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QoA Adonis New 1DD+2BA
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- celest kinera qoa adonis
Himu
New Head-Fier
Pros: Awesome built quality and very light weight
Warmer, neutral sounding
Fully engaging and immersive musical
Robust and very impactful Bass- Sub bass
Thick clear Midrange
Very good Note weight
Good wide stage and depth
Warmer, neutral sounding
Fully engaging and immersive musical
Robust and very impactful Bass- Sub bass
Thick clear Midrange
Very good Note weight
Good wide stage and depth
Cons: Not absolute technically for analytical purpose.
Bass may feel too-much for some.
Treble synergy lacks in upper treble region.
Bass may feel too-much for some.
Treble synergy lacks in upper treble region.
Specifications:-
Driver – 9.2mm DD + Knowels BA + Custom BA
Impedance – 16 ohms
Sensitivity – 105dB
Frequency – 20Hz to 20KHz
Cable – 5N copper silver, 1.2 mtr, 2pin detachable,
Plug type – 3.5mm & 4.4mm detachable, 4pin
For detail please see – https://www.kineraaudio.com//product//qoa-adonis-new.
First Impression:--
As I took the IEMs out of the box, I was mesmerized by stunning jewel like 2 ear-pieces in my favorite Purple-Pink color. It’s look is very attractive. It’s light weight and fits comfortably in my ears.
In first hearing it feel very musical, engaging and immersive with excellent Bass and Sub Bass. It’s warm- neutral- musical. I found it’s Tuning totally different and unique; which puts it at very different level in ever growing IEMs market.
Build:--
Qoa has put the best efforts to make Adonis New, a stunning looking and very attractive purple-pink colored IEMs using pinecone and resin where each shel has different unique pattern. They have made it very light weight and of moderate size, and ergonomic, enough to fit comfortably to most. It has 9.2 mm titanium film DD, 1 Knowels BA for Mids and 1 Qoa-custom BA for highs to achieve unique tuning.
Cable is 2pin type also pink-blue colored enhancing shell’s beauty and aesthetics; made of 5N, 4 core SPC cable. This has modular detachable 4.4mm & 3.5mm – 4 pin fixing setup of jacks
Sound :--
Adonis-New is warm W-shape sounding with best clarity and good detail and transparency. I may say very good balanced in warmth and brightness. It has neutral tone and timber. It adjust with mostly with source, forgiving faults and better sounding with good, so versatile . The soundstage deep and enough specious in it’s price range.
Bass:-
The Bass is very nicely boosted, dynamic, sounds punchy ,and good textured, and never gets muddy. Sub – bass is fast and rumbles very good with extension. It’s accurate decay best layered delivery and texture is unique. Mid bass is fast , separated with great control , never interfering with Mids and vocals. Overall bass present is very impectfull , if source has it.
Mid :--
The Mids are presented in laid-back, relaxed. It’s smooth and has very good clarity, separation. Mids are not shouty but thick, textured, detailed. And tonality, timber are neutral sounding. Male and female vocals presented very precisely.
Treble :--
Adonis -new has a bit downside in this region, it slightly lacks extension-energy at upper treble frequency. Mostly it’s presentation is agile with good details, good sparkle, good separation in lower and mid treble. Overall treble is quite good rounded, smooth, sometime sparkling with precise instrument placement.
Imaging and stage :--
This has big – rounded stage , wide enough. Most vocals plays inside of Head , in front. And most instruments stays out of Head. It has good instruments separation and good air between them.
Final thoughts:_
This IEM is almost flawless musically, in it’s price range (US $180-). It’s fully engaging and immersive Musicality, along with robust, dynamic and impactful Bass, rumbled sub-bass, very good Mids with clear vocals and pleasant treble; does not disappoint music lovers or audiophile. It’s unique , bold sound quality puts it at different level in the sea of IEMs. It only lacks precise presentation and synergy at Upper Treble Frequencies has force me to cut one star out of Five stars rating of it's performance.
But ultimately Musicality counts, and this IEM absolutely produce different level of Musicality
As beautifully as it’s look. It’s bold and beautiful.
Driver – 9.2mm DD + Knowels BA + Custom BA
Impedance – 16 ohms
Sensitivity – 105dB
Frequency – 20Hz to 20KHz
Cable – 5N copper silver, 1.2 mtr, 2pin detachable,
Plug type – 3.5mm & 4.4mm detachable, 4pin
For detail please see – https://www.kineraaudio.com//product//qoa-adonis-new.
First Impression:--
As I took the IEMs out of the box, I was mesmerized by stunning jewel like 2 ear-pieces in my favorite Purple-Pink color. It’s look is very attractive. It’s light weight and fits comfortably in my ears.
In first hearing it feel very musical, engaging and immersive with excellent Bass and Sub Bass. It’s warm- neutral- musical. I found it’s Tuning totally different and unique; which puts it at very different level in ever growing IEMs market.
Build:--
Qoa has put the best efforts to make Adonis New, a stunning looking and very attractive purple-pink colored IEMs using pinecone and resin where each shel has different unique pattern. They have made it very light weight and of moderate size, and ergonomic, enough to fit comfortably to most. It has 9.2 mm titanium film DD, 1 Knowels BA for Mids and 1 Qoa-custom BA for highs to achieve unique tuning.
Cable is 2pin type also pink-blue colored enhancing shell’s beauty and aesthetics; made of 5N, 4 core SPC cable. This has modular detachable 4.4mm & 3.5mm – 4 pin fixing setup of jacks
Sound :--
Adonis-New is warm W-shape sounding with best clarity and good detail and transparency. I may say very good balanced in warmth and brightness. It has neutral tone and timber. It adjust with mostly with source, forgiving faults and better sounding with good, so versatile . The soundstage deep and enough specious in it’s price range.
Bass:-
The Bass is very nicely boosted, dynamic, sounds punchy ,and good textured, and never gets muddy. Sub – bass is fast and rumbles very good with extension. It’s accurate decay best layered delivery and texture is unique. Mid bass is fast , separated with great control , never interfering with Mids and vocals. Overall bass present is very impectfull , if source has it.
Mid :--
The Mids are presented in laid-back, relaxed. It’s smooth and has very good clarity, separation. Mids are not shouty but thick, textured, detailed. And tonality, timber are neutral sounding. Male and female vocals presented very precisely.
Treble :--
Adonis -new has a bit downside in this region, it slightly lacks extension-energy at upper treble frequency. Mostly it’s presentation is agile with good details, good sparkle, good separation in lower and mid treble. Overall treble is quite good rounded, smooth, sometime sparkling with precise instrument placement.
Imaging and stage :--
This has big – rounded stage , wide enough. Most vocals plays inside of Head , in front. And most instruments stays out of Head. It has good instruments separation and good air between them.
Final thoughts:_
This IEM is almost flawless musically, in it’s price range (US $180-). It’s fully engaging and immersive Musicality, along with robust, dynamic and impactful Bass, rumbled sub-bass, very good Mids with clear vocals and pleasant treble; does not disappoint music lovers or audiophile. It’s unique , bold sound quality puts it at different level in the sea of IEMs. It only lacks precise presentation and synergy at Upper Treble Frequencies has force me to cut one star out of Five stars rating of it's performance.
But ultimately Musicality counts, and this IEM absolutely produce different level of Musicality
As beautifully as it’s look. It’s bold and beautiful.
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H
Himu
In first hearing it feel very musical, engaging and immersive with excellent Bass and Sub Bass. It’s warm- neutral- musical. I found it’s Tuning totally different and unique; which puts it at very different level in ever growing IEMs market.
mars chan
New Head-Fier
Pros: .
Very good looking set; the whole package has excellent design and colors and looks cohesive together.
Excellent quality accessories; I didn't feel the need to change the eartips and the cable; they are perfect for the IEMs.
Excellent sound quality for people who like bassy-sounding IEMs.
The midrange and treble are near neutral in tuning, and are separated from the very boosted bass.
Excellent build and finish
The price-to-sound and material quality ratio is excellent.
Did I say it sounds great?
Very good looking set; the whole package has excellent design and colors and looks cohesive together.
Excellent quality accessories; I didn't feel the need to change the eartips and the cable; they are perfect for the IEMs.
Excellent sound quality for people who like bassy-sounding IEMs.
The midrange and treble are near neutral in tuning, and are separated from the very boosted bass.
Excellent build and finish
The price-to-sound and material quality ratio is excellent.
Did I say it sounds great?
Cons: .
Aside from whether you like the sound I described in this review or not, which depends on your preference, I find nothing to complain about, considering the price.
Aside from whether you like the sound I described in this review or not, which depends on your preference, I find nothing to complain about, considering the price.


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One of the best-looking IEMs with the most complete package set that I have come across; fortunately, the sound matches how good it looks.
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Queen of Audio, or QoA, sent the Adonis New (184 USD) to me for free in exchange for my honest review. You can rest assured that everything I say in this review is based on my own experience. Thank you, Queen of Audio.
.
The packaging is simple, classy, and elegant. The included carrying case is purple and looks beautiful. The cable is modular, so you can change the plug between 3.5mm and 4.4mm; it is purple, and the build quality seems very high; it looks fantastic. The included eartips are also great; you can choose between a set of normal bore eartips and a set of wide bore eartips with a light purple-colored stem. The overall package is very complete; there is no need to change anything; it is perfect for the price. I couldn't ask for more.
.
The IEMs themselves are made of 3D-printed resin with wood inlays; the design is amazing. They are medium in size and weight and fit my ears very well. The eartips seal easily and securely to my ear canals. They are very comfortable to wear for very long listening sessions.
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Power handling, sensitivity, drivability:
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Zero issues here; the Adonis New can take a lot of power and can go very loud without obvious distortion; your ears will be the limiting factor. The sensitivity is average, which is great, as I like my IEMs to have similar loudness when I switch between them. The Adonis New is surprisingly easy to drive; despite the fact that it is a very bassy IEM, it can be driven easily with any dongles that I have, including the small ones.
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Synergy:
.
The Adonis New is not choosy with the source; its final sound can morph according to the sound signature of the source; it is forgiving about the faults of the source; it is very versatile in this area; but of course, the better the source, the better the sound.
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Sound signature:
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It has a warm V-shape, almost U-shape sound signature according to my perception.
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The bass is very boosted yet doesn't sound muddy; it sounds punchy with good texture, which is totally unexpected as the sub-bass is boosted by 15 Db based on the graph that I measured. The midbass is fast and doesn't bleed or interfere with the midrange and vocals; it sounds very separated with great control. The bass always has presence in most songs, adding a very pleasant tension and atmosphere to the musical experience.
.
The midrange is slightly recessed in response; it has a laid-back presentation; the upper midrange has only a moderate pinna gain, making the overall midrange sound a little relaxed and smooth, but with good clarity, separation, and details. It is never shouty. It has an overall clean and musical-sounding midrange.
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The treble is detailed, airy, smooth, musical, and very extended. It has a good blend of crispness and gentleness.
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The overall impression I'm getting from the Adonis New is that it sounds dynamic, bassy, and bold, with a hint of gentleness and refinement in the upper frequencies at the same time.
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Technicalities:
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The soundstage is big, deep, and feels spacious. certainly above average for the price.
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The imaging has good placement, panning, and holography. It may not be as pinpoint or the edges as defined as the best I've heard but has good enough separation between instruments both side to side and front to back, giving the musical experience a good deal of palpability.
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The separation between bass and midrange is very good; I hear no bass bleeding to the midrange, and the vocals and other instruments sound very separated from the thundering bass.
.
The instrument separation is very good; it performs near the level of the best neutrally tuned IEMs I've heard in this regard, which is excellent in my opinion, considering that this can produce high amounts of bass.
.
Compared to Letshuoer Cadenza 4 (249 USD):
.
The Cadenza 4 has similar driver complement with the Adonis New, but their tuning is very different. The Cadenza 4 is neutral and lighter on the bass and has more forward midrange and treble presence, while the Adonis New has a deeper and more full-bodied bass and a slightly darker upper midrange and treble. In terms of technicalities, the Cadenza 4 has a wider soundstage while the Adonis New has a deeper one; both of them have similar soundstage height. In terms of imaging, the Cadenza 4 has a more forward image presentation with more defined edges.
.
Compared to BQEYZ FROST (179 USD):
.
The BQEYZ FROST has near-neutral tuning, but both it and the Adonis New have excellent sound quality. The FROST has near-neutral bass, while the Adonis New is much more boosted in comparison. The FROST has more forward-sounding midrange and treble, while the Adonis New sounds more laid-back in this regard. They are similar in terms of technical performance, only the presentation differs; the Frost has a more forward presentation than the Adonis New. Which one to choose boils down to the preference or mood of the listener; personally, I'd like to keep both in my collection for different purposes.
.
Compared to QoA Mimosa (99 USD):
.
It seems to me that the Adonis New is a more mature version of the Mimosa. The Mimosa has a more V-shaped sound signature compared to the Adonis New. The Adonis New has more perceived sub-bass, while the Mimosa has more mid-bass response. The Mimosa has more recessed midrange. They are about equal in level in treble, but I feel that the Adonis New has a more gentle and seems to have a more refined sounding treble, while the Mimosa has a slightly more energetic treble. The main difference between the two is that the Mimosa has V-shape sound, while the Adonis New has bassier sound with a more neutral midrange and treble.
.
Compared to Juzear Butterfly 61t (200 USD):
.
The 61t is a 1 x DD and 6 x BA hybrid set. The 61t is very neutral, while the Adonis New sounds much more bassier. From lower midrange to upper treble, they sound very similar in tonality, with the 61t sounding slightly smoother at the expense of losing out on dynamics compared to the Adonis New. The 61t has slightly better technicalities but looses out on coherence between its drivers, as I heard the DD on the 61t cannot keep up with its BA driver at high volume with loud bass. Between the two, the 61t wins in smoothness, while the Adonis New wins in deep bass presence and overall dynamics. Both are excellent-sounding, BTW, and I love them both.
.

Pros:
.
Very good looking set; the whole package has excellent design and colors and looks cohesive together.
Excellent quality accessories; I didn't feel the need to change the eartips and the cable; they are perfect for the IEMs.
Excellent sound quality for people who like bassy-sounding IEMs.
The midrange and treble are near neutral in tuning, and are separated from the very boosted bass.
Excellent build and finish
The price-to-sound and material quality ratio is excellent.
Did I say it sounds great?
.
Cons:
.
Aside from whether you like the sound I described in this review or not, which depends on your preference, I find nothing to complain about, considering the price.
.
Conclusion:
.
The QoA Adonis New is a complete package; it has excellent build quality, design, color, accessories, and sound at a very reasonable price. The bass in the Adonis New is bass-head level but has very good texture, detail, and punch, which is not common. The midrange and treble are audiophile-grade in their refinement and musicality and are among the best sounding at its price range. Add to that the gorgeous looks, and it becomes the perfect IEM with bass boost for me at the price, and for that, the QoA Adonis New earns my highest recommendation.
.
Happy listening! Cheers!
.
Kinera
.
Queen Of Audio
.
Non-Affiliated purchase link:
.
https://kineraaudio.com/collections...mm-plug-0-78-2pin-cable-kinera-hifi-headphone
.
.








IndieCritic
New Head-Fier
Pros: Great Bass and Sub Bass
Mids are smooth
Treble sounds sweet
Good detail retrieval
Soundstage is good for the price
Build is superb and very comfortable
Shells looks like purple piece of jewellery
Great unboxing experience
Mids are smooth
Treble sounds sweet
Good detail retrieval
Soundstage is good for the price
Build is superb and very comfortable
Shells looks like purple piece of jewellery
Great unboxing experience
Cons: Not for treble heads, less air in treble and between instruments
Occasional sibilance in vocals but very rare
May sound thin sometimes
Occasional sibilance in vocals but very rare
May sound thin sometimes
Disclaimer- The unit belongs to the brand which is given to me by Audio Geeks India, by the way these guys are just awesome and doing amazing work in our country, the unit was provided to me in return of my honest reviews, in doing so I am not biased towards the brand or the audio fraternity.
About the brand QOA- This brand is a sub brand from Kinera(China) mainly focusing on low cost or say budget Iems but the guys are doing great job and their Iems can go toe to toe with some higher priced Iems..
Technology- Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
Cable length: 1.2 m
Price- 180US Dollars
Unboxing experience- Inside the box you will find the Iems itself, a cute purple coloured carrying case, good collection of ear tips, stock cable which is also purple in colour and is terminated to either 3.5 or 4.4 mm via interchangeable jack,the unboxing experience was generous considering the price.
Build and Fit- Adonis have very beautiful, stunning looking medical grade resin shells which are very comfortable and light weight, they have this wood effect on the face plates which I am not sure that every set will have because obviously they can’t make every set look identical, so there’s possibility of your set looking different from mine,but they look very elegant and cool. Fit on these are just fabulous, they provide good seal and almost blocks all the ambient noise, there are no hard edges so they sit inside ears very comfortably, nozzle length is also comfortable at least for my ears, so all in all pretty solid.
Gear used- Astell and kern Sp3000(dap)
Note- These sound impressions are completely mine, so your and mine hearing abilities may vary because everyone hears different.
Sound Impressions-
Overall sound- I found the sound to be slightly warm but in neutral side with boost in Sub Bass and Mid Bass, it is not a harsh iem but in very rare cases I have seen some harshness in vocals but very rarely.Detail retrieval is pretty good considering the price of the Iems.
Sub Bass- Sub Bass is very good, pretty satisfying but not in bass heads category, Sub Bass is clean without being muddy and doesn’t bleed into Mid bass. Sub Bass is punchy but at the same time it is fast with quick decay and control, in the song “Rasputin from Boney M” Adonis shows great control over Sub Bass and makes the song a delight to listen to.
Mid Bass- Adonis performs equally good here as well, no bleed from Sub Bass and no bleed from Mid Bass towards midrange and the best thing is the flow of music from Sub Bass to Mid Bass to Mids is very smooth as if the music is flowing from one frequency to other without any interference, great work from QoA team.
Midrange- Those dual BA drivers provide pretty accurate midrange that is full of details and clarity, here main focus is on detail retrieval which is on another level seeing the price at which these Iems are offered. Instrument separation is very good, but in some cases I found the vocals to be harsh but only in some recordings, to be frank most of those recordings were old song recordings from 70’s or 80’s. Generally vocals sounded neutrally warm with adequate weight. Tip rolling was very effective with these Iems, Adonis comes with wide bore tips which sounded outstanding out of the box, still I wanted to try something else so I swapped it with narrow bore ear tips from Effect Audio, and oh man I was so wrong, such a big mistake, with narrow bore sound became more intimate by decreasing the soundstage in both width and depth, the Bass became less impactful, treble became recessed as if there was no life in the song, less air between instruments, mids started feeling congusted, therefore stock cable and stock ear tips work great with these Iems.
Treble- Treble extended well at least for me because I am extra sensitive in this department, still there was no harshness. There is definitely less air between instruments but still they sound open and soundstage is pretty decent, A&K Sp 3000 is known for its neutral sound and massive soundstage that can be enjoyed with these Iems to the fullest. There are some harsh notes in Treble but occasionally which can be due to bad recordings, but with decent recordings the harshness just vanishes.
Conclusion- Adonis has been a great companion for me for the last two weeks in which I have paid almost no attention to the other Iems that I have, these are very enjoyable and engaging pair of Iems with decent soundstage, great detail retrieval, overall a satisfying listening experience to be honest. Anybody looking for decent pair of Iems in this price range should definitely consider these and give them a listen. The price at which they are offered is like a bargain, great job team QoA, looking forward to this brand and their new Iems.

About the brand QOA- This brand is a sub brand from Kinera(China) mainly focusing on low cost or say budget Iems but the guys are doing great job and their Iems can go toe to toe with some higher priced Iems..

Technology- Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
Cable length: 1.2 m
Price- 180US Dollars
Unboxing experience- Inside the box you will find the Iems itself, a cute purple coloured carrying case, good collection of ear tips, stock cable which is also purple in colour and is terminated to either 3.5 or 4.4 mm via interchangeable jack,the unboxing experience was generous considering the price.


Build and Fit- Adonis have very beautiful, stunning looking medical grade resin shells which are very comfortable and light weight, they have this wood effect on the face plates which I am not sure that every set will have because obviously they can’t make every set look identical, so there’s possibility of your set looking different from mine,but they look very elegant and cool. Fit on these are just fabulous, they provide good seal and almost blocks all the ambient noise, there are no hard edges so they sit inside ears very comfortably, nozzle length is also comfortable at least for my ears, so all in all pretty solid.


Gear used- Astell and kern Sp3000(dap)


Note- These sound impressions are completely mine, so your and mine hearing abilities may vary because everyone hears different.
Sound Impressions-
Overall sound- I found the sound to be slightly warm but in neutral side with boost in Sub Bass and Mid Bass, it is not a harsh iem but in very rare cases I have seen some harshness in vocals but very rarely.Detail retrieval is pretty good considering the price of the Iems.
Sub Bass- Sub Bass is very good, pretty satisfying but not in bass heads category, Sub Bass is clean without being muddy and doesn’t bleed into Mid bass. Sub Bass is punchy but at the same time it is fast with quick decay and control, in the song “Rasputin from Boney M” Adonis shows great control over Sub Bass and makes the song a delight to listen to.
Mid Bass- Adonis performs equally good here as well, no bleed from Sub Bass and no bleed from Mid Bass towards midrange and the best thing is the flow of music from Sub Bass to Mid Bass to Mids is very smooth as if the music is flowing from one frequency to other without any interference, great work from QoA team.

Midrange- Those dual BA drivers provide pretty accurate midrange that is full of details and clarity, here main focus is on detail retrieval which is on another level seeing the price at which these Iems are offered. Instrument separation is very good, but in some cases I found the vocals to be harsh but only in some recordings, to be frank most of those recordings were old song recordings from 70’s or 80’s. Generally vocals sounded neutrally warm with adequate weight. Tip rolling was very effective with these Iems, Adonis comes with wide bore tips which sounded outstanding out of the box, still I wanted to try something else so I swapped it with narrow bore ear tips from Effect Audio, and oh man I was so wrong, such a big mistake, with narrow bore sound became more intimate by decreasing the soundstage in both width and depth, the Bass became less impactful, treble became recessed as if there was no life in the song, less air between instruments, mids started feeling congusted, therefore stock cable and stock ear tips work great with these Iems.
Treble- Treble extended well at least for me because I am extra sensitive in this department, still there was no harshness. There is definitely less air between instruments but still they sound open and soundstage is pretty decent, A&K Sp 3000 is known for its neutral sound and massive soundstage that can be enjoyed with these Iems to the fullest. There are some harsh notes in Treble but occasionally which can be due to bad recordings, but with decent recordings the harshness just vanishes.
Conclusion- Adonis has been a great companion for me for the last two weeks in which I have paid almost no attention to the other Iems that I have, these are very enjoyable and engaging pair of Iems with decent soundstage, great detail retrieval, overall a satisfying listening experience to be honest. Anybody looking for decent pair of Iems in this price range should definitely consider these and give them a listen. The price at which they are offered is like a bargain, great job team QoA, looking forward to this brand and their new Iems.
Sifxt
500+ Head-Fier
Pros: Outstanding Build Quality
Impeccable Design
Exceptional Bass Performance
Good mids
Interchangeable Terminated Cable
Comfortable Fit
Well-Equipped Accessories
Impeccable Design
Exceptional Bass Performance
Good mids
Interchangeable Terminated Cable
Comfortable Fit
Well-Equipped Accessories
Cons: Occasional Sibilance(very rare)
Average Eartips
Detail Retrieval Could Be Better
Average Eartips
Detail Retrieval Could Be Better
QOA : ADONIS NEW
Introducing the QOA Adonis, the latest model in this earphone series. It features the familiar 1 dynamic driver and 2 balanced armature (1DD+2BA) setup, now housed in a shell made from a combination of pinecone and resin. Priced at $180, this model offers a fresh look and some tweaks on its sound!
This product was provided to my friends over at Sonicmantra.org for review by Kinera. Large thanks to Kinera and the team at Sonicmantra for the opportunity! If you'd like to pick up an Adonis for yourself, you can here. Please note this is a non-affiliate link.
Testing Gear's
• Cayin RU7
• DDhifi TC44Pro E2
• Onix Alpha XI1
• iFi Go Blue
• Fiio BTR7
Technical specifications
• Impedance: 16Ω
• Sensitivity: 105 dB +/-2 dB
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Cable: 4 core 5N Litz silver-plated copper
• Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
• Plug type: 4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE
What’s in the Box
• IEMs themselves
• Cable with interchangeable plugs (4.4mm & 3.5mm)
• Carrying case
• Balanced ear tips
• Vocal ear tips
• Papers
Build and design
The build quality of these IEMs is absolutely solid—no flaws at all. As for the design, Kinera has truly nailed it again; it's stunning! Made from pinecone and resin, the glittery purple finish looks fantastic, in my opinion. However, I know that not everyone is a fan of the pinecone design, and I happen to be one of them.

Fit and Comfort
The fit of the Adonis New is excellent and quite comfortable. Despite being slightly larger than average shells, this size doesn’t impact overall comfort, making them enjoyable for extended listening sessions.

Cable
The provided cable is a 4-core 5N copper silver-plated cable featuring 2-pin 0.78mm connectors and interchangeable plugs for 4.4mm balanced or 3.5mm single-ended output. It feels sturdy, has minimal memory, and doesn’t tangle easily.

Sound
The Adonis New features a warm sound signature, making it a real gem for those who enjoy elevated bass without sacrificing quality. It is also well-suited for listeners who would enjoy lush, rich vocals, providing a very immersive and satisfying listening experience.
Sub-bass
The sub-bass performance of the Adonis New is impressive, providing a heavy rumble that you can truly feel. While it does have a slightly loose feeling, the extension and clarity are outstanding, making for an engaging sound.
Mid bass
The mid-bass is impressively deep, delivering a powerful slam that resonates in your core—it's that intense. This is truly a bass lover's heaven. The texture is excellent, and even with a significant amount present, it remains well-controlled, ensuring no bleed into the lower mids.
Male Vocals
Male vocals sound amazing-teeming with life, and with a great weight to the notes, too. They have just the right amount of warmth to make them an utter delight to listen to. Clarity and texture are good, although they can sound a little lean in comparison sometimes.
Female vocals
Adonis New female vocals are silky smooth, a real treat to listen to. Laid-back, easy-going, sweet, and lush tones. The high-pitched artists perform with no signs of fatigue. There is a slight warmth that accents the overall relaxed presentation. Not the most energetic or engaging female vocal presentation so listeners looking for just that might not find this perfect.
Instruments
The instruments here seem average, due to the lack of separation in sound and detail. Sometimes instrumentation might seem vague, without life or immediacy. Still, that could be a plus for listeners who like their instruments more subdued, relaxed-sounding, and distant for the sake of creating a laid-back atmosphere.
Treble
The treble on this IEM is smooth and well-toned down; it has enough air and energy. For those listeners who are used to warmer neutral-tuning IEMs, like the Aful Performer 5, this might be a little short of their expectation. This might be a great advantage for some listeners, while it would leave many in want of more.
Technicalities
Soundstage
The soundstage is average, offering decent sense of space, not great, but just average. It does its job of effectively relaying a sense of depth and height and width without particularly standing out but is adequate.
Imaging
The imaging on these IEMs is impressive, allowing you to easily pinpoint minute details, whether they’re instruments or vocals. There are no issues at all
Detail retrieval
I find the detail retrieval on these IEMs to be lacking. There’s quite a bit more to be desired in this area; while they reveal quite some detail, it’s not up to par with the competition and performs below average overall.
Sound separation
Sound separation appears to be another weak aspect of this IEM. While it’s not as lacking as in the detail retrieval section, it still doesn’t match the precision found in the competition. As a result, complicated tracks can sometimes sound vague
Dynamics and transient response
The dynamics of these IEMs are decent but average—not outstanding. Similarly, the transient response is just average, providing an okay performance for the price, but nothing particularly impressive overall.
Tip rolling
These IEMs sound best with wide bore eartips. I used the regular Divinus Velvet, but the wide bore version delivers even better performance than the standard Divinus Velvet!

Last edited:
SHOOTINGTECHIE
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Great bass
Sub-bass rumble
Beautiful vocals
No sss in the vocals
Good placement presence of the instruments
Sub-bass rumble
Beautiful vocals
No sss in the vocals
Good placement presence of the instruments
Cons: Treble is dampened
Upper mids are also little squeezed
Dynamics in the height of the headstage of string instruments
No air in treble
Upper mids are also little squeezed
Dynamics in the height of the headstage of string instruments
No air in treble
QOA ADONIS NEW- Astonishing with its bass
QOA is sub brand of Kinera and has been focused on making a different tuning of iems. As much as I wanted to but I never got a chance to try then QOA section of Kinera iems. But, this time probably the norn gods (KINERA NORN AND OTHER IEMS) are pleased with me and blessed me with a chance to see the God of spring plants : QOA ADONIS NEW
DISCLAIMER-
The QOA ADONIS NEW is part of a review tour organized by A.G. and Kinera in my country. The sample belongs to the brand. I had the opportunity to listen to it for 7 days for this review. This review is completely based on my experience with it, and all opinions, positive or negative, are my own and no one else’s. No external factors influence my review; only internal factors like my brain and heart influence it
. Please try it yourself, if possible, since we all hear things differently. If you want to purchase it, you can buy it from the official product website from the link- QOA ADONIS NEW
PACKAGING-
Really beautiful violet coloured iem box with a good number of tips and a beautiful carrying case. The iems are also violet and look beautiful with woodish shape on them. The cable is inside the case along with a screw driver and 3.5mm connector which you can replace.
BUILD-
The build seems to be great and the faceplate is made from pinecone and resin which looks much better than the stable wood combo (the old one). The cable is supple and feels soft but still has quite heft on it. The 4.4 mm connector is easy to replace and a nice addition.
SPECS-
For power requirement check, Ibasso D16 was used showing that in high gain and volume- 36, it works its best. It does work with NAVIGATOR and quite easy to run and will be a better pairing overall. But for this review Ibasso D16 was used.
NOTE- ALL humans listen to things differently so will all my readers too. But in this review, I have tried to describe the things I felt and hence is subjective which you might hear differently. So do try it before buying.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS-
BASS AND SUB-BASS-
Bass and subbass constitute the most significant part of the iem. Subbass is deep, dynamic and loves to go boom boom. It’s presence is quite demanding. The notes are well defined and have good warm tonality to them. The individual rumble though needs work, it seems to be not to much well defined and extensions should be added to them to make them better overall. But yes, the rumble will blow both of your ears and will go deep to the soul and is very much felt. The subbass attack is slower and decay is fast though.
Bass is all together a different game here. This is too energetic, impactful and dynamic. They have their own space among the entire music and feels like the focus is on the bass. The notes are having big base and body and spreads horizontally across the headstage. They have good definition but they are quite big but don’t interfere with the mids at all. The impact though fully defined but there is good boom to the sound as described before. Tonality is on the warm side and distinct and attack speed is good but decay is fast. Overall, lovely bass experience and a different thing all together.
MIDS-
The mids are lovely, more intimate in staging. There is good definition to the notes of the instruments. There is good dynamics in notes of the instruments and tonality is good. There though is good separation between the instruments and in between the instruments too but there seems to be slightly decreased importance on the instruments like guitars and other string instruments. They reach good heights in the soundstage but feel a little reduced in sound volume. The dynamics needs to be a bit more here, this might be due to fast attack and fast decay leading to a small presence among multiple instruments. Don’t get me wrong but this still sounds beautiful when just a drum set and guitars are going on, but with energy the guitar seems to a be a little lost. This is though changed when the song focuses on the instruments. This feels like the headstage is in hard W shape causing the things being felt. The upper mids would require a little more presence especially for guitars. Tonally this iem is warm but accurate presentation in the headstage and placement of the instruments more towards the edges of headstage worked wonders for the tuning. This in turn makes it engaging yet keeping good enough separation for easy enough marking of the instruments.
Vocals are more focused on in this iem. They are strong and follow through wonderfully. They are slightly on the thicker notes side as they have a warm presence throughout. Male vocals especially love the thick sound while female vocals still retain their structure and high nature. They go quite high in the headstage and still sound lovely throughout. The air coming from certain singers still are present but much more softer and no sss at all.
TREBLE-
The treble is thick but energetic. There is good dynamics in the notes. The notes are structurally thicker but they are softer and wont pierce your ears at all even the trumpets. There is good distinction of the instruments notes and also within different individual notes of the instruments. The separation is great along with the instruments placement making this a wonderful listening experience without any fatigue. The notes reach good height in the headstage but feels similar to other instruments in the treble range too but tonal differences helps to counter this. Instruments are more placed wider than around the listener. Air presence feels a bit less in the iem but the treble presence felt more lovely. This iem might not entice treble lovers but its great enough for others to appreciate and enjoy for long.
VERDICT-
I would recommend this if you love a W signature, want a treble free experience and most important of all, love bass… This is for you. Otherwise in the other way if you have a source which is neutral to slightly lean and clinical, this will suit the best and you have the best of both worlds ( an example of source would be DITA Navigator).
QOA is sub brand of Kinera and has been focused on making a different tuning of iems. As much as I wanted to but I never got a chance to try then QOA section of Kinera iems. But, this time probably the norn gods (KINERA NORN AND OTHER IEMS) are pleased with me and blessed me with a chance to see the God of spring plants : QOA ADONIS NEW
DISCLAIMER-
The QOA ADONIS NEW is part of a review tour organized by A.G. and Kinera in my country. The sample belongs to the brand. I had the opportunity to listen to it for 7 days for this review. This review is completely based on my experience with it, and all opinions, positive or negative, are my own and no one else’s. No external factors influence my review; only internal factors like my brain and heart influence it

PACKAGING-
Really beautiful violet coloured iem box with a good number of tips and a beautiful carrying case. The iems are also violet and look beautiful with woodish shape on them. The cable is inside the case along with a screw driver and 3.5mm connector which you can replace.

BUILD-
The build seems to be great and the faceplate is made from pinecone and resin which looks much better than the stable wood combo (the old one). The cable is supple and feels soft but still has quite heft on it. The 4.4 mm connector is easy to replace and a nice addition.

SPECS-
- Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
- Impedance: 16Ω
- Sensitivity: 105 dB +/-2 dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Cable: 4 core 5N silver-plated copper
- Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
- Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
- Cable length: 1.2 m
For power requirement check, Ibasso D16 was used showing that in high gain and volume- 36, it works its best. It does work with NAVIGATOR and quite easy to run and will be a better pairing overall. But for this review Ibasso D16 was used.

NOTE- ALL humans listen to things differently so will all my readers too. But in this review, I have tried to describe the things I felt and hence is subjective which you might hear differently. So do try it before buying.
SOUND IMPRESSIONS-
BASS AND SUB-BASS-
Bass and subbass constitute the most significant part of the iem. Subbass is deep, dynamic and loves to go boom boom. It’s presence is quite demanding. The notes are well defined and have good warm tonality to them. The individual rumble though needs work, it seems to be not to much well defined and extensions should be added to them to make them better overall. But yes, the rumble will blow both of your ears and will go deep to the soul and is very much felt. The subbass attack is slower and decay is fast though.

Bass is all together a different game here. This is too energetic, impactful and dynamic. They have their own space among the entire music and feels like the focus is on the bass. The notes are having big base and body and spreads horizontally across the headstage. They have good definition but they are quite big but don’t interfere with the mids at all. The impact though fully defined but there is good boom to the sound as described before. Tonality is on the warm side and distinct and attack speed is good but decay is fast. Overall, lovely bass experience and a different thing all together.
MIDS-
The mids are lovely, more intimate in staging. There is good definition to the notes of the instruments. There is good dynamics in notes of the instruments and tonality is good. There though is good separation between the instruments and in between the instruments too but there seems to be slightly decreased importance on the instruments like guitars and other string instruments. They reach good heights in the soundstage but feel a little reduced in sound volume. The dynamics needs to be a bit more here, this might be due to fast attack and fast decay leading to a small presence among multiple instruments. Don’t get me wrong but this still sounds beautiful when just a drum set and guitars are going on, but with energy the guitar seems to a be a little lost. This is though changed when the song focuses on the instruments. This feels like the headstage is in hard W shape causing the things being felt. The upper mids would require a little more presence especially for guitars. Tonally this iem is warm but accurate presentation in the headstage and placement of the instruments more towards the edges of headstage worked wonders for the tuning. This in turn makes it engaging yet keeping good enough separation for easy enough marking of the instruments.
Vocals are more focused on in this iem. They are strong and follow through wonderfully. They are slightly on the thicker notes side as they have a warm presence throughout. Male vocals especially love the thick sound while female vocals still retain their structure and high nature. They go quite high in the headstage and still sound lovely throughout. The air coming from certain singers still are present but much more softer and no sss at all.

TREBLE-
The treble is thick but energetic. There is good dynamics in the notes. The notes are structurally thicker but they are softer and wont pierce your ears at all even the trumpets. There is good distinction of the instruments notes and also within different individual notes of the instruments. The separation is great along with the instruments placement making this a wonderful listening experience without any fatigue. The notes reach good height in the headstage but feels similar to other instruments in the treble range too but tonal differences helps to counter this. Instruments are more placed wider than around the listener. Air presence feels a bit less in the iem but the treble presence felt more lovely. This iem might not entice treble lovers but its great enough for others to appreciate and enjoy for long.

VERDICT-
I would recommend this if you love a W signature, want a treble free experience and most important of all, love bass… This is for you. Otherwise in the other way if you have a source which is neutral to slightly lean and clinical, this will suit the best and you have the best of both worlds ( an example of source would be DITA Navigator).
Mangoboy
New Head-Fier
Pros: Knowles Ba + Custom Ba + 9.2 mm dynamic driver
punchy bass for bass heads extended with 4.4mm cable,
Good fuller Mids , good and balance treble
Build quality is very good made like a piece of Gem beautiful molded art
Comfort is pretty good light weight
punchy bass for bass heads extended with 4.4mm cable,
Good fuller Mids , good and balance treble
Build quality is very good made like a piece of Gem beautiful molded art
Comfort is pretty good light weight
Cons: For some people the overall design may be feel over decorated
The iem doesn’t fit well on the case need to adjust it every time
The iem doesn’t fit well on the case need to adjust it every time
Source: The Onix Alpha XL1
This unit was provided by Audio Geek India as part of their tour organized for Kinera IEMs. I appreciate Audio Geek India for give me the opportunity to listen to and review the Kinera Adonis New 3. My review is unbiased and not influenced by anyone.
I used the stock 3.5mm and 4.4mm cable and stock eartips.
Unboxing and Packaging:
The package includes:
1x In-Ear Monitor
1x Detachable Cable
6x Pairs of Ear tips
A magnetic carrying case
I had the demo version, so please refer to the pictures for details on the included accessories.
First Impressions:
The IEM looks pretty awesome design wise marble like engrave art work put a shine on it matching colour good quality 4 core cross braided cable and a matching purple theme magnetic case, the unboxing experience is very good all the accessories well organized. My personal thinking is the case is a bit of small because whenever I put the iem and the cable both in it, it pop up automatically I think they should provide a little bit big case for it
Comfort:
The IEMs are lightweight, the large bore ear tips are pretty good and also very comfortable for longer listening session I have a issue with the small vocal tips its S size I think a bit big for me whenever I put the iem inside my ear after 15-20 min its pop out automatically I have a small size ear canal so doesn’t fit very well
Sound:
Punchy Bass , well separated instrument, wide stage, in the 3.5 mm socket the treble extended and on the 4.4 mm socket the bass is boosted its a fun listing and power hungry iem. You can enjoy Bollywood music at full I didn't feel the the depth what I feel some iems in this price range it's lacking micro details all though the Iem sound is pretty good.
Final Thoughts:
It’s a beautiful pair of iem wi
th good sound .
This unit was provided by Audio Geek India as part of their tour organized for Kinera IEMs. I appreciate Audio Geek India for give me the opportunity to listen to and review the Kinera Adonis New 3. My review is unbiased and not influenced by anyone.
I used the stock 3.5mm and 4.4mm cable and stock eartips.
Unboxing and Packaging:
The package includes:
1x In-Ear Monitor
1x Detachable Cable
6x Pairs of Ear tips
A magnetic carrying case
I had the demo version, so please refer to the pictures for details on the included accessories.
First Impressions:
The IEM looks pretty awesome design wise marble like engrave art work put a shine on it matching colour good quality 4 core cross braided cable and a matching purple theme magnetic case, the unboxing experience is very good all the accessories well organized. My personal thinking is the case is a bit of small because whenever I put the iem and the cable both in it, it pop up automatically I think they should provide a little bit big case for it
Comfort:
The IEMs are lightweight, the large bore ear tips are pretty good and also very comfortable for longer listening session I have a issue with the small vocal tips its S size I think a bit big for me whenever I put the iem inside my ear after 15-20 min its pop out automatically I have a small size ear canal so doesn’t fit very well
Sound:
Punchy Bass , well separated instrument, wide stage, in the 3.5 mm socket the treble extended and on the 4.4 mm socket the bass is boosted its a fun listing and power hungry iem. You can enjoy Bollywood music at full I didn't feel the the depth what I feel some iems in this price range it's lacking micro details all though the Iem sound is pretty good.
Final Thoughts:
It’s a beautiful pair of iem wi
th good sound .
Attachments
David Haworth
Previously known as J Weiner
Pros: Bass boosted goodness
Smooth velvety vocals
Beautiful looking shells
Good comfort
Very musical tuning.
Smooth velvety vocals
Beautiful looking shells
Good comfort
Very musical tuning.
Cons: Bass may be overwhelming for some ears.
Lacking treble extension and analytical chops
Lacking treble extension and analytical chops

Introduction.
Kinera has provided the review sample of the QoA ( Queen of Audio ) Adonis New to our Australian review group, Audio Reviews Downunder for honest reviews. We thank Kinera for their generosity.
QoA Adonis is a 1DD + 2 BA hybrid IEM with an attractive resin shell and a more than adequate modular cable allowing 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced connections.
They provide two sets of ear tips labelled balanced and vocal and also a nice faux leather case with a magnetic closing lid which is practical and innovative.
Listening tests were done with stored FLAC music from my Hiby DAP and a Cayin RU6 DAC. I tried various aftermarket tips settling on a wide bore set of TRN T tips which I found gave the best overall balance and enhanced Adonis’s vocal capabilities. These tips accentuate trebles and soundstage. Vocal presence is and placed mid the stage and with Adonis’s smooth treble there is just enough enhanced definition and nuance.

A word on fit and comfort.
The IEM is fitted with a metal nozzle which I much prefer over resin shaped nozzles which tend to have less grip on the ear tips. I don't like having to fish the out of my ear when they slip off. This nozzle has a good lip which remains the ear tip well. The shell is light and fits my ear comfortably with just moderate isolation from outside noise. The four-strand braided modular cable is so beautifully colour coordinated with the IEM it did not occur to me to change it. It has reasonable feel and a good neck slider that works!
The sound.
QoA Adonis is easy to drive, and I got good volumes at 34% on the Cayin RU6. Unlike some IEMs it does not scale well with greater input. It has a warm bassy nature that's best at mid volume.
Bass
Bass is definitely boosted with this set. If you like a warm tuned IEM then Adonis is for you. I'm hearing deep thump from the bass drum with a physical impact. Snares and rim taps are clean, sharp and detailed and there is a good sense of separation from other instruments and no conflict with the mids and vocals. Overall drums are solid and resonant but for my taste they could have more slap and impact. The drums are biased towards the more sub bass rumbly side of the spectrum. The good thing is the rest of the spectrum is so clean and atmospheric that the overall mix is very enjoyable.

Mids
The midrange is Adonis's highlight. It is smooth and creamy with excellent tone and timbre with male and female vocals showcased beautifully. Male vocals are realistic and full bodied with a masculine tone.
Female vocals also star with a sweet warmth and presence that is completely enjoyable. They have a go balance between warmth and clarity and in general have a natural timbre.
Treble
The treble is not extended or peaky. It is rather gentle with a nice smoothness but blends into the midrange to a degree. But it suits the overall tuning of the IEM. You don't want a bright analytical treble sitting on top of a warm musical bass and mid mix. You will hear details in the treble at a level that suits the rest of the tuning and there is no risk of harshness or sibilance withe this set. I chose ear tips to accentuate the treble region and if you have a choice of sources, a bright analytical source would be better than a warm one. I switched from the RU6 to the Letshuoer DT06 which is a neutral DAC and the balance changed, lessening the bass and letting the treble region show off a little more.

Technicalities
The soundstage is adequate without being super wide. There is a good sense of where each instrument is placed and good separation. The upper mids and treble have enough airiness to provide a good sense of space and dimension. Adonis is not an IEM to show off subtle details in the music and it is a musical rather than analytical IEM.

Conclusion.
We are seeing a lot more IEMs tuned towards a musicality rather than a V shaped dramatic sound and Kinera is at the forefront of this trend. I would have liked to have seen more sparkle in the treble and less bass emphasis but there will be plenty of other ears to disagree with me and say that Adonis's tuning is perfection. If you enjoy a warm musical sound with a big bass presence, then the QoA Adonis New will fit the bill.
Last edited:
greymousetaxi
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: -Fitment
-Isolation
-Venting comfort
-Well constructed cable, interchangeable connectors, interesting color choice that calls for attention
-Purple
-Magnet securing case, premium feel, also purple
-Build, construction of shell feels of great quality, color choice is nice
-Nozzles on the smaller side, machined lip for tips to latch onto, comfortable
-Mids, wonderful Knowles BA
-Tuning of iem suitable for all day wearability
-Isolation
-Venting comfort
-Well constructed cable, interchangeable connectors, interesting color choice that calls for attention
-Purple
-Magnet securing case, premium feel, also purple
-Build, construction of shell feels of great quality, color choice is nice
-Nozzles on the smaller side, machined lip for tips to latch onto, comfortable
-Mids, wonderful Knowles BA
-Tuning of iem suitable for all day wearability
Cons: -Bass doesn't have enough slam to backup those sweet mids
-Tips are just 'okay', suitable for entry level
-Not a fan of 2-pin, totally subjective
-Tips are just 'okay', suitable for entry level
-Not a fan of 2-pin, totally subjective
TLDR: Adonis New ticks most boxes for a sub $200 "fun" tune iem. Amazing comfort, non-fatiguing tune, interchangeable cable, uncommon color scheme; it makes this set a wonderful daily-driver that would satisfy most folks looking for something out of the ordinary. Bass has some thump when the track calls for it, mids that give an exciting tickle to your brain, all without harsh peaking whatsoever.
I would also like to thank Audio Geek USA for providing this unit for review. My intention for this review is to give my subjective input for this product. The heads of Audio Geek Tours work hard to allow schmucks like me to witness and experience such amazing products for an exchange of an honest review. Big thanks!
Packaging:
Inside the box you will find this
The case is very neatly constructed, faux leather, but some of the nicer premium faux it feels like. I do like the magnetic securing action over zippers. You will also find two cards with some details of the contents along with QR codes to social followings for the manufacturer.
Sources used: A55+Wm1a/MrWalkman cfw modded, Apple dac thru UAPP
Sound impressions: Exciting, never dull.
Bass:
I never had a boring moment with this set, because the bass was always there. However, on some tracks I did feel that the mid bass felt a bit lacking, it was fixed with some EQ or switching to narrow tips. Subbass is where this 9.2mm driver shined, most hip-hop tracks gave it the instructions and this driver followed them accordingly. I had a little bit of trouble getting some of the drums in certain rock/metal tracks that were usually adequate for single DD, not a big issue after EQing the proper bands. I could live with the stock sound signature but a basshead like me needs that full range bass. The bass that the driver reproduced felt quick, and never bloated or disdainful. EQing the preferred quantity gave me some smiles with the need to bob my head back and forth. again, no bloat, no complaints. That 9.2mm for bass is a pretty sick unit.
Mids:
This is the highlight of this set, it is unknown what Knowles BA driver is used but my ears are telling me it's beautiful. Playing latin-jazz gave me some well reproduced percussion, specifically vibraphones and pianos. There was never a time I felt any of the instruments harsh, all instruments sounding clear without blur or congestion. Vocals sounding between neutral and warm, depending on the recording. Guitars sound lively, without graininess. Switching to wide bore tips added some openness, at the expense of midbass. There should be a sweet spot but I haven't found it yet.
Highs:
The highs gave a nice sparkle, in a way I think it contributes to the sweetness of the mids. I really like the implementation here, it isn't in your face, it doesn't feel forced or artificial. Just perfect. I don't think I need to add more, the graph can tell you. There isn't much more to say other than it's done proper.
Overall:
The time has come for me to pass along this wonderful set. To me, it would feel like I just had a great sample of a well prepared dish done by a chef that actually knows what he/she is going for. For >$200 this would be a great set to own for just enjoying music. There is plenty of bass to be extracted from the 9.2mm DD, the mids are capable of handling busy tracks, and the highs aren't annoyingly artificial like your common hybrid. I would absolutely recommend this to those looking to just unwind and listen to some high-quality recordings. You may need to experiment with tips, but it would be so worth it as the stock configuration just nails mostly everything I could want in an iem. I will be honest, I did not like the color scheme at first, but after my 2nd day I just wanted a purple iem. The pinecones integrated into the build is very cool and interesting. The wire colors are also cool, it may look like pink, but lean in closer to find red and blue, AMAZING!?
This is my first real review of an iem, my reviews will be aimed at getting straight to the source, I try to apply efficiency where it needs to be, as we live in a world where dopamine rushes are to be hit quicker and harder with each newer generation. I will attempt to answer questions for as long as I have the product, or the memory.
Thanks for reading.
Hit play and enjoy the music, SQUEEEEEK!!!!
I would also like to thank Audio Geek USA for providing this unit for review. My intention for this review is to give my subjective input for this product. The heads of Audio Geek Tours work hard to allow schmucks like me to witness and experience such amazing products for an exchange of an honest review. Big thanks!

Packaging:
Inside the box you will find this

The case is very neatly constructed, faux leather, but some of the nicer premium faux it feels like. I do like the magnetic securing action over zippers. You will also find two cards with some details of the contents along with QR codes to social followings for the manufacturer.

Sources used: A55+Wm1a/MrWalkman cfw modded, Apple dac thru UAPP
Sound impressions: Exciting, never dull.
Bass:
I never had a boring moment with this set, because the bass was always there. However, on some tracks I did feel that the mid bass felt a bit lacking, it was fixed with some EQ or switching to narrow tips. Subbass is where this 9.2mm driver shined, most hip-hop tracks gave it the instructions and this driver followed them accordingly. I had a little bit of trouble getting some of the drums in certain rock/metal tracks that were usually adequate for single DD, not a big issue after EQing the proper bands. I could live with the stock sound signature but a basshead like me needs that full range bass. The bass that the driver reproduced felt quick, and never bloated or disdainful. EQing the preferred quantity gave me some smiles with the need to bob my head back and forth. again, no bloat, no complaints. That 9.2mm for bass is a pretty sick unit.
Mids:
This is the highlight of this set, it is unknown what Knowles BA driver is used but my ears are telling me it's beautiful. Playing latin-jazz gave me some well reproduced percussion, specifically vibraphones and pianos. There was never a time I felt any of the instruments harsh, all instruments sounding clear without blur or congestion. Vocals sounding between neutral and warm, depending on the recording. Guitars sound lively, without graininess. Switching to wide bore tips added some openness, at the expense of midbass. There should be a sweet spot but I haven't found it yet.
Highs:
The highs gave a nice sparkle, in a way I think it contributes to the sweetness of the mids. I really like the implementation here, it isn't in your face, it doesn't feel forced or artificial. Just perfect. I don't think I need to add more, the graph can tell you. There isn't much more to say other than it's done proper.
Overall:
The time has come for me to pass along this wonderful set. To me, it would feel like I just had a great sample of a well prepared dish done by a chef that actually knows what he/she is going for. For >$200 this would be a great set to own for just enjoying music. There is plenty of bass to be extracted from the 9.2mm DD, the mids are capable of handling busy tracks, and the highs aren't annoyingly artificial like your common hybrid. I would absolutely recommend this to those looking to just unwind and listen to some high-quality recordings. You may need to experiment with tips, but it would be so worth it as the stock configuration just nails mostly everything I could want in an iem. I will be honest, I did not like the color scheme at first, but after my 2nd day I just wanted a purple iem. The pinecones integrated into the build is very cool and interesting. The wire colors are also cool, it may look like pink, but lean in closer to find red and blue, AMAZING!?
This is my first real review of an iem, my reviews will be aimed at getting straight to the source, I try to apply efficiency where it needs to be, as we live in a world where dopamine rushes are to be hit quicker and harder with each newer generation. I will attempt to answer questions for as long as I have the product, or the memory.
Thanks for reading.
Hit play and enjoy the music, SQUEEEEEK!!!!
MotherX1
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: -
Topnotch Build(built with Pinecone & Resin).
Comfortable fit.
Bass King.
Thick, beefy vocal.
Awesome Musicality
No harshness, refined treble.
Caring Pouch.
Very Good Accessories and Cable(Interchangeable jack).
SoundStage has good depth.
Topnotch Build(built with Pinecone & Resin).
Comfortable fit.
Bass King.
Thick, beefy vocal.
Awesome Musicality
No harshness, refined treble.
Caring Pouch.
Very Good Accessories and Cable(Interchangeable jack).
SoundStage has good depth.
Cons: -
Found some harshness (in some tracks with female vocals).
The soundstage isn’t the widest.
Instrument separation could be better.
Not for Bright Sound lovers.
Found some harshness (in some tracks with female vocals).
The soundstage isn’t the widest.
Instrument separation could be better.
Not for Bright Sound lovers.

Introduction
The QOA Adonis New IEMs have received attention among audiophiles because of design, build quality, and the quality of sound. Though it's almost priced at $180, it offers the promise of something more premium for people who don't want to break the bank. With its hybrid driver configuration, comprising one dynamic driver and two balanced armature drivers, the Adonis New is said to represent a balance in an immersive audio experience. Whether you're an audiophile or a person who just appreciates good sound, the Adonis New can offer you a lot. In this review, different aspects will be explored with these IEMs: build quality, design, sound performance at different frequencies, and in different scenarios like gaming.
Context
I have been using the Adonis New for 2-3 weeks. I loved this pair of sets so much. I use it with my Xduoo xd 05 basic (with NE5532 OP-Amp),ddHiFi tc44c, and LG V60. Also tested it with Fosi Audio DS1 for its sound stage performance. I use the stock cable cause the stock cable is good enough. But I have changed the stock tips. Try it with different eartips like Spinfit W1, 145, CP100+, Penon Orange, Velvet, and TRI clarion eartips. My pick for this iem is W1 and TRI clarion eartips. They provide a good seal for my ear and provide a good sound for my preference.
Note: I use these iems with this cable, eartips, and sources. That is the basis for my overall review.
Disclaimer
I received this IEM from "Kinera" for review needs. And each corporation has no direction on what to write and what not. With the sound I listened to, the whole evaluation represents my objective experience and honest assessment.Also one thing. The review is grounded in my own experience and what I learned from many IEMs. Your experience could change depending on personal taste and anatomical variations including ear canal depth and form. Also for some sources like DAC, eartips, cables.
If you want to buy this iem, visit Kinera. If you are from Bangladesh, you may visit GeekMart.
Gears Used
- ddHiFi tc44c (for Bass details)
- Fosi Audio DS1 (for Sound stage)
- LG V60 (for phone sound test)
- Xduoo XD05 Basic with N5532 op amp (overall sound)
Technical Specification
- Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
- Impedance: 16Ω
- Sensitivity: 105 dB +/-2 dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Cable: 4 core 5N silver-plated copper
- Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
- Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
- Cable length: 1.2 m

What in the Box
- QoA Adonis New IEMs
- Cable with detachable plugs (4.4mm & 3.5mm included)
- Storage case
- Balanced ear tips (S/M/L)
- Vocal ear tips (S/M/L)
- Official papers

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Build Quality
The QOA Adonis New scores well on the build quality by using a combination of resin and real pinecones, which are intricately mixed and carved using CNC machining to give out not only an conceptually unique aesthetic but also durability. This would result in a polished and premium-looking shell with a robust yet lightweight feel. They weigh in at only 3.8 g per earpiece, making them arguably the lightest IEM sets for long-term comfort. The nozzles are of medium length and average width, so they will suit most ears, giving a secure fit. Everything testifies to high-quality workmanship down to the smooth finish and robust plusular connectors. Overall the build quality is impressive for an Adonis New and is usually reserved for much more expensive sets.Design
Adonis New is simply stunning. The combination of purples and pinks of the faceplates, with the addition of brown pinecone pieces, provides quite a striking look. Then the use of UV printing technology, added with some silver glitter, really gives these IEMs a touch of class to stand out from the crowd. The name "Adonis" is etched in a fine silver cursive writing, upon the ovular design. This pushes the premium appeal further up and makes the design even more tantalizing. The color of the nozzles, being a brass-like tint, transverses this thematic design with the color similar to that of most flowers. In that aspect, the Adonis New proves that a tool an audio one, that is can be very beautiful and yet very functional at the same time.Fit and Comfort
In terms of fit and comfort, the Adonis New. Their ergonomic design allows the IEMs to rest in the ear comfortably, leading to hours of use without fatigue. They are lightly combined with an articulated shape for a proper fit without causing an annoying pressure point. The nozzles are of a medium length to help in getting a good seal that is necessary for accurate sound isolation. The Adonis New fits a wide range of different ear shapes and sizes, so the product should be really versatile and good for most users
Sound Impression
QOA Adonis New provides a warm balanced sound with boosted bass. This is one of the best tuning for most of the audience. I am one of them. No doubt Adonis is providing a good sound. You can say that this is a beast in the bass section. This is the bass king. It also provides good weighted and full mids. Also plenty of details and air in the treble section. Overall it provides a laid-back type of sound, which is good for long-time listening sections.The Bass
Adonis New shows good power and depth on the low end, providing some real muscle and depth in the music. A great foundation for most genres, an articulated 9.2mm dynamic driver makes magic when playing sub-bass frequencies and seems particularly good for electronic and hip-hop music. The bass is tightly controlled, giving a tight punch without leeching into the mids, and ensuring a clean and detailed sound. For bass heads, the response of the Adonis New is very satisfying and is engaging in delivery.Equally admirable is the mid-bass, which gives a sufficient kick to sound quite energetic. As evident, with the base of the dynamic driver implemented, Adonis New would anyway bring the frequencies within this area with tighter definition, so the drums and bass guitars sound vivid and life-like. The sub-bass nicely visits from the mid-bass, making the low end coherent. Consequently, the Adonis New can be used with numerous music genres, from rock and pop to classical and jazz.
I have been listening to some tracks like “Big Boi - Kill Jill ft. Killer Mike, Jeezy”, “2Pac ft Sade - Jezebel”, and” Juna Serita - My Standard” and I am amazed by its bass performance. In Big Boy’s first bass drops are clean and thumpy. In Jezebel, the vocal and the sub-bass are well separated not mixed or provide a clean experience. Low-frequency bass guitars in ‘Juna Serita - My Standard’ are well balanced with other instruments. Also, provides warmth to every instrument.

Male Vocals
Male voices are clear, warm, and thick via the Adonis New. These ensure that all the voices in the male vocal range are packed with information and sound quite realistic while also sounding slightly forward. This kind of tuning here presents male voices without any specific harsh or sibilant qualities, hence easygoing and smooth. Be it baritone singers or spoken word content, the Adonis New offers a pleasant and very articulate vocal performance.For male vocal testing, I was listening to some tracks like Mark Knopfler's- Darling Pretty, Seal-Kiss from a Rose, and Jim Croce-Time in a Bottle. In those tracks, I found the vocals thick, textured, and manly with a good presentation of emotion. You can feel the emotion of the vocals. Overall you can get a nice manly and well-tuned male vocal presentation with this iem.
Female Vocals
It is through female vocals that the Adonis New truly shines, offering a smooth, open quality that brings out the most in the heights of higher-pitched voices. The treble armature driver is very well balanced so that female vocals sound detailed and clear, offering no sharpness that might lead to fatigue. But in some tracks, I find it fatiguing. The very slight touch of richness from the subtle warmth in the tuning really does wonder for making female singers more soulful and engaging. Whether leading pop divas or classical sopranos, the Adonis New reproduces female vocals with finesse and accuracy.So, I am listening to some of the female artists' tracks like Laura Branigan's - Power of Love, Sade's - Jezebel, Mariah Carey's - Honey. In these tracks, I found the vocals sparkly, textured, and organic. Also found it kinda bit intimate. You can say it is balanced well with the mids. Sometimes Laura Branigan feels a bit shouty or harsh but not too much. Overall you will get a nice female vocal presentation with this iem.
Treble
The treble on the Adonis New is smooth and never fatiguing; it contains the right amount of sparkle and air to keep it energetic. The custom-tuned balanced armature driver ensures that high frequencies are clear and fine in detail without being piercing or harsh. It is carefully tuned, making the Adonis New suitable for long listening sessions due to its busy treble that does not fatigue. The treble is well integrated with the midrange and bass to add to an overall balanced sound signature.Listening to tracks like Gary Moore's "Still Got the Blues" and Martika's "Toy Soldiers" showcases the treble prowess. The electric guitar solos in "Still Got the Blues" are smooth and richly detailed, while the higher-pitched elements in "Toy Soldiers" are clear and crisp without any harshness. The treble remains detailed enough to maintain musical liveliness, making these iem’s a joy to listen to for extended periods.

Instruments & Soundstage
The Adonis New takes the separation of instruments and details to the top, clarifying that it can be very easy to tell the individual instruments running in a complex musical arrangement. Whether it's the full orchestra playing or a small jazz ensemble, each instrument is very clearly detailed and placed within the soundstage. The clarity really makes the listening interesting, with fine nuances and details of the music so nicely brought out. Adonis New does this on all these instruments, from strings to brass, percussion, and woodwinds, with equal finesse and accuracy.The soundstage in the Adonis New is wide open with good definition, bringing out subtle glimpses of both depth and source width. This all helps in creating a hugely realistic three-dimensional immersive experience as if one were really in the middle of it all. The sense of space created with pinpoint imaging and the separation of instruments will clearly allow you to identify where each sound originates in the soundstage. Play either live recordings or studio albums and the Adonis New gives a dynamic soundstage to enjoy.
Where this really shines is with complex musical arrangements. Played through Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody", the layers of instruments are clear and separate. The harmonies in the opera section are distinct, and the electric guitar solo slices through with some energy. The soundstage, while not large, somehow opens up enough to hold all of the various elements of this song.
This warm and inviting nature of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" does well for the character of this iem. The acoustic guitar is very textured, and full-bodied, while the electric guitar solos have an agreeable presence to them. the soundstage opens up when the song starts to reach its crescendo, allowing some space.
Also with the "Comfortably Numb" by Pink Floyd-the PULSE version. and it's quite a demanding track, but this iem does a great job. The presentation has good clarity, with the layered guitars and synthesizers being presented well, and an atmosphere that's well-recreated. The soundstage isn't really large, but it works for the song.
Overall, the Adonis New did a satisfying instrumental performance, offering good detail, energy, and soundstage.

Gaming Performance
Adonis New’s sounds are amazing not just for music but also in games. Fine localization and clarity are delivered by the IEMs, thus contributing greatly to an engaging gaming experience. Below is a breakdown of popular titles:CS: GO and Valorant are competitive first-person shooter games in which none but the Adonis Lights the way with accurate on-the-head positional audio, enabling the user to hear footsteps and gunshots. That gives you an upper hand on the others, with the easy location of enemies and quick reactions to in-game sound.
Battlefield 2042: This is where the big soundstage of the Adonis New furthers the immersion factor in open-world, large-space settings. From explosions and vehicle sounds to distant gunfire, it all rings through clearly and with impressive depth, bringing the battlefield even more to life.
Warzone 2.0: The Adonis New sounds stellar in busier audio environments like Warzone 2.0. The sound is quite defined and assists the user in distinguishing between quite a lot of noise, from the rustling of leaves loud and clear to the mumbling humming of an oncoming vehicle. Such a granular level of detail can make a critical difference for gaming.
Rainbow Six Siege: In a game where sound means so much to strategizing and planning, the Adonis New gives you clarity and detail when notating all of those high- or low-level audio cues, be it the sound of a breaching charge or the quiet footsteps of an enemy. The IEMs affirm that you never miss any of that sweet audio from a breaching charge or the quiet steps of an opponent.
For gamers, it has great sound localization and clarity, with a nice open-like soundstage. This thing really does hit a casual or competitive spot.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the QOA Adonis New IEM is one remarkable offering in the sub-$200 price bracket that bundles good design, good build quality, great comfort, and nice sound performance to cement its class. With a well-balanced sound signature, heavy bass, clear and relaxed mids, and smoothly rounded treble, these IEMs can suit virtually any genre and use case, even gaming. Comfort and fit allow you to have long listening periods with no problems at all. From audiophiles to casual listeners to gamers, QOA Adonis New will definitely serve everyone's purpose, hence making it highly recommended.
Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the QOA Adonis New! I hope this review helped you decide if these versatile IEMs are a good fit for your listening preferences. Happy listening!
arifgraphy
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: ● Fantastic sub-bass
● Perfect thump in mid-bass
● Meaty and hearty vocals
● Non-fatiguing & refined treble
● Nice-looking & comfortable to wear
● Practical Storage box
● Useful stock cables & other accessories.
● Perfect thump in mid-bass
● Meaty and hearty vocals
● Non-fatiguing & refined treble
● Nice-looking & comfortable to wear
● Practical Storage box
● Useful stock cables & other accessories.
Cons: ● Stage is a tad bit small
● Instruments separation could be better
● Some BA timber (S, SH in some tracks, especially in female vocals)
● Instruments separation could be better
● Some BA timber (S, SH in some tracks, especially in female vocals)
QoA ADONIS NEW: NEW WARM KID IN TOWN
INTRO:
A new IEM from QoA is the successor to their previous Adonis model. I never got to try the OG Adonis, so I can't compare, but the “Adonis New” has a lot to share. It’s designed with a ‘1DD and 2 BA’ driver setup, with a 9.2mm DD for the lows, one Knowles BA driver for the mids, and another BA, custom-made by QoA, for the highs. So, what kind of sound can you expect from this? Definitely not dead-neutral or dull-balanced, right? You got it—it’s not fully neutral, but it’s very warm (not dark, though). It’s more like a warm-balanced, you could say. QoA named this IEM after the Greek mythological figure Adonis. And also, after the Adonis cocktail—a mix of sherry, red vermouth, and orange bitters that was originally served to musical theater audiences to give them a relaxing experience. And that’s exactly how these IEMs are tuned—like the essence of that cocktail. They’ve got delicate flavors and clear layers. Seriously, it’s so relaxing and musical. Personally, I find myself enjoying every bit of it as soon as I start listening. In one word, it’s ‘awesome!’
CONTEXT:
The truth is, I’m all about that warm sound. I love warm, musical sets, and the Adonis New is my new obsession. I can’t take them off! Even right now, while I’m writing this review, I’m listening to PULSE with them. They sound fantastic and are super comfortable for a marathon listener like me (I usually listen to music for 6-7 hours straight). Since they’re warm-sounding, my Hip Dac 2 is a bit too warm for them. So, I switched to my Fosi Audio DS1, and wow! The clarity is incredible, and the soundstage feels bigger. The separation of instruments is great too. It matched well with my Hidizs S8 Pro Robin with “Wide band flatness mode,” which is super to enjoy a wider stage without any coloration through the frequencies. My Moondrop Dawn Pro also does a good job, but not quite like the DS1 or S8 Pro. The Planue R2 really steals the show when paired with the Adonis New. The IEM shines in every aspect and sounds amazing! There's so much to love about this DAP. But the Tempo Tec V3 didn’t pair well—it made the midrange feel a bit congested.
I didn’t swap the stock cable because it’s really good. The only thing I did was roll the ear tips and use the TRI Clarion & Divinus Velver wide bore to get a slightly bigger soundstage. In short, the Adonis New is fantastic, and I’m having a blast discovering how it pairs with different gear.
DISCLAIMER:
Queen of Audio was kind enough to send me the Adonis New to review. I am not affiliated with the company, and of course, I was not asked for any copy-checking before publishing. All opinions shared in this review are my subjective thoughts.
One thing more: The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear using different sources. Your experience may vary due to personal preference and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.
For your personal purchase (non-affiliated links):
Geek Mart is the place if you are in Bangladesh.
Check out QoA if you live elsewhere.
GEARS USED:
● DAP: Cowon Planue R2, Tempo Tec V3
● DAC: ifi Hip DAC 2, Fossi Audio DS1, Hidizs S8 Pro Robin, & Moondrop Dawn Pro
● Smartphone: POCO X3
● Files: Spotify, local FLAC & DSD files
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
● Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
● Impedance: 16Ω
● Sensitivity: 105 dB +/-2 dB
● Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
● Cable: 4 core 5N Litz silver-plated copper
● Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
● Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
● Cable length: 1.2 m
WHAT’S IN THE BOX:
● QoA Adonis New IEMs
● Cable with detachable plugs (4.4mm & 3.5mm included)
● Storage case
● Balanced ear tips (S/M/L)
● Vocal ear tips (S/M/L)
● Official papers
UNBOXING EXPERIENCE:
Unboxing the QoA Adonis New is quite a delightful experience. It arrives in a well-organized cardboard box. Inside, the IEMs and ear tips are neatly placed in foam cut-outs. One thing I found odd was that the ear tips were in these foam cut-outs instead of a small box or zip-lock pouch. This choice makes the box footprint larger than necessary, which seems a bit wasteful to me. Despite that, the carrying/storage case included is a premium-looking piece, nestled in its own foam cut-out. Inside this elegant carrying case, you'll find a beautiful cable with interchangeable terminals. I believe it's fantastic that they added a 4.4mm balanced jack in addition to the clever inclusion of a 3.5mm SE. The QoA Adonis New's unboxing is sophisticated and thoughtful, which enhances the product's overall enjoyment.
BUILD QUALITY & DESIGN:
First off, let’s talk about these IEMs. They look amazing and are really well made. The Adonis New shells are crafted from a mix of pinecone and resin, built on the previous birch shell design. They keep the natural look of the pinecone, are filled with resin, and are carved in one piece using CNC. This gives each pair unique textures and patterns. QoA chose pinecone for its unique acoustic properties. Cool and thoughtful, right?
Now, about the cable—it’s a 5N silver-plated copper cable with a Litz structure. It’s not super stiff but not too soft either, and it’s pretty comfortable. The cores are a mix of blue and magenta, giving it a purple look. What about the stock tips? They’re made of soft silicone and do the job well. And let’s not forget the storage box—it’s very nice and looks premium. Though I’m not a huge fan of purple (except for the band Deep Purple...ha ha), but that’s the theme here!
FIT & COMFORT:
Resin shells always feel comfortable to me, even the bulky Relentless! The Adonis New has a three-driver setup and is on the bigger side (not much), probably because of the acoustic chamber design. But it fits well in my medium-sized ears and doesn't create any pressure, even during long listening sessions. I can lean back against a pillow while listening to the music and still feel comfortable. The cable is tangle-free and doesn’t pick up any noise (microphonics), so I can enjoy my music even while walking. The ear hooks are a bit stiff but don’t cause any discomfort. The only downside is the stock ear tips. They’re made of soft silicone, but they’re not very comfortable (typical for stock ear tips at this price point, except for Dunu). Overall, it's a comfortable setup for long listening sessions. Just swap out the ear tips for your preferred ones, and you’re good to go!
SOUND IMPRESSION:
What I love most about the Adonis New is its warm tuning. The sub-bass rumble is incredibly satisfying for this price point. It feels like the low wave is running through your ear canal, and it’s fantastic as long as you enjoy that kind of sound. But don’t worry, it doesn’t bleed into the mid-bass! The mid-bass is warm and full-bodied, with a nice thump, authority, and decent speed (though not as fast as more technical sets). The midrange, where the heart of the music is, is clean and bold. Vocals are warm and rich, and the lower notes of string instruments have great texture. The treble is another thing to highlight! It’s not dark, but warm, detailed, and enjoyable, at least to my ears. Plus, it doesn’t cause any fatigue, even during long listening sessions.
Take a look at the frequency graph, and you will understand it all -
SUB-BASS:
I like the sub-bass on the new Adonis more than the Aful Explorer (my personal favorite warm IEM of 2024). Both have a bass-heavy, warm sound, but the sub-bass in the Adonis New is top-notch. The DD is tuned perfectly to bring the lower frequencies to life. It’s a bit loose, giving a wavy sensation, but it stays in its place and never bleeds into the upper frequencies. This is what makes this IEM stand out. When I listened to "Sox of the Fox (MTV Unplugged)" by A-ha, the Adonis New really showed off its sub-bass handling. I could hear every lower note of the bass guitar and piano that fell into the sub-bass region. It’s audible even as the song progresses and more instruments come in. When the vocals hit those high notes, the sub-bass still stays in place and mixes well with the other instruments in the background. It's impressive how well Adonis New handles the lower regions. Bass lovers will definitely appreciate this.
MID-BASS:
In one word—fantastic! The Adonis New also has a really strong mid-bass section to go along with its awesome sub-bass. It's tuned just right for that warm, rich sound. Unlike those technical sets where the mid-bass is super-fast but lacks body, the mid-bass here has the right weight and decent speed. Metal fans might miss the quick mid-bass they're used to, but classic rock, country, jazz, blues, and reggae lovers will be thrilled. I had a blast listening to Mark Knopfler's music with these IEMs, along with a bunch of other genres. In “Darling Pretty,” the Adonis New lets you really hear and feel the mid-bass. Every kick and stroke on the kick drum, snare, and tom comes alive, and Knopfler’s guitar's low notes hit just right. But to be honest, I did miss the mid-bass speed a bit when listening to the popular hit “Chop Suey!” by System of A Down. It felt like the IEM missed some kicks and strokes on the lower notes. Like I said before, these aren’t designed to be technical or mid-forward for that ‘metal satisfaction,’ but they still do a great job overall.
MALE VOCALS:
If you're like me and love a meaty, thick tone in male vocals, you’re going to love Adonis New. The midrange on these IEMs is warm and lean, making male vocals really shine with fantastic texture. It’s so relaxing to listen to vocalists like Glenn Frey. His performance in “New Kid in Town” by the Eagles is incredibly satisfying. Every nuance and inflection in his voice comes through clearly, and even the high notes stay smooth. The only downside is a bit of BA timbre in some poorly recorded tracks from the '60s, '70s, and '80s classic era, where most of the records were on par and not mastered like the ones of the millennium era. You can notice it in songs like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” by Harry Belafonte. When he sings “Me say, six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch,” the “s” and “ch” sounds can be a bit disturbing. But other than that, this IEM is excellent for enjoying male vocals.
FEMALE VOCALS:
If the sharpness in female vocals gives you fatigue or feels too shouty, then the Adonis New is perfect for you. It delivers female vocals with warmth and clarity, offering a rich and engaging listening experience. Unlike other ‘technical’ sets, it doesn’t push the midrange too forward, so vocals maintain a great balance between power and softness. You can still feel the strength in Whitney Houston’s voice without missing the sweet, soft breaths. Listening to her amazing track “Saving All My Love for You,” I fell in love with it all over again. Her emotional highs and lows are easy to feel. I’m a big fan of warm-tuning IEMs and dislike it when the midrange is too forward, as it can be fatiguing. But if you love sparkly and super powerful female vocals, you might miss that brightness. There's also a bit of BA timbre noticeable in some vocals, like Victoria Night from Blackmore’s Night, but overall, it's fantastic for enjoying female vocals.
INSTRUMENT SEPARATION:
Adonis New is pretty average when it comes to handling complex tracks. Its bass is elevated, which slightly affects the mids. You can still enjoy the music with decent instrument placement and separation, especially when instruments play in the same scale and melody. But it's not perfect and can get a bit muddy with busy tracks. When I listened to “Us & Them” by Pink Floyd, the beginning was great. Rick Wright’s keyboard, Nick Mason’s drums, and Dick Parry’s saxophone, along with Gilmour’s calm vocals, all stayed in their place with good separation, not overpowering each other. But when the chorus kicked in with everything playing at high pitch, it got busy and a bit muddy, making it harder to pick out each instrument. Still, it’s a solid listening experience for the most part! Overall, it's decent but has its limits with complex arrangements.
TREBLE:
The Adonis New offers a treble that's smooth and easygoing, with a roll-off in the upper region. This design choice keeps the sound from becoming harsh while still maintaining a pleasant sparkle and good decay, ensuring it never feels dull or lifeless. This IEM clearly focused on emphasizing the bass and midrange, allowing the treble to complement these frequencies rather than dominate them. While listening to “Without You” by Mariah Carey, it feels so safe when the note hits in high pitch with high scale guitars and other string instruments. Due to that roll-off in the upper region, the cymbals decay a bit fast, with a hint of less air. It’s not a downside for a treble sensitive listener like me. Overall, the treble on the Adonis New is designed to enhance your listening experience without causing fatigue, providing a versatile sound that's both engaging and relaxing. It’s perfect for those who prefer a non-fatiguing, laid-back listening experience with just the right amount of sparkle to keep things interesting.
SOUNDSTAGE:
The Adonis New might not have the widest soundstage, but it still offers a nice sense of space. I don't see this as a downside because its strength lies in musicality, and it truly excels there. When I listened to “Time (PULSE version)” by Pink Floyd, I could really feel the stage. The music had good height, width, and even depth. The ticking clocks and ringing bells seemed to swirl around my head, creating a cool sensation. I could clearly sense the space between the kick drums and crash cymbals! While it's not the widest out there, it delivers each instrument with great placement, never feeling too cramped or congested. It really gets the job done!
POWERING IT UP:
The hybrid driver configuration and 4.4mm balanced jack supplied with stock cable say it all. Yes, you need to give it some juice to drive it to its full potential. No, it’s not a huge power-hungry set, but still, it needs adequate power to shine. A DAC dongle with moderate power can drive it easily, but remember, a good power source can bring out the real performance of Adonis New!
CABLE & TIP ROLLING:
I didn’t swap the cable, as the stock one is good enough to present its characteristics and has a 4.4mm balanced jack, which I appreciate. But the supplied ear tips are on par and don’t do justice to a $180 priced IEM. After experimenting with various ear tips like the Spinfit W1, Omni, TRI Clarion, Penon Liqueur, Dunu S&S, Candy, and Divinus Velvet wide bore, I settled on the Clarion & Velvet wide bore. I find the sound stage feels a little bigger and more open while using these two tips. Among these two tips, for fit & comfort, my first choice is Clarion for longer listening sessions. Your experience may vary, so don’t bother to roll out tips to find your perfect match.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
I really don’t put any gear recommendations in any of my reviews because it varies from person to person. Enjoying music is a personal matter, right? But here, I find some cool things I wish to share with you. To get the most out of this Adonis New, you must have a source that has a good stage with a bit of a transparent sound (but not like Questyle M15). You can buy Fosi Audio DS1/2 or Hidizs S8 Pro Robin, and they are not expensive if you consider their performance. And I must recommend the Divinus Velvet wide bore ear tips, as they will give you a different experience with this IEM, like a bit of control in low frequencies with quite a wide stage, good separation, and surprisingly audible ‘air’ on the treble.
WHO SHOULD GET IT:
● Warm Sound Lovers: If you enjoy a rich, warm sound with smooth mids and bass, this is a great choice.
● Non-Fatiguing Listening: Perfect for long sessions without causing ear fatigue.
● Bass Enthusiasts: Offers satisfying sub-bass and mid-bass without overwhelming the mids.
● Comfort Seekers: Designed for comfort during extended use, even for marathon listening.
● Versatile Use: Works well across different music genres, from rock to pop.
● Moderate Power Needs: Can be driven well with a good DAC dongle, though benefits from a bit more power.
● Build and Aesthetics: If you appreciate quality construction and a sleek design.
MAYBE LOOK ELSEWHERE IF:
● You Prefer Bright Treble: It has a more relaxed treble, so it might not satisfy those who like a lot of sparkle.
● You Need Wide Soundstage: The soundstage is decent but not expansive.
● You Crave Speedy Mid-Bass: It’s not as quick as some technical sets, which might not suit metal enthusiasts.
● You Require Minimal Power Needs: It benefits from a bit more power than basic setups.
● You Dislike Warm Sound: If you prefer a neutral or bright sound signature, this might not be for you.
CONCLUSION:
Adonis New is a fantastic and enjoyable IEM if you are a ‘warm-head’ like me or if you love lash relaxing sound with non-fatiguing treble. And if you are in love with design aesthetics, this is a must-have set for you due to its pine cone & resin built with artistic textures. While it needs a bit more power, it's not a big issue since it can be easily driven by a good DAC dongle like the Moondrop Dawn Pro (but for ultimate sonic pleasure, go for either the Hidizs S8 Pro or Fosi Audio DS1). If your preferences align with this IEM's features and you have a decent audio source, you won’t regret choosing it. One thing to consider is getting some better ear tips, like the TRI Clarion (3 pairs for only 9 USD) or Divunus Velvet wide bore (3 pairs for only 20 USD), for an improved fit and sound experience. Overall, if you value a warm sound signature and artistic design, the Adonis New is a must-have for your collection.

INTRO:
A new IEM from QoA is the successor to their previous Adonis model. I never got to try the OG Adonis, so I can't compare, but the “Adonis New” has a lot to share. It’s designed with a ‘1DD and 2 BA’ driver setup, with a 9.2mm DD for the lows, one Knowles BA driver for the mids, and another BA, custom-made by QoA, for the highs. So, what kind of sound can you expect from this? Definitely not dead-neutral or dull-balanced, right? You got it—it’s not fully neutral, but it’s very warm (not dark, though). It’s more like a warm-balanced, you could say. QoA named this IEM after the Greek mythological figure Adonis. And also, after the Adonis cocktail—a mix of sherry, red vermouth, and orange bitters that was originally served to musical theater audiences to give them a relaxing experience. And that’s exactly how these IEMs are tuned—like the essence of that cocktail. They’ve got delicate flavors and clear layers. Seriously, it’s so relaxing and musical. Personally, I find myself enjoying every bit of it as soon as I start listening. In one word, it’s ‘awesome!’
CONTEXT:
The truth is, I’m all about that warm sound. I love warm, musical sets, and the Adonis New is my new obsession. I can’t take them off! Even right now, while I’m writing this review, I’m listening to PULSE with them. They sound fantastic and are super comfortable for a marathon listener like me (I usually listen to music for 6-7 hours straight). Since they’re warm-sounding, my Hip Dac 2 is a bit too warm for them. So, I switched to my Fosi Audio DS1, and wow! The clarity is incredible, and the soundstage feels bigger. The separation of instruments is great too. It matched well with my Hidizs S8 Pro Robin with “Wide band flatness mode,” which is super to enjoy a wider stage without any coloration through the frequencies. My Moondrop Dawn Pro also does a good job, but not quite like the DS1 or S8 Pro. The Planue R2 really steals the show when paired with the Adonis New. The IEM shines in every aspect and sounds amazing! There's so much to love about this DAP. But the Tempo Tec V3 didn’t pair well—it made the midrange feel a bit congested.
I didn’t swap the stock cable because it’s really good. The only thing I did was roll the ear tips and use the TRI Clarion & Divinus Velver wide bore to get a slightly bigger soundstage. In short, the Adonis New is fantastic, and I’m having a blast discovering how it pairs with different gear.

DISCLAIMER:
Queen of Audio was kind enough to send me the Adonis New to review. I am not affiliated with the company, and of course, I was not asked for any copy-checking before publishing. All opinions shared in this review are my subjective thoughts.
One thing more: The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear using different sources. Your experience may vary due to personal preference and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.
For your personal purchase (non-affiliated links):
Geek Mart is the place if you are in Bangladesh.
Check out QoA if you live elsewhere.
GEARS USED:
● DAP: Cowon Planue R2, Tempo Tec V3
● DAC: ifi Hip DAC 2, Fossi Audio DS1, Hidizs S8 Pro Robin, & Moondrop Dawn Pro
● Smartphone: POCO X3
● Files: Spotify, local FLAC & DSD files
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
● Driver: 1DD + 2 BA
● Impedance: 16Ω
● Sensitivity: 105 dB +/-2 dB
● Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
● Cable: 4 core 5N Litz silver-plated copper
● Connector: 2-Pin, 0.78mm
● Plugs: 4-pin detachable (4.4mm balanced & 3.5mm SE)
● Cable length: 1.2 m
WHAT’S IN THE BOX:
● QoA Adonis New IEMs
● Cable with detachable plugs (4.4mm & 3.5mm included)
● Storage case
● Balanced ear tips (S/M/L)
● Vocal ear tips (S/M/L)
● Official papers


UNBOXING EXPERIENCE:
Unboxing the QoA Adonis New is quite a delightful experience. It arrives in a well-organized cardboard box. Inside, the IEMs and ear tips are neatly placed in foam cut-outs. One thing I found odd was that the ear tips were in these foam cut-outs instead of a small box or zip-lock pouch. This choice makes the box footprint larger than necessary, which seems a bit wasteful to me. Despite that, the carrying/storage case included is a premium-looking piece, nestled in its own foam cut-out. Inside this elegant carrying case, you'll find a beautiful cable with interchangeable terminals. I believe it's fantastic that they added a 4.4mm balanced jack in addition to the clever inclusion of a 3.5mm SE. The QoA Adonis New's unboxing is sophisticated and thoughtful, which enhances the product's overall enjoyment.




BUILD QUALITY & DESIGN:
First off, let’s talk about these IEMs. They look amazing and are really well made. The Adonis New shells are crafted from a mix of pinecone and resin, built on the previous birch shell design. They keep the natural look of the pinecone, are filled with resin, and are carved in one piece using CNC. This gives each pair unique textures and patterns. QoA chose pinecone for its unique acoustic properties. Cool and thoughtful, right?
Now, about the cable—it’s a 5N silver-plated copper cable with a Litz structure. It’s not super stiff but not too soft either, and it’s pretty comfortable. The cores are a mix of blue and magenta, giving it a purple look. What about the stock tips? They’re made of soft silicone and do the job well. And let’s not forget the storage box—it’s very nice and looks premium. Though I’m not a huge fan of purple (except for the band Deep Purple...ha ha), but that’s the theme here!




FIT & COMFORT:
Resin shells always feel comfortable to me, even the bulky Relentless! The Adonis New has a three-driver setup and is on the bigger side (not much), probably because of the acoustic chamber design. But it fits well in my medium-sized ears and doesn't create any pressure, even during long listening sessions. I can lean back against a pillow while listening to the music and still feel comfortable. The cable is tangle-free and doesn’t pick up any noise (microphonics), so I can enjoy my music even while walking. The ear hooks are a bit stiff but don’t cause any discomfort. The only downside is the stock ear tips. They’re made of soft silicone, but they’re not very comfortable (typical for stock ear tips at this price point, except for Dunu). Overall, it's a comfortable setup for long listening sessions. Just swap out the ear tips for your preferred ones, and you’re good to go!

SOUND IMPRESSION:
What I love most about the Adonis New is its warm tuning. The sub-bass rumble is incredibly satisfying for this price point. It feels like the low wave is running through your ear canal, and it’s fantastic as long as you enjoy that kind of sound. But don’t worry, it doesn’t bleed into the mid-bass! The mid-bass is warm and full-bodied, with a nice thump, authority, and decent speed (though not as fast as more technical sets). The midrange, where the heart of the music is, is clean and bold. Vocals are warm and rich, and the lower notes of string instruments have great texture. The treble is another thing to highlight! It’s not dark, but warm, detailed, and enjoyable, at least to my ears. Plus, it doesn’t cause any fatigue, even during long listening sessions.
Take a look at the frequency graph, and you will understand it all -

SUB-BASS:
I like the sub-bass on the new Adonis more than the Aful Explorer (my personal favorite warm IEM of 2024). Both have a bass-heavy, warm sound, but the sub-bass in the Adonis New is top-notch. The DD is tuned perfectly to bring the lower frequencies to life. It’s a bit loose, giving a wavy sensation, but it stays in its place and never bleeds into the upper frequencies. This is what makes this IEM stand out. When I listened to "Sox of the Fox (MTV Unplugged)" by A-ha, the Adonis New really showed off its sub-bass handling. I could hear every lower note of the bass guitar and piano that fell into the sub-bass region. It’s audible even as the song progresses and more instruments come in. When the vocals hit those high notes, the sub-bass still stays in place and mixes well with the other instruments in the background. It's impressive how well Adonis New handles the lower regions. Bass lovers will definitely appreciate this.
MID-BASS:
In one word—fantastic! The Adonis New also has a really strong mid-bass section to go along with its awesome sub-bass. It's tuned just right for that warm, rich sound. Unlike those technical sets where the mid-bass is super-fast but lacks body, the mid-bass here has the right weight and decent speed. Metal fans might miss the quick mid-bass they're used to, but classic rock, country, jazz, blues, and reggae lovers will be thrilled. I had a blast listening to Mark Knopfler's music with these IEMs, along with a bunch of other genres. In “Darling Pretty,” the Adonis New lets you really hear and feel the mid-bass. Every kick and stroke on the kick drum, snare, and tom comes alive, and Knopfler’s guitar's low notes hit just right. But to be honest, I did miss the mid-bass speed a bit when listening to the popular hit “Chop Suey!” by System of A Down. It felt like the IEM missed some kicks and strokes on the lower notes. Like I said before, these aren’t designed to be technical or mid-forward for that ‘metal satisfaction,’ but they still do a great job overall.

MALE VOCALS:
If you're like me and love a meaty, thick tone in male vocals, you’re going to love Adonis New. The midrange on these IEMs is warm and lean, making male vocals really shine with fantastic texture. It’s so relaxing to listen to vocalists like Glenn Frey. His performance in “New Kid in Town” by the Eagles is incredibly satisfying. Every nuance and inflection in his voice comes through clearly, and even the high notes stay smooth. The only downside is a bit of BA timbre in some poorly recorded tracks from the '60s, '70s, and '80s classic era, where most of the records were on par and not mastered like the ones of the millennium era. You can notice it in songs like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” by Harry Belafonte. When he sings “Me say, six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch,” the “s” and “ch” sounds can be a bit disturbing. But other than that, this IEM is excellent for enjoying male vocals.
FEMALE VOCALS:
If the sharpness in female vocals gives you fatigue or feels too shouty, then the Adonis New is perfect for you. It delivers female vocals with warmth and clarity, offering a rich and engaging listening experience. Unlike other ‘technical’ sets, it doesn’t push the midrange too forward, so vocals maintain a great balance between power and softness. You can still feel the strength in Whitney Houston’s voice without missing the sweet, soft breaths. Listening to her amazing track “Saving All My Love for You,” I fell in love with it all over again. Her emotional highs and lows are easy to feel. I’m a big fan of warm-tuning IEMs and dislike it when the midrange is too forward, as it can be fatiguing. But if you love sparkly and super powerful female vocals, you might miss that brightness. There's also a bit of BA timbre noticeable in some vocals, like Victoria Night from Blackmore’s Night, but overall, it's fantastic for enjoying female vocals.

INSTRUMENT SEPARATION:
Adonis New is pretty average when it comes to handling complex tracks. Its bass is elevated, which slightly affects the mids. You can still enjoy the music with decent instrument placement and separation, especially when instruments play in the same scale and melody. But it's not perfect and can get a bit muddy with busy tracks. When I listened to “Us & Them” by Pink Floyd, the beginning was great. Rick Wright’s keyboard, Nick Mason’s drums, and Dick Parry’s saxophone, along with Gilmour’s calm vocals, all stayed in their place with good separation, not overpowering each other. But when the chorus kicked in with everything playing at high pitch, it got busy and a bit muddy, making it harder to pick out each instrument. Still, it’s a solid listening experience for the most part! Overall, it's decent but has its limits with complex arrangements.

TREBLE:
The Adonis New offers a treble that's smooth and easygoing, with a roll-off in the upper region. This design choice keeps the sound from becoming harsh while still maintaining a pleasant sparkle and good decay, ensuring it never feels dull or lifeless. This IEM clearly focused on emphasizing the bass and midrange, allowing the treble to complement these frequencies rather than dominate them. While listening to “Without You” by Mariah Carey, it feels so safe when the note hits in high pitch with high scale guitars and other string instruments. Due to that roll-off in the upper region, the cymbals decay a bit fast, with a hint of less air. It’s not a downside for a treble sensitive listener like me. Overall, the treble on the Adonis New is designed to enhance your listening experience without causing fatigue, providing a versatile sound that's both engaging and relaxing. It’s perfect for those who prefer a non-fatiguing, laid-back listening experience with just the right amount of sparkle to keep things interesting.
SOUNDSTAGE:
The Adonis New might not have the widest soundstage, but it still offers a nice sense of space. I don't see this as a downside because its strength lies in musicality, and it truly excels there. When I listened to “Time (PULSE version)” by Pink Floyd, I could really feel the stage. The music had good height, width, and even depth. The ticking clocks and ringing bells seemed to swirl around my head, creating a cool sensation. I could clearly sense the space between the kick drums and crash cymbals! While it's not the widest out there, it delivers each instrument with great placement, never feeling too cramped or congested. It really gets the job done!


POWERING IT UP:
The hybrid driver configuration and 4.4mm balanced jack supplied with stock cable say it all. Yes, you need to give it some juice to drive it to its full potential. No, it’s not a huge power-hungry set, but still, it needs adequate power to shine. A DAC dongle with moderate power can drive it easily, but remember, a good power source can bring out the real performance of Adonis New!
CABLE & TIP ROLLING:
I didn’t swap the cable, as the stock one is good enough to present its characteristics and has a 4.4mm balanced jack, which I appreciate. But the supplied ear tips are on par and don’t do justice to a $180 priced IEM. After experimenting with various ear tips like the Spinfit W1, Omni, TRI Clarion, Penon Liqueur, Dunu S&S, Candy, and Divinus Velvet wide bore, I settled on the Clarion & Velvet wide bore. I find the sound stage feels a little bigger and more open while using these two tips. Among these two tips, for fit & comfort, my first choice is Clarion for longer listening sessions. Your experience may vary, so don’t bother to roll out tips to find your perfect match.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
I really don’t put any gear recommendations in any of my reviews because it varies from person to person. Enjoying music is a personal matter, right? But here, I find some cool things I wish to share with you. To get the most out of this Adonis New, you must have a source that has a good stage with a bit of a transparent sound (but not like Questyle M15). You can buy Fosi Audio DS1/2 or Hidizs S8 Pro Robin, and they are not expensive if you consider their performance. And I must recommend the Divinus Velvet wide bore ear tips, as they will give you a different experience with this IEM, like a bit of control in low frequencies with quite a wide stage, good separation, and surprisingly audible ‘air’ on the treble.
WHO SHOULD GET IT:
● Warm Sound Lovers: If you enjoy a rich, warm sound with smooth mids and bass, this is a great choice.
● Non-Fatiguing Listening: Perfect for long sessions without causing ear fatigue.
● Bass Enthusiasts: Offers satisfying sub-bass and mid-bass without overwhelming the mids.
● Comfort Seekers: Designed for comfort during extended use, even for marathon listening.
● Versatile Use: Works well across different music genres, from rock to pop.
● Moderate Power Needs: Can be driven well with a good DAC dongle, though benefits from a bit more power.
● Build and Aesthetics: If you appreciate quality construction and a sleek design.
MAYBE LOOK ELSEWHERE IF:
● You Prefer Bright Treble: It has a more relaxed treble, so it might not satisfy those who like a lot of sparkle.
● You Need Wide Soundstage: The soundstage is decent but not expansive.
● You Crave Speedy Mid-Bass: It’s not as quick as some technical sets, which might not suit metal enthusiasts.
● You Require Minimal Power Needs: It benefits from a bit more power than basic setups.
● You Dislike Warm Sound: If you prefer a neutral or bright sound signature, this might not be for you.


CONCLUSION:
Adonis New is a fantastic and enjoyable IEM if you are a ‘warm-head’ like me or if you love lash relaxing sound with non-fatiguing treble. And if you are in love with design aesthetics, this is a must-have set for you due to its pine cone & resin built with artistic textures. While it needs a bit more power, it's not a big issue since it can be easily driven by a good DAC dongle like the Moondrop Dawn Pro (but for ultimate sonic pleasure, go for either the Hidizs S8 Pro or Fosi Audio DS1). If your preferences align with this IEM's features and you have a decent audio source, you won’t regret choosing it. One thing to consider is getting some better ear tips, like the TRI Clarion (3 pairs for only 9 USD) or Divunus Velvet wide bore (3 pairs for only 20 USD), for an improved fit and sound experience. Overall, if you value a warm sound signature and artistic design, the Adonis New is a must-have for your collection.

Attachments
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shntrkr
New Head-Fier
Pros: stylish box presentatio
product design and cable color
long strong and perceptive bass
clean, uncrushed middle range
The carrying bag is very stylish
product design and cable color
long strong and perceptive bass
clean, uncrushed middle range
The carrying bag is very stylish
Cons: dark tonal
Audio Geek Türkiye Group; We are with QOA Adonis, who was sent to me as part of the Türkiye Tour. Thank them very much And I will try to convey my thoughts impartially.
He is a strict bench player who was put on the field as a relative of Qoa Kinera. After Vasper and Aviation, there is Adonis on the field.
What's offered in the AOQ AdonisNEw box
When you open the box, you feel the excitement of owning a special product, it makes you feel that you are buying a premium product, and it does justice to the presentation.
Just like Kinera Freya, there is care, design and elegance here. The ties of kinship are everywhere in front of us
The items themselves are detailed with cocooning parts.
Quad-core silver-plated 0.78 purple-tinged cable with pink and blue strands
6 dual-color silicone tips
A very stylish carrying box in purple color
3.5 and 4.4 bits
There are warranty documents.
Resources Used
Btr 5 Btr 7 XU09 LG V30 Epz TP20 Pro
I usually write my impressions using the 3.5 jack because it takes on a very different identity in 4.4. At the beginning, there is a very sharp transition from the narrow closed space to the airy one.
If you are looking for a headset that looks different, you can attract attention with its style and color. Let's go into the details.
Comfort: With 6 bi-colored silicone tips, the tips that allow you to choose balance (yellow-white-black) or vocal (purple) fit well in the ear.
The thick and soft cable and the fact that the 3.5 and 4.4 tip parts are in the housing make it more durable.
Bass: This is, of course, the most prominent feature after the design. Both the feeling of hitting, the deep penetration and the perceptible aspect are quite successful.
In fact, its chaotic dark structure makes you wander in hums in some tracks. It quickly exits these hums and does not miss other tones. In other words, it is just a bass headphone, yes it winks, but
It is not inferior in other features.
Mid: We are on the side that is not left behind. While the freedom of the bass continues in this area, the vocals are not left in the middle or behind.
Especially in male vocals, there is a velvety and transition. It is full but not sharp.
Despite its dark structure, female vocals are not overwhelmed. The instruments can be easily distinguished and the mids are really successful.
Treble: Maybe this is where it doesn't do very well, because it doesn't have a sharp and stinging level. It's smooth and light, and even the fact that it's not high enough is a plus for me.
Naturally, it offers the opportunity to listen for a long time without tiring the ears.
Result: A beautiful product that can do everything at the same time has emerged. Yes, it may feel like a bass headphone, but it also gives a very clean and high performance in the middle.
The bass may be excessive for those who like more balanced or neutral sounding headphones. Its dynamic and entertaining structure is admirable thanks to its presentation.
He is a strict bench player who was put on the field as a relative of Qoa Kinera. After Vasper and Aviation, there is Adonis on the field.
What's offered in the AOQ AdonisNEw box
When you open the box, you feel the excitement of owning a special product, it makes you feel that you are buying a premium product, and it does justice to the presentation.
Just like Kinera Freya, there is care, design and elegance here. The ties of kinship are everywhere in front of us

The items themselves are detailed with cocooning parts.
Quad-core silver-plated 0.78 purple-tinged cable with pink and blue strands
6 dual-color silicone tips
A very stylish carrying box in purple color
3.5 and 4.4 bits
There are warranty documents.


Resources Used
Btr 5 Btr 7 XU09 LG V30 Epz TP20 Pro
I usually write my impressions using the 3.5 jack because it takes on a very different identity in 4.4. At the beginning, there is a very sharp transition from the narrow closed space to the airy one.
If you are looking for a headset that looks different, you can attract attention with its style and color. Let's go into the details.
Comfort: With 6 bi-colored silicone tips, the tips that allow you to choose balance (yellow-white-black) or vocal (purple) fit well in the ear.
The thick and soft cable and the fact that the 3.5 and 4.4 tip parts are in the housing make it more durable.
Bass: This is, of course, the most prominent feature after the design. Both the feeling of hitting, the deep penetration and the perceptible aspect are quite successful.
In fact, its chaotic dark structure makes you wander in hums in some tracks. It quickly exits these hums and does not miss other tones. In other words, it is just a bass headphone, yes it winks, but
It is not inferior in other features.
Mid: We are on the side that is not left behind. While the freedom of the bass continues in this area, the vocals are not left in the middle or behind.
Especially in male vocals, there is a velvety and transition. It is full but not sharp.
Despite its dark structure, female vocals are not overwhelmed. The instruments can be easily distinguished and the mids are really successful.
Treble: Maybe this is where it doesn't do very well, because it doesn't have a sharp and stinging level. It's smooth and light, and even the fact that it's not high enough is a plus for me.
Naturally, it offers the opportunity to listen for a long time without tiring the ears.



Result: A beautiful product that can do everything at the same time has emerged. Yes, it may feel like a bass headphone, but it also gives a very clean and high performance in the middle.
The bass may be excessive for those who like more balanced or neutral sounding headphones. Its dynamic and entertaining structure is admirable thanks to its presentation.
Ceeluh7
500+ Head-Fier
Pros: -The build is beyond awesome
-Pinecone & Resin, who thinks of this? Also, amazing
-Very nice unboxing
-Accessories are all premium
-Beautiful pink/blue/purple modular cable
-Great musicality
-Beefy note weight
-Bass reaches deep
-Musical Midrange, very engaging
-Nice depth of stage
-Pinecone & Resin, who thinks of this? Also, amazing
-Very nice unboxing
-Accessories are all premium
-Beautiful pink/blue/purple modular cable
-Great musicality
-Beefy note weight
-Bass reaches deep
-Musical Midrange, very engaging
-Nice depth of stage
Cons: -Not everyone will like this look
-Bass may be too emphasized for some
-Not the most technically inclined iem
-Could use a bit more treble energy & extension
-Not the best note definition
-Details
-Separation of instruments
-Bass may be too emphasized for some
-Not the most technically inclined iem
-Could use a bit more treble energy & extension
-Not the best note definition
-Details
-Separation of instruments
QOA Adonis New Review

Full Review HERE

QOA Adonis New
Intro
Well hello everyone, I have with me today one of the latest hybrid iems from the audio brand QOA or “Queen of Audio” named the QOA Adonis New. I was very excited to try out this set as part of the Audio Geeks United States Tour as I was never able to listen to the OG QOA Adonis and so it really was a special thing to see in the mail. So, thank you Audio Geeks and thank you to Queen of Audio & Kinera! I am utterly impressed by the design, the accessories, the build and very happy with the sound. This is one of the only times that I wrote my intro while in the process of review as this set is time sensitive and must keep moving down the line of reviewers. So, it is a bittersweet time I’ve had with it. I suppose that’s just how tours go. Of course, there are much worse problems to have. Lol.Kinera/QOA/Celest
Friends, if anyone has spent any time reading any of my Kinera, QOA, or Celest reviews then you would have noticed a common theme within my reviews. That theme being the favoritism I afford these three brands or sister companies. Hey, these are my reviews and I do get excited and for whatever reason Kinera simply strikes that happy place within me. I think it’s the effort and care they put into their creations. I’m telling you people; I respect that so much. I have this vision in my mind of a group of people working hard on a common goal, a theme, determined to see their creation succeed and then sending their little creation out into the market. To be honest, I’m a romantic about everything but somehow, I feel I’m not too far off on this vision.Love affair
I think my love affair with Kinera came at my first review of the Kinera Hodur (Hodur Review). Reading about it I found that Kinera went as far as to give this set a personality, a storyline, a theme, and they actually tuned that set in accordance with the name and the theme that went along with the Hodur. As I moved along reviewing other Kinera, QOA or Celest sets I of course noticed the theme spread out to all of their iems. Every one of them. Each had a story, a concept, or a premise by which each set was built, designed, and tuned to. I find this fascinating friends. What a brilliant set of minds, so creative, so artistic and so willing to impress. You gotta wonder how unified a unit of people must need to be to coordinate each set in this way. Another thing, Kinera never puts anything to market unless it is finished. They don’t seem to rush, they don’t need a million sets out a year, and they seem to do it all just to bring the best possible product to market. The funny thing is that not everyone even notices. They don’t always notice the work (some do), the craftiness, inventiveness, imagination, and the cohesion it takes for a team to bring it all together.Adonis
The Adonis New is the successor to the original Adonis from QOA which came out a little while ago. At any rate, who’s Adonis? I’m glad you asked. Adonis happens to be the Greek god of beauty & desire and a favorite of the goddess Aphrodite. The main idea behind Adonis is wrapped up in the meaning behind his death and resurrection, which ultimately is represented by the decay of nature in the winter and then the restoration of life at Spring. Hence the color of the Adonis New, the pinecone, the purples, the shades of pink. It all represents that quickening or rebirth of new life. C’mon folks, only Kinera/QOA/Celest thinks of this stuff. However, I’ve also heard a few slightly grimmer thoughts that Adonis symbolizes the joy and sunshine of spring & summer as well as the doom & gloom of winter. I suppose we’ll focus on the sunshine portion of that representation. The actual story (ultra-condensed version) is that Adonis was once a normal human being, all flesh & flawed. However, while out in a hunt, Adonis actually was wounded by a wild boar and bled out in the arms of a distraught Aphrodite. Next, Aphrodite pleads to Zeus to spare his life. Zeus obliged and instead of simply giving him life back, Zeus turned Adonis into a god. So, death and rebirth. The cool thing is that QOA saw to it to build, design, and tune the Adonis New with this story in mind. It’s very cool and I applaud QOA for doing so.Impressed
I haven’t tried out as many of this brand’s iems as I would like. I’ve reviewed a handful of them and each time I come away impressed. Sets like the Kinera Hodur (Hodur Review), QOA Aviation (Aviation Review), Celest Wyvern Pro (Wyvern Pro Review), Celest Pandamon (Pandamon Review), Celest Pandamon 2.0 (Pandamon 2.0 Review), Celest Phoenixcall (Phoenixcall Review), Kinera X-Effect Orlog (Orlog Review) and the Celest Relentless (Relentless Review) among a few others. The point is, each of these products are extremely well done for their respective prices and each certainly contends with similarly tuned or similarly configured sets within their price points. One of these days I’ll try out some of Kinera’s pricier sets. However, no complaints here, I’ve had a joy with their products thus far.Well folks, I’ve already been listening to the Adonis New for a little over a week and I think I’ve spent enough time to give a good assessment of this set. I suppose I have little to no choice as the tour gives us a week with the product. Is that enough time to properly assess an iem? It’s on the low side. Eh, I’ll make it work. So, without further ado, the QOA Adonis New…
Non-Affiliated Purchasing links:
–Kinera Audio–HiFiGo
Disclaimer:
I received the QOA Adonis New from Audio Geeks United States Tour and from Kinera as a loaned tour sample. In exchange I will conduct a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com as well as Audio Geek. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. Again, this set is a tour unit. Kinera has not requested to pre-read any review and doesn’t have any control over “what” or “when” anything gets published to mobileaudiophile.com. All thoughts within this review are my own, though please take note that I will always have my own biases. This is impossible to get around. I try to be as objective as my subjective self can be, but this is an opinion piece folks. Thank you to Audio Geek/Kinera and thanks for reading.

Gear used for testing
–Ifi Go Blu
–EPZ TP50
–Simgot Dew4x
–Aful SnowyNight
–Fiio Q15
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
–Shanling M6 Ultra

Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
QOA knows who they are selling their products to. They know what we like to see. We don’t want plain stuff with plain accessories. No sir, we want that luxurious and accessory filled unboxing. Of course. So, the QOA Adonis New arrived at my home in a slightly longer than usual rectangular box. This box I’m referring has a sleeve covering with a very nice design that is very colorful showing off some of the colors you’ll see in the Adonis New earphones. There’re some specs on the back as well. So, take the sleeve off what you get is the actual box with a very artistic rendering of what looks like beautifully colored water worn caverns and the name “Adonis” imposed in the center. Open the box and many of the accessories are laid out in a very clean way. All of the eartips sit within evenly spaced foam cut-outs, in a line. In between the two rows of eartips is the Adonis New earphones which are gorgeous to look at. Next to all of that is the carrying case looking all dapper. Open that case and you’ll find the modular cable as well as the adapters that come with the cable. This is a very nice unboxing and I love the preparation and care that went into the look and lay-out. Of course, this is a QOA/Kinera design and unboxing.


Eartips

QOA decided upon six pairs of eartips and two different styles of those eartips. You get three sizes of each style (S, M, L). The first set is what appears to be identical to the KBear 07 tips. Those being semi-wide bore white silicone tips with rigid flanges and a very stiff inner stem. These are the tips that I chose to use as they seemed to bring out the upper mids a hair more and add a slight bit more energy. However, QOA also added in some shallower fit wide-bore silicone eartips. I didn’t quite get the fit I wanted with those tips, but they are nice to have for any collection. Both sets if tips make sense for the earphones as this is something that QOA seems to get right. They provide eartips which work with the tonal properties of the Adonis New. What a novel thought. I certainly wish more brands would take a hair more time with choosing the eartips but, not everyone can be a Kinera.
Carrying case

The carrying case is a really striking all purple open top case with what appears to be leather or a nice feeling faux leather. I usually don’t ever use carrying cases, but I could see myself rocking this one. It’s a nicely designed case. Nice stitching all the way around. It opens and shuts easily but stays closed. I can easily fit the Adonis New into the case along with its cable and maybe a dongle dac if I tried hard enough. It’s a nice inclusion into the packaging and that’s probably all I have to say about that, time to keep moving… shall we.
Cable

Okay, now we’re talking. Friends, listen, I get it that not everyone is into an effeminate design. I get it if you are too much of a dude for purples and pinks. I get it. I’m a dude through and through. Drive a huge Chevy truck and carry big pocketknives everywhere I go. I’m a dude. 1000%. But how can anyone (no matter your sex) tell me that the cable that comes with the Adonis New is not 100% dope? How? Look at this cable! What a perfect match with the Adonis New! To be exact the cable is a 4-core silver-plated 5N copper cable which has modular connections of 3.5 and 4.4 balanced jacks. Obviously, this allows the listener to swap out jacks per their needs. I for one didn’t use anything other than the 4.4 and it works very well. Not everyone makes good modular connectors. Anyways, the cable is purple in color with strands of light blues and pinks with a Litz style braiding. All of the fittings attached to the cable are made of pure aluminum and colored to contrast the purplish color of the cable. I’m telling you, attached to the Adonis New the cable is absolutely perfectly matched and aesthetically very pleasing to the eye. Great job Queen of Audio.


Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
This takes us to the actual build of the QOA Adonis New. QOA decided upon an all-resin design with actual pinecones mixed into the resin and then honed out using CNC machining. They literally carve out the inside to form the acoustic cavity and then polish the Adonis New to a gorgeous shine. Premium all the way folks. There’s no other way to put it. It’s premium. This build and artistic ingenuity should be reserved for much more expensive sets. Yet here it is on a $180 iem. Truly a special build. Now, the nozzles are medium length and don’t reach too far into the ear while the nozzle width is an industry standard of about 6mm or 5.9mm to be exact. One priceless feature of this set’s build is the actual weight of the Adonis New. Weighing in at only 3.8 grams it will certainly be one of the lighter sets you put into your ears. QOA really nailed this build friends.




Design
The design follows the same trajectory as the build… it’s premium. The colors simply POP on this set. Meanwhile you have these little pieces of brown pinecone mixed in with the spring colors. Like I said, the Adonis New has mixed and swirled around colors of purples and pinks and right in the center of the faceplate area you’ll notice the name “Adonis” in silver cursive lettering. Straight up elegance in every way. The nozzle takes on a brass color which contrasts the floral design so very well. I’m just impressed, and I do feel that the people of QOA deserve their flowers for this one. Friends, there are only so many ways to design a set of earphones. We’ve seen it all haven’t we? What is there left to create? I feel one of the most difficult parts of making an earphone is coming up with a fresh and new design language against the trillions of sets within the known Audioverse. Think about it. QOA pulled a very nice design out of their hat, and they did so in a very fresh way. Kudos to Queen of Audio.Internals
The Adonis New is a three-driver hybrid iem consisting of one 9.2mm copper ring titanium diaphragm dynamic driver handling the low-end. Next QOA went with a Knowles balanced armature driver for the midrange and one QOA customized balanced armature to cover the highs. QOA states that they went with a 3-way frequency division architecture while also using two tubes to help on that division. This isn’t some super complicated set and to be honest, it’s kinda refreshing. We don’t need a thousand drivers; we simply need the right number of drivers tuned well. That’s what QOA did and to me that’s classy and done in a way that cohesiveness is paramount, musicality is key, and each area of the mix is well accounted for.Fit / Isolation
The actual fit of the Adonis New is quite awesome for this guy. Like I state in every review I complete… I have absolutely no clue how this set will fit you. I can tell you this; if you get a good seal and the fit isn’t totally cattywampus, it’ll feel really good in your ear. Remember, the Adonis New only weighs 3.8 grams. If you didn’t know, 3.8 grams is next to nothing, and I’d say that is exactly how this set feels. They’re light, they are ergonomic, and they should seat well in the great majority of hobbyists’ ears. Also, isolation is good too. Probably not better than most sets, but good. Certainly not bad. I’d say that translates to… about average, which is good.
Drivability / Pairings
Looking at the promotional material for the QOA Adonis New, it says that it’s rated at an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 105 db’s. Basically, the Adonis New is very easy to drive from most any source you’ll have at your disposal. I always check every option I have for every review. But, since this was a tour set and I only had a week, I didn’t have as much time with it, and I had to “get the show on the road” (so to speak). So, I couldn’t test it with all of my sources. I’d assume that a phone would drive the Adonis New just fine. I used about four dongle dacs here and there and they all drove it very easily. Of course, I mainly used the 4.4 connection for all of my listening, going with a 3.5 at times simply to check the difference. From my findings, adding some additional power does help to a slight degree as it ups the dynamic energy, macro-dynamics, dynamic range and seems to just tighten everything up. If that makes sense.Mobile Listening

The Adonis New leans warmer and so I first paired this set with closer to neutral sources. Of course, these pairings made sense. However, even slightly warmer source devices sounded perfectly fine. Except the Roseselsa RS9039. That one simply didn’t bring the Adonis New to its best place sonically with even more obvious rolled off treble. I much more enjoyed the Aful SnowyNight, EPZ TP50, Simgot Dew4x, Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, even the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 was a very nice pairing. Devices closer to neutral or slightly warm/neutral in tonality. Now, this doesn’t always hold true as you’ll see with my dap situation.
Daps
I truly enjoy the Shanling M6 Ultra with the Adonis New. Now, the M6 Ultra leans slightly warmer, but it is very resolving, tight, and very clean sounding. So, I do think its resolving ability made a nice difference because man those two pair nicely together. I also used the iBasso DX240 which worked seamlessly with its ES9038Pro dac chip which comes across as highly dynamic and neutral in tonality. However, out of everything I used, the Fiio Q15 stole the show. The Adonis New really created nice synergy with the Q15 and its AK4499EX+AK4191 dac chips. Again, closer to neutral, highly dynamic, well controlled. The Q15 really brought the best out of the Adonis New.What do you need?
If it was me, I’d at least want a nice dongle dac, preferably something closer to neutral and very dynamic in presentation. That’s just me though. I’m sure most any dongle dac will sound nice. I feel the only caveat would be source devices that have an early roll-off up top. The Adonis New is already warm and the treble isn’t the most energetic I’ve ever heard so providing a bit of extra energy in the treble from the source device is helpful. Power wise, again, at least a dongle dac and if you have a better source than I think you’ll be good to go.
Sound Impressions
Condensed Sound Between the 20’s
The QOA Adonis New is one of those sets which teeter “more-so” in one direction, but doing so in a very clean way is the best way to put it, I think. In this case I find the Adonis New to be more of an L-shaped sound with a boosted bass region, a very “present” and nicely rendered midrange as well as a completely non-offensive treble region that layers notes nicely with good note body but doesn’t provide a whole lot of energy or brilliance. So ya, L-shaped with a meaty bass that delivers deep yet rounded notes and heavy impact. The midrange is perhaps a bit tame for some folks, but not relegated to the back of the sound field. Just not overly energetic. Vocals are actually very nice. “Like butta baby”! Forgive me, but these are the first words which sprang to mind upon hearing Dermot Kennedy emotionally sing his feelings in “Rome”. Lastly, the treble isn’t the most luminous and there’s no forced resolution. It simply plays its part providing great cohesion to the overall character of this set.Smooth
Anyways, the sound is smooth, smooth, and… smooth. However, it’s not smooth as in… “plush”, but rather smooth like… “buttery or syrupy”. Smooth like a higher viscosity oil rather than wooly or fuzzy. There’re also no jagged edges folks. In my opinion, the timbre is very nice, with a taught-richness and nicely resolved even with its thicker note body. Maybe not “resolving” in the same vein as something like the Simgot EA1000 is resolving. That’s more like lean-muscle mass, ultra tight, neutral canvas, brighter, more illuminated. No sir. The Adonis New is generally robust, weighted, and the Adonis New makes its presence felt with a cleaner lined yet resplendent density and creamy note rhythm. The bass is emphasized quite a bit as the Adonis New definitely leans to the left and so there’s this prevailing warmth which caters to the more emotionally gripping tracks, yet I find the Adonis New is great for many genres.It’s L-shaped
Now, the Adonis New isn’t the most sprightly or quick sound you’ll ever hear. Decay is on the “natural” side permitting secondary harmonics to perceivably reach their natural release point, as each note will decay till its perceived completion. Basically, this isn’t the most transient-quick and peppy sound I’ve ever heard. Certainly not slow or laggy, but again, it’s also not some snappy, zippy and peppy set either. As far as timbre is concerned, I find the Adonis New to lean organic, almost natural, yet with some bass coloration. If organic means to you… less intense brightness, warm, melodic, with an emotionally gratifying natural timbre, cadence, tone and realistically weighted inflections to both voices and instruments. To be completely honest, “organic” can be something different for everyone. I did read a comment somewhere that the Adonis New has a neutral tinge to it, which I personally wouldn’t agree with, but everyone perceives sound a bit differently. To me this set is warm and L-shaped through and through yet with this dynamism that keeps it from being veiled or bogged down.

Bass Region
The bass region is emphasized a good portion above the rest of the mix and so it does sound full and weighted. I’ve seen more of these types of tunings lately than I’ve seen in a long time. Emphasized and colored bass regions, less energy at the top of the spectrum. It’s fun, it hits hard, and it goes deep with great density. This is the type of bass which does color the rest of the mix to a degree. You will hear and sense an overarching warmth instead of open and airy and that has a lot to do with the amount of low-end tuned into the Adonis New’s signature. However, this also makes this set a hint polarizing in the respect that not everyone yearns for a bass-boi type replay all the time. It can be an acquired taste. There are tracks which will feel stuffy and less defined at times, but for the most part the Adonis New has a well-managed bigger bass section for the quantity. Having said that, separation of the bass region may be a bit more blurred so be aware. The bass has girth to it and it sits closer to the listener. I think of it not like a bull in a China shop. It’s definitely bullish. However, it’s more like a bull who knows its way around a China shop. It still has some essence of good agility. Not so flat and wide but rounded with a forward presence.Sub-bass
Looking at the sub-bass the Adonis New reaches a very deep and low pitch and it does so with bulbous girth and can become flat-out guttural when called upon to do so. The sub-bass will slightly infuse with the mid-bass sounding a bit one-noted. Having said that, the sub-bass is very dense. It has a palpable feel to my music. “Heavy is the Ocean” by Bush vibrates the back sides of my eyeball’s folks. At the beginning of that track a deep, vibration-riddled bassline reverbs with a kinetic feeling and deep drone. This is a sub-bass that most certainly encroaches on the mid-bass stealing some texture from that region. Perhaps not 100% concrete at the note outline or on attack with a slightly softer note edge. However, underlying that soft perimeter is a rock-hard solid foundation. I’ve always likened it to a hammer wrapped in a sock, a rock covered in insulation, Beachwood adorned with feathers. Okay that last one was pretty stupid, but you get the point. Well, maybe they were all pretty stupid, but the analogy holds true in my mind. I get that from many bass drops, feathered kick drums with a raucous hollow boom. Not as tacky on attack. Still well defined and still clean for its quantity. I don’t want you getting the wrong idea. It’s just thick and it makes its presence felt in any sub-bass-oriented track as well as any other track as it colors the other frequencies. Again, this is an acquired taste. You have to want a heavier, meatier sub-bass.Mid-bass
The mid-bass has a ton of boom to it. It too is forward (obviously) and it too has a heavy presence. Waxahatchee has many tracks with some fuller bass guitar and drums and in the track “Right Back to It” there’s a foundational bass guitar that quite literally sets the tone of this track. The first thing I notice is that it simply groans with some real fullness. The mid-bass is pronounced in such a way that stuff like bass guitar can reach such a darkened depth it needs from the sub-bass, but also all the realistic fullness from the mid-bass as well. The thing is, the Adonis New is tuned very nicely for a bassier set as the bass guitar doesn’t pounce all over the strumming guitar to my right, or the vocalist in the center. In this way there is nice separation. Yes, it’s big and yes, it’s full, but it doesn’t straight up mask over the midrange to the point of veil. Now, this is not the quickest bass region, but it has a nice slam and a full impact. Maybe not the best for complicated bass sections within my music but for the size, it’s not bad at all.Downsides to the Bass Region
The downside here is pretty obvious. The bass region is pretty thick, yet it’s probably the focal point of this iem. The midrange may have a thing or two to say about that. I personally feel the bass is awesome for a bigger low-end. Still, there will be those who definitely don’t desire an elevated bass. Especially to the degree that the Adonis New is elevated. The bass can squeeze its way into other regions and definitely creeps into the midrange. Is this a good thing or a bad thing for you? The bass can at times come across a hint one-noted and it can seem a bit less separated than some would like. Maybe it’s a hair soft on attack too. However, these are minor gripes for how nice this lower end can be. I feel QOA did a very nice job crafting a fun sound and ultimately a very musical sound. But more on that later.
Midrange
The QOA Adonis New comes across with a certain richness to its midrange. Milky, creamy, syrupy, and any other descriptive word identifying something moist, rich, luscious or viscous. That’s the Adonis New in a nutshell. Well, there’s actually quite a lot more. There will be those who decide that the Adonis New isn’t energetic enough, or shimmery enough. Maybe not open enough for their liking and I completely understand. Maybe the casual listening side of the audio world has become used to some rendition of a Harman sound, and the Adonis New is not that. This is a midrange which trades fine lines, crispness and lustery-vibrance for a warm version of musicality that is well able to hit all the emotional receptors in the brain. The Adonis New is a very nicely done set which has a very distinct flavor. Again, an organic and earthy sound which carries a different sort of dynamism. Energetic within the bounds of a warm canopy yet still vibrant… even in that warmth.Musical?
The one word which comes to mind when listening to the Adonis New is perhaps the choice word for a midrange. That being “musical”. To me musicality comes from a certain something that I don’t feel has ever really been defined all that great in this hobby. It’s a subjective word which can never be quantified or measured. There’s no correct way to describe it other than what it means to you. I’ve spoken of this before but it’s all the more relevant when the set I’m describing just so happens to be musical inside and out. My opinion of course, because that’s all this word will ever be conceived from… an opinion. My interpretation of “musical” that is. It’s an odd word… musical. We throw it around so easily and yet never justly pinpoint what exactly it is that makes something so whimsically-musical. I poke fun at all of us folks. Without question I am one of the worst offenders in this. Anyways, now that I’ve said all of that, I think musicality in a set should evoke some sort of emotion. It should be tuned in such a way that couples realistic note weight, with realistic dynamics, throupled with a certain indescribable mellifluence. It should have a certain subjective charm to it, or an endearing quality which I doubt that a thin, dry or analytical approach would be able to convey. Maybe that’s why we usually associate musicality with subtle warmth, or organic weight and timbre. Who knows, the point is that the Adonis New has been able to convey to me and for me that canorous and appreciably tuneful… musicality.Some blending
With the Adonis New in my ears there’s some weighted thrust in that smooth attack, some roundness in the body of its notes and it’s clean even with its velvet style. However, there’s also a natural decay to each note. A hearty attack followed by a decay that finally releases when all harmonics have run their course. This type of sound certainly can blend a bit, especially with more complicated tracks, multiple instruments and moving parts, or tracks with more of that forward bass region woomp-woomping in your ears. There’s some instrumental overlap there which isn’t uncommon to real life. Many bands have multiple instruments in concert with each other. The only difference is that with earphones, all of those sounds come out of a 6mm nozzle (on average). The other subjective issue surrounding this set is that the Adonis New doesn’t really have any perceived air or openness from too-little treble energy, coupled with a rich note body. But wow does it sound nice. It all comes together well with this set. No, it isn’t the picture of technical perfection and no, the Adonis New isn’t going to wow anyone with its detailed prowess. What it may do is hit that sweet spot of melodic gratification. If you can rewire your brain a bit, then you may agree with me… QOA did a solid on this one folks.Lower-midrange
I always break up the midrange between low and upper midranges. I don’t know why I do this, other than the low-end seems to affect the low-mids quite a lot whereas the treble seems to affect the upper-mids a lot and breaking them up makes the most sense. At any rate, the same holds true for the Adonis New as the bass certainly does have some effect in the lower midrange. Males hit my ear with a velvet authority. They are weighted, dense and bold, but they’re also malleable, with some agility and some depth to the sound. Take Audioslave‘s lead vocalist Chris Cornell in the track “I Am the Highway”. He has that raspy abrasive voice that is somehow very compelling, even charming. I like how the Adonis New takes that voice and adds body to the fundamental tone of his voice but doesn’t exaggerate the edginess. Many iems will make his voice sound unnatural, almost metallic at times. His voice is front and center and with a very nice presence in the mix. As though it pops a bit. Definitely not recessed to the background of the sound field. Another example is Zach Bryan in the song “28”. The velvet of the Adonis New works seamlessly with Zach’s vocals. The Adonis New also gives fullness to the lightly strumming guitar which begins the track. Similarly, the swell of the violin which cuts through any heaviness is silvery, knife-edged, yet completely mellifluous and it shares the sound field very well with his vocals. I could keep going with examples but that would push me past my word count goal. Basically, males come across very well. Men sound like men, they’re robust, full, and generally very clean for such a smooth sound.Upper-Midrange
Now this is an area where some may find a slight issue. Most sets give females a bit more brilliance to work with. Maybe a hair more shimmer to embellish or furnish a female voice. Like shimmery garland. That’s not exactly what the Adonis New does. Instead, women’s voices have a certain moistness to the note structure. The same goes for instruments in this region. Maybe not as energetic and lifted as some may enjoy but I also wouldn’t call them dull. Vibrance doesn’t have to be bright. Sometimes vibrance will simply be a forward instrument or voice which sits in front, or on a pedestal. In the case of the Adonis New, I’d call it just that. Only that forward voice has this layer of warmth which covers it to a slight degree. There is some treble spill over, but it isn’t so much that it elevates the upper-mids with luminance. So, there will most certainly be those folks who will not jive with the Adonis New. Like I said, for some it’ll be an acquired taste. I’ve done many reviews of late with a more L-shaped hue to the sound and I feel that the pinnacle of that sound thus far has been using the Adonis New. Females and instruments have a liveliness to them, but it simply isn’t all that bright.Females shine
Adele in the track “Hello” really comes alive and shows off her amazing voice when listening to the Adonis New. She comes across very naturally weighted to my ears with just enough moisture to her sound. She sounds forward, but not so much that she sounds unnatural. It is really a very strong timbre which reacts nicely with a strong woman voice. The inflections in her voice have a subdued vibrance and energy which really adds dimension to her voice. I find that almost all females come across in this way to varying degrees. No, they aren’t ultra bright and sparkly, but they are another version of wonderful. The Adonis New is simply a good vocal set. So much so that it has taken me a bit by surprise.Downside to the Midrange
The biggest drawback for most people will definitely be the fact that there isn’t a huge amount of lift in the pinna rise. This area is a bit warmer than some may like. It isn’t very open, airy, separated and it isn’t the most detailed midrange. Anyone who is more of a technical listener who enjoys the subtleties brought forth to the surface will most likely want to keep looking. Granted, for a rich sound the Adonis New is actually nicely resolved. The Adonis New isn’t transient quick and the outer layer of each note is smoothed over with all the rough edges sanded down to a smooth surface. So, on one hand the Adonis New won’t feel snappy and complicated songs or songs which feature a bigger bass section will be prone to some masking or blending. That said, I honestly don’t feel this is a real problem because as smooth as the Adonis New is, details are actually pretty nice. Let’s put it this way, you aren’t missing much. Of course, sets tuned for the purpose of detail retrieval will unquestionably be better in that regard.But I like em’
I assume that you already know if this set is up your alley and like most reviews it’s about at this point that readers will stop… reading. Maybe. I grew to greatly enjoy the milky vocals, the non-offensive and easy listen. In the midrange I’ve had zero moments of shout, glare, peaks, and sibilance is very rare. I enjoy that any vocals (male or female) sound just forward enough and emboldened in a very nice way. I hear zero BA timbre or any metallic tinge to the sound and cohesion between drivers is perfect. The mids are full in body, rich and musical above all else, which is a nice thing to be if you’re a midrange.
Treble Region
Is this the weak point of this set? To me the answer is maybe and most definitely the answer is a yes to some. In fact, unquestionably to some people the treble region will be a head scratcher. You have this boosted bass, big and extended sub-bass followed by a big downhill ride into the mids while the pinna rise is a short hill, maybe a couple speed bumps in the lower treble but nothing which really offsets the bass region. That is where the warmth comes from. Of course that warmth is followed by a moderately boosted and almost linear ride through the treble with good extension. People generally like balance and the Adonis New is far from that. It isn’t balanced, it’s bass heavy. Something tells me that this is exactly what QOA was shooting for. So, to those who yearn for a brighter sound, or even those who simply want more of a balance, this tuning may be a head scratcher.It fits the overall signature
Some reviewers are going to say it’s a badly tuned set because of this less radiant treble. I somewhat disagree, but they will still say it. If balance or brightness is what you are after, then yes, the treble would not be tuned for your personal target. Completely disregarding that this tuning is exactly what QOA was going for. We can’t forget that! It’s an important piece of the pie. After all, how should we judge a set if not to the mark that the brand was trying to achieve. That’s the standard. Did they tune their iem in a solid way to the signature they were hoping to achieve? Not if we (reviewers) like it or not. Who cares about that. People aren’t usually reading to find out what we like, they want to know if they will like it. It’s their money that our opinions help veer one way or another. So, in that vein I can definitely say that the treble region on the Adonis New fits the overall signature wonderfully. It fits. The treble doesn’t illuminate or thin out any of that warmth and richness for a brighter hue. I feel it’s just enough. Now, personally I would usually gravitate towards sets with a bit more levity to the sound, but boy have I been bewitched by the sound of the Adonis New and the treble (or lack thereof) is a reason for that.Treble cont…
So, the treble doesn’t leap off the graph with bright energetic brilliance and it doesn’t have that good airy and open sound which would help to open up the midrange, which would also help to create perceived separation of instruments and vocals. It also doesn’t add any of that sprightly shimmer to the midrange. Maybe it’s a bit dull in comparison to other sets, but I don’t feel it’s dull per se. The treble just isn’t the type which is going to uplift and generate energy in that way.A bit apologetic
However, the treble does have good body, like the rest of the mix. It also has better extension than I figured it would have. I still get some good info out past 8-10k. Much better than many sets, except the Adonis New does so in a way that doesn’t distort or color the timbre. It won’t come across artificial or forced. Stuff like cymbals don’t even try to sound splashy on this set. Each note is smooth and won’t even dream of offending. I want to get across (as best I can) that there is some talented treble on this set but it’s just not very forward and it isn’t a focal point. Details actually are good with the right tracks and the treble has good note definition. Resolution doesn’t come across as hi-res as some sets are tuned with, but there’s some punch up top when needed and you can listen for hours without needing a break or turning the volume down. I know I’m coming across a bit apologetic over the treble, but I honestly like how it fits in the overall tuning. I feel it’s just enough emphasis to take on a good supporting role and just enough emphasis to not come across as too dark, boring, lifeless or lackluster.Downsides to the Treble Region
I feel we’ve covered this. The obvious answer is the lack of energy afforded to the treble. For many this will be a point of contention, but for fans of a musical and non-offending sound I think that would be a non-point. But if I were to pile on the obvious answer above, I could also say that the treble lacks crunch and bite. It doesn’t come across as airy and the treble will lack brilliance. Resolution isn’t going to wow anyone, and details won’t be illuminated to the surface as easily as some sets. Still, in the end it all comes down to how each of the sections fit together and as far as I can tell the cohesiveness is wonderful. Really a very well done iem from QOA.
Technicalities
Soundstage
Listening with the Adonis New has been a very nice experience. Part of that reason has to do with the depth of field. It gives this set a 3D quality which is nice to hear. Stage width is about average I’d say, and height is about the same. However, I personally don’t feel a set reaches its pinnacle because of the vastness of an imaginary psycho-acoustically rendered stage. I think a good stage helps but a good stage doesn’t necessarily mean big, wide, tall, and deep. What I can say for sure is that the stage is full in this set. It fills all the areas of the sound field every time I listen. It is somewhat closer to the listener and is intimate in that way, but it’s also got that depth to give it some dimensionality.Separation / Imaging
The separation of elements within the stage on the QOA Adonis New isn’t its best quality. Now, one of its best qualities is that thicker and richer note body. Of course, it also plays into why the Adonis New isn’t the best at separating instruments all the time. Along with a few other attributes that make this set a little less transparent. I don’t feel that this is a problem by any stretch of the imagination as the upside of this set is much greater than its technical woes. However, there are moments of exceptions, like less complicated and congested tracks but by-and-large the Adonis New will likely not take your breath away with its ability to cleanly define each instrument. The same goes for imaging. While I’d say imaging is probably about average for a $180 set, it’s still not perfectly clear all the time. You have that bass presence fuddling things up in some situations which does blur the lines a bit. That said, I think we know what we are getting with this set. Musical, casual, easy, non-offensive, and fun.Detail Retrieval
Despite all that I’ve spoken of this far, I still don’t feel the Adonis New is necessarily bad in the detail department. Just not some detail monster. This is another area where a bigger bass section will slightly cloud over the rest of the mix from letting the subtleties through. You have a thicker note body, the sound is smoother than it is crisp, the bass is raised quite a bit above the other frequencies, separation isn’t perfect either. All of these slight issues take away from the resolving ability of the Adonis New. Of course, this is all to be expected. Also, I’d hate to lose the musicality of this set for a few more details. I think it’s great just how it is.
Is it worth the asking price?
The QOA Adonis New can be purchased at most places for about $180 MSRP. To be totally honest, I don’t see a huge number of sets tuned similarly within its price point. There is the Aful Explorer (Explorer Review) which is priced at $119 and very similar in tuning but the price increase in my opinion is justified. Also, the Explorer is a hair less warm. A very nice set though. I can tell you this, I most definitely feel the Adonis New is worth every penny and is a very good buy at that price. If you’re into that kind of tuning that is. Of course, by now in this review, the only people which should still be here are those who enjoy this type of tuning. I would think anyway. Folks, reviews can be somewhat deceptive. I say that because all of my reviews cover the same areas, same sections. If you read through just the Technicalities section you’d probably think this set is just a waste of loot. However, the Adonis New is so good at being what it is. Yes it’s polarizing to an extent and yes $180 is a lot of money for a lot of people. However, against the field of bass heavy iems in this relative price bracket, the Adonis New is my current favorite. Read that again please. I said out of bass heavy iems close to the same price. I definitely have a different all-around favorite but that’s not for this review. This review is for those who love rich, weighted, warm/L-shaped iems that produce a heavy bass response. Very few sets can say that.Sea of sets
That said, if you enjoy that more balanced, Harman, or more universally praised type sound then the Adonis New is out of its element against those and it would likely not be worth the money to those folks. There are some seriously great hybrid sets for the money in that range alone. Sets like the Juzear 61T Butterfly (61T Review), Seeaudio Yume II, Slivio SL41 MK2, Letshuoer Cadenza 4 (Cadenza 4 Review), Binary Chopin (Mahir’s Chopin Review), Aful Performer 5 (Mahir’s P5 Review) Kinera Idun Golden, Juzear Flame, Juzear 41T, QOA Aviation (Aviation Review), Celest Relentless (Relentless Review), Geekwold GK100, ISN H40, Rose Technics QT9 MK2S (QT9 MK2S Review), Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 (QT9 MK3 Review), Tanchjim Kara (Mahir’s Kara Review), Kiwi Ears Quintet and on and on it goes. That made me dizzy. That’s just to name a few folks. Please believe me there’s about fifty more. And that’s not counting single DD sets or planars. So, there’s some real fantastic iems that aren’t tuned to the same style and would put up a bigger fight against the Adonis New. However, for me the Adonis New is worth it against any set in that range.The Why
Because… my word… look at that build, the comfort, the fit. Next look at how gorgeous this set is. Also, find me another pinecone embedded resin iem with colors that pop quite like this one. Let me know when you find one. Look at all the accessories, the case and the modular cable, and finally, listen to the Adonis New. Remember, I’m talking to those who “want” an L-shaped bass heavy sound… moving on. The sound is this intoxicating blend of cohesion, depth, bodied note structure, density, emotional, skillfully agile, along with some of the better timbre I’ve heard in this price range. The bass is deep, extended, meaty and wholly forceful. Yet it’s quick when it needs to be, it has some ductility, and maneuvers through all of my music very well for a bigger and more emphasized bass. And wow, that midrange. That milky, creamy and buttery style midrange that begs an emotional connection to happen every time I listen. It’s warm, wetted, and melodic to the core, and I love the forward nature of it. Vocals are on a pedestal, out front, and they never scream at you. Instead, they’re held in check by a very nice tuning. Yes, the treble isn’t very uplifted, brilliant or punchy. But it is non-offensive, not aggressive, and great for long listening along with better extension into the upper treble than I ever would’ve thought. 100% the Adonis New is worth every penny. If… you favor this type of sound.
Ratings (0-10)
Note: all ratings are based upon my subjective judgment. These ratings are garnered against either similarly priced sets or with similar driver implementations or styles with the unique parameters of my choosing. In the case of the QOA Adonis New ratings below, that would be $150-$200 hybrid style iems. Please remember that “ratings” don’t tell the whole story. This leaves out nuance and a number of other qualities which make an iem what it is. A “5-6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $150-$200 US hybrid iems is a decent sized scope of iems, and it’s also extremely competitive. It should mean something pretty special to see a rating above a “9.0”. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me.Aesthetic
–Build Quality: 9.7 Built well, all- resin, very nice.–Look: 9.9 Stunning & pleasing to the eye.
–Fit/Comfort: 9.3 Fit and comfort is great for me.
–Accessories: 9.5 Great case, great cable, nice presentation.
–Overall: 9.6


Sound Rating
–Timbre: 9.4 Organic, natural, warm, robust.–Bass: 9.1 Big, extended, authoritative, meaty.
–Midrange: 9.3 Musical and engaging.
–Treble: 7.1 Less emphasis than I’d like.
–Technicalities: 7.3 It’s a musical set, not interested in details.
–Musicality: 9.7 Very musical sound.
–Overall: 8.7



Ratings Summary:
I cannot begin to explain how special a price range this is for hybrid sets. In the notes above I stated that I’m rating the Adonis New against all hybrid sets between $150 and $200. There are so many iems to choose from that it’d take some effort to read or watch all of the reviews. However, the bonus of the Adonis New is that it is an L-shaped bass-boi style set which only really would entertain those who enjoy a bass heavy sound. It’d be the same if it was a treble heavy set for treble heads. However, I couldn’t exactly narrow the ratings down to only bass heavy sets in that price range. There’d be about five of them and the Adonis New would get all ratings above a 9.5! I just can’t do that. I’m telling you folks, for this type of sound the Adonis New is numero-uno in its price range. Really special. If you have $180 burning a hole in your pocket and you want the most skilled basshead type set, you can find for your money… I have the set for you. In comes Adonis New.I Know, I Know
In spite of that last statement, again, I extended the range to “all hybrid iems between $150 and $200”. I know, I know, I don’t like it either, it makes very little sense… but that’s what we are doing. So, feel free to fly right on by these ridiculous ratings. Basically, the majority of hobbyists are going to want something more balanced. Let’s just get that out of the way. By default, the Adonis New is almost going to get looked past and so I realize how these ratings don’t do it justice. Still, an “8.7” overall against the entire field in this range is pretty special for this type of sound. Also, don’t waste the digital ink emailing or messaging me about how I went about these ratings. Please trust me, I get it. Oh brother, I can hear the keys being punched right now by the peanut gallery… Lol.Explain Yourself!
How do I explain this one? Well, I suppose I already have to an extent. The Adonis New is up against some real baddies, some beasts, and I have many on hand to quickly compare against which is a nice thing to have. I feel the only rating which would need at least some explaining is the “Bass” rating. As you can see, I gave the Adonis New a lofty “9.1” even though it isn’t the most intricately detailed bass I’ve ever heard. I just feel that for the amount, or quantity, that the Adonis New’s bass region is very skilled. Couple that with how rumbly, dense, impactful and even punchy this set is, and you got yourself a winner. If I was rating this on quantity alone the Adonis New would have a “9.9”. Honestly, I feel that each rating is pretty fair. “Technicalities” is 1-2 points above average which was saved by the soundstage. The “9.7” in “Musicality” is most certainly true. Unless of course your version of musicality isn’t warmly weighted and engaging. Remember, it can mean something different to everyone. I don’t feel there’s much to explain here. Let me know what you think.Full Review HERE

Conclusion
To conclude my full review and feature of the Queen of Audio Adonis New, I’d really like to thank the good people of Kinera and of course a big shout out to the “Audio Geeks US Tours” for making this tour set happen. I was more than thrilled to do this review and spend time with this set and that wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Audio Geek. So, thank you very much!And thank you
I also want to thank you, the reader. You mean the most here. It’s you that I do any of this. Nothing fills me up more than knowing I’ve played any part in helping one of you to find the perfect set for you. So that you can listen to your music and enjoy. That is a great feeling for me, and I hope I can help you. Now, it is also especially nice when you click that link and visit mobileaudiophile.com to read any of our reviews. Clicks matter. Spending time reading matters. So, thank you, I hope this helped, even a little bit.Other perspectives
Now that you’ve read this review please go and read, watch, or listen to other perspectives about the QOA Adonis New. No two of us are alike friends. We all have our own personal ways of hearing and perceiving these audio devices. I could love this set and the dude next to me could hate it. The diversity of subjective likes and dislikes are more apparent and distinct in this hobby than any other in my opinion. So please check out other thoughts, it’ll help you to make an educated decision folks. With that, I’m done in this one. It’s been fun. Take good care, stay as safe as possible, and always… God Bless!
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briantbrain
New Head-Fier
Pros: + Beautiful design and accessories
+ Comfortable fit and good quality IEM and cable materials
+ Enjoyable unboxing experience
+ Long rumbling sub-bass, energetic low frequency with good punchy bass
+ Mind-blowing vocals
+ Smooth treble with engaging power
+ Comfortable fit and good quality IEM and cable materials
+ Enjoyable unboxing experience
+ Long rumbling sub-bass, energetic low frequency with good punchy bass
+ Mind-blowing vocals
+ Smooth treble with engaging power
Cons: - Shell too small for larger ears
- Average micro detail
- Soundstage not too special
- Lack of air, but for bassheads, this might be a plus
- Average micro detail
- Soundstage not too special
- Lack of air, but for bassheads, this might be a plus
I vividly remember seeing this IEM displayed at several events like Canjam before its release. One thing that stuck with me was its look, featuring a beautiful purple color from the IEM to the cable. Initially, I was indifferent to the color purple, but now I've grown quite fond of it, haha. So, how does it sound?
Let's find out... QoA Adonis New.
Let's find out... QoA Adonis New.
**DISCLAIMER**All impressions were tested using my usual setup (list below). So, if there are differences in sound impressions, it's likely due to our subjective ears, defective units, or the source used.
All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "I may deceive my savings, but I always give honest reviews." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Also fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to, haha.
Important!! I recommend you audition it yourself, who knows, maybe my ears need an ENT doctor or you do (haha).
**TESTED WITH**- QoA Adonis New
- Fiio Q15
- Chord Mojo 2
- HibyDigital M300
- Hiby R4
- Ear Tips: Eletech Baroque, Spinfit W1 Premium, Azla Sedna Crystal, Penon Liquer, Final Type E, Dunu S&S, Noble Audio Wide Bore, Divinus Velvet, etc.
**UNBOXING:**With a price range of $180 or around 3 million IDR, the unboxing experience feels like that of a $400 or 7 million IDR IEM. The long purple box is cool, and the contents are just as impressive and complete. Inside, you'll find:
- The IEM itself
- 4-braid cable, 2-pin connector, modular jack (4.4mm and 3.5mm modules)
- Carrying case (made of smooth synthetic leather. The case looks very cool)
- 2 types of ear tips in 3 sizes each (the neutral ones are colorful, and the vocal ones are purple. The purple ones look great and feel comfortable)
- Booklet
**FITTING:**With a 1DD + 2 BA configuration, I thought this IEM would be larger than most single DD IEMs, but it's not. In fact, it's smaller than the Wyvern Abyss. The small, slightly thick shape fits my ears perfectly and is very comfortable. The thick plastic resin shell and metal-covered nozzle give the IEM a solid feel. The flexible 4-braid cable of good quality adds to the comfort.
**SOUND IMPRESSION****Bass:**
Don't be deceived by its small body and pretty color. This IEM's low frequency will surprise you! The sub-bass has a long rumble with good texture for its price range. The impact is quite deep with average speed, making the rumble feel present whether the music is fast or slow. The bass is adequately thick and punchy, although not extremely deep for an IEM focused on bass. The low frequency's texture, impact, and speed are impressive, and its positioning is great, surrounding the other instruments, making the low frequency feel more immersive.
**Mid:**
I thought only the bass was good, but when the vocals came in, wow, it was impressive. The vocals remind me of the sweet, musical, and wet vocals of the Kinera Freya 2.0. I was pleasantly surprised that the vocals weren't muffled and were perfectly centered. Female vocals are the best, but male vocals are also very melodious with a natural timbre. There's no sibilance or shoutiness. For its price range, the Adonis New's vocals are noteworthy.
**Treble:**
What's unique about this IEM is that despite the strong low frequency, the treble still has fun power and isn't weak. Delivered smoothly without any spikes or harshness, the treble of the Adonis New still has an enjoyable energy. Though not the most detailed, the treble isn't just an accessory to the powerful bass but an accompaniment that completes the music.
**Clarity:**
Clear, with no issues of unclear sound or sibilance. Micro details are decent for its price range, but the 1DD + 2 BA configuration doesn't maximize them.
**Soundstage:**
Average. However, the sub-bass rumble provides a good immersive and slightly airy feeling.
**Imaging:**
3D imaging is very good for its price range. Positioning and layering of instrument sounds are excellent and easy to pinpoint, although not very spaced out due to the limited soundstage.
**SOURCE SELECTION****Mojo 2 - High Gain (Analog, a bit warm)**
Highly Recommended. It's insanely good. The bass and sub-bass are thick while maintaining an immersive feel, making it enjoyable to listen to. The vocals are super smooth and analog, creating a soothing effect. The treble maintains its power, though not as free as with the Q15.
**Fiio Q15 - Ultra Gain (neutral, analytical)**
Recommended. All aspects are enhanced, making the sound more open. The sound feels more spacious and detailed. The treble feels more energetic, accompanying the low frequency well. The smooth and musical vocals feel effortless. Excellent!
**Hiby R4 - High Gain (Warm with smooth vocal, not bright)**
Great. The low frequency is delivered well but doesn't feel special. The rumble and punchiness aren't thick or airy, providing an okay power and adequate texture. The vocals feel natural and slightly forward, with no additional coloration. The smooth and less sparkling treble feels a bit dark.
**EAR TIPS SELECTION**I use the purple ear tips for vocal wide bore that coming with the Adonis New. These tips are super compatible with the IEM, providing excellent vocals while maintaining the bass and treble. For better bass, you can try Dunu S&S, but I'm concerned the treble might suffer, and the fitting might be compromised due to the Adonis' shell size. Final Type E might be more ergonomic, or Azla Sedna Crystal for more energetic treble and vocals without sacrificing the bass. I don't recommend Eletech Baroque and Divinus Velvet as they are too airy and lack sealing in my ears due to the IEM's body.
**CONCLUSION**
- Don't be fooled by its small and beautiful appearance; it has surprising low-frequency power.
- Vocal lovers will surely enjoy this IEM. Although it focuses on low frequency, the high-frequency treble still has engaging power with a smooth presentation.
- However, detail and soundstage are somewhat sacrificed for its price range.
-
kvt0012
New Head-Fier
The new adonis - King of The king of the mid-range segment?
Pros: - The bass is absolutely perfect, not overwhelming but just right (10/10).
- The midrange is thick and provides a relaxing listening experience after a long day at work (9/10).
- The treble is airy and excellent, especially considering the price (8/10).
- These headphones could very well be the best option in this price range for me.
Cons: Could be a bit too bassy for some people.
QoA, or Queen of Audio, is a sub-brand of the well-known audio company Kinera. Kinera has established a strong reputation among audiophiles for producing some of the most visually stunning in-ear monitors (IEMs) on the market. While Kinera primarily focuses on high-end IEMs, offering both universal and custom-fit options, QoA caters to a more budget-conscious audience without compromising on sound quality.
The QoA Adonis (New) has made a significant impact on the IEM market, offering exceptional value that surpasses its price tag. Positioned in the sub-$500 category, it punches well above its weight, delivering a compelling combination of impactful bass, technical prowess, and aesthetic allure. This comprehensive review will delve into the various aspects that make the QoA Adonis (New) a worthy investment for those seeking a fun and energetic listening experience without breaking the bank.
Specification
- Drivers: Powerful 9.2mm dynamic driver combined with one Knowles BA and one custom BA for exceptional audio clarity and detail.
- Impedance: 16 ohms for easy drivability with most devices.
- Sensitivity: 105dB for a loud and clear listening experience.
- Frequency Response: Wide range of 20Hz-20kHz capturing deep bass and crisp highs.
- Cable: High-quality 5N copper silver-plated cable for optimal signal transmission and durability.
- Plug: Convenient screw & lock interchangeable plug for both 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections.
- Shell: Innovative CNC-crafted shell made from a unique combination of pinecone and resin, a world's first.
Design and build quality:
Both Kinera and its sub-brand QoA have consistently impressed with their product aesthetics, and the QoA Adonis (New) is no exception. It boasts an outstanding design, both in its housing and cable, showcasing a level of quality that is truly commendable. While personal preferences may vary, the new design is undeniably appealing, even if some, like myself, might have a slight bias towards the previous version's color scheme.
Aesthetically, the IEM is a visual treat. Its design strikes a balance between beauty and functionality, and the build quality feels robust and durable. The inclusion of a flagship-level cable further elevates the overall sense of luxury and value. This attention to detail in both design and build quality reinforces the Adonis (New)'s position as a high-value IEM.
In terms of comfort and fit, the Adonis (New) is a joy to wear. They fit snugly and securely in my ears, providing hours of listening without any discomfort or hotspots. Additionally, they offer good passive noise isolation, further enhancing the listening experience.
Bass (10/10)
- The bass performance on the QoA Adonis 2.0 is truly impressive. It delivers a powerful and impactful punch while maintaining excellent control and speed.
- This balance ensures that the bass remains prominent without overpowering other frequencies, resulting in a sound signature that is both fun and energetic.
- Bass lovers will particularly appreciate the lively and engaging listening experience offered by the QoA Adonis New.
Mid (9/10)
- The midrange performance of this IEM is noteworthy, delivering clear vocals and well-separated instruments.
- This clarity allows it to effortlessly handle complex and busy tracks, an impressive feat for its price point.
- Both male and female vocals possess a satisfying weight and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Male vocals are particularly thick and lush, shining in tracks by artists like Frank Sinatra.
- Female vocals retain a lively character, avoiding being overshadowed by the bass, without becoming overly shouty.
- Instruments exhibit a natural timbre that is both pleasing and warm, with a noticeable note weight.
Treble (8/10)
- The treble is characterized by a safe and relaxing presentation, with a noticeable roll-off after 11kHz.
- It retains a decent sparkle and good decay, avoiding a dull or boring sound.
- QoA seems to prioritize the bass and midrange, positioning the treble as a supporting element in the overall frequency response.
- To fully appreciate the treble, increasing the volume might be necessary, but this could lead to an overpowering sub-bass presence.
- Instead of an edgy or harsh delivery, the treble is smooth and easy on the ears, even during extended listening sessions.
- This smoothness, combined with detail, makes it versatile for various music genres.
Technical performance
- Technically, the Adonis (New) stands out due to its coherent and enjoyable sound presentation.
- Its ability to effectively separate instruments and maintain clarity, even in complex tracks, is particularly noteworthy.
- This technical proficiency, coupled with its impactful bass and well-balanced mids and treble, makes the Adonis (New) a versatile IEM suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the QoA Adonis 2.0 is a remarkable IEM that excels in delivering a powerful, yet balanced and engaging sound signature. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the bass performance, which is both impactful and controlled, providing a fun and lively listening experience. The midrange is equally impressive, with clear vocals and well-separated instruments, making it suitable for various genres. While the treble may take a backseat to the prominent bass and midrange, it remains smooth and detailed, ensuring a comfortable listening experience. Overall, the QoA Adonis 2.0 stands as a testament to technical proficiency, offering impressive sound quality and versatility for its price point. It is a strong contender for anyone seeking a dynamic and enjoyable audio experience.
Source
- DAC: Fiio Q5s
- AMP: Topping A50 with Burr Brown OPA2107 dual operational amplifier
- Macbook pro 2020
Source of music:
- Roxanne - Petra Magoni (mid)
- Four Luis - Nenad Vasilic (bass, timbre)
- No Sanctuary Here - Chris Jones (vocal male)
- Here's to life - Jacintha (female vocal)
- Wheel of fortune - Alan Taylor (male vocal, instrument)
K
kvt0012
@LikeHolborn I have already tried nightjar, the bass is well-controlled but the sound signature cannot make me wow. However, in overall, it's better than Adonis when the song with tremendous instruments.
L
LikeHolborn
Am looking for something like the ath es55, m-audio q40, xba-a2 myself rn, intimate vocals focused with no sibilance at all and "soundstage" can u help? Nothing dull or boring like the b&w p5 even though it's safe 
Leonarfd
Headphoneus Supremus
The warm purple beauty
Pros: Purple
Warm bassy tonality
Deep and solid sub bass extension
Thick midrange
Easy to listen to due to reduced upper treble
Elegant design with use of real pine cones in the resin
The shell is also light and small and is solid built
Matching packaging and accessories
Softer more analog sound
Cons: Not that resolving
Softer transients and slightly long decay
Purple design is probably to much for some
The bass lack some punch and speed
Speed in general, part of the rounded transients and the DD decay
QoA Adonis New - The warm purple beauty
Disclaimer
I paid for the Adonis New with a small discount, I am free to say whatever I want this review.
All impressions are my own subjective thoughts after having used them for a good time. These are my thoughts at this moment, and as time moves I might change my opinion.
This is also a very subjective hobby where everything from experience, anatomy or age will affect what we hear. Also keep in mind that it is easy to use bold words when talking about differences, while it may be perceived as a small change for you.
While I can perceive something as natural sounding, I do believe we can never get a perfect performance similar to what is achieved live.
Ranking System:
1 Very bad or unlistenable
2 Listenable but not good
3 Average
4 Very good
5 Exceptional or having a special sauce
My rating system highly values what is musical for me, so my rating will always be a subjective opinion.
About me and my gear used for the review
My audio preference is neutral with some warmth, I can also like forward midrange and treble if not excessive. I am a believer in having different tuned gears for different genres or moods instead of chasing the single perfect one.
Main music genres I listen to are metal, electronica, jazz and pop. I am a music lover, and can also listen to almost all the genres out there.
I have been into music gear since the mid 90s, gifted some big speakers at an early age. Then moved more and more into headphones with the Koss Porta Pro and a Sony Discman.
I have also tried playing many instruments over the years from piano to sax and have a feel for what's a natural tone, but not the biggest patience in learning to play.
My current favorites in Headphones are ZMF Verite Open and Beyerdynamic T1 G2.
My current favorites in IEMs are 634ears LOOK 2-TX02 and Campfire Audio Bonneville.
My current favorites in Earbuds are FranQL Caelum and Venture Electronics Zen 3.0.
Gear used in the main rig is Denafrips Ares 12th-1 DAC together with the Topping A90 Discrete headphone Amp. I also have a Schiit Lokius I can swap in if I want to do a little analogue EQ.
Portable gear being HIBY R8 II, with some dongles like HIBY FC6 and Colorfly CDA-M1P.
So what is the QoA Adonis New
This is my first time using a QoA product, QoA stands for Queen of Audio and is a sub brand under Kinera Imperial. Going by the name this would look like a brand that focuses on the female audience, but looking at their other models some of them have been more neutral in the design and colors. But that doesnt mean this is aimed solely for the female audience, many like purple and pretty designs, me included.
Adonis New is the revised model having some resemblance to the old Adonis being purple, this new one has a hybrid design. It uses a 9.2mm dynamic driver together with two balanced armatures, one Knowles and one Sonion.
The shell is very special as they have used real pine cones inside the resin to make it unique. It Looks beautiful but also a little unpolished in photos, in real life it looks really well done.
The shell is small, this is actually very refreshing in a time where most IEMs being so large to fit as many drivers as possible. The nozzle is a metal tubing with a lip to hold onto the silicon tips, it is fairly small with 5.9mm diameter. The length is average of the nozzle and works perfect for me together with the resin being sculpted towards it.
The packaging and accessories follow the purple theme, you get two sets of silicon tips. With the one being purple and matching the shell of the IEM, this one is short and wide bore.
The purple case also has the purple faux leather design, is sturdy and can hold the IEM together with a small dongle.
The cable is color matching with the resin shell, half is pink and the other blue and together they make it look purple. The hardware is solid and looks nice, with a modular jack to change from 3.5mm to 4.4mm. The cable is decent and I don't see why one should change it out if you like the design, comfort is great due to being well balanced in the weight and having ear guides not being too aggressive.
Technical product information:
https://www.kineraaudio.com/product/qoa-adonis-new
$ 181
- 9.2mm Dynamic Driver + 1 Knowles BA + 1 Custom BA
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Sensitivity: 105dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- 5N Copper Silver Plated Cable
- Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm
- World’s first Pinecone & Resin combination CNC shell
Technical Specification
Driver Configuration
2 tubes, 3-way frequency division architecture, three drivers per side, offering a full and consistent tuning across high, mid, and low frequencies, with smooth transitions between each band.
Low Frequencies : 9.2mm copper ring titanium film dynamic driver diaphragm is lightweight yet rigid and durable, providing a rich sense of volume and texture with layered richness.
Mid Frequencies : Knowles Balanced Armature Delivers excellent performance with strong coordination abilities, seamlessly integrating with the high and low frequencies.
High Frequencies : QoA Custom Balanced Armature extends superbly, with solid lines and full tension.
Tuning Concept
Adonis New sound field is regular, the tone neutral, low-frequency with quite an impact, mid-range vocal part of the thick and emotional, high-frequency solid and low-frequency mirror each other, the overall energy is abundant and full, rich in detail, full of infectious force. Make hip hop, rock and other fast paces. I need to feel the music of the song become more exciting, enjoyable.
Design
Adonis New is upgraded to a combination of pinecone and resin on the previous generation of birch shell, retaining the natural form of the pinecone, filled with resin, and carved in one piece by CNC, ultimately presenting different textures and patterns.
Different woods have their own unique acoustic properties because of their different densities. Stabilized wood can effectively reduce the generation of high-trequency harmonics, reduce resonance and noises, and make the sound purer and more emotional.
Frequency Graph
What’s In The Box
Eartips
Balanced Eartips ( Colour ) : Cohesive and solid, three-frequency fusion, neutral and regular.
Vocal Eartips ( Purple ) : Vocals close to the ear, release high frequency, loose and natural.
Weight Of Earbuds
Each earbud weighs only about 3.8 g, which is light as there is nothing to wear for a long time, so you can enjoy music as you like.
Nozzle size
The sound nozzle diameter is about 5.9mm, which fits most eartips on the market, giving the earphones more possibilities.
Package Contents
One pair of QoA Adonis New In-ear monitors.
One 5N Copper Silver Plated Cable.
Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm.
Six pairs Custom Ear Tips.
Premium Storage Case.
User Manual.
Timbre
First off, what is Timbre?
From the Wikipedia:
The Acoustical Society of America (ASA) Acoustical Terminology definition 12.09 of timbre describes it as "that attribute of auditory sensation which enables a listener to judge that two nonidentical sounds, similarly presented and having the same loudness and pitch, are dissimilar", adding, "Timbre depends primarily upon the frequency spectrum, although it also depends upon the sound pressure and the temporal characteristics of the sound"
First minutes of trying a new set of gear, what I always listen to is how natural and musical it sounds. Much of this goes down to how I perceive the Timbre.
Warm and lush, transients have some smoothness to them. Can sound almost a little woolly but still with control.
Going to use the ranges here in review:
Details and soundstage
Detail in IEMs is down mostly to quality driver and how it amplitudes the frequencies, also when the driver is faster it also increases the resolution you hear.
The Adonis is on the softer side in transients and decay, this affects the resolution and it loses some clarity. It's still very detailed for being a soft performer, especially in how nuanced the bass notes can be.
Soundstage is quite oval to me, and is better than most sets I have used at this price. The height is also nice to give it a 3D presentation, only the depth that's not that large. Imaging is not the best and a little diffuse, and its not always easy to pick out where the instruments exactly play from.
Bass
Both its strength and weakness lies here, the bass is large and goes deep. Music does sound warm, and can make even music that lacks bass to sound full. The bass is of a softer quality, and lacks some punch making it less visceral.
What it excels at is being very detailed, showing every bass note better than what often faster DDs can.
Mids
The midrange is thick as the bass goes into the midrange and thickens it, the BA that takes over the mids is blended nicely with the DD. So while being thick and lacking some upper presence, it's still very coherent and decently resolving.
Upper mids are done well to me, and I cannot hear any sibilance or shoutyness.
Treble
Adonis have some treble but lack upper treble and air, and this is probably the weakest link of Adonis. While instruments like cymbals sound a little airy, they sound a little dampened and lack the extra make it sound real.
Comparison
When evaluating the sets I use each of them over longer periods and also some shorter sessions swapping back and forth, it takes a long time and is not done in one sitting. The most critical comparison is done on my desktop setup that is highly resolving, with volume matching to take away loudness variance.
The spider chart is slightly exaggerated on some points to show differences.
I will keep this smaller this time and only compare it with the Kinera Celest Relentless, both IEMs are priced around the same and follow a hybrid design. Relentless have a 8mm DD and 6 customized BA, also a resin shell but much larger. Comfort alone is much better on Adonis New, smaller shell and nozzle.
In short the Relentless is a V shaped sound signature with recessed midrange and bright upper frequencies, it's also a fast performer with more attack on every note than Adonis New. The bass is okay in quality but lacks weight in the music. So the two have quite opposite sound signatures, but I will compare them since they both are the newest IEMs from Kinera.
Music
https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ad7bbfa3-2067-4235-b2ed-f5a3fb53ff28
Music test list consists of songs I like for testing, and need to be trimmed down as it is way too long now.
When comparing IEM to other sets I have used the tracks listed here and more, I will provide some notes under each track for what is different between the two sets. And yes, I have gone with music covers that suit the theme a little.
In the music section I will be very subjective here, and I clearly prefer the more full sound of Adonis for almost everything.
https://tidal.com/browse/track/308776938?u
Mohini Dey - In-N-Out
Great bass player from India, this is jazz fusion. The Adonis have quite textured and nuanced bass playback that's a little slower, so it might lack some attack and speed for some. Personally I like how the softer transients sound on this. For such a warm and rich sounding IEM it has decent separation and clarity.
Relentless sounds too thin for this, and is not enjoyable to me. Does not manage to capture the same nuances of the bass playing, and I start to focus more on the other elements in the track instead. I will say Relentless sound more detailed overall due to the tonality, but I dont think its because of the drivers.
https://tidal.com/browse/track/343003026?u
mui zyu - everything to die for
Dream pop from Eva liu, she has a dreamlike voice and ambience going on here.
The softer and warm sound of Adonis enhances the dreamlike ambience, very enjoyable and spacious with her in center and the instruments and ambience making a stage wide to the sides and around.
Relentless here sounds thin and boring and lacks soul, and even with a brighter tonality it doesn't pick up more details than Adonis. Stage sound is more separated on Relentless but it is more closed and smaller.
https://tidal.com/browse/track/296133845?u
Miho Hazarma - Can't Hide Love
A brilliant jazz artist and composer from Japan. The track is a soft one already, and easy to listen to versus most traditional large ensemble jazz pieces. Adonis New engulf you in warm and smooth sound, but it still retains decent details and doesn't sound closed in. No brass elements are bright, so even the sensitive to jazz should be able to listen to this with Adonis.
Relentless does sound more transparent and open since it has less warmth, so the brass and snares sound more clear. The bass is less warm but still has more punch to the kick drum in the middle of the track, it still lacks some body and soul for the music. But the more clear sound can suit jazz better than Adonis New if you want a clearer sound.
https://tidal.com/browse/track/248108356?u
Infected Mushroom, Nina Tayeb - Black Velvet
The electronic duo from Israel, this is their take on the classic Black Velvet. Played under covid with their new guitarist and his wife Ninet Tayeb singing. Quite different from most of their music that if often more into psy electronica genres, still have some tasty elements.
The full and slightly woolly bass is addicting and fills me with joy, the amount is clearly more than what some like and can be considered bass head for some. The guitar played by Nina's husband sounds full, lacking just a little bite to sound realistic for metal strings. Her voice also suits this more thick tuning, if it was a brighter vocalist it wouldn't have been as nice.
Relentless does lack body here, and doesn't sound full and fun the same way. The brighter tonality is not for me, especially noticing it on this track after having used Adonis. It also sounds less resolving and flat, dynamics are missing from both her and the guitar. Even the start bass line sounds lacking without punch to it. The guitar has that extra metallic bite that sounds more realistic, so steel strings suit the more intense tonality of Relentless.
https://tidal.com/browse/track/51971822?u
Distorted guitar and energetic song from Devin Townsend
The whole album here is one of my favorites from Devin Townsend, he is a songwriter, singer and guitarist from Canada. The track Hyperdrive is my favorite from the album and has some speed for rock/metal without being on the extreme side where some of you readers won't dare listen.
His voice is full and husky, the sound with Adonis New while fun and engaging might seem a little too wooly here. Changing over to Relentless it does sound much more clean, makes it less congested and more open. So if I would go for a fast type of metal and rock I would go Relentless as it's both more fun and clear than Adonis, but if we talk about older rock or something like doom metal I want the thickness of Adonis instead.
Conclusion
When I think about purple and pine cones, autumn comes to my mind. And then cabins and fireplace with having a good relaxed time, this is what I feel Adonis New is about. You get a warm and cozy sound, without all the micro details blasted at you.
The music is on the softer side with less attack, I get that analog and vintage feel reminiscent of big tower speakers with large drivers. As in large and deep bass that's defined, and less visceral and impactful. Thick midrange making music more dense, without having a bright upper range.
I would say this is true L shaped tuning, not very many of these around.
The price point Adonis is at is populated, but I still think this stands apart from many of them. Both due to the tuning being something different than all the Harman sets, also for being a bassy IEM with less brightness and softer sound.
The design is super unique and special, I have a feeling that they have taken one of their designers from the Kinera imperial to craft this. The shell is also small and very ergonomic, this is rare in today's market.
No set is perfect and neither is this, it's not the most resolving set. It also has a softer sound of transients, also with longer decay of the bass than average sets. For some this is a deal breaker if they want crisp and fast sound with maximum separation and clarity. I for one often like to have IEMs like this, as it's often nice when you're tired or for certain music.
For me the QoA Adonis new is a good recommendation, it's a 3.5 star. This is excellent for the price, and as reference it means 7/10.
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ahammedsojib
excellent review
MD Rohit
Wow those pictures are beautiful and great review brother
iamfuki
New Head-Fier
QoA Adonis (New): A Remarkable Beauty
Pros: - Impressive Bass 100/10 
- Incredibly gorgeous look 
- Flagship level accessories
- Lovely cable
Cons: - Could be a bit too bassy for some people
QoA Adonis (New): A Remarkable Beauty
When it comes to in-ear monitors (IEMs), the QoA Adonis (New) has emerged as a compelling option that punches well above its weight. Priced much lower than its perceived value, the Adonis (New) offers a blend of impressive bass, technical performance, and aesthetic appeal that makes it a standout in the sub-$300 category. Here’s a detailed review of what makes the QoA Adonis (New) a worthy investment for anyone who was looking for a fun, energetic iem under $300.
*Important note: Remember, audio preferences are subjective, and what matters most is how the IEM resonates with your personal taste. This unit was provided to me as a touring unit from Audiogeek, and I would like to express my appreciation for this opportunity.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetically, the iem is gorgeous. It features a design that is not only visually appealing but also functional. The build quality is robust, ensuring durability. The included flagship-level cable adds to its premium feel, enhancing the overall user experience. This attention to detail in both design and build quality further cements the Adonis (New) as a high-value IEM.
Comfort and Fit
The QoA Adonis (New) fits exceptionally well, providing a comfortable and secure fit that is crucial for long listening sessions. The ergonomic design ensures that the IEMs stay in place, making them ideal for both casual listening and more active use.
Bass: 10/10 
One of the most striking features of the QoA Adonis (New) is its bass performance. The bass is not only strong and impactful but also highly controlled and fast. This combination ensures that while the bass is punchy and pronounced, it doesn’t overshadow other frequencies. The result is a sound signature that is both fun and energetic, ideal for bass lovers who enjoy a lively listening experience. This level of bass performance is rare in IEMs under $300, making the Adonis (New) an exceptional choice for those who prioritize bass in their music.
Midrange: 8/10
The midrange on this iem is commendable, with vocals coming through clearly and instruments being well-separated. This clarity allows the IEMs to handle complex and busy tracks with ease, which is impressive for its price point. While the vocal performance is generally great, there's a slight room for improvement, particularly with female vocals, which could benefit from a bit more airiness. This, however, is a minor nitpick in an otherwise stellar performance.
Treble: 7.5/10
The treble extension on the Adonis is good, offering a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. Instead of an edgy or harsh treble, it provides a more smooth treble presentation, which is easier on the ears over extended listening sessions. This smoothness ensures that the treble is detailed without being fatiguing, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
Technical Performance
Technically, the Adonis (New) excels in delivering a coherent and enjoyable sound. Its ability to separate instruments and maintain clarity even in complex tracks is noteworthy. This technical prowess, combined with its impressive bass and balanced mids and treble, makes it a versatile IEM suitable for various music styles.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Adonis (New) shines in many areas, its bass might be overwhelming for some listeners. Those who prefer a more neutral or balanced sound might find the bass too dominant. However, for bass enthusiasts, this is a highlight rather than a drawback.
Conclusion
The QoA Adonis (New) IEM is a remarkable product that offers a level of performance and quality typically found in much more expensive models. Its strong and controlled bass, clear midrange, smooth treble, and beautiful design make it a standout choice in the under $300 category. Despite minor nitpicks, the overall package is impressive, making the QoA Adonis (New) a highly recommended purchase for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience. If you’re in the market for a new IEM, the QoA Adonis (New) is definitely worth considering.
vandung2510
100+ Head-Fier
QoA Adonis New - Exceptional L-shaped tuning iem
Pros: - Gorgeous looking build
- L-shaped tuning
- Fun and gigantic bass shelf
- Smooth midrange and vocals
- Relaxing treble
- High quality modular cable
- Nice carrying case
Cons: - Treble lack extension and air
- A bit unrefined upper midrange
- Average technical performance
- Cable doesn’t have L R indicator other than the notch at the bottom of the 2 píns
Introduction
QoA, or Queen of Audio, is a sub brand for Kinera. Kinera is not a strange brand to many audiophiles out there, as they have been making some of THE MOST gorgeous looking iem out there. While Kinera is focusing on more high end iem, both in universal and custom shells, QoA is focusing more on the budget side.
Their latest iem, the Adonis New, is a hybrid iem, featuring one 9.2mm dynamic driver with titanium diaphragm for the bass, one Knowles balanced armature for the midrange and one QoA custom BA for the treble, all connected to eachother with a 3-way crossover
The Adonis New is currently selling for 181$ on their main website.
Disclaimer: I would like to give a special thanks to QoA/Kinera for providing a unit of Adonis New as part of Audio Geek's Vietnam tour. I didn’t receive any incentive from QoA/Kinera as well as instruction on how to write this review. Everything I said in this review is my subjective opinion only.
Packaging
The Adonis New comes in a relatively big box. Here is my unboxing video for the Adonis New.
The accessories included:
- One 5N Copper Silver PlatedCable
- A PU leather carrying case
- Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm
- 3 pairs of Balance eartips (Colour)
- 3 pairs of Vocal eartips (Purple)
- User manual
Design/Build quality/Comfort
The Adonis New seems to go with the color purple as its main color.
The shells use a combination of pinecone and resin as base material. It is then carved with CNC to reach its desired shape, then polished to have a smooth surface area. The faceplate is a separate piece that got glued to the shell after installing the driver though. The results are very light and smooth shells yet have a sturdy feeling to it. The nozzles have 2 tubes for the sound to come out, with a thin aluminum outer shell.
The shells have great ergonomics to them. They fit me like a glove and can sit in my ears comfortably for hours with no hot spot. The Adonis New also has good passive sound isolation.
The cable is a 4 cores cable with screw&lock modular termination. Each core has many smaller cores in blue and pink colorways, interwoven with each other. Overall, the cable feels very nice on the hands, not too light, not too heavy and definitely not tangly. One thing I do not like about this cable is that it does not have a L R indicator on them, other than the notch at the bottom of the 2 pin.
Sound impression:
*Test gears:
Source: Poco F3+UAPP, Dell laptop + Foobar 2000
Dac/Amp: Chord Mojo, EPZ TP50
Cable: Stock
Tips: Stock Vocal tips
Tonality: L-shaped tuning
Bass: This is the main star of the iem. It seems while tuning this iem, QoA just have one main objective in mind: Go crazy with the bass! And that’s what they did.
Subbass extension is really great. It is heavily boosted, extends way deep past 20hz. With the infamous subbass drop in Why So Serious, the Adonis New shows me a great textured bass with a lot of grunt to it. With “Trentemoller” by Chameleon, there is a lot of tactility and air movement, nearly making me feel dizzy. The subbass region feels very well controlled overall. Heavy bass EDM can sound tiresome after a while.
The subbass can feel quite pompous and intrusive to the rest of the frequencies
Acoustic bass instruments have a great presence to them. They feel dense and quite bulky. The sensation of the contrabass is amplified in magnitude due to the boosted fundamental frequencies. Kick drums sound heavy and full. Bass instruments sit more at the forefront of the stage, almost in line with the vocalists and midrange instruments. Because of all those quantities, the bass instruments lost a bit of clarity and quite a lot of separation between them.
With “Nancy Mulligan” by Ed Sheeran, at the first part of the song, every time there’s the thumping drum hit, my eardrums get vibrated right after that too as the sign of the intrusive subbass. The use of eartips with not so great seal or grippy material (as in with smooth material like Divinus Velvet) does mitigate this effect to a certain extent.
Midrange:
Standing next to the overwhelming bass, along with the not-so-boosted pinna region, the midrange of the Adonis New feels very warm leaning. Using a cozy weight blanket as a metaphorical image for the whole midrange isn’t very far off either. The midrange is thick, yet does not feel overly muddy.
Both male and female vocals have great heft to them. They sound smooth and creamy. Male vocals sound thick and lush, easy to be noticed when listening to Frank Sinatra or other baritones. Female vocals have decent liveliness to them, enough to not sound too recessed from the bass. It’s definitely not shouty. That being said, there are instances where I feel like their voice can sound a bit dull, or nasally like with Laufey’s “From The Start” intro.
“Shivers” by Ed Sheeran does showcase some mild sibilant.
Instruments have quite a natural timbre to them, nothing too offensive, yet they do sound quite warm and cozy as well. Instrument’s note weight is heavy. Heck, even the flute in “Sand dream” by Revo & Yuki Kajiura reminds me that it’s heavier than usual. Piano notes now sound dense and weighty as well. Violin sounds lush and smooth and not abrasive.
Treble:
As for the treble, it’s generally quite safe and relaxing as I spotted a steep roll off after 11khz. The treble is decently sparkled with good decay to it. I wouldn’t say it’s dull or boring either. It seems like QoA wants us to embrace the Adonis New fully to the bass and midrange, as the treble feels like it’s a supporting character to the rest of the frequency. You can only boost the volume up to “feel” the treble, before the subbass gets to you.
With Caravan, percussion instruments sound present and smooth overall. Micro nuances are adequate. Cymbals and hihats have enough presence and mid treble to give life to them, without sounding too splashy or too sizzling
Technicalities:
The Adonis New has decent width with a good sense of depth and height. The imaging was only in the “good” range as the overwhelming bass loomed over and took the space of many other elements.
That being said, when watching movies, the Adonis New does give me a blissful experience. With the “Bring me Thanos” in Avenger Infinity War, it reminds me of the time when I watched it in the cinema, how reverberating everything is with the added effect of Dolby Atmos.
Comparison:
Vs Simgot EA1000
The EA1000 is a 1DD iem, not a hybrid. The reason why I pick this iem for comparison is because I feel like it’s a very widely available iem, one that many people have and associate with, so that they can relatively imagine how the Adonis would sound compared to their own iem.
For the bass, the Adonis has much more bass quantity, both for subbass and midbass, yet the quality is league better on the EA1000. The EA1000 has faster driver speed and transients, texture feels tighter and the layering between each bass hits doesn’t sound as blurry. Kick drums sound more distinct. Bass instruments have more breathing room between them.
Midrange although sound warm on both iem, the EA1000 aren’t as weighty and dense. Female vocals sound way more open and transparent, as well as being brighter. It’s also more prone to sibilance at higher volume. Male vocals sounds cleaner, yet aren’t as lush. Instruments sound more natural on the EA1000.
Treble wise, the EA1000 has more energy in the upper treble and air region. There’s quite a peak above 13khz. Cymbals and hihats sound more forward and emphasized. They have more crunch/edginess and can feel more splashy/sizzling. I personally like this additional brilliance and sparkles.
Soundstages feels more holographic on the EA1000 with better layering and separation.
Vs ZiiGaat Doscinco
The Adonis New’s price is 181$, while the Doscinco was 299$. The Adonis New has 1DD+2BA, while the Doscinco has 2DD+3BA.
The Adonis New’s tuning is more of an L-shaped while the Doscinco’s tuning is more of bass boosted, balance tuning.
The Adonis New dominates the Doscinco completely in the bass department in terms of raw bass quantity. The Adonis New’s subbass felt way more visceral due to the sheer air movement, pairing with the additional lingering decay and you have an eargasmic basshead experience. My eardrums vibrate way harder with the Adonis New. Although the Doscinco uses 2DD, it focuses on being more technical, cleanly separated, as opposed to a bit slower, more organic bass of the Adonis New. Bass instruments have more presence, more in your face on the Adonis New, while the Doscinco have a more distinct, less blurry bass line.
So in essence, one iem has a really fun bass shelf and one has a less fun but more technical bass shelf.
Midrange on the Doscinco feels more open and leaner. Female vocals are brighter on the Doscinco, less recessed. They align more with the rest of the frequency, even though the Doscinco is still a bass heavy set. Male vocals sound less dense. Instruments sounds less warm and cozy.
The Doscinco has a bit more brilliance and sparkle on the top end, giving more life to cymbals and hi hats rendering. It’s not on the treble head territory, but it’s definitely more present, less drawn out by the bass compared to the Adonis New.
Technical performance wise, the Doscinco is a similar width, but with better height and depth than the Adonis New. Imaging and layering is also a notch better on the Doscinco.
Conclusion:
The QoA Adonis New really surprised me with its fun L-shaped tonality. As a bass head at heart, it’s been a while since I have this much fun with an iem. It’s not exactly an iem that is suitable for everyday listening because it can skewed my perception of what sounds "normal", nor is it for instrument's naturalness monitoring purposes, but it’s still an enjoyable iem nonetheless.
If you’re looking for an iem, with a bass heavy tuning that has decent midrange and vocals, relaxing treble, gorgeous looking shells and modular cable for under 200$, I can safely recommend this iem. Music library wise, I'd say this iem is suitable for bass heavy EDM, Rock and some Pop songs.
That’s it for my review and thank you for reading.
Attachments
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D
David Haworth
Good review. Might be the new basshead recomendation
D
Descoberto
Hi, would you sell yours? I thought he was beautiful
ICYGENIUS
New Head-Fier
QoA Adonis New review of hybrid iem by ICYGENIUS 🎧
Pros: One of the best super nice tonally warm basshead tunings!
This set looks amazing
Gorgeous complete cable with connectors for 4.4 jack and 3.5 jack
Excellent set of quality ear tips
Very deep subbass just feel it
Powerful mid bass with excellent texture development
The kick is very clear, with excellent attack
The mids are very warm and delicate, just enjoy it, no fatigue
Very low ear gain, which is great for many musical genres vocals will definitely not tire you
High frequencies are very neat, no sibilance or armature timbre, very smooth flow
The sound stage has excellent drawing of plans and separation of instruments, a truly wide picture is being built in front of us that you literally want to immerse yourself in
Cons: Not the most airy and transparent, but in the conditions of this tuning it’s normal
- Introduction -
Hello friends, the Queen of Audio company has released an extremely interesting new product with a beautiful appearance and unexpected super unusual tuning with a clear bias towards the basshead side.
Today in the review we’ll talk about this model.
They come in a medium-sized box with a nice design, there is a company logo, the name of this model is Adonis New.
And here are the technical characteristics and the frequency response graph, and a custom dynamic driver with a diameter of 9.2 mm is responsible for the sound, and two armature drivers, one of which are from Knowles and again custom from Queen of Audio, the sensitivity is 106 dB and they received a 16 ohm impedance, and they are quite easy to drive.
- Let's take a look at what's included -
- Two cards on one of which is a duplicate graph of the frequency response of headphones
- Good selection of silicone ear tips, I especially liked the pink ones
- Very high quality thick case with the company logo QoA
- One of the most beautiful cables that I have seen recently, and it is also very convenient and has 2-pin connectors and the ability to install either a balanced 4.4 or a regular 3.5 plug
Well, here they are, the headphones themselves that look just 10/10, I haven’t seen anything like this for a long time, on the front there is the inscription Adonis and this is probably one of the most unusual and also beautiful designs of the case using smooth purple medical resin and pine cones and such It seems like no one has ever used it in headphones, so in this regard they are unique,I especially like the way my left earphone looks due to this resulting pattern.
They also received a 2-pin connector and a very small compensation hole, which is located nearby, and the sound guide here is metal and quite elongated with a clear edge for better fixation of the ear pads, so the fit here is very tight and comfortable, everything is good, there is no pressure anywhere and they You can use it for a long time without problems.
- Tuning and Conception -
And now we come to the most important part of the review, the analysis of the sound of Adonis New hybrid headphones and let's start with their tuning, which I would immediately characterize as tonally very warm, super bassy due to a clear increase in low frequencies but with correctly controlled bass, which is very important, and what’s surprising is that even though the headphones are quite close to my target, that is, in general, the approach to tuning here is extremely understandable for everyone.
There is also a powerful bass shelf for bassheads, neat mids with very little gain in the upper mids, and after 13 kHz the highs smoothly fade into the background, that is, they were extended to us as far as possible,and yes, of course, I personally feel such a decline by ear, and in comparison with my other reference headphones with longer high frequencies there will be a little less transparency and air, but nevertheless the presentation turned out to be very smooth and super musical, there is nothing whistling here, no sibilants ,there is no bad armature timbre , in terms of matching the drivers, everything is done perfectly here.
The dynamic driver plays clearly and handles powerful low frequencies as well as possible, and the armatures deliver mid and high frequencies very neatly and warmly without any brightness or fatigue.
(Low Frequencies)
Low frequencies are presented here as very impressive in terms of volume and that very obvious deep infrasound that simply shows itself amazingly in electronics and hip-hop genres, where you need to very well hear the rolling, insanely dynamically pumped killer midbass,and a clearly highlighted kick that well complements the ready-made bass base with its highlighted attack and powerful punchy percussive feeling and this is exactly what I haven’t seen in other headphones for a long time, respect from me for the bass, yes of course it was risky but I think it’s absolutely justified,bassheads will definitely like it here, since both the texture and transparency of the bass are at a high level.
(Mid Frequencies)
Yes, and for such a super warm presentation of mid frequencies, I think it’s worth paying tribute too, they are presented as pleasantly as possible to the ear, while I note that it is important not to be at all boring, that is, there is enough energy drive here, as well as an excellent and more obvious weight in the vocal part, which is quite good pushed forward in the perception of the image and I know that many people like this closer presentation, and at the same time, surprisingly, there is no tightness or deafness here and the timbres are very recognizable and intelligible, there’s definitely no hint of synthetics here, so I wouldn’t say that the headphones in this regard convey something wrong in music in comparison with other headphones, maybe, of course, they do not extract and reveal various micro nuances so much, but the images themselves are presented to us as very large and clearly abstracted from each other, there is no confusion or constriction in this area, and all plans are clearly separated from each other due to sufficient optimal wide and detailed sound stage.
(High Frequencies)
But the high frequencies here are delivered very smoothly and not at all tense, there is no brightness or sibilance, just forget about them, if you were ever looking for these headphones that are super neat and, what is important, delicately convey that the upper mids and highs, then these guys are Adonis New this is for you, even I caught myself thinking that I could literally listen to them all day , I haven’t seen such a super immersive and most importantly musical presentation for a long time, although I wouldn’t say that the cymbals and percussion are hiding here somewhere, and their image is a little pushed back, but nevertheless, I personally can hear everything clearly, and the attack and after-sound may be slightly more shortened, but it’s there and hasn’t gone away, but maybe I’d like more transparency, but that’s only on condition that I listen to some kind of technical metal on a regular basis,, and I listen to this very rarely, and I just understand perfectly well that the setup concept here is different and not the same as what I’ve been used to lately, and therefore I treat it normally because I think that diversity now in the headphone market would not hurt, and specifically in This time the Queen of Audio company with Adonis New headphones decided to stand out well from other new products and leave me with only positive impressions.
My conclusion on this headphones!
Queen of Audio Adonis New is a very interesting new product with a chic appearance, an excellent included cable, a sufficient set of ear tips for every taste, and most importantly, with a rather rare bassy dynamic and super musical tuning, and I’m sure many were waiting for such a presentation.
Queen Of Audio Official Store:https://aliexpress.ru/item/1005006960434996.html
Official Website:https://www.kineraaudio.com/product/qoa-adonis-new
I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on QoA Adonis New!
T
Tronicus
@kneelthepetal Aviation is a light W tuning with a focus on clarity where everything is pushed forward. Adonis New is a mega L-shape basshead tuning.
D
David Haworth
Nice! Sounds fantastic
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All impressions were tested using my usual setup (list below). So, if there are differences in sound impressions, it's likely due to our subjective ears, defective units, or the source used.
All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "I may deceive my savings, but I always give honest reviews." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Also fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to, haha.
All my impressions and reviews are subjective, adhering to the belief, "I may deceive my savings, but I always give honest reviews." Agree? Fine. Disagree? Also fine. I review because I want to and enjoy it, not because I need to, haha.
Important!! I recommend you audition it yourself, who knows, maybe my ears need an ENT doctor or you do (haha).
**TESTED WITH**- QoA Adonis New
- Fiio Q15
- Chord Mojo 2
- HibyDigital M300
- Hiby R4
- Ear Tips: Eletech Baroque, Spinfit W1 Premium, Azla Sedna Crystal, Penon Liquer, Final Type E, Dunu S&S, Noble Audio Wide Bore, Divinus Velvet, etc.
**UNBOXING:**With a price range of $180 or around 3 million IDR, the unboxing experience feels like that of a $400 or 7 million IDR IEM. The long purple box is cool, and the contents are just as impressive and complete. Inside, you'll find:
- The IEM itself
- 4-braid cable, 2-pin connector, modular jack (4.4mm and 3.5mm modules)
- Carrying case (made of smooth synthetic leather. The case looks very cool)
- 2 types of ear tips in 3 sizes each (the neutral ones are colorful, and the vocal ones are purple. The purple ones look great and feel comfortable)
- Booklet
**FITTING:**With a 1DD + 2 BA configuration, I thought this IEM would be larger than most single DD IEMs, but it's not. In fact, it's smaller than the Wyvern Abyss. The small, slightly thick shape fits my ears perfectly and is very comfortable. The thick plastic resin shell and metal-covered nozzle give the IEM a solid feel. The flexible 4-braid cable of good quality adds to the comfort.
**SOUND IMPRESSION****Bass:**
Don't be deceived by its small body and pretty color. This IEM's low frequency will surprise you! The sub-bass has a long rumble with good texture for its price range. The impact is quite deep with average speed, making the rumble feel present whether the music is fast or slow. The bass is adequately thick and punchy, although not extremely deep for an IEM focused on bass. The low frequency's texture, impact, and speed are impressive, and its positioning is great, surrounding the other instruments, making the low frequency feel more immersive.
**Mid:**
I thought only the bass was good, but when the vocals came in, wow, it was impressive. The vocals remind me of the sweet, musical, and wet vocals of the Kinera Freya 2.0. I was pleasantly surprised that the vocals weren't muffled and were perfectly centered. Female vocals are the best, but male vocals are also very melodious with a natural timbre. There's no sibilance or shoutiness. For its price range, the Adonis New's vocals are noteworthy.
**Treble:**
What's unique about this IEM is that despite the strong low frequency, the treble still has fun power and isn't weak. Delivered smoothly without any spikes or harshness, the treble of the Adonis New still has an enjoyable energy. Though not the most detailed, the treble isn't just an accessory to the powerful bass but an accompaniment that completes the music.
**Clarity:**
Clear, with no issues of unclear sound or sibilance. Micro details are decent for its price range, but the 1DD + 2 BA configuration doesn't maximize them.
**Soundstage:**
Average. However, the sub-bass rumble provides a good immersive and slightly airy feeling.
**Imaging:**
3D imaging is very good for its price range. Positioning and layering of instrument sounds are excellent and easy to pinpoint, although not very spaced out due to the limited soundstage.
**SOURCE SELECTION****Mojo 2 - High Gain (Analog, a bit warm)**
Highly Recommended. It's insanely good. The bass and sub-bass are thick while maintaining an immersive feel, making it enjoyable to listen to. The vocals are super smooth and analog, creating a soothing effect. The treble maintains its power, though not as free as with the Q15.
**Fiio Q15 - Ultra Gain (neutral, analytical)**
Recommended. All aspects are enhanced, making the sound more open. The sound feels more spacious and detailed. The treble feels more energetic, accompanying the low frequency well. The smooth and musical vocals feel effortless. Excellent!
**Hiby R4 - High Gain (Warm with smooth vocal, not bright)**
Great. The low frequency is delivered well but doesn't feel special. The rumble and punchiness aren't thick or airy, providing an okay power and adequate texture. The vocals feel natural and slightly forward, with no additional coloration. The smooth and less sparkling treble feels a bit dark.
**EAR TIPS SELECTION**I use the purple ear tips for vocal wide bore that coming with the Adonis New. These tips are super compatible with the IEM, providing excellent vocals while maintaining the bass and treble. For better bass, you can try Dunu S&S, but I'm concerned the treble might suffer, and the fitting might be compromised due to the Adonis' shell size. Final Type E might be more ergonomic, or Azla Sedna Crystal for more energetic treble and vocals without sacrificing the bass. I don't recommend Eletech Baroque and Divinus Velvet as they are too airy and lack sealing in my ears due to the IEM's body.
**CONCLUSION**
Don't be fooled by its small and beautiful appearance; it has surprising low-frequency power. Vocal lovers will surely enjoy this IEM. Although it focuses on low frequency, the high-frequency treble still has engaging power with a smooth presentation. However, detail and soundstage are somewhat sacrificed for its price range.kvt0012
New Head-Fier
The new adonis - King of The king of the mid-range segment? Pros: - The bass is absolutely perfect, not overwhelming but just right (10/10).
- The midrange is thick and provides a relaxing listening experience after a long day at work (9/10).
- The treble is airy and excellent, especially considering the price (8/10).
- These headphones could very well be the best option in this price range for me.Cons: Could be a bit too bassy for some people. QoA, or Queen of Audio, is a sub-brand of the well-known audio company Kinera. Kinera has established a strong reputation among audiophiles for producing some of the most visually stunning in-ear monitors (IEMs) on the market. While Kinera primarily focuses on high-end IEMs, offering both universal and custom-fit options, QoA caters to a more budget-conscious audience without compromising on sound quality.
The QoA Adonis (New) has made a significant impact on the IEM market, offering exceptional value that surpasses its price tag. Positioned in the sub-$500 category, it punches well above its weight, delivering a compelling combination of impactful bass, technical prowess, and aesthetic allure. This comprehensive review will delve into the various aspects that make the QoA Adonis (New) a worthy investment for those seeking a fun and energetic listening experience without breaking the bank.
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Specification
- Drivers: Powerful 9.2mm dynamic driver combined with one Knowles BA and one custom BA for exceptional audio clarity and detail.
- Impedance: 16 ohms for easy drivability with most devices.
- Sensitivity: 105dB for a loud and clear listening experience.
- Frequency Response: Wide range of 20Hz-20kHz capturing deep bass and crisp highs.
- Cable: High-quality 5N copper silver-plated cable for optimal signal transmission and durability.
- Plug: Convenient screw & lock interchangeable plug for both 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections.
- Shell: Innovative CNC-crafted shell made from a unique combination of pinecone and resin, a world's first.
Design and build quality:
Both Kinera and its sub-brand QoA have consistently impressed with their product aesthetics, and the QoA Adonis (New) is no exception. It boasts an outstanding design, both in its housing and cable, showcasing a level of quality that is truly commendable. While personal preferences may vary, the new design is undeniably appealing, even if some, like myself, might have a slight bias towards the previous version's color scheme.
Aesthetically, the IEM is a visual treat. Its design strikes a balance between beauty and functionality, and the build quality feels robust and durable. The inclusion of a flagship-level cable further elevates the overall sense of luxury and value. This attention to detail in both design and build quality reinforces the Adonis (New)'s position as a high-value IEM.
In terms of comfort and fit, the Adonis (New) is a joy to wear. They fit snugly and securely in my ears, providing hours of listening without any discomfort or hotspots. Additionally, they offer good passive noise isolation, further enhancing the listening experience.
Bass (10/10)
- The bass performance on the QoA Adonis 2.0 is truly impressive. It delivers a powerful and impactful punch while maintaining excellent control and speed.
- This balance ensures that the bass remains prominent without overpowering other frequencies, resulting in a sound signature that is both fun and energetic.
- Bass lovers will particularly appreciate the lively and engaging listening experience offered by the QoA Adonis New.
Mid (9/10)
- The midrange performance of this IEM is noteworthy, delivering clear vocals and well-separated instruments.
- This clarity allows it to effortlessly handle complex and busy tracks, an impressive feat for its price point.
- Both male and female vocals possess a satisfying weight and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Male vocals are particularly thick and lush, shining in tracks by artists like Frank Sinatra.
- Female vocals retain a lively character, avoiding being overshadowed by the bass, without becoming overly shouty.
- Instruments exhibit a natural timbre that is both pleasing and warm, with a noticeable note weight.
Treble (8/10)
- The treble is characterized by a safe and relaxing presentation, with a noticeable roll-off after 11kHz.
- It retains a decent sparkle and good decay, avoiding a dull or boring sound.
- QoA seems to prioritize the bass and midrange, positioning the treble as a supporting element in the overall frequency response.
- To fully appreciate the treble, increasing the volume might be necessary, but this could lead to an overpowering sub-bass presence.
- Instead of an edgy or harsh delivery, the treble is smooth and easy on the ears, even during extended listening sessions.
- This smoothness, combined with detail, makes it versatile for various music genres.
Technical performance
- Technically, the Adonis (New) stands out due to its coherent and enjoyable sound presentation.
- Its ability to effectively separate instruments and maintain clarity, even in complex tracks, is particularly noteworthy.
- This technical proficiency, coupled with its impactful bass and well-balanced mids and treble, makes the Adonis (New) a versatile IEM suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the QoA Adonis 2.0 is a remarkable IEM that excels in delivering a powerful, yet balanced and engaging sound signature. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the bass performance, which is both impactful and controlled, providing a fun and lively listening experience. The midrange is equally impressive, with clear vocals and well-separated instruments, making it suitable for various genres. While the treble may take a backseat to the prominent bass and midrange, it remains smooth and detailed, ensuring a comfortable listening experience. Overall, the QoA Adonis 2.0 stands as a testament to technical proficiency, offering impressive sound quality and versatility for its price point. It is a strong contender for anyone seeking a dynamic and enjoyable audio experience.
Source
- DAC: Fiio Q5s
- AMP: Topping A50 with Burr Brown OPA2107 dual operational amplifier
- Macbook pro 2020
Source of music:
- Roxanne - Petra Magoni (mid)
- Four Luis - Nenad Vasilic (bass, timbre)
- No Sanctuary Here - Chris Jones (vocal male)
- Here's to life - Jacintha (female vocal)
- Wheel of fortune - Alan Taylor (male vocal, instrument) Kkvt0012 @LikeHolborn I have already tried nightjar, the bass is well-controlled but the sound signature cannot make me wow. However, in overall, it's better than Adonis when the song with tremendous instruments.LLikeHolborn Am looking for something like the ath es55, m-audio q40, xba-a2 myself rn, intimate vocals focused with no sibilance at all and "soundstage" can u help? Nothing dull or boring like the b&w p5 even though it's safeLeonarfd
Headphoneus Supremus
The warm purple beauty Pros: Purple
Warm bassy tonality
Deep and solid sub bass extension
Thick midrange
Easy to listen to due to reduced upper treble
Elegant design with use of real pine cones in the resin
The shell is also light and small and is solid built
Matching packaging and accessories
Softer more analog soundCons: Not that resolving
Softer transients and slightly long decay
Purple design is probably to much for some
The bass lack some punch and speed
Speed in general, part of the rounded transients and the DD decay![]()
QoA Adonis New - The warm purple beauty
Disclaimer
I paid for the Adonis New with a small discount, I am free to say whatever I want this review.
All impressions are my own subjective thoughts after having used them for a good time. These are my thoughts at this moment, and as time moves I might change my opinion.
This is also a very subjective hobby where everything from experience, anatomy or age will affect what we hear. Also keep in mind that it is easy to use bold words when talking about differences, while it may be perceived as a small change for you.
While I can perceive something as natural sounding, I do believe we can never get a perfect performance similar to what is achieved live.
Ranking System:
1 Very bad or unlistenable
2 Listenable but not good
3 Average
4 Very good
5 Exceptional or having a special sauce
My rating system highly values what is musical for me, so my rating will always be a subjective opinion.
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About me and my gear used for the review
My audio preference is neutral with some warmth, I can also like forward midrange and treble if not excessive. I am a believer in having different tuned gears for different genres or moods instead of chasing the single perfect one.
Main music genres I listen to are metal, electronica, jazz and pop. I am a music lover, and can also listen to almost all the genres out there.
I have been into music gear since the mid 90s, gifted some big speakers at an early age. Then moved more and more into headphones with the Koss Porta Pro and a Sony Discman.
I have also tried playing many instruments over the years from piano to sax and have a feel for what's a natural tone, but not the biggest patience in learning to play.
My current favorites in Headphones are ZMF Verite Open and Beyerdynamic T1 G2.
My current favorites in IEMs are 634ears LOOK 2-TX02 and Campfire Audio Bonneville.
My current favorites in Earbuds are FranQL Caelum and Venture Electronics Zen 3.0.
Gear used in the main rig is Denafrips Ares 12th-1 DAC together with the Topping A90 Discrete headphone Amp. I also have a Schiit Lokius I can swap in if I want to do a little analogue EQ.
Portable gear being HIBY R8 II, with some dongles like HIBY FC6 and Colorfly CDA-M1P.
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So what is the QoA Adonis New
This is my first time using a QoA product, QoA stands for Queen of Audio and is a sub brand under Kinera Imperial. Going by the name this would look like a brand that focuses on the female audience, but looking at their other models some of them have been more neutral in the design and colors. But that doesnt mean this is aimed solely for the female audience, many like purple and pretty designs, me included.
Adonis New is the revised model having some resemblance to the old Adonis being purple, this new one has a hybrid design. It uses a 9.2mm dynamic driver together with two balanced armatures, one Knowles and one Sonion.
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The shell is very special as they have used real pine cones inside the resin to make it unique. It Looks beautiful but also a little unpolished in photos, in real life it looks really well done.
The shell is small, this is actually very refreshing in a time where most IEMs being so large to fit as many drivers as possible. The nozzle is a metal tubing with a lip to hold onto the silicon tips, it is fairly small with 5.9mm diameter. The length is average of the nozzle and works perfect for me together with the resin being sculpted towards it.
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The packaging and accessories follow the purple theme, you get two sets of silicon tips. With the one being purple and matching the shell of the IEM, this one is short and wide bore.
The purple case also has the purple faux leather design, is sturdy and can hold the IEM together with a small dongle.
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The cable is color matching with the resin shell, half is pink and the other blue and together they make it look purple. The hardware is solid and looks nice, with a modular jack to change from 3.5mm to 4.4mm. The cable is decent and I don't see why one should change it out if you like the design, comfort is great due to being well balanced in the weight and having ear guides not being too aggressive.
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Technical product information:
https://www.kineraaudio.com/product/qoa-adonis-new
$ 181
- 9.2mm Dynamic Driver + 1 Knowles BA + 1 Custom BA
- Impedance: 16 ohms
- Sensitivity: 105dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- 5N Copper Silver Plated Cable
- Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm
- World’s first Pinecone & Resin combination CNC shell
Technical Specification
Driver Configuration
2 tubes, 3-way frequency division architecture, three drivers per side, offering a full and consistent tuning across high, mid, and low frequencies, with smooth transitions between each band.
Low Frequencies : 9.2mm copper ring titanium film dynamic driver diaphragm is lightweight yet rigid and durable, providing a rich sense of volume and texture with layered richness.
Mid Frequencies : Knowles Balanced Armature Delivers excellent performance with strong coordination abilities, seamlessly integrating with the high and low frequencies.
High Frequencies : QoA Custom Balanced Armature extends superbly, with solid lines and full tension.
Tuning Concept
Adonis New sound field is regular, the tone neutral, low-frequency with quite an impact, mid-range vocal part of the thick and emotional, high-frequency solid and low-frequency mirror each other, the overall energy is abundant and full, rich in detail, full of infectious force. Make hip hop, rock and other fast paces. I need to feel the music of the song become more exciting, enjoyable.
Design
Adonis New is upgraded to a combination of pinecone and resin on the previous generation of birch shell, retaining the natural form of the pinecone, filled with resin, and carved in one piece by CNC, ultimately presenting different textures and patterns.
Different woods have their own unique acoustic properties because of their different densities. Stabilized wood can effectively reduce the generation of high-trequency harmonics, reduce resonance and noises, and make the sound purer and more emotional.
Frequency Graph
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What’s In The Box
Eartips
Balanced Eartips ( Colour ) : Cohesive and solid, three-frequency fusion, neutral and regular.
Vocal Eartips ( Purple ) : Vocals close to the ear, release high frequency, loose and natural.
Weight Of Earbuds
Each earbud weighs only about 3.8 g, which is light as there is nothing to wear for a long time, so you can enjoy music as you like.
Nozzle size
The sound nozzle diameter is about 5.9mm, which fits most eartips on the market, giving the earphones more possibilities.
Package Contents
One pair of QoA Adonis New In-ear monitors.
One 5N Copper Silver Plated Cable.
Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm.
Six pairs Custom Ear Tips.
Premium Storage Case.
User Manual.
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Timbre
First off, what is Timbre?
From the Wikipedia:
The Acoustical Society of America (ASA) Acoustical Terminology definition 12.09 of timbre describes it as "that attribute of auditory sensation which enables a listener to judge that two nonidentical sounds, similarly presented and having the same loudness and pitch, are dissimilar", adding, "Timbre depends primarily upon the frequency spectrum, although it also depends upon the sound pressure and the temporal characteristics of the sound"
First minutes of trying a new set of gear, what I always listen to is how natural and musical it sounds. Much of this goes down to how I perceive the Timbre.
Warm and lush, transients have some smoothness to them. Can sound almost a little woolly but still with control.
Going to use the ranges here in review:
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Details and soundstage
Detail in IEMs is down mostly to quality driver and how it amplitudes the frequencies, also when the driver is faster it also increases the resolution you hear.
The Adonis is on the softer side in transients and decay, this affects the resolution and it loses some clarity. It's still very detailed for being a soft performer, especially in how nuanced the bass notes can be.
Soundstage is quite oval to me, and is better than most sets I have used at this price. The height is also nice to give it a 3D presentation, only the depth that's not that large. Imaging is not the best and a little diffuse, and its not always easy to pick out where the instruments exactly play from.
Bass
Both its strength and weakness lies here, the bass is large and goes deep. Music does sound warm, and can make even music that lacks bass to sound full. The bass is of a softer quality, and lacks some punch making it less visceral.
What it excels at is being very detailed, showing every bass note better than what often faster DDs can.
Mids
The midrange is thick as the bass goes into the midrange and thickens it, the BA that takes over the mids is blended nicely with the DD. So while being thick and lacking some upper presence, it's still very coherent and decently resolving.
Upper mids are done well to me, and I cannot hear any sibilance or shoutyness.
Treble
Adonis have some treble but lack upper treble and air, and this is probably the weakest link of Adonis. While instruments like cymbals sound a little airy, they sound a little dampened and lack the extra make it sound real.
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Comparison
When evaluating the sets I use each of them over longer periods and also some shorter sessions swapping back and forth, it takes a long time and is not done in one sitting. The most critical comparison is done on my desktop setup that is highly resolving, with volume matching to take away loudness variance.
The spider chart is slightly exaggerated on some points to show differences.
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I will keep this smaller this time and only compare it with the Kinera Celest Relentless, both IEMs are priced around the same and follow a hybrid design. Relentless have a 8mm DD and 6 customized BA, also a resin shell but much larger. Comfort alone is much better on Adonis New, smaller shell and nozzle.
In short the Relentless is a V shaped sound signature with recessed midrange and bright upper frequencies, it's also a fast performer with more attack on every note than Adonis New. The bass is okay in quality but lacks weight in the music. So the two have quite opposite sound signatures, but I will compare them since they both are the newest IEMs from Kinera.
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Music
https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ad7bbfa3-2067-4235-b2ed-f5a3fb53ff28
Music test list consists of songs I like for testing, and need to be trimmed down as it is way too long now.
When comparing IEM to other sets I have used the tracks listed here and more, I will provide some notes under each track for what is different between the two sets. And yes, I have gone with music covers that suit the theme a little.
In the music section I will be very subjective here, and I clearly prefer the more full sound of Adonis for almost everything.
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https://tidal.com/browse/track/308776938?u
Mohini Dey - In-N-Out
Great bass player from India, this is jazz fusion. The Adonis have quite textured and nuanced bass playback that's a little slower, so it might lack some attack and speed for some. Personally I like how the softer transients sound on this. For such a warm and rich sounding IEM it has decent separation and clarity.
Relentless sounds too thin for this, and is not enjoyable to me. Does not manage to capture the same nuances of the bass playing, and I start to focus more on the other elements in the track instead. I will say Relentless sound more detailed overall due to the tonality, but I dont think its because of the drivers.
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https://tidal.com/browse/track/343003026?u
mui zyu - everything to die for
Dream pop from Eva liu, she has a dreamlike voice and ambience going on here.
The softer and warm sound of Adonis enhances the dreamlike ambience, very enjoyable and spacious with her in center and the instruments and ambience making a stage wide to the sides and around.
Relentless here sounds thin and boring and lacks soul, and even with a brighter tonality it doesn't pick up more details than Adonis. Stage sound is more separated on Relentless but it is more closed and smaller.
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https://tidal.com/browse/track/296133845?u
Miho Hazarma - Can't Hide Love
A brilliant jazz artist and composer from Japan. The track is a soft one already, and easy to listen to versus most traditional large ensemble jazz pieces. Adonis New engulf you in warm and smooth sound, but it still retains decent details and doesn't sound closed in. No brass elements are bright, so even the sensitive to jazz should be able to listen to this with Adonis.
Relentless does sound more transparent and open since it has less warmth, so the brass and snares sound more clear. The bass is less warm but still has more punch to the kick drum in the middle of the track, it still lacks some body and soul for the music. But the more clear sound can suit jazz better than Adonis New if you want a clearer sound.
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https://tidal.com/browse/track/248108356?u
Infected Mushroom, Nina Tayeb - Black Velvet
The electronic duo from Israel, this is their take on the classic Black Velvet. Played under covid with their new guitarist and his wife Ninet Tayeb singing. Quite different from most of their music that if often more into psy electronica genres, still have some tasty elements.
The full and slightly woolly bass is addicting and fills me with joy, the amount is clearly more than what some like and can be considered bass head for some. The guitar played by Nina's husband sounds full, lacking just a little bite to sound realistic for metal strings. Her voice also suits this more thick tuning, if it was a brighter vocalist it wouldn't have been as nice.
Relentless does lack body here, and doesn't sound full and fun the same way. The brighter tonality is not for me, especially noticing it on this track after having used Adonis. It also sounds less resolving and flat, dynamics are missing from both her and the guitar. Even the start bass line sounds lacking without punch to it. The guitar has that extra metallic bite that sounds more realistic, so steel strings suit the more intense tonality of Relentless.
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https://tidal.com/browse/track/51971822?u
Distorted guitar and energetic song from Devin Townsend
The whole album here is one of my favorites from Devin Townsend, he is a songwriter, singer and guitarist from Canada. The track Hyperdrive is my favorite from the album and has some speed for rock/metal without being on the extreme side where some of you readers won't dare listen.
His voice is full and husky, the sound with Adonis New while fun and engaging might seem a little too wooly here. Changing over to Relentless it does sound much more clean, makes it less congested and more open. So if I would go for a fast type of metal and rock I would go Relentless as it's both more fun and clear than Adonis, but if we talk about older rock or something like doom metal I want the thickness of Adonis instead.
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Conclusion
When I think about purple and pine cones, autumn comes to my mind. And then cabins and fireplace with having a good relaxed time, this is what I feel Adonis New is about. You get a warm and cozy sound, without all the micro details blasted at you.
The music is on the softer side with less attack, I get that analog and vintage feel reminiscent of big tower speakers with large drivers. As in large and deep bass that's defined, and less visceral and impactful. Thick midrange making music more dense, without having a bright upper range.
I would say this is true L shaped tuning, not very many of these around.
The price point Adonis is at is populated, but I still think this stands apart from many of them. Both due to the tuning being something different than all the Harman sets, also for being a bassy IEM with less brightness and softer sound.
The design is super unique and special, I have a feeling that they have taken one of their designers from the Kinera imperial to craft this. The shell is also small and very ergonomic, this is rare in today's market.
No set is perfect and neither is this, it's not the most resolving set. It also has a softer sound of transients, also with longer decay of the bass than average sets. For some this is a deal breaker if they want crisp and fast sound with maximum separation and clarity. I for one often like to have IEMs like this, as it's often nice when you're tired or for certain music.
For me the QoA Adonis new is a good recommendation, it's a 3.5 star. This is excellent for the price, and as reference it means 7/10.Last edited:
ahammedsojib excellent review
MD Rohit Wow those pictures are beautiful and great review brotheriamfuki
New Head-Fier
QoA Adonis (New): A Remarkable Beauty Pros: - Impressive Bass 100/10
- Incredibly gorgeous look
- Flagship level accessories
- Lovely cable
Cons: - Could be a bit too bassy for some people QoA Adonis (New): A Remarkable Beauty
When it comes to in-ear monitors (IEMs), the QoA Adonis (New) has emerged as a compelling option that punches well above its weight. Priced much lower than its perceived value, the Adonis (New) offers a blend of impressive bass, technical performance, and aesthetic appeal that makes it a standout in the sub-$300 category. Here’s a detailed review of what makes the QoA Adonis (New) a worthy investment for anyone who was looking for a fun, energetic iem under $300.
*Important note: Remember, audio preferences are subjective, and what matters most is how the IEM resonates with your personal taste. This unit was provided to me as a touring unit from Audiogeek, and I would like to express my appreciation for this opportunity.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetically, the iem is gorgeous. It features a design that is not only visually appealing but also functional. The build quality is robust, ensuring durability. The included flagship-level cable adds to its premium feel, enhancing the overall user experience. This attention to detail in both design and build quality further cements the Adonis (New) as a high-value IEM.
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Comfort and Fit
The QoA Adonis (New) fits exceptionally well, providing a comfortable and secure fit that is crucial for long listening sessions. The ergonomic design ensures that the IEMs stay in place, making them ideal for both casual listening and more active use.
Bass: 10/10
One of the most striking features of the QoA Adonis (New) is its bass performance. The bass is not only strong and impactful but also highly controlled and fast. This combination ensures that while the bass is punchy and pronounced, it doesn’t overshadow other frequencies. The result is a sound signature that is both fun and energetic, ideal for bass lovers who enjoy a lively listening experience. This level of bass performance is rare in IEMs under $300, making the Adonis (New) an exceptional choice for those who prioritize bass in their music.
Midrange: 8/10
The midrange on this iem is commendable, with vocals coming through clearly and instruments being well-separated. This clarity allows the IEMs to handle complex and busy tracks with ease, which is impressive for its price point. While the vocal performance is generally great, there's a slight room for improvement, particularly with female vocals, which could benefit from a bit more airiness. This, however, is a minor nitpick in an otherwise stellar performance.
Treble: 7.5/10
The treble extension on the Adonis is good, offering a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. Instead of an edgy or harsh treble, it provides a more smooth treble presentation, which is easier on the ears over extended listening sessions. This smoothness ensures that the treble is detailed without being fatiguing, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
Technical Performance
Technically, the Adonis (New) excels in delivering a coherent and enjoyable sound. Its ability to separate instruments and maintain clarity even in complex tracks is noteworthy. This technical prowess, combined with its impressive bass and balanced mids and treble, makes it a versatile IEM suitable for various music styles.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Adonis (New) shines in many areas, its bass might be overwhelming for some listeners. Those who prefer a more neutral or balanced sound might find the bass too dominant. However, for bass enthusiasts, this is a highlight rather than a drawback.
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Conclusion
The QoA Adonis (New) IEM is a remarkable product that offers a level of performance and quality typically found in much more expensive models. Its strong and controlled bass, clear midrange, smooth treble, and beautiful design make it a standout choice in the under $300 category. Despite minor nitpicks, the overall package is impressive, making the QoA Adonis (New) a highly recommended purchase for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience. If you’re in the market for a new IEM, the QoA Adonis (New) is definitely worth considering.
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vandung2510
100+ Head-Fier
QoA Adonis New - Exceptional L-shaped tuning iem Pros: - Gorgeous looking build
- L-shaped tuning
- Fun and gigantic bass shelf
- Smooth midrange and vocals
- Relaxing treble
- High quality modular cable
- Nice carrying caseCons: - Treble lack extension and air
- A bit unrefined upper midrange
- Average technical performance
- Cable doesn’t have L R indicator other than the notch at the bottom of the 2 píns Introduction
QoA, or Queen of Audio, is a sub brand for Kinera. Kinera is not a strange brand to many audiophiles out there, as they have been making some of THE MOST gorgeous looking iem out there. While Kinera is focusing on more high end iem, both in universal and custom shells, QoA is focusing more on the budget side.
Their latest iem, the Adonis New, is a hybrid iem, featuring one 9.2mm dynamic driver with titanium diaphragm for the bass, one Knowles balanced armature for the midrange and one QoA custom BA for the treble, all connected to eachother with a 3-way crossover
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The Adonis New is currently selling for 181$ on their main website.
Disclaimer: I would like to give a special thanks to QoA/Kinera for providing a unit of Adonis New as part of Audio Geek's Vietnam tour. I didn’t receive any incentive from QoA/Kinera as well as instruction on how to write this review. Everything I said in this review is my subjective opinion only.
Packaging
The Adonis New comes in a relatively big box. Here is my unboxing video for the Adonis New.
The accessories included:
- One 5N Copper Silver PlatedCable
- A PU leather carrying case
- Screw & Lock Interchangeable Plug 3.5mm and 4.4mm
- 3 pairs of Balance eartips (Colour)
- 3 pairs of Vocal eartips (Purple)
- User manual
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Design/Build quality/Comfort
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The Adonis New seems to go with the color purple as its main color.
The shells use a combination of pinecone and resin as base material. It is then carved with CNC to reach its desired shape, then polished to have a smooth surface area. The faceplate is a separate piece that got glued to the shell after installing the driver though. The results are very light and smooth shells yet have a sturdy feeling to it. The nozzles have 2 tubes for the sound to come out, with a thin aluminum outer shell.
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The shells have great ergonomics to them. They fit me like a glove and can sit in my ears comfortably for hours with no hot spot. The Adonis New also has good passive sound isolation.
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The cable is a 4 cores cable with screw&lock modular termination. Each core has many smaller cores in blue and pink colorways, interwoven with each other. Overall, the cable feels very nice on the hands, not too light, not too heavy and definitely not tangly. One thing I do not like about this cable is that it does not have a L R indicator on them, other than the notch at the bottom of the 2 pin.
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Sound impression:
*Test gears:
Source: Poco F3+UAPP, Dell laptop + Foobar 2000
Dac/Amp: Chord Mojo, EPZ TP50
Cable: Stock
Tips: Stock Vocal tips
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Tonality: L-shaped tuning
Bass: This is the main star of the iem. It seems while tuning this iem, QoA just have one main objective in mind: Go crazy with the bass! And that’s what they did.
Subbass extension is really great. It is heavily boosted, extends way deep past 20hz. With the infamous subbass drop in Why So Serious, the Adonis New shows me a great textured bass with a lot of grunt to it. With “Trentemoller” by Chameleon, there is a lot of tactility and air movement, nearly making me feel dizzy. The subbass region feels very well controlled overall. Heavy bass EDM can sound tiresome after a while.
The subbass can feel quite pompous and intrusive to the rest of the frequencies
Acoustic bass instruments have a great presence to them. They feel dense and quite bulky. The sensation of the contrabass is amplified in magnitude due to the boosted fundamental frequencies. Kick drums sound heavy and full. Bass instruments sit more at the forefront of the stage, almost in line with the vocalists and midrange instruments. Because of all those quantities, the bass instruments lost a bit of clarity and quite a lot of separation between them.
With “Nancy Mulligan” by Ed Sheeran, at the first part of the song, every time there’s the thumping drum hit, my eardrums get vibrated right after that too as the sign of the intrusive subbass. The use of eartips with not so great seal or grippy material (as in with smooth material like Divinus Velvet) does mitigate this effect to a certain extent.
Midrange:
Standing next to the overwhelming bass, along with the not-so-boosted pinna region, the midrange of the Adonis New feels very warm leaning. Using a cozy weight blanket as a metaphorical image for the whole midrange isn’t very far off either. The midrange is thick, yet does not feel overly muddy.
Both male and female vocals have great heft to them. They sound smooth and creamy. Male vocals sound thick and lush, easy to be noticed when listening to Frank Sinatra or other baritones. Female vocals have decent liveliness to them, enough to not sound too recessed from the bass. It’s definitely not shouty. That being said, there are instances where I feel like their voice can sound a bit dull, or nasally like with Laufey’s “From The Start” intro.
“Shivers” by Ed Sheeran does showcase some mild sibilant.
Instruments have quite a natural timbre to them, nothing too offensive, yet they do sound quite warm and cozy as well. Instrument’s note weight is heavy. Heck, even the flute in “Sand dream” by Revo & Yuki Kajiura reminds me that it’s heavier than usual. Piano notes now sound dense and weighty as well. Violin sounds lush and smooth and not abrasive.
Treble:
As for the treble, it’s generally quite safe and relaxing as I spotted a steep roll off after 11khz. The treble is decently sparkled with good decay to it. I wouldn’t say it’s dull or boring either. It seems like QoA wants us to embrace the Adonis New fully to the bass and midrange, as the treble feels like it’s a supporting character to the rest of the frequency. You can only boost the volume up to “feel” the treble, before the subbass gets to you.
With Caravan, percussion instruments sound present and smooth overall. Micro nuances are adequate. Cymbals and hihats have enough presence and mid treble to give life to them, without sounding too splashy or too sizzling
Technicalities:
The Adonis New has decent width with a good sense of depth and height. The imaging was only in the “good” range as the overwhelming bass loomed over and took the space of many other elements.
That being said, when watching movies, the Adonis New does give me a blissful experience. With the “Bring me Thanos” in Avenger Infinity War, it reminds me of the time when I watched it in the cinema, how reverberating everything is with the added effect of Dolby Atmos.
Comparison:
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Vs Simgot EA1000
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The EA1000 is a 1DD iem, not a hybrid. The reason why I pick this iem for comparison is because I feel like it’s a very widely available iem, one that many people have and associate with, so that they can relatively imagine how the Adonis would sound compared to their own iem.
For the bass, the Adonis has much more bass quantity, both for subbass and midbass, yet the quality is league better on the EA1000. The EA1000 has faster driver speed and transients, texture feels tighter and the layering between each bass hits doesn’t sound as blurry. Kick drums sound more distinct. Bass instruments have more breathing room between them.
Midrange although sound warm on both iem, the EA1000 aren’t as weighty and dense. Female vocals sound way more open and transparent, as well as being brighter. It’s also more prone to sibilance at higher volume. Male vocals sounds cleaner, yet aren’t as lush. Instruments sound more natural on the EA1000.
Treble wise, the EA1000 has more energy in the upper treble and air region. There’s quite a peak above 13khz. Cymbals and hihats sound more forward and emphasized. They have more crunch/edginess and can feel more splashy/sizzling. I personally like this additional brilliance and sparkles.
Soundstages feels more holographic on the EA1000 with better layering and separation.
Vs ZiiGaat Doscinco
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The Adonis New’s price is 181$, while the Doscinco was 299$. The Adonis New has 1DD+2BA, while the Doscinco has 2DD+3BA.
The Adonis New’s tuning is more of an L-shaped while the Doscinco’s tuning is more of bass boosted, balance tuning.
The Adonis New dominates the Doscinco completely in the bass department in terms of raw bass quantity. The Adonis New’s subbass felt way more visceral due to the sheer air movement, pairing with the additional lingering decay and you have an eargasmic basshead experience. My eardrums vibrate way harder with the Adonis New. Although the Doscinco uses 2DD, it focuses on being more technical, cleanly separated, as opposed to a bit slower, more organic bass of the Adonis New. Bass instruments have more presence, more in your face on the Adonis New, while the Doscinco have a more distinct, less blurry bass line.
So in essence, one iem has a really fun bass shelf and one has a less fun but more technical bass shelf.
Midrange on the Doscinco feels more open and leaner. Female vocals are brighter on the Doscinco, less recessed. They align more with the rest of the frequency, even though the Doscinco is still a bass heavy set. Male vocals sound less dense. Instruments sounds less warm and cozy.
The Doscinco has a bit more brilliance and sparkle on the top end, giving more life to cymbals and hi hats rendering. It’s not on the treble head territory, but it’s definitely more present, less drawn out by the bass compared to the Adonis New.
Technical performance wise, the Doscinco is a similar width, but with better height and depth than the Adonis New. Imaging and layering is also a notch better on the Doscinco.
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Conclusion:
The QoA Adonis New really surprised me with its fun L-shaped tonality. As a bass head at heart, it’s been a while since I have this much fun with an iem. It’s not exactly an iem that is suitable for everyday listening because it can skewed my perception of what sounds "normal", nor is it for instrument's naturalness monitoring purposes, but it’s still an enjoyable iem nonetheless.
If you’re looking for an iem, with a bass heavy tuning that has decent midrange and vocals, relaxing treble, gorgeous looking shells and modular cable for under 200$, I can safely recommend this iem. Music library wise, I'd say this iem is suitable for bass heavy EDM, Rock and some Pop songs.
That’s it for my review and thank you for reading.Attachments
Last edited: DDavid Haworth Good review. Might be the new basshead recomendationDDescoberto Hi, would you sell yours? I thought he was beautifulICYGENIUS
New Head-Fier
QoA Adonis New review of hybrid iem by ICYGENIUS 🎧 Pros: One of the best super nice tonally warm basshead tunings!
This set looks amazing
Gorgeous complete cable with connectors for 4.4 jack and 3.5 jack
Excellent set of quality ear tips
Very deep subbass just feel it
Powerful mid bass with excellent texture development
The kick is very clear, with excellent attack
The mids are very warm and delicate, just enjoy it, no fatigue
Very low ear gain, which is great for many musical genres vocals will definitely not tire you
High frequencies are very neat, no sibilance or armature timbre, very smooth flow
The sound stage has excellent drawing of plans and separation of instruments, a truly wide picture is being built in front of us that you literally want to immerse yourself inCons: Not the most airy and transparent, but in the conditions of this tuning it’s normal - Introduction -
Hello friends, the Queen of Audio company has released an extremely interesting new product with a beautiful appearance and unexpected super unusual tuning with a clear bias towards the basshead side.
Today in the review we’ll talk about this model.
They come in a medium-sized box with a nice design, there is a company logo, the name of this model is Adonis New.
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And here are the technical characteristics and the frequency response graph, and a custom dynamic driver with a diameter of 9.2 mm is responsible for the sound, and two armature drivers, one of which are from Knowles and again custom from Queen of Audio, the sensitivity is 106 dB and they received a 16 ohm impedance, and they are quite easy to drive.
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- Let's take a look at what's included -
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- Two cards on one of which is a duplicate graph of the frequency response of headphones
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- Good selection of silicone ear tips, I especially liked the pink ones
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- Very high quality thick case with the company logo QoA
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- One of the most beautiful cables that I have seen recently, and it is also very convenient and has 2-pin connectors and the ability to install either a balanced 4.4 or a regular 3.5 plug
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Well, here they are, the headphones themselves that look just 10/10, I haven’t seen anything like this for a long time, on the front there is the inscription Adonis and this is probably one of the most unusual and also beautiful designs of the case using smooth purple medical resin and pine cones and such It seems like no one has ever used it in headphones, so in this regard they are unique,I especially like the way my left earphone looks due to this resulting pattern.
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They also received a 2-pin connector and a very small compensation hole, which is located nearby, and the sound guide here is metal and quite elongated with a clear edge for better fixation of the ear pads, so the fit here is very tight and comfortable, everything is good, there is no pressure anywhere and they You can use it for a long time without problems.
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- Tuning and Conception -
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And now we come to the most important part of the review, the analysis of the sound of Adonis New hybrid headphones and let's start with their tuning, which I would immediately characterize as tonally very warm, super bassy due to a clear increase in low frequencies but with correctly controlled bass, which is very important, and what’s surprising is that even though the headphones are quite close to my target, that is, in general, the approach to tuning here is extremely understandable for everyone.
There is also a powerful bass shelf for bassheads, neat mids with very little gain in the upper mids, and after 13 kHz the highs smoothly fade into the background, that is, they were extended to us as far as possible,and yes, of course, I personally feel such a decline by ear, and in comparison with my other reference headphones with longer high frequencies there will be a little less transparency and air, but nevertheless the presentation turned out to be very smooth and super musical, there is nothing whistling here, no sibilants ,there is no bad armature timbre , in terms of matching the drivers, everything is done perfectly here.
The dynamic driver plays clearly and handles powerful low frequencies as well as possible, and the armatures deliver mid and high frequencies very neatly and warmly without any brightness or fatigue.
(Low Frequencies)
Low frequencies are presented here as very impressive in terms of volume and that very obvious deep infrasound that simply shows itself amazingly in electronics and hip-hop genres, where you need to very well hear the rolling, insanely dynamically pumped killer midbass,and a clearly highlighted kick that well complements the ready-made bass base with its highlighted attack and powerful punchy percussive feeling and this is exactly what I haven’t seen in other headphones for a long time, respect from me for the bass, yes of course it was risky but I think it’s absolutely justified,bassheads will definitely like it here, since both the texture and transparency of the bass are at a high level.
(Mid Frequencies)
Yes, and for such a super warm presentation of mid frequencies, I think it’s worth paying tribute too, they are presented as pleasantly as possible to the ear, while I note that it is important not to be at all boring, that is, there is enough energy drive here, as well as an excellent and more obvious weight in the vocal part, which is quite good pushed forward in the perception of the image and I know that many people like this closer presentation, and at the same time, surprisingly, there is no tightness or deafness here and the timbres are very recognizable and intelligible, there’s definitely no hint of synthetics here, so I wouldn’t say that the headphones in this regard convey something wrong in music in comparison with other headphones, maybe, of course, they do not extract and reveal various micro nuances so much, but the images themselves are presented to us as very large and clearly abstracted from each other, there is no confusion or constriction in this area, and all plans are clearly separated from each other due to sufficient optimal wide and detailed sound stage.
(High Frequencies)
But the high frequencies here are delivered very smoothly and not at all tense, there is no brightness or sibilance, just forget about them, if you were ever looking for these headphones that are super neat and, what is important, delicately convey that the upper mids and highs, then these guys are Adonis New this is for you, even I caught myself thinking that I could literally listen to them all day , I haven’t seen such a super immersive and most importantly musical presentation for a long time, although I wouldn’t say that the cymbals and percussion are hiding here somewhere, and their image is a little pushed back, but nevertheless, I personally can hear everything clearly, and the attack and after-sound may be slightly more shortened, but it’s there and hasn’t gone away, but maybe I’d like more transparency, but that’s only on condition that I listen to some kind of technical metal on a regular basis,, and I listen to this very rarely, and I just understand perfectly well that the setup concept here is different and not the same as what I’ve been used to lately, and therefore I treat it normally because I think that diversity now in the headphone market would not hurt, and specifically in This time the Queen of Audio company with Adonis New headphones decided to stand out well from other new products and leave me with only positive impressions.
My conclusion on this headphones!
Queen of Audio Adonis New is a very interesting new product with a chic appearance, an excellent included cable, a sufficient set of ear tips for every taste, and most importantly, with a rather rare bassy dynamic and super musical tuning, and I’m sure many were waiting for such a presentation.
Queen Of Audio Official Store:https://aliexpress.ru/item/1005006960434996.html
Official Website:https://www.kineraaudio.com/product/qoa-adonis-new
I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on QoA Adonis New!
TTronicus @kneelthepetal Aviation is a light W tuning with a focus on clarity where everything is pushed forward. Adonis New is a mega L-shape basshead tuning.DDavid Haworth Nice! Sounds fantastic