]

Treble is not that much shouty so pure treble energy seeker might look into somewhere else .
Treble isn't that much refined it lacks micro detail and macro details .
Treble extension is poor .


Technicalities:

It is very good for the asking price cause on this budget bracket iems have artifical boosted treble making it v shape for pushing extra detail .
Imaging and stage is on relatively good . playing games with this iem i can hear good footsteps on competetive fps games .
The note sharpness isn't that much refined as the tuning itself is on softer side .
Separation was not very good cause it is sub bass centric iem so very slight boominess of bass is present on mids and they try to mitigate it with dipped lower mid .


Rating:

Bass: 3.7/5
Mids: 3.5/5
Treble: 3/5
Imaging: 3.5/5
Staging: 3/5
Resolution:3/5

Conclusion :

If you want a relative relax and long listening iem withing 37$ with good cable & resin light shell then it is on safer side for recommendation .
Feed it with amplification by any good budget balance port dongle it will show you more wow factor as it is a dynamic driver .
It will give you a good impression relative to other chifi iem those are artifical on tuning(especially on treble region) making them a honky set .

Disclaimer: I received the EPZ Q1 Pro as a loaner unit for review purpose from a friend, and this is not a review unit. I did not receive any discounts for writing this review. If you decide to buy this IEM based on my review and find that you disagree with the sound or assessment, that responsibility lies with you. I strongly discourage relying solely on a single review for purchasing decisions in the realm of audio quality, as preferences vary. You should conduct thorough research by exploring platforms such as YouTube, head-fi forums, and various Facebook audiophile groups before making a purchase decision.

Gears Used: I have used Cayin RU7 & Hiby R6 Gen III DAP as my sources for this review. And I have used a 3rd party cable, Moondrop LINE T 6N Single Crystal Copper cable and DIVINUS Velvet Silicone Eartips. I must emphasize that my choice of accessories and source might lead to a different sound experience than with stock accessories. As the copper cable relaxes the treble and extends the lower end. Cayin RU7 on Upscale to DSD 64 mode brings a good amount of warmth to the mix, while adding note weight and making the vocals thicker and forward. It also adds more mid-bass extension/punch which in general is missing from the Q1 Pro.



Accessories:

EPZ Q1 Pro

Soft carrying pouch

Standard selection of ear tip, 3 pairs of generic silicone ear tips (S, M, L)

3 pairs of generic silicone ear tips (S, M, L)

4-core Single Crystal Copper Wire

I found the accessories included in the box are somewhat generic and sub-par. I would have preferred an option to choose between 4.4/2.5/3.5 mm termination cable even if including a modular cable in the box was not possible. The included ear tips & pouch feels very cheap, sems like they provided these just for the sake of it, no effort to include better quality accessories was made from EPZ side, even the overall packaging quality felt cheap as well.



Sound Evaluation

Tuning: The EPZ Q1 Pro has a Harman inspired tunning and sounds neutral-bright overall. It’s a mid-centric sound profile but not sounding too thin or dry but rather more musical. As typical of the Harman tuning there is more of an emphasis on sub-bass and upper-treble.

Highs (3.5/5): The lower treble is well extended with the Q1 Pro while the brilliance part of the upper treble is somewhat lacking. Don’t expect too much air or sparkle in the brilliance region but overall treble is energetic and this is not a laid-back set. The treble is non-fatiguing and retains a smooth characteristic, this set is a safe choice for the treble sensitive folk.

Mids (4.0/5): The mids are definitely the high-light of the show, it has a clean presentation and maintains good resolution. The upper-mids takes precedence over the lower-mids. This is a very vocal forward set, but doesn’t get sibilant or shouty at any point. Paired with my Hiby R6 Gen III DAP, which is a neutral-bright source the Q1 Po did lack note weight and vocals sounded slightly thinner & harsher. But pairing the Q1 Pro with my Cayin RU7 using DSD 64 up-sampling mode, the note weight sounded denser, mids sounded thick and lush. Like most Harman tuned sets the Q1 Pro does female vocals masterfully while male vocals do lack body. Overall, a very enjoyable presentation while maintaining a natural timbre for instruments.

Bass (3.5/5): The EPZ Q1 Pro definitely isn’t a bass shy set but it neither is for bass-heads. Sub-bass has good extension and you can feel the rumble when it’s called for in the more bass heavy tracks. Mid-bass rolls off early and definitely lacks punch, but this again can be mitigated using a source like Cayin RU7 which adds to the mid-bass extension making it more pronounced in the mix. Overall, the bass has good texture and its speedy so bass quality is satisfactory for the asking price.

Technicalities (3/5): The Q1 Pro isn’t a very resolving set or it isn’t a master of detail retrieval but the good news is that EPZ hasn’t artificially boosted the treble to create an illusion of more resolution when really it isn’t there. Layering and imaging is just about average, soundstage gives more of an in your head impression rather than a wide holographic feeling. But using RU7 does boots the width of the soundstage compared to other sources. There aren’t a lot of micro-details or nuances being highlighted by the Q1 Pro, the tuning clearly leaning to a more musical aspect rather than the technical one.


Comparisons:

Moondrop Kato: I have tested this set in the past quite extensively so this comparison is solely based off of memory as I do not own the Kato right now. Given my personal preference I definitely prefer the Q1 Pro over the tuning of the Moondrop Kato, the Kato sounded more artificially boosted in the upper-treble, vocals sounding more shouty. Bass on the Kato is more rolled off, it felt the mids were overshadowing the bass and the treble. Note weight sounded thinner and dryer on the Kato and the overall tuning was noticeably brighter compared to the Q1 Pro. The saving grace of the Kato is its better upper treble extension with more air and sparkle in the brilliance region without sounding too harsh or fatiguing, also offering much better resolving capability and picking up more micro details compared to the Q1 Pro. Imaging and layering is also superior on the Kato. Given their price difference its no surprise that Moondrop Kato is pulling ahead in some aspects but overall, I prefer the fun and more musical sound of the Q1 Pro rather than the more analytical nature of the Kato.

Simgot EA1000: This again is not a fair comparison given the price difference, but as both are Harman tuned/inspired I wanted to a short comparison between these two sets. The EA1000 is significantly brighter and boosted in the upper-mids region, leading to more shouty vocals. Between the 3 sets, EA1000 has the shoutiest vocals which needs to be tamed with a warm source. Just like the Kato, EA1000 sounds more brighter, analytical and has a thinner note weight compared to the Q1 Pro. But the EA1000 absolutely destroys the Q1 pro when it comes to resolution, micro-detailing imaging, layering etc. It’s the technicalities champ although the upper treble region of the EA1000 sounds more artificially boosted to me and instruments do have a more natural timbre on the Q1 Po. Bass on the EA1000 is definitely better compared to the Q1 pro, mid bass has better extension while sub-bass rumble feels a bit rolled off, but the texture, the speed and resolution of the bass is clearly superior.



Conclusion: For $37 the EPZ Q1 Pro is a fun and musical sounding Harman set, which is definitely rare. If paired with the right source it scales quite nicely and if you are willing to invest in a good aftermarket cable & tips this can really bring out the potential of this IEM. However, those looking for a more analytical and more technical listen should look elsewhere. Q1 Pro provides excellent price to performance ratio and I wouldn’t mind recommending this one to the more budget oriented audiophiles.

★ Introduction :-

EPZ is a fairly new Chinese brand that has been widely discussed for manufacturing excellent audio gear in the affordable price category. A few days ago I posted a review of their dongle dac. Today I'm back with a review of their entry level IEM Q1 pro. I bought this IEM from Ali Express just to see if its hype is justified. I will try to highlight all aspects of this IEM in my review. So that it is convenient for you to understand how equitable it is for this price category.

★ Disclaimer :-

I purchased EPZ Q1 Pro IEM from their Ali express store (EPZ). I had no financial agreement with them to promote their product.The entire opinion of this review is completly my personal.


★ Box Content at a Glance :-

The unboxing experience of Q1 pro was similar to the entry level IEM's. All kind of accessories were present out of the box. EPZ has no room to complain in this regard.

1. A pair of Q1 pro IEMs.
2. Three pairs of eartips of different sizes.
3. very simple carrying pouch.
4. Decent 3.5mm copper cable.
5. User manual guide.


★ Specifications :-

~ Driver :- 10MM dual cavity dual magnetic circuit PU+LCP Liquid crystal molecular dome diaphragm.
~ Impedance :- 32Ω@1kHz
~ Sensitivity :- 110db(±1db)@Vrms
~ Distortion ratio :- <0.5%(@1khz,100db)
~ Frequency response :- 20Hz-20Khz
~ Connector :- 2-pin 0.78mm
~ Cable type :- 4-core LEONI single crystal copper cable with 3.5mm gold plated jack.
~ Cable Length :- 1.2m


★ Design, Build & Comfort :-


The Q1 Pro's shell is made entirely of EPZ's customized 3D printed resin. As it is very lightweight and fits very comfortably in the ear. So it will fit pretty well in everyone's ears, The resin build quality can't be called cheap in any way to me, Although fingerprints remain on the glossy shell it is not obvious. Even if it's an entry level IEM, it never looks like that. Starting from its packaging & the accessories that came with it were also worth appreciating.

Stock cable & 3 pairs of different size eartips were also quite good. The quality of the tips is not very premium, but it is quite soft and seems to be quite usable as stock eartips. Anyone can comfortably spend a lot of time on this IEM. It is undoubtedly ideal for traveling or outdoors. I listened to it continuously for about 3 hours and never felt disturb to the sense of ear balance. Among its most positive aspects, its comfort section will be at the forefront.That's why I enjoyed it for long time.

On the other hand the stock 3.5mm 4-core LEONI single crystal copper cable was durable, although it creates a bit microphonics sometimes, but this cable does not hampers sound quality. Due to the occasional twisting habit of this cable, EPZ has added a nice locking strap bracket to prevent it from tangling. The cable quality not the best but as a stock cable there is no chance to room complain.

★ Sound Aspect :-

Q1 pro is basically harman or "V" shape tuned set that is budget friendly. The internal configuration of this set has single dynamic drivers which handle the entire sound frequency. The tuning of this IEM is fun & engaging also tonality was neutral in a word. It is safe to say that I did not get any listening fatigue from its sound. I've used stock eartips as well as aftermarket eartips during the sound testing period and it makes a good difference between fit, comfort, isolation and sound. I used Spinfit Cp145 & Kbear 07 eartips which gave me good experience. However, stock eartips do not give bad performance, so listening can be done with them in the initial condition. Since this is a set of "V" shaped tunings, there is naturally more bass and treble emphasis and the mids are a little behind, There is no exception here.


★ Gears used :-

1. Cayin Ru7 (Se & Bal both)
2. Questyle M15 ( Se & Bal both)
3. Quloos Mc01 (Se & Bal both)
4. Epz Tp50 (Se & Bal both)
5. Fosi Audio Ds2 ~ 2024 (Se & Bal both)

I also tested these by plugging them into the earphone port of my redmi note 12 smartphone.

Epz Q1 pro is a set of 32ohm impedance whose sensitivity level is 110db so no powerful amplification is needed to drive it, but if a good quality dac amp or portable player is used, then it gets scaled up with the source and becomes a bit better sounding.

Now I will discuss the sound in detail, I will start with the Low end of this set, i.e. the bass.....

★ The Bass :-

The Q1 Pro is basically a bit sub bass focused but doesn't get enough rumble. On the other hand, the presence of mid bass was relatively less due to which mid bass punch & texture was not found well. Mid bass character seems to be crippled, at the same time, the delivery of the bass notes can be said to be on the slower side. The lack of bass speed, attack & decay has greatly reduced the enjoyment of the bass section, also the sub bass is slightly disturbing in some tracks. Can be said to have given somewhat disappointing bass performance. Overall, It cannot able to give complete satisfaction to anyone whether they are bass head or non bass head. So the bass performance will be considered as the down side without a doubt.

★ The Mids :-

The appearance of the mid section seems to be quite clean. Upper mids were more forward and even noticed a tendency to become a bit energetic at a times,Female vocals seem more shouty & male vocal somewhat thin . Which is basically more in stock cable but I didn't notice much this problem in upgradable cable. On the other hand, the lower mids were a bit thin which could be considered recessed, I noticed a slight sub bass bleed with the lower mids which aggrieved the quality of midrange tonality. But not too much bother without extreme mids lover, this thinner mids will not cause a big problem and can be enjoyed fairly well.

★ The Treble :-

Treble section was a bit bright but i didn’t get any aggressiveness , can be said that it was fairly smooth. Detail retrieval is also clean, but I found a little sibilance on some tracks. Although the lower treble is fine, but the upper treble does not seem to be extended enough, so the full energy and sparkle of the treble cannot be obtained from here. Hopefully this won't cause too much of problem except for very treble sensitive people.However, if it is used in a warm sounding source, there is no sibilance in the treble, then almost everyone can enjoy its treble.

★ Technicalities :-

The staging & imaging of this IEM was below average as the other competitors in this price category, could not offer anything special in technical aspect. Its sound stage was a little on the intimate side, i mean out of the head type presentation. I found the depth of the stage to be good. At the same time, imaging & stereo separation are fairly good. The placement, positioning and layering of instruments are slightly ahead of the average. The macro & micro details were quite lean which is normal to get from an IEM of this entry budget category, So there is no chance to make a big complaint.


Overall rating out of 5 is what I would give

Bass : 3.8/5
Mids : 4/5
Treble : 3.8/5
Technicalities : 3.5/5
Build & Aesthetics : 4/5


★ Conclusion :-

Various chifi brands are launching their IEMs in the affordable price category which has created a very competitive market. Many people are interested in entry level IEMs who are looking for single dd IEMs for regular usage and think about comfort so that they can be used for a long time, I think Q1 pro will be more suitable. Considering its design, light weight build & overall sound performance, So it is not far behind its competitors. If someone is not very treble sensitive and does not give priority to gaming then I can easily recommend it to them.





I've provided purchase link below for everyone's convenience

1. EPZ official store (Ali express) link isn’t affiliated.

2. EPZ Q1 Pro ( Hifigo ) link isn’t affiliated.