Rose Technics QT-9 MK3

ROSE TECHNICS QT9 MK3 REVIEW: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE​

WATCH FULL REVIEW HERE:​

PROS:​

• One of the most technically capable IEMs for the price
• The most complete package of any IEM under $200
• Vibrant, upper-mid centric tuning
• Amazing detail retrieval
• Tight but tactile bass
• Superb transient response
• Well extended treble presentation
• Comes with a dongle DAC

CONS:​

• Shout and sibilance prone
• Lean note weight
• Cable is microphonic and memory prone
• Not the most stable or secure fit
• Slight metallic timbre

WHO THIS SET IS FOR:​

• Vocal lovers
• People who love technical and analytical sounding sets
• People who want a complete package
• People who like a lean sound signature
• Trebleheads

WHO THIS SET ISN’T FOR:​

• Timbre heads
• Treble and shout sensitive people
• People who want a musical set
• People who want a warm and lush set
• People who have big ears

RECOMMENDED GENRES:​

• Jazz
• Instrumental
• Vocal Pop
• Ambient

SHORT REVIEW:​

From the ex-Sony engineer comes a surprisingly vibrant and energetic IEM that caters to vocal and treble lovers such as myself. It’s a well-balanced bright neutral set that excels in instrumental and vocal centric genres. But most importantly, this is probably the best value IEM you can get under $200 with its impressive accessory inclusion. Despite gripes that turned me off, I can’t deny that the QT9 MK3 was made with purpose and passion. RECOMMENDED WITH CAVEATS




DARE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. A simple statement that many are surprisingly afraid to make. This is Rose Technics’ declaration and determination and one that I personally found myself questioning in every single product I review. So what makes Rose Technics so different? You’ll be surprised with how they’ve developed this QT9 series of IEMs and how they show that they truly dare to make a difference.

DISCLAIMER: The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 was sent in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not paid or compensated in any way to say anything about the product

BEAUTY LIKE A ROSE​

Like I’ve mentioned prior, Rose Technics is a company that “dare to make a difference”. Established in 2012, they pursue delivering unparalleled original sound reproduction through intelligent technology and meticulous manufacturing. Outside their marketing material, however, I discovered that Rose Technics consists of ex-Sony engineers and employees. While ex-employees from bigger companies establishing a smaller company with a more focused vision is not uncommon (see Truthear and Moondrop as a recent example), these usually provide some of the most unique sets in the market due to their expertise and an untapped level of determination of creating something that they could not in their old work place. The originally $280, now $180 QT9 MK3 is a perfect example of this and is the topic of our review. So enough dilly dallying, let’s talk about the unboxing experience.

UNBOXING​

When I say that the QT9 MK3’s unboxing is one of the most abundant unboxing experiences that I’ve ever had, I mean it. Firstly, this is the WIDEST IEM box I have ever received. I was initially skeptical about what was inside the package when I first received it until I saw the Rose Technics up front. I then wondered what was inside the package to merit such a large box?

Here is the full list of the inclusions:

• QT9 MK3
• Cable
• Hard carrying case
• 3.5mm to 6.35mm adaptor
• A LOT of eartips
• Replacement nozzle filters
• MMCX remover tool
• Rose Technics RZ 550 DAC
• Type C to Type C cable

Insanity could not describe how generous Rose Technics is. I was so skeptical whether this was the norm that I ended up searching online what the QT9 MK3 beheld its loving customers. Lo and behold, this is indeed the norm.

Let’s first talk about those eartips. Not a lot of companies are willing to provide you with a lot of eartips, let alone varying kinds of eartips. But a unique foam eartip, a double flange eartips, a unique wide bore looking eartip and basic eartips? You might as well compete with DUNU with the amount of eartips you could bundle up in an IEM package!

You also get a high quality, albeit slightly cramped pleather case that is sure to protect your IEM and a couple of accessories inside, granted you place them inside in such a way that it doesn’t negate the magnet and refuse to close.

But arguably the most fascinating inclusion is an entire dongle DAC. Upon researching, I found that other people received the RZ200 dongle while I got the R2 550. Regardless of what dongle I get, the fact that they included one in the first place is the first time I’ve ever experienced a company bundling an entire source with their product. Maybe this is to ensure that anyone who might not yet have a source for their new IEM will have a decent enough source to boot, especially for those who opted for the balanced cable as the QT9 MK3 does not have interchangeable jacks.

BUILD & FIT​

Starting with the internals, the QT9 MK3 might seem like a familiar sight with its 1DD + 4BA configuration. But don’t let that simplicity fool you as this thing impressed me in more ways than one. Firstly, the QT9 MK3 uses a special tesla voice coil 10mm Dynamic Driver with a dual 26UA Ba for the mids and a dual 30017 Ba for the highs.

Despite this rather star studded internal offering, the QT9 MK3 is microscopic compared to other hybrid sets I’ve tried. The size is smaller than even single DD sets that I’ve seen and are just slighlty larger than something like the Simgot EW100P, a tiny single DD IEM.

This size initially worried me as smaller, more compact IEMs often lead to complications when it comes to comfort. Thankfully, the MK3 is vented and does not induce and air pressure build up and has a generously contoured shape that allows it to sit in your ear snuggly without it feeling loose. This is assuming that you found the correct tips for the IEM as I found none of the basic eartips to properly fit in my ear due to the rather stubby nozzle of the IEM. I found myself using the double flange eartips in the package or the Dunu Candy eartips to get the most snug and stable fit.

Aesthetically, the QT9 MK3 really isn’t a looker in any way. It’s a plain silver faceplate with a nice purple inner shell made of resin. However, I want to talk about one very specific option that Rose Technics offers when choosing your own QT9 MK3.

MMCX or 2-Pin​

A debate as old as time, two of the most popular connectors are one of the most talked about in the hobby when it comes to knowing which is superior. Both have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages with fans from both sides defending their choice of connector. How does Rose Technics solve this? By providing the customer an option to choose from either connector.

I have not seen a brand offer a 2-pin and MMCX connector option before and I praise Rose Technics for allowing people to choose between the two. Unfortunately, this means I cannot speak for Rose Technics’ MMCX connectors, but I can confidently say that their 2-pin is fantastic and very well-made.

Unfortunately, I am not the biggest fan of their cables. It’s an aesthetically pleasing nylon braided purple paracord cable with high-quality interfaces and a 4.4mm balanced termination. The cable itself is quite stiff and tangle prone and is very microphonic. This is probably the most microphonic over ear cable I’ve ever worn which is not a good thing at all. The lack of interchangeable termination was also quite disappointing, but not a necessity considering the drivability of the QT9 MK3.

SOUND​

Sound Signature​

In more ways than one, the QT9 MK3 presents itself as one of the most mature neutral bright sound signatures I’ve heard in recent times. While the likes NF Audio is unapologetically bright, the QT9 MK3 brings the brightness in a silver platter with a very mature presentation all-throughout. The bass goes deep and hits hard while maintaining a very tight and elastic presentation, the mids are thin in a good way and the upper midrange exudes energy and crispness without reminding you that you’ll probably lose your hearing in a couple of years if you keep listening to in-ears at the volume you’re listening at.

Timbre is surprisingly good despite the energy in the upper midrange, but still exhibits a little bit of a metallic tone in brighter tracks. I would not listen to older, brighter pop tracks with the QT9 MK3 but I’d glaze over warmer jazz and R&B compositions with this beaut.

Drivability​

The QT9 MK3 I received only came in 4.4mm BAL, but I will briefly talk about its drivability on SE. On 4.4mm Balanced, you have basically enough power on any source you throw this at with exceptional quality. I found myself pairing this on the R3 II the most as my portable listening experience was perfectly adequate, but the best pairing had to be my Fosi SK02. The balance of a clean and transparent sound with a boost in dynamics and headstage made the QT9 MK3 a true masterclass of solid scaling.

On 3.5mm, you get a similar experience with a solid level of dynamics and expansive headstage but take it a note. It’s still a superb sounding set, but you’ll hear a difference when you plug it into a high quality balanced source.

Listening Volume​

Due to the rather aggressive upper midrange tuning, you’ll find yourself listening to the QT9 MK3 in lower to mid listening volumes. This brings out the stage to be wider and taller with a more ethereal upper midrange presentation while taking a slight hit in the low end quantity and energy. Where the QT9 MK3 shows its strengths is how dynamic it sounds even on lower listening volumes.

Bass​

One of the most fascinating things about the QT9 MK3 is how well-done the bass is for how much bass there is. It’s a subbass over midbass presentation, but done in such a way that I don’t hear the tuck in the midbass as drastically as other subbass centric sets. But unlike those sets, the balance of the midbass to subbass on the QT9 MK3 is very tasteful as the subbass quantity perfectly matches the midbass quality. It goes deep, it rumbles and it kicks while being able to present the nuances in the midbass pretty well. Granted, this is definitely not for bassheads or people who want a thicker and punchier bass but is instead for those who seek superb quality bass.

Mids​

The midrange of the QT9 MK3 tells two stories; one of the energetic and vibrant vocal presentation that brings out the nuances and airiness of instruments and vocals and one where it’s just shouty and harsh. Depending on your tolerance to shout, the QT9 MK3 lives in the spectrum of perfectly energetic or harsh. I fall in the former camp and I absolutely love the QT9 MK3 for vocal centric genres. Thanks to the superb low end balance to compliment the upper midrange, jazz and vocal pop songs sound ethereal with the amount of nuance, air and detail presented. It’s so crisp and detailed that many hybrids in this price pales in comparison to what the QT9 MK3 has achieved. Admittedly, this has the effect of making the lower mids sound a little thin due to that energy and a 10db+ ear gain is not for everyone. However, I’d argue that Rose Technics found the perfect balance of upper midrange energy with the low end cleanliness for my tastes.

Treble​

Following the energy of the upper mids, the treble of the QT9 MK3 is equally as airy, nuanced and detailed but in a surprisingly mature way. I often find hybrid sets forcing treble for resolution and detail, but the QT9 MK3 does it in such an organic and natural way that I forget this is a 4BA + 1DD hybrid. The treble is so silky smooth with no graininess or incoherency and perfectly rolls off in an organic way that doesn’t force the treble to do more than it needs to. This is just bordering treblehead territory, but I’d argue this is a more general purpose set overall because of how they tuned the treble. This is perfect for tracks that hide a lot of detail in the treble, but not the first thing I’d listen to for poorly mixed tracks. The QT9 MK3 brings out the nuances in the treble, which expectedly also brings out the artifacts and poor mixing of certain tracks. Older, bright-tuned tracks are also not the first thing I’d listen to with the QT9 MK3, but it is an absolute joy to listen to jazzy and relaxed compositions.

Technicalities​

Hybrid sets often flaunt their technical ability to a somewhat effective degree, but the QT9 MK3 is one of the first ones I’ve tried under $200 to actually walk its talk. Technicalities is more than just an expansive headstage, good separation and pinpoint imaging. It’s also the level of refinement and resolution in the overall sound and the QT9 MK3 hits it out of the park. The level of refinement in the QT9 MK3 is honestly pretty insane for what it does and I cannot think of a better hybrid set under $200 that is able to do something like this. I would argue this can compete well into the sub $300 or even $400 range in terms of technicalities and is able to outcompete sub $200 hybrids quite easily.

COMPARISONS​

vs Simgot EM6L​

In more ways than one, the EM6L is the budget version of the QT9 MK3 with exception to the bass. The mids to upper frequencies on both sets are well-done, albeit on the brighter side with a surprisingly competent technical detailing. However, the QT9 MK3 runs circles around the EM6L in the bass as the former has a much tighter, cleaner, better extended and nuanced presentation while the EM6L’s biggest weakness IS the bass lacking some sort of agency and impact. The EM6L admittedly has more bass quantity which balances the overall sound a tad bit better than the QT9 MK3 for more genres. The QT9 MK3 is a step up overall from the EM6L and is a fantastic upgrade if you enjoy the bright U-Shaped sound signature but want to take

vs Simgot Supermix 4​

Considering how the Supermix 4 aims to be the upgrade to the EM6L, you’d expect the Supermix 4 to compete closely with the QT9 MK3. To that I say, it’s close but both sets do things better than the other. Fundamentally, the Supermix is a Pure Harman set with big subbass, clean and open mids and a very energetic and vibrant upper frequencies. The difference lies with how the QT9 MK3 is the more nuanced and analytical set while the Supermix 4 is the more well-rounded and “fun” set. This is odd considering Simgot is usually the brand to bring the best technical and analytical sound to the market, but decided to tone it down with the Supermix 4. This makes the QT9 MK3 the more technical and treblehead choice and the Supermix 4 the more fun and engaging choice.

vs KZ Hydro​

Pitting the QT9 MK3 up against CCA’s flagship hybrid, the QT9 MK3 shows what it means to truly be a flagship. While CCA’s efforts are not in vain, the QT9 MK3’s mature tonal presentation and refinement all throughout gives the QT9 MK3 a leg up in every single department while also providing much more in terms of inclusions and accessories. The only thing I’d say the CCA Hydro beats the QT9 MK3 in is versatility. By being able to go from a borderline basshead V-Shaped tuning to a clean, bass boosted sound that somewhat replicates the clean bass-boosted sound is something that switches inherently have over fixed tuning IEMs.

vs Intuaura Splendor II​

A set I did not expect to have so many similarities with the QT9 MK3, the Splendor II on 3.5mm has a similar upper midrange with the QT9 MK3 but balances it with a thicker and thumpier bass that somewhat balances the brightness and edginess of the sound. However, the QT9 MK3’s hybrid nature reigns supreme in terms of technical ability as the QT9 MK3 is, overall, the more technical sounding set. Where the two divert is when the Splendor II uses the DSP cable and becomes tonally superior to the QT9 MK3. However, you’d be limited to just the DSP and there’s an audible noise floor that some people would be bothered with. Regardless, the QT9 MK3 is overall a more focused set while the Splendor II is more versatile in both modes.

vs NF Audio NA2+​

I’ve mentioned the NA2+ in passing a couple of paragraphs ago and for a good reason. Both sets are vocal forward sets that have a good focus on technicalities and detail. The main difference is that the NA2+ is a single DD that tries to balance a very technically capable sound with good timbre while the QT9 MK3 ensures that every single part of the frequency is tuned exactly how Rose Technics want it to be. This is evident as tonally, the QT9 MK3 has a more mature sound while the NA2+ is, by nature, the more natural sounding set. However, this is where the age of the NA2+ starts to show as the QT9 MK3’s technical ability is ahead in all segments barring headstage as the former still provides a very airy and wide listening soundscape. But at the end of the day, the NA2+ is still the more “reference” style set for treble and vocal heads while the QT9 MK3 is for those who want a vocal forward set with superb refinement and technical prowess.

CONCLUSION​

If I were a vocal-head that enjoyed a refined, technically capable and well-balanced sound in-ear in a perfect package, I’d say that the QT9 MK3 is the perfect IEM. From the unboxing to the listening experience, I cannot ask for more from Rose Technics. Including a plethora of eartips, good quality case and a freaking dongle DAC to pair with this amazing set is a feat that I have not seen other companies achieve. Pair that with how good this thing sounds and I’d say that this is the best value vocal-forward set you can get in the market.

However, I also cannot deny the energy that this set brings is not for everyone. The bass might be too lacking, despite the superb quality and the vocals might just get a little too hot depending on the genres of music you listen to. The smaller size of the shell along with the stubby nozzle might cause some problems in the fit department as well.

But no matter how you look at it, the QT9 MK3 is just a solid product where the company listened to the critiques that came from their previous iteration to create something that the consumer will thoroughly enjoy. I know I did, and I know I’ll be paying close attention to Rose Technics’ future releases with this superb experience.

Thank you for reading my full review on the Rose Technics QT9 MK3. If you would like to order one, consider using the non-affiliated link below: https://rosetechnics.com/products/qt9-mk3-hifi-hybrid-wired-headphones-1dd-4ba-iems

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Disclaimer:

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

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

Source/s used:

• - Non-HiFi smartphone (Infinix Note 12 G96), PC.
• - Tanchjim Space DAC
• - Fosi Audio SK02 USB DAC
• - Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini DAC
• - Aiwa XP-V710C CD Player (12 sec. EASS)
• - Sony Xperia X Compact
• - Local Files via Foobar, YouTube Music, Deezer, and Qobuz with UAPP.

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

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Sound signature:

• The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 is a mildly u-shaped sounding IEM that leans to the brighter side of things. One can dismiss this as a smooth, neutral-bright sounding IEM, and it does show on certain tracks.

Lows:

• Think of the QT9 MK3’s sound as a “check” in line or figure - as the bass on this set is midbass focused, well-controlled, and ever so slightly elevated, when compared to its mids. Despite this IEM far from being a basshead’s dream, the MK3’s bass is very detailed, well-textured, and never lacked in any genre that I play it with. Its attack and decay is fast, but not too fast for me to call it lacking. Overall, the bass here in the QT9 MK3 is versatile yet well-controlled, in terms of quality.

Mids:

• I know, I know, I always focus on the technical performance, but the mids of the QT9 MK3 is my favorite region out of the bunch. I love how Rose Technics made this region sound smooth, normal in thickness, while rendering very good detail, despite it being mildly recessed. There isn’t a perceivable midbass bleed on this set to my liking which makes the lower mids as “transparent” as it can be. Upper mids are mildly elevated, but not as elevated when compared to its treble (more into that later). The upper mids exhibit lots of clarity, air, and sparkle. Despite all of these redeeming qualities, the upper mids peak are also heard here, probably because of its driver configuration.. It is far from being a deal breaker by any means, but I do have to point it out, especially for those people who are very sensitive to excessive or bright upper frequencies.

Treble:

• When it comes to the treble, this is the QT9 MK3’s highlight along with its upper mids - and it is presented well. It is definitely bright, but with smoothness in mind. Detail retrieval is excellent for its asking price, rendering nuances and tiny details with ease. This also means that BA Timbre is mildly present in this region, but never a deal breaker - just something to watch out for.

Soundstage, Imaging and Separation:

• As expected, the QT9 MK3 performs excellently in this region under 200 USD. The soundstage on this IEM is immersive, holographic if you may, as it does not have the usual wide stage, but more of a “spherical feel” instead. Separation and layering is excellent and renders very busy passages with ease. Imaging is precise and has no problems rendering vocal and instrument positions incisively.

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Other IEM Comparisons!

NF Audio NA2+

• The NF Audio NA2+ is a bit more neutral and brighter when compared to the Rose Technics QT9 MK3. The bass is firmer and in lesser quantity on the NA2+, while it is thicker and mildly elevated on the QT9 MK3. The mids are forward on the NA2+ when compared, offering an added air. This also in return adds slight peaks on sibilant prone tracks. As for the treble, the QT9 is more extended and airy. Microdetails are also slightly heard better in this set, but the NA2+ isn’t that far. Technical performance are excellent on both sets for their respective retail price, only the QT9 MK3 edging NA2+ slightly on the soundstage, in terms of immersiveness. In a nutshell, the QT9 MK3 will suit those ears that wants their music a bit thicker with added air, while the NA2+ will suit those ears that prefer a neutral and analytical approach, with the additional idea wherein they want an IEM that can also double as a professional studio monitoring equipment.

Kiwi Ears KE4

• These two sets, in my humble opinion, are quite opposite in terms of their sound character. The KE4 plays it safe and is more versatile when compared to the QT9 MK3, as it offers a balanced, thicker approach with a “safe” treble that can be lacking for those ears who prefer the brighter, airy approach of the QT9 MK3. With that being said, the QT9 MK3 is better when it comes to the technical chops, but the KE4 is slightly better on the tonal performance, while keeping the technicalities “well-done” for its asking price.

NF Acous NM20

• Both sets lean on the brighter sound of the spectrum. The NM20 is a bright, mildly-v-shaped sounding IEM, while the QT9 MK3 is a thicker, mild-u-shaped sounding IEM when compared. The QT9 MK3 excels on the upper frequencies when it comes to refinement and smoothness, while the NM20 favors those ears who prefer a less colored, energetic sound approach. Both sets excel on technical chops, but the QT9 MK3 also slightly edges out the NM20 in the soundstage department, in terms of immersiveness.

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Pros:

• Currently the “best” treblehead IEM I have reviewed and encountered under 200 USD!
• Mild - U-shaped, bright sound signature!
• Firm yet nonlacking lows!
• Versatile, smooth yet vivid mids!
• Bright, sparkly upper frequencies!
• Excellent technical performance under 200 USD!
• Fatigue-free fit, comfort, and isolation!
• Very generous accessories, both in quality and quantity!
• Minimal yet sleek build quality and design!
• Easy to drive!

Cons:

• BA Timbre is apparent on certain instances.
• Mild peaks are present on upper frequencies on certain tracks.

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The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 in my humble opinion, is a very remarkable IEM in my vocabulary under and within 200 USD, mainly because it performed really well in my tests despite it not following the current “meta-themed” or “Harman-tuned” trend in the hobby. This type of sound character also made me label this IEM as a “specialist” or a “niche” IEM because it may not be for everyone’s taste, but performs excellently in preference-specific situations. I recommend the Rose Technics QT9 MK3 if you are looking for an IEM with a smooth, airy treble-centric approach but does not skimp or compromise technical performance. Not to mention its exquisite, generous packaging and accessories for its price. Definitely an unforgettable, vivid IEM and experience, Rose Technics!

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Pairing recommendations:

• Source: There is an included USB DAC with the Rose Technics QT9 MK3, and it pairs really well with the IEM. However, you may still use your 2VRMS, neutral or warm USB DAC.
• Eartips: The amount of eartips included with this IEM are plenty and does not seem to compromise the IEM’s full potential; you may still use your preferred eartips.
• Cable: The cable is “minimalist” in design, and sleeved. I personally do not prefer sleeved cable, but it is just a personal preference. You may still use your preferred cable.

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Thank you for reading!

Non-affiliated link here: https://rosetechnics.com/products/qt9-mk3-hifi-hybrid-wired-headphones-1dd-4ba-iems

Additional Photos Here:

ChiFi Review: Rose Technics QT-9 MK3​

Third Time’s the Charm​

Rose Technics has been around for quite a while. In that time, they’ve experimented with a wide range of driver configurations for their IEMs, usually with a hybrid twist. The QT-9 is a staple of the Rose lineup, doggedly sticking it out for 5 years and four revisions. Today we’re listening to the QT-9 MK3 — the most modern revision to Rose’s 5-driver hybrid IEM.

You can find the QT-9 MK3 for sale on the official Rose Technics AliExpress Store here, for $169. Be careful, there are multiple stores with Rose Technics in the name. The one you want is called Rose Technics Certified Store.

You can also find it for sale here, on the official Rose Technics web store, also for $165.

About My Preferences: Heads up, I’m a person! As such, these words are my opinion, and they are tinged by my personal preferences. While I try to mitigate this as much as possible during my review process, I’d be lying if I said my biases are completely erased. So for you, my readers, keep this in mind:

• My ideal sound signature would be one with competent sub-bass, a textured mid-bass, a slightly warm midrange, and an extended treble.
• I have mild treble sensitivity.

Source: The QT-9 MK3 was tested in the following configurations:

• LG V40 -> earphones
• Asus Zenphone 10 -> USB-C -> Rose Technics RS9039 -> Earphones
• Dell XPS 15 (2022) -> USB-C -> Rose Technics RZ200 -> Earphones
• Hidizs AP100 3.5mm out -> FiiO A5 3.5mm out -> earphones
• HiFiMAN SuperMini -> earphones

All music was served as MP3 @320Kbps or as FLAC.

Tech Specs​

• Drivers: 1x Dynamic Driver (3rd Gen Rose DD), 4x Balanced Armature Driver (2x 26UA, 2x Knowles 30017)
• Impedance: 18 Ohms
• Sensitivity: 104dB
• Frequency Response: 20Hz -20KHz
• Cable Length: 120cm +- 5cm
• Cable Type: OCC Single Strand
• Cable Termination: 3.5mm
• Detachable Cable Standard: 2-pin or MMCX
• Weight: 30g +- 5g

Sound Signature​

Sonic Overview:​

The QT-9 MK3 features a smooth and refined sound signature with mainstream appeal. It has an elevated bass and treble with a technical midrange spike around 2–4KHz. The QT-9 MK3’s U-shaped sound profile makes it an easy listen, with a medium-sized sound stage and believable layering. The QT-9 MK3’s bright treble and light upper midrange feel precise, but somewhat mechanical in tone.

Sonic Breakdown:​

Treble: Songs used: In One Ear, Midnight City, Outlands, Satisfy, Little One, Show Me How To Live (Live at the Quart Festival), Fall (Big Black Delta Remix), Bittersweet Symphony

The QT-9’s treble is bright and formal. It attacks and decays quickly and precisely, deriving its transient nature from the two balanced armature drivers tasked with treble production. The QT-9’s bright and reflective treble tone allows it to excel in electronic genres. Fall (Big Black Delta Remix) was a pleasure to listen to, with the QT-9 playing nicely to the contrasting vibes of angelic falsetto vocals thrown into a chaotic digital landscape.

I was able to clearly make out the electronic crackling and subtle buzzing of the amps during the intro and outro of In One Ear, owing to the QT-9’s sensitive and revealing treble tuning. Other treble-bound details such as the sounds of the vocalist inhaling were cleanly captured and staged. High hats audibly decayed, though not with the most organic sensation.

While it is certainly bright, I did not find the QT-9’s treble to ever be sibilant. However, at higher volumes, especially in thinly-mastered songs such as Satisfy, the treble did come across as hot — something I avoided by listening exclusively at low and medium volumes.

While there’s multiple positives with the QT-9’s treble, it isn’t perfect. Treble-heavy tracks with highly-layered instrumentation, such as Bittersweet Symphony, exhibit treble-detail blurring. Reducing volume can mask this behavior, but it is present, likely as a side-effect of the up-tight tuning of the treble driver.

Midrange: Songs used: Flagpole Sitta, Jacked Up, I Am The Highway, Dreams, Too Close, Little Black Submarines

I had expected the QT-9’s U-shaped sound signature to have more of an effect on it’s midrange presentation, but in practice, the QT-9’s midrange doesn’t feel recessed or buried. It is particularly competent when resolving vocals — likely due to its 2–3KHz spike. Male and female vocals are both resolve nicely, with female vocals having a slight advantage. They have a sweet, honey-like timbre. Male vocals are portrayed with a fairly neutral tone. Vocal intelligibility is within my expectations for this price-point, with the QT-9 delivering palatable vocal clarity in most of my songs.

Among all the songs I tested, I found myself enjoying those that made heavy use of acoustic instrumentation the most. The strumming and plucking of guitar strings in I Am The Highway had a believable texture that kept drawing me further into Chris Cornell’s lonely ballad. The same can be said for the acoustic features of the intro to Little Black Submarines. Even through The Black Keys’ low-fi mastering technique, the QT-9 delivered an excellently-textured and realistically staged acoustic guitar performance.

Bass: Songs used: Moth, Gold Dust, In For The Kill (Skream Remix), War Pigs (Celldweller Remix)

The QT9’s bass features a dedicated dynamic driver, and it shows. Its bass is full and impactful, often having enough presence to create a satisfying rumble. Electronic music benefits greatly from the QT-9’s elevated bass tuning, with the busy and messy bass lines of Gold Dust being delivered with a tactile punch and robust rumble.

The bass-soaked conflict and angst of War Pigs (Celldweller Remix) comes through with energy and intent via the QT-9 hybrid array, leaving the listener fully immersed. The QT-9’s ability to produce sub-bass shines through on this track — it’s an impressive trait that is hard to find. Even harder to find is an IEM with this level of rumble that does not compromise the greater sound signature and remains cohesive with the mid-bass.

The QT-9’s mid-bass is tight and well-controlled. Songs with highly active bass-bound instruments such as Moth with its bass guitar are portrayed with a coherent and cathartic weight. The QT-9’s mid-bass, while strong, does not blur bass details or overwhelm its lower-midrange. In fact, there were no songs I tested that suffered from the QT-9’s strong bass presence — an excellent sign for bass enthusiasts.

Packaging / Unboxing​

The QT-9 MK3 shares packaging with the QT-X. Opening the box is easy, and the packaging feels weighty and premium. No complaints on my end.

Build​

Construction Quality​

The QT-9 is constructed from simple, light materials. Its shells are made from plastic, as are its faceplates. The shells are transparent, and the QT-9’s many drivers are clearly visible within.



Unlike its shells, the QT-9’s nozzles are made from a polished metal finished with a brass-colored plating. Just below the outer lip of the nozzles lies a metal debris mesh. To my eyes, this nozzle assembly is also shared with the QT-X.



Rose Technics sells two varieties of the QT-9: MMCX and 2-pin. While my preference is always 2-pin, it was sold out when I ordered my unit, so I had to go with MMCX. Rose sticks with high-quality MMCX sockets, and as such, they have minimal “spin” when a cable is seated in them (a good sign for long-term durability). I own multiple Rose IEMs from 2016–2018 that all use MMCX, and none have degraded or failed. I imagine the QT-9 will be similarly robust as time passes.



The QT-9’s cable is well-built. It features a simple 2-strand braid coated in a tough nylon-like material. The 3.5mm jack, Y-splitter, chin-cinch, and MMCX terminations are all housed in black plastic. I do, however, wish that the cable had a little less shape memory. It can be tedious to un-twist the cable above the Y-splitter, particularly if the cable-guides have gotten mixed up.



While the cable’s fittings are all fairly standard, they’re tried-and-trued. A super-fancy cable is always welcome, but not at the expense of the integrity of the overall product; a concept Rose clearly understands. To that end, the QT-9’s cable is utilitarian — highly functional, durable, and comfortable, without being frivolous.
If you want to move up to a higher-tier of cable, you can do so by simply ordering any aftermarket MMCX cable — they should all be compatible.

Comfort​

Disclaimer: comfort is a highly individual metric — no two people will have the same experience. With that in mind, Rose claims to have explicitly optimized the QT-9 MK3’s shell for the archetypal Asian ear shape. While I’m not entirely sure what that entails (beyond gathering lots of measurements from an exclusively Asian population), it doesn’t seem to have negatively affected fit for me as a standard-issue white guy.

The QT-9’s shells are relatively small and very light. As such, they were very easy to fit into my ears. The nozzles are standard width, but a little short, preventing me from getting a deep seal with the silicone eartips. Average seal performance aside, I was able to use the QT-9 all day without irritation or soreness, all with the stock cable and eartips.

Accessories​

Rose includes quite a few accessories with the QT-9. Inside the box, you’ll find:

• 1x pair of low-profile foam eartips
• 1x pair of dual-flange eartips
• 7x pairs of silicone eartips
• MMCX puller
• USB-C DAC
• Spare debris filters
• Carrying case

The massive variety of eartips was extra helpful with finding a comfortable fit for the QT-9’s relatively shallow profile. They feel high-quality in the hand and comfortable in the ear. It would be nice if Rose included a variety of foam eartip sizes, but that’s not a deal breaker when I can just order some Comply eartips off of Amazon.
The included USB-C DAC is an excellent utility in today’s age of single-port cellphones and laptops. The RZ200-m performs well with the QT-9 MK3, and other low-impedance IEMs. It has a low noise floor and is widely compatible with all of my devices, including multiple Windows 10/11 devices, Android 11, 12, and 14 phones, and an iPhone 15.

The included carrying case is decent, but lacks an affirmative locking mechanism. Instead, it closes using a low-strength magnet and friction. It is totally suitable for static storage at home, but it is not ideal for transporting IEMs in a purse or backpack when it could fall open. The case is, however, roomy and has a great net for storing accessories. I’d still like to see Rose iterate on this case and provide buyers with a more secure offering.

While traveling with the QT-9 MK3, I actually went back to an old-school plastic clasping case Rose included with their IEMs back in 2017.

Comparisons​

1: Rose Technics QT-X ($439 in 2024)

The QT-X has a warmer, weightier midrange. Its treble is less forward than the QT-9 MK3's, as is its bass. The QT-X contrasts the QT-9’s U-shaped tuning with a more “organic” W-shaped sound signature that prioritizes the integrity of the midrange. The QT-X is not an “upgraded” QT-9, but rather an entirely different IEM with unique tuning and a separate style.

Treble is a toss-up, falling to one IEM or the other depending on your preferences and priorities. The QT-9’s treble is far more forward giving it a brighter presentation than the QT-X. The QT-X’s treble, while more relaxed, tends to resolve fine details better and more flexibly, especially in scenarios where the upper register is particularly busy.
The QT-9 has a much more forward bass and is certainly going to be the preference for bass-heads. The QT-9’s willingness to punch and rumble goes far past the QT-X, with the QT-X only showing the same tactile behavior at higher volumes or in songs mastered with rumble as an explicit goal (see Baby Got Brapp).
The QT-9’s sound stage is medium in size, making it slightly narrower than the QT-X. They are both capable of layering, with the QT-9’s cooler tuning giving it the occasional edge in “slow” and “empty” songs. The QT-X tends to pull ahead in busier songs with higher technical demand, particularly when there are many contrasting midrange textures.

2: Simgot EN700 Pro ($150 in 2020)

The EN700 Pro is basically a more linear version of the QT-9. It has a slightly more cohesive presentation with an organic treble-to-midrange pairing. It has a less emphasized mid-bass and treble, with slightly worse extension that the QT-9. Both IEMs tout a strong bass presence, though the EN700 Pro rolls off earlier at around 50Hz. The EN700 Pro’s less dramatic V-shaped tuning will appeal more to those who want a “cleaner” sound signature. Simgot leveraged single dynamic driver well, though its limitations are a little more obvious when assessing its sub-bass and upper-treble extension. The QT-9 can push further in both extremes of the sound signature and claims some subtle advantages in delivering detail and impact as a result. There’s no clear winner between these two IEMs, and listeners will likely have to listen to both to determine which one suites their preferences better.

3: Whizzer KYLIN A-HE03 ($150 in 2019)

The KYLIN is an old-school ChiFi hybrid IEM. It features a single dynamic driver and a single balanced armature driver. At less then half of the drivers in the QT-9, the KYLIN does a shockingly-good job competing. It has a V-shaped sound signature with a pronounced bass and extended upper-treble. It features a warmer sound signature than the QT-9 with a bloomier and less controlled mid-bass. It trades blows with the QT-9 in the upper register, with the QT-9 occasionally staging quiet background details better. The KYLIN, however, has a more organic and less strained treble.
Listeners who want a warmer, smoother sound signature will gravitate towards the KYLIN. That said, bass-heads will likely stick with the QT-9 and its superior bass performance, both in terms of mid-bass punch and sub-bass rumble.

Summary​

The QT-9 MK3, while great at many things, is not a perfect IEM. But, at its relatively low price point, I don’t expect it to be. Rose went all out with its bass, giving it one of the most impressive lower-registered I’ve heard to date from a sub-$300 IEM. Rose’s accessory package is similarly great — but again, not perfect. Some small tweaks to the case and wider variety of foam eartips would solidify it as having the most comprehensive accessory packages I’ve seen.
The QT-9 MK3 is, for it few faults, still a fantastic and highly competitive IEM, particularly for listeners who want V-shaped IEMs with visceral and impactful bass performance. Great job Rose — I can’t wait to see what the Rose QT-9 MK4 sounds like!
As always, happy listening!

Intro
Rosetechnics works is truly special and needs more recognition from their Quietsea, Star City 5 Pro now the QT9-MK3 their passion in making amazing products they ensure you can get value and performance. QT9-MK3 is equipped with 1 Dynamic driver + 4 Balanced Armatures a definitely upgrade from star city 5 pro shows livelier dynamics and fuller sounding experience.





Disclaimer

I would like to thank Rosetechnics for arranging the QT9-MK3 for evaluations. My opinions are unbiased, and I haven't been influenced or instructed to praise these IEMs. Every detail in this review is actual experience made by listening for hours everyday.


Specifications

Driver configuration 1 Dynamic driver + 4 Balanced armatures
Unit Diaphragm : HD nano materials
Headset unit : moving-coil + moving-iron
Sensitivity : 104 Db
Resist : 18 ohms
Frequency response : 20-20000hz
Cable : MMCX/0.78mm 2 pin OCC single crystal copper cable






Packaging

Pair of QT9 MK3
0.78mm 2 pin OCC single crystal copper cable
Dongle RZ200 (The inclusion of this is definitely a huge plus for devices that doesnt have 3.5mm).
Premium Leather Case
3 sets of white silicone tips and purple narrow bore
Set of white silicone double flange tips
Set of foam tips
3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter
Burn-in guide manual




Build and Comfort

The build is made from 7000 series aviation aluminum panel and 3D printed resin it is quite sturdy and ensures it will last long. Even though the QT9-MK3 have 1 Dynamic driver and 4 Balanced armatures it is surprisingly lightweight and speaking about the size rosetechnics put it all the drivers in a small shell without increasing the size and provide topnotch comfort.

They updated this product and you can choose between MMCX and 0.78mm 2 pin options which is great.


Drivability

QT9-MK3 is relatively easy to drive with smartphone or other powerful sources. I swap the MK3's cable with some 4.4mm aftermarket balanced cable and I really impressed how it improved the overall performance of MK3 it become super dynamic that you can't be imagine.

When pairing with Onix Alpha XI1
I just need to reach about 19/100 to attain the listenable volume. The discernible improvement I found is the staging became wide and spacious and the midrange improved its timbre.

When pairing with FOSI SK02
The powerful push of power of SK02 is remarkable I just need 16/100 to get the listenable volume and it distort much when you go 20 and above. The thing I like with this pairing is the improvement in resolution and imaging capabilities.





Sound Aspects


Source used :


Realme 9 Pro

Onix Alpha XI1

Fosi Audio SK02


The QT9-MK3 is a bright U shape tuning offers an exceptional bass response, clear and open mids and detailed treble. My only nitpick is the timbre I recommend not to pair the MK3 with bright sources. It will become outright bright, resulting in frequent sibilants.


Bass

This is where QT9-MK3 excels the bass is very dynamic, tight, punchy and have a clean slam without overwhelming the mids performance. The midbass takes it to the next level it is precise and well textured. As for subbass it has slightly less present and it offers enough rumble, it didn't reach the midbass excellent quality perhaps I think it is intentionally done to not overshadowed the details in the presentation.


Mids

The midrange is open and smooth. The lower mids is not really deep I found it neutral. The forward instrument reproduction, good layering, detailing and separation is simply exceptional. Female vocals are suprisingly good delivering good energy and texture, I find it more prominent than male vocals. My only cons I figured out is the BA timbre I recommend to use warm sound signature dacs to balance the timbre and energy if you used bright sources it will become outright bright.


Treble

The highs is energetic and sparkly yet it is not fatiguing this gives the MK3 vibrant vibe. I do feel the highs doesn't sound excessive at all while maintaining its clean and detailed treble it will not fall off its texture and excellent quality throughout the frequency spectrum. The crisp, airiness and nuanced highs adds factor to the analytical performance. However, it is energetic enough you won't find it peaky and piercing.


Technicalities

The soundstage is wide and spacious with excellent depth and width. The openness of soundscape contributes to the holographic 3D of MK3. Speaking of instrument separation you can expect that this performing well you can easily distinguish where the instruments in the mix. Another factor where MK3 excels, the detail retrieval is superb extracting nuanced with ease.





Comparison


TRI I3 MK3

I would simply say it is a bassier than I3 MK3. The bass is superior in QT9 delivers more dynamic and punch. I find the bass on TRI a bit dry comparing this two. As for the mids we have a clear winner the I3 MK3 it is smoother and lusher sounding. The timbre here is more natural in TRI than QT9. Its quite difficult to find difference comparing the treble with this two. Both have energetic and sparkly highs. The I3 MK3 excels in note weight and timbre while QT9 excels in detailing. Technical wise QT9 is a better to some degree delivers a cleaner and clearer picture of the presentation.


Bass

QT9 > I3 MK3

Mids

QT9 < I3 MK3

Treble

QT9 = I3 MK3

Technical

QT9 > I3 MK3

Timbre

QT9 < I3 MK3





Conclusion

Rosetechnics QT9-MK3 is a well refined bright signature IEM that shows off in their price range. This is the best iem I've tried in rosetechnics lineup to date. Just give this ample power I recommend to used 4.4mm and it will sing for you. Even though this is not perfect mostly the mids is quite off because of its timbre still compensated with great bass, detailing and technical profiency.


Non affiliated link below :
https://rosetechnics.com/products/qt9-mk3-hifi-hybrid-wired-headphones-1dd-4ba-iems

Rose Technics, a brand that often flies under the radar, offers hybrid driver IEMs that might just be a secret weapon for discerning audiophiles on the go. Despite being overlooked, Rose Technics consistently delivers impressive products, from the budget-friendly Photon to this midrange model—the QT9 MK3.

Rose Technics lives by the motto 'Dare to make a difference.' They focus on delivering excellent sound performance and distinctive designs that integrate music into daily life seamlessly. Unlike others, Rose Technics forges its own path with tunings that defy current standards "The Harman Curve". This IEM promises a unique combination: a neutral-bright sound signature that prioritizes detail and excellent midrange performance while avoiding listener fatigue.

Let's dig deeper into the QT9 MK3 and find out if it lives up to its potential as a hidden gem.



Build & Design: Understated with Potential Concerns

The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 isn't your average set of IEMs. Ditch the bulky plastic options – these are sleek, minimalist crafted from a blend of aerospace-grade aluminum and medical-grade resin. Imagine this: lightweight comfort that feels like they practically disappear into your ears. Sounds ideal, right? There's a minor caveat, though – the shorter nozzle might require some experimentation with different ear tips to achieve a perfect seal. But worry not, Rose Technics includes a generous selection of various sizes and styles (black and white silicone, double-flange, and memory foam) to ensure a comfortable fit for everyone. No more struggling for that crucial noise isolation – they've got you covered.

Unboxing & Accessories: a surprisingly generous spread



The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 arrives in a larger-than-expected gray box. The design is clean and simple, featuring the brand logo and a prominent number "9" silhouette. While the box size might seem excessive, it houses a surprisingly generous selection of accessories.

Lifting the outer cardboard reveals a sleek black box adorned with the brand name. Inside, nestled beneath a detailed product description card, lies the QT9 MK3 cradled in a thick protective mold.

Here's a closer look at what's included:
>QT9 MK3 IEM capsules
>Two-strand coiled cable with a textile braid
>Gray leatherette carrying case with magnetic closure
>RZ200-m dongle adapter cable (compatible with All Devices)



Ear Tip Bounty
The package boasts a diverse selection of ear tips to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for most users. A plastic box holds:
>pairs of black silicone tips with wide cores (various sizes)
>pairs of white silicone tips with narrow cores (various sizes)
>pair of white double-flange silicone tips
>pair of memory foam tips

Additional Goodies
Rose Technics goes above and beyond with the following inclusions:
>3.5mm to 6.3mm SE adapter
>Four pairs of earpiece protection grids
>A pair of MMCX remover.
>A card detailing the IEM's technologies
>A burn-in guide



The inclusion of a high-quality leatherette case and a variety of ear tip options is a definite plus. The addition of a basic RZ200-m dongle adapter is a thoughtful touch for devices lacking a headphone jack. While its sound quality won't be a focus here, its versatility for various devices is commendable.

The inclusion of a 6.3mm adapter, ear tip cleaning tools (tweezers and grids), and a burn-in guide demonstrates Rose Technics' commitment to providing a comprehensive user experience.

Now, let's explore the tech behind this impressive sound.



Credit: Rose Technics

The included cable boasts a stylish braided design with a handy coiled feature to keep tangles at bay. But the true magic lies within. The QT9 MK3 utilizes a hybrid driver system, essentially a team of audio specialists working in concert. One driver focuses on delivering rich, clean bass, another ensures the crispness of vocals, and meticulously sculpts the shimmering detail of high notes. The result? A detailed, analytical soundscape that's a dream for audiophiles who crave precision and a deeper appreciation of their favorite music.

Bass:

The bass performance of the QT9 MK3 takes a more neutral approach. While there's a slight emphasis on the lower-end, it prioritizes control and technical over earth-shattering rumble. Bassheads seeking that bone-rattling, sub-woofer experience might find it lacking in depth and texture. However, the overall presentation is clean and precise, ensuring a tight and defined foundation for the rest of the soundscape.

The Mids And Treble:

The Midrange takes center stage on the QT9 MK3. It boasts a clear and detailed presentation, with a particular emphasis on the upper mids. Vocals and instruments are presented with a crisp, defined presence, like perfectly etched lines in a technical drawing. This meticulous detail retrieval and separation is a boon for listeners who want to dissect every layer of a song's musical tapestry, picking apart the intricacies of each instrument and vocal performance.

However, the emphasis on the upper mids can be a double-edged sword. While vocals and instruments sound crisp and defined, like perfectly etched lines in a technical drawing, listeners sensitive to sibilance (the "s" sounds) might find extended listening sessions a bit fatiguing. But there's a pleasant surprise! in The Treble presentation. Unlike the assertive upper mids, the treble is controlled and relaxed. It offers great detail without becoming harsh, ensuring a smooth and listenable experience. Imagine a well-diffused stage light showcasing details with clarity and detailed, rather than a harsh spotlight highlighting every imperfection. The QT9 MK3 strikes a balance, offering detailed highs without sacrificing listening comfort.

Technical aspects

This IEMs has a wide soundstage that makes the music feel expansive. It's really good at separating different instruments and vocals, so you can hear each one distinctly. The imaging is precise, which means it places sounds exactly where they should be in the space around you, creating a deep and layered listening experience.
However, some people might think it lacks a bit of that spacious, airy feeling that audiophiles often love. Imagine listening to music in a huge cathedral versus a cozy jazz club. The cathedral feels grand and spacious, while the jazz club is more intimate and lets you focus on the small details of the music.

When it comes to separating sounds, the QT9 Mk3 does a fantastic job. Each note comes through clearly and richly, without feeling muddled or crowded. It's especially good at capturing all the tiny details in music, so you can hear even the subtlest nuances really well.

Overall, it's a great balance between making music sound beautiful and making sure all the technical aspects are spot on. It keeps the sound dynamic and engaging, while still being clean and clear all the way through.



Pros:
+Neutral-bright sound: Offers clear and detailed audio with a crisp emphasis on highs.
+Analytical detail: Great for critical listening, revealing subtle nuances in music.
+Fatigue-free listening: Despite the bright sound signature, reviewers find the QT9 MK3 comfortable for extended listening sessions.
+Lightweight and comfortable design: The small ear capsules are praised for their secure and comfortable fit.
+Excellent accessories: Includes a generous variety of ear tips for a personalized fit and a sturdy carrying case.
+Good value for sound quality

Cons:
-Bright treble might be excessive for some: The emphasis on highs could be fatiguing for listeners who prefer a warmer sound signature.
-Lacks balanced cable option: May not be ideal for audiophiles who use balanced source equipment.
-MMCX connection: Some hates this type connecter
-Thin lower mids: While the overall sound is balanced, the first part of the midrange might lack a bit of body for some listeners.

So, Who Suit this Rose Technics QT9 MK3? It depends on your priorities. If you crave an analytical sound with a detailed midrange and are comfortable experimenting with ear tips, then these could be your new audiophile companions. Just be aware of the potential for upper mid fatigue and a slightly cramped soundstage. But hey, for the discerning listener seeking precision, detail, and a comfortable fit, the QT9 MK3 might just be the key to unlocking a world of musical bliss.

Introduction

According to its website, Rose Technics is an audio brand from China that was established in 2012. It has dedicated years to the pursuit of unparalleled original sound reproduction through intelligent technology and meticulous manufacturing. "Dare to make differences" is Rose Technics' statement and determination. The combination of excellent sound performance and unique designs to seamlessly integrate music into the daily lives of all users has been the constant philosophy since its foundation.
Rose certainly does not follow the present trend and its tunings seem to go a bit against the current standard. And proof of this is the evolution of the model I am going to review today: the Rose Technics QT9 MK3, a hybrid model consisting of 1DD+4BA with MMCX interface, priced at $186. I didn't have the pleasure of reviewing the first versions, but I did review the two previous models MK2 and MK2s. The evolution has been clear towards a profile that has moved away from an emphasis on bass to an emphasis on upper midrange. There is little or nothing in the sound of the QT9 MK2s in these MK3s, if anything, that counter-clockwise rotation from 1kHz that I mentioned. Aesthetically the changes have been minor. While the MK2 and MK2s were completely the same, the MK3s have slightly changed the colour of the resin to make it darker and less transparent, losing the eye-catching appeal of the IEMS interior. But, let's see what else has changed in this new Rose QT9 MK3 model.



Specifications

• Driver Type: 1DD 10mm Tesla voice coil with liquid crystal diaphragm + dual BA 26UA for midrange + dual BA 30017.
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz.
• Sensitivity: 104dB.
• Impedance: 18Ω.
• Jack Connector: SE 3.5mm
• Capsule Connection Type: MMCX.
• Cable length: 120±5cm.
• Cable conductor material: OCC 5N single crystal copper.
• Product weight: 30±5g.

Packaging

The Rose QT9 MK3 comes in a relatively large grey box, whose dimensions are 174x229x52mm. The silhouette of a 9 is in the centre of the main face and below it the brand logo, in white ink. On the back is an extensive product introduction in English. At the base are the brand's calligraphy. The brand specifications are on the bottom side edge of the box. After removing the outer cardboard you can see a black box with the brand name in large silver letters in the centre. When you open the box there is a large card that describes the product in depth. Underneath is the product, inside a thick black protective mould. The full contents are as follows:

• The two QT9 MK3 capsules.
• One two-strand coiled cable with textile covering.
• Grey leatherette case with magnetic closure.
• Dongle adapter cable RZ200-m.
• Plastic box containing 4 pairs of black silicone tips with purple wide core, sizes XSxSxMxL.
• Three pairs of white silicone tips and purple narrow core, sizes SxMxL.
• One pair of white silicone double flange tips.
• One pair of foam tips.
• One 3.5mm to 6.3mm SE adapter.
• Four pairs of grids to protect the mouthpieces.
• A pair of tweezers to decouple the connectors from the MMCX cable.
• A large card describing the technologies used.
• Burn-in guide.

As usual, Rose is distinctive in all her accessories. Highlights include a large case and a curious collection of tips. The inclusion of an RZ200-m dongle adapter cable deserves a special mention. In this review I am not going to describe its sound. It is a basic dongle without too much power that can be very useful for those smartphones that don't have a headphone output. It is compatible with Android, IOS, Phone, PAD and PC.
The description card, the 6.3mm adapter and the clamps are also welcome.



Construction and Design

The capsule design has not changed drastically from previous models. The MK3s use a 7000 series aluminium alloy panel, cut and polished by a five-axis CNC. The capsules have been printed in medical-grade resin by high-precision 3D printing. The shape of the capsule has been relaxed into an almost equilateral triangle with rounded corners. There are two flat sides, while what should be the smaller side is a rounded side. The capsules are still small, not too thick, keep the inner rounded shape and the small apex at their edge, to facilitate anchoring. The mouthpieces have been changed and are now made of brass, with an approximate length of 4.5mm, an inner diameter of 5.2mm and an outer diameter of 5.9mm. The nozzles are protected by a dense, metal grille. There is a large hole on the inner side, but close to the edge. Then, there is another smaller hole next to the MMCX interface. Finally, there is a small inscription of the full model name on the curve of the outer face of the IEMS, in white letters.
The cable consists of two coiled strands, covered with a black textile braid. The sleeve of the 3.5mm SE gold-plated connector is angled. It consists of a black metal cylinder with the brand name written in white letters. While the elbow is made of plastic. Right at the outlet is the classic white Rose sticker. The splitter piece is a small black cylinder that looks metallic. The pin is another black plastic cylinder, with a double hole in the shape of a figure eight. It is relatively firm, although it slides a little too smoothly for my liking. The cable has transparent guides on the ear. The sleeve of the gold-plated MMCX connectors are both black plastic cylinders. I like the MMCX connectors less and less and every new model I own gives me connection problems. I haven't even tried to remove the cable for fear of false contact. But, even so, with minimal use I have detected obvious problems of bad contact. Unacceptable.
The construction has not changed much, the capsules are still small. But there is a noticeable improvement in the use of slightly larger metal mouthpieces for easier ergonomics.
The cable is still the basic Rose cable even though it uses a 5N Single Crystal Copper conductor.



Adjustment and Ergonomics

The QT9 MK3s are still small in size and the length of the mouthpieces is just right. As I said, changing to brass tips of a longer size and larger diameter helps for a more complete and occlusive fit. But it is still necessary to look for the best tips and their length to find the right fit. Both the size and the shape fit very well in my ear. But I insist again that the length of the tips is crucial. While the angle is right, the insertion is only shallow. These are IEMS for small to midrange ears.
Their weight is very low and they hardly rotate. With my extra large foam-filled tips I manage to fill the ear canal superficially and fit the capsule so that it does not rotate or move. The key to success for a good fit and better insulation is still my home-made tips. However, with them, the ergonomics are almost excellent.



Sound

Profile

The Rose QT9 MK3s have a mid-centric profile, clearly emphasised in the upper midrange. Bass is neutral, while treble is subtly controlled, albeit with a distinct lack of air. Certainly, those two concentrated peaks at 2.5kHz and 4.5kHz are not appealing, more so coming from two BA drivers. The neutral bass also doesn't help to compensate for the upper midrange and, on paper, the sound can seem unpleasant. In reality, however, the sound is undoubtedly incisive, thin, insistent in that most critical area. When there is now a trend towards more relaxed tunings in this area, the QT9 MK3s stand out with their most incisive version in this respect.
In this Rose saga I have reviewed, both the QuietSea and the Star City 5 Pro have similarities with both having relatively similar peaks in the upper midrange. Even those possess more energetic treble, but also more bass. In this sense, the QT9 MK3s have the most neutral bass and the most controlled treble, emphasising their mid-centric character and moving away from the bass-heavy W profiles of their MK2 and MK2s predecessors.



Bass

The bass of the QT9 MK3s is neutral, slightly focused on the lower bass, but without too much impact on the sub-bass. They are quite technical and their hit is dry, fast, concise and precise. The decay is low and hardly lingers in the room, collecting quickly. Its medium roughness and texture is good, enough so that it is not a bland and smooth bass, but rather rather juicier and more vivid. There is a good dose of depth although its timbre is fairly neutral. The sub-bass is not very noticeable because its energy level is quite light. In the very low frequency pure tone test 20Hz is barely perceptible, subtly sensory, faintly audible. From 25Hz onwards it becomes more audible and slightly sensory. It has a natural behaviour and sonority, with no incidence of BA drivers, which implies a good filtering and a unique exercise of its dynamic driver. It is true that it is not the best in timbre, depth, darkness and behaviour, but it is a remarkable neutral bass that works very well, has some personality and is technically quite capable. And that's something that is corroborated in the unfiltered, dirty bass reproduction test. The MK3s do not suffer at all in the worst conditions and their reproduction remains reliable, natural and pleasant. Always under control, their performance is accurate and realistic. It may suffer from a certain depth and darkness, but it is not a simple, linear bass with low descriptiveness. On the contrary, despite its neutrality it is quite full, as I say, capable of recreating the most complicated bass lines. Its stratification is more than adequate, generating layers with ease, always under control and with a point of roughness and texture that makes it much more realistic, even fun. But, always within a level of presence slightly above neutral.
It is clear that the QT9 MK3 is not an IEMS for bass heads, but its performance will not disappoint bass lovers, even though its overall impact on the sound is slight.



Mids

Although I think of the QT9 MK3 as mid-centric IEMS, the first half of the midrange is relatively thin. Neutral in tendency, there is no hint of warmth, nor is there any hint of elevated physicality. The male voices are lean and light-bodied. Their base is not very deep, they don't feel dense or full. But they are fairly well represented throughout their harmonic range. In this sense, they are perceived as quite full and their timbre is neutral-bright, but quite realistic. It is true that the somewhat elevated tendency of the upper midrange adds a certain level of sibilance, but it is not overpowering.
It is clear that there is an obvious explicit level in the midrange, quite descriptive on an informative level. But it is not a completely analytical, hard or harsh sound. There is a certain level of softness, more accentuated in the first part, while in the second half it becomes somewhat more incisive and penetrating. The QT9 MK3s turn the warm songs into a more neutral tone, revealing their more splashy and vivid character. However, the more incisive songs do not feel penalised by this effect, but somehow manage to find a point of sharp balance that is not hurtful. It is true that the central range moves from a midrange presence, in its initial part, to an evident prominence in the final part. But it should be stressed that this is not a dense sound, but rather quite crisp, clear, well separated and transparent, but without being clinical or cold. Even at that point, there is a good degree of neutrality, albeit bright, but not predominant. This makes the female voices sound quite realistic, natural and forward.
On the other hand, on this occasion, the energetic lifting of the upper midranges does not focus on just highlighting details, but achieves a fairly full representation of the central range, albeit with that increasing energy. In this way, the sound is not just splashy or detail-focused, but there is plenty of harmonic information throughout the range to show itself in a fairly complete way. The result is a remarkable harmony between the base, the body, the centre part and the details of all the elements. And that gives it a rich balance, very full on a descriptive level and correct on a timbral level.
The QT9 MK3s are an example of how a tuning focused on upper midrange not only looks for light, detail or nuance, but can sound full, complex, informative and full, finding a balance throughout the sound path and executing it in an integrated way.



Treble

The treble relaxes a point from an initial rise coming from the upper midrange. Immediately, a relaxed control zone is entered, while the second half extends into a rather depressed air zone. The result is a crisp, explicit, fine but not too penetrating initial spark. Even so, the spark is well resolved. There is that BA edge and its energetic thinness, but there is also a good level of refinement that makes it gently incisive and more realistic. In this sense, the notes are fine, elevated, very well defined and precise, technically advanced and fully informative. But they manage to stop at just the right point to maintain prominence, but without becoming overbearing or excessive. Somehow, the MK3s have also managed to maintain analytical balance in the treble, without sounding too cold or unrealistic. I think this is a very successful representation of the upper range, both as a complement and as a unique range in its own right.



Soundstage, Separation

The Rose QT9 MK3s are very clean, clear and transparent. That's something that brings a good level of projection to your scene. However, these are IEMS that move in that more volatile and open environment, rather than dense or full. With a fair level of depth, the notes have that escapist effect, although it is not scattered, but has a good attachment to the base. In this way, the projection of the music moves from a light root, towards vivid, but fully conjunct details. This is how the music sounds quite real and the image is perceived as well-defined, concrete, yet open and very clean.
Technically very competent, excellent at both the macro and micro levels, the MK3s produce a smooth, analytical sound that is neither cold nor too incisive. It is very descriptive and informative, but without being completely explicit. There is a good balance between macro detail and micro detail. The former is not overly obvious, nor are they the protagonists of the sound. While the latter are there if you pay attention to them, in an exercise that is not too complex. They are not just monsters of detail, but seek to bring it out in a natural, though no doubt virtuosic, way, to maintain realism in both expression and execution.
The end result is a scene that is wide, with good height, depth beyond average, superior three-dimensional projection, but without surrounding the head, showing attachment to the base, to sound realistic and unforced. Despite the wide separation, this is not a completely detached sound between its notes, but is coherent in this respect. But this also limits the size of the scene, although it all makes for a more accurate and well-placed image.



Comparisons

Simgot EA1000 Fermat Red Filter

Without a doubt, some of the most splashy IEMS under $200 are the Simgot EA1000. They have a stellar metal construction, a 2nd generation 10mm dual-magnet, dual-cavity DMDC™ dynamic 10mm driver, plus a 6mm passive radiator. Simgot features a near-excellent level of accessories and it shows in its cable, the possibility of three filters for fine-tuning the sound, two sets of tips and a magnetically lockable enclosure. The Rose QT9 MK3 has a resin construction and a mediocre cable with MMCX connection, although the rest of the accessories are fine. It's clear that I'm leaning towards the Simgot set in terms of construction, capsules and cable. The ergonomics are a little tighter. I like the EA1000's weight and ease of insertion, but the MK3's light weight and smaller size make them fit nicely into the pinna. Their main problem is that the mouthpieces are short and that can ruin the fit.
Both are fairly easy to move IEMS, but although there is a resemblance in their graphs, the overall difference in the overall sound is apparent. There is considerably more weight, energy and volume in the EA1000's bass, its sound is fuller, denser, with more balance and homogeneity. A quick switch attests to that full, elevated physical sensation that the Simgot's possess. It's something that's not just felt in the bass, but male vocals feel more full-bodied too. Such a quick change reaffirms that valley and hollowness that exists in the transition from the lows to the midrange, which makes the music leaner. Then, the higher upper midrange elevation makes the sound more splashy in the MK3s.
In the pure tone test the EA1000s feel more natural, with a more realistic and less undulating performance than the MK3s. In actual performance, the MK3s' bass is quite good, but there is more punch, energy, volume, darkness, depth, texture and roughness in the EA1000s. Only in technique, precision and control can the MK3s be superior.
I prefer the fuller timbre and superior overtones of the EA1000 over the MK3. But the performance of the MK3s in this respect is by no means negligible. In certain genres it can be even better.
Where the MK3s are superior is in the details. You feel that a more relaxed sound in the low end makes the nuances feel more revealing amidst the greater density of the EA1000s. The details are in the Simgot, with a different colour, with a less metallic sonority. But they are sharper and more evident in the MK3s. It is a more analytical profile, finer, more resolute and separate.
There is a clear difference in timbre in the upper range between the two IEMS. Also, the origin of the treble plays a clear role in this aspect. The finer, more energetic character of the MK3s, with a seemingly higher elevation. Whereas the EA1000 reproduces the treble in a more homogeneous and smoother way. That sparkling feel of the slightly more metallic MK3s can give it a more crisp, positive appearance. Whereas the EA1000's treble has that more muted and nuanced sonority of the dynamic drivers, even though it's quite extended and also the Simgot's highs.
If there is very good separation in the EA1000s, the MK3s are a step above. There is no density in their sound and that frees it, separates it, volatilises it and expands it. The sound is freer in the Rose. In that way, the scene and the separation are bigger. The detail and the level of resolution are also higher than in the EA1000. And that's saying a lot. The only thing missing is the Simgot's sense of body and depth in the Rose.





Conclusion

Rose Technics returns to another hybrid IEMS with the 1DD+4BA configuration. It belongs, of course, to the QT9 series, from which it has retained its capsule design and accessories. But for this new iteration, the Rose Technics QT9 MK3s have traded in their more relaxed, full-bodied bass tuning for a more focused and energetic upper midrange and upper treble, while maintaining a neutral, but very well-defined bass. In this way, the QT9 MK3 is possibly the most neutral, analytical and scene-setting model in the series. Undoubtedly, Rose has opted for a more drastic change with respect to the MK2 and MK2s models that almost turns it into a new model, since it only shares with its predecessors the shape of the capsule and the configuration of the drivers. As I say, its sound is distinctly different, with a tuning that also departs from the current Harman trend.
Rose Technics is proposing different tunings to those that are currently creating hype, in a risky exercise, but one that deserves the appreciation and attention of aficionados. Without a doubt, the Rose Technics QT9 MK3s are a necessary alternative in the current sub-$200 IEMS scene, exhibiting great technical and spatial performance. A must-have.



Sources Used During the Analysis

• EPZ TP50.
• Tempotec V3.
• Burson Audio Playmate 2.
• Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + EarMen ST-Amp.

Purchase Link



You can read the full review in Spanish here

Disclaimer: This review reflects my personal, subjective preferences and is solely based on my experiences with the product. It's important to note that Concept Kart does not influence this review, and I have not received any compensation. As always, I highly recommend testing the product yourself before purchasing. I want to thank Concept Kart and Pulkit for organising this review tour and allowing me to share my thoughts on the product.

Chain: Mojo2+Poly via Roon with Final Type E tips.

Get yours from here!

The bass on this IEM is decent and fuller, and you hear some clean sub-bass rumble from the guitar. The mid-bass could've been a tiny more prominent and not so muddy at times, but some tracks will make you feel the air moving and surprise you. The male vocals are clear, too.


The mid-range is handled well. Even when the track has a lot of build-up, it's still pretty straightforward. The vocals are enjoyably lush and don't sound shouty at all.


The treble is really clean. Even though it's somewhat brittle, I didn't feel any fatigue when listening for long periods. The female vocals don't sound aggressive at all. I really dig how they're just a bit analytical yet still sound musical.


Overall, the sound quality of this thing is decent, with minor tweaks that could be made to improve it even further.

Thanks to Concept Kart and gadgetgod for organising the iem and dac review tour!
QT9 MK3 Buy link

Rose Technics has been a well regarded brand but with not much of a presence here in India. Their house tuning has been pleasant with almost no harshness in the past.

As part of the review tour, the QT9 mk3 iems (with the cable and case) and the RZ200 dac dongle were sent together. The review unit came only with the case and dac, no tips or packaging, I wont talk much about the package.

Build

QT3 mk3 - The iems are very tiny, with a resin body and milled aluminium faceplate. They are tiny in size, dissapearing into the ears. The nozzle is slightly medium-large in size, and I paired it with the KZ starlines M tips for the review.
The iems sport mmcx connectors, with a paracord braided 5N OCC copper cable that is 3.5mm terminated. (I reviewed the iems with the stock cables only).

RZ200 Dac - The dac dongle is a tiny one reminiscent of the older Zorloo Ztella and the likes, with a very small footprint. The dac dongle has a usb c termination and a female 3.5mm jack for the audio.
Nothing fancy, very functional.

Performance

QT3
The QT3 fits in easy into the ears and one wouldnt expect it to be multi drivers. I was surprised to learn that it was 10mm tesla DD + 4 BA driver config. These feel about the same size as the Aful Magic One! How did they manage to fit so many drivers on such a small shell completely baffles me!

The iems are very efficient and easily drive off mobile phones. However, as always, I prefer driving iems out of my standard dac dongles, and in addition, the RZ200.

RZ200
The dac dongle is a simple device, a callback to a few years ago when dac dongles made their appearance in a trimmed down mode. These again are very energy efficient and run fairly cool.
No fuss whatsoever. The dac appears as Realtek dac, happy to see that name after a long time.

Sound impressions

QT3
I drove the iems off the THX Onyx dac dongle and the RZ200 dac dongles. The THX Onyx is fairly neutral/bright, while the RZ200 is a little warmer in comparison. Both were able to drive the iems to ear shattering levels, without any distortion even at high volumes on either dongles.

Bass - The iems pack a good punch and sound full with good subbass off the RZ200. A 10mm driver tends to do that! And surely enough, the QT3 is nicely punchy and detailed
They sound similar to the Aful Performer 5 in the bass and mids department. While not at true basshead level bass, the bass carries decent punch and slam. 3.75/5

Mids - The mids are present and decently supported although slightly recessed in the male vocals. There is a lot of nuances and detail retrieval, although from a slightly pushed back position.
Female vocals get a little more support and are slightly more forward. Good amount of detail retrieval and tone on the vocals. 3.75/5

Treble - Unlike say the Performer 5, there is a lot more extension on the treble side of the spectrum. There is sparkle on instruments and excellent imaging. On slightly poor tracks, the female vocals and some of the instruments can have a nasal tone to the proceedings.
On well done tracks, the details are excellent with very good imaging and stage. The 4 BAs help with speed in fast instrument sections while keeping the instrument positioning very well.
4/5

RZ200 - The dac dongle is surprisingly powerful and full sounding with the QT3. It is slightly warm sounding, without any harshness/glare. Quite efficient with the battery usage too.
I quite like it a lot!

Conclusions
No comparisons here, but the iems are a surpriging package considering its size. The pricepoint will be the one decision point, when compared to other similar offerings. For small ears, this is definitely a nice option

TONALITY: 7.8/10
TECHNICALITIES: 8.8/10
TIMBRE: 7/10
SOUNDSTAGE: 8.5/10
IMAGING: 8.8/10
MUSICALITY (subjective): 8.2/10
CONSTRUCTION: 8/10
ACCESSORIES: 8.5/10
SOUND VALUE: at 290$= 8/10 at 200$=8.5/10

INTRO

Rose Technics is an IEM company based in China that create IEMs for near 10 years. They specialize in hybrid earphones and make their come back lately with the release of QT9 MK2 which I review and enjoy.

Today I will review the follow up of this QT9 serie which is the QT9 MK3.




Like the MK2, this is a 1 dynamic driver + 4 balanced armature drivers hybrid earphones but with a different tuning, upgraded construction and new 10mm LCP dynamic driver as well as upgraded tesla grade magnet that promise effortless powerfull transient current.
With a MSRP of 280$ but easily findable for as low as 200$, the QT9 MK3 promise high sound value.

Let see in this review if the Rose Technics come back worth to be follow and even praise.

CONSTRUCTION&ACCESSORIES



The construction is minimalist yet elegant and well crafted. The housing is very small, it's made of medical grade thick resin plastic and a metal back plate, Nozzle is made of metal and not very long so more appropriate for shallow fit than deep fit. Connector are MMCX and quite tight, it feel solid and well embeded in resin plastic, not prompt to getting loose easily.
The shell is half transparent and smooth, this is the kind of IEM you can forget you wear due to very small size which is impressive for a 5 driverss IEM.

The included cable is just OK built wise but sound transmission wise it's quite good. It's a 5N OCC single crystal copper cable with 3.5mm single ended plug, which is main con for me because I mostly use balanced cable.



Packaging and accessories are excellent and quite generous. We have 9 pairs of ear tips in 4 models. An excellent carrying case with enough space for 2 cables and extra IEMs. The basic yet good ''sounding'' cable. A 6.35mm adaptor plug. And this nice MMCX disconnector tool which is a welcome addition.




SOUND IMPRESSIONS



The MK3 offers a bright U shape bassy tonality with plenty of slam and rumble as well as open airy spatiality. Instrument presence is clean and crisp, resolution is vivid and lively and musicality is fun and near analytical at the same time.

These are one of those IEM that offer both bass quantity and quality and I think the tesla magnet has a lot to do with this, the sub bass control, flexibility and deep, clean extension is something truly captivating, and though i would not suggest Mk3 to treble or upper mids sensitive listener, the bright bassy tuning is well balanced in it’s own right. Those are for rumble lover as well as treble lover, and when it comes to mids. It's spacious and quite well resolved too.

The bass is dominated by the sub bass, so it will add slam resonance to attack and mellow hard punching of kick but this isn’t a boomy or muddy bass due to fast transient response that permit good layering of bass line and other instruments.
The extension of rumble release is very well controlled even if boosted in dynamic and loudness it doesn’t go upfront in bleeding and offer a long, dense and vibrant sustain that is clean and transparent, not euphonic and opaque, we got a subwoofer effect that don’t feel detached from rest of spectrum.
The double bass extends to its lowest range with natural resonance release that is full of air and hyper realist, the attack bite is slightly scooped but not to the point of feeling sloppy, tone presence is full while gently textured, again very realist. The Mk3 are quite enjoyable for jazz trio and quartet.
The electric bass too is good, we have the lowest tone ‘’oomph’’ that adds energy to rhythm and has thick and well layered attack.
Then the trade off is about acoustic kick dynamism which is less weighty and thick than sub bass.
Another acoustic instrument that shines with the MK3 is the cello, this is logical if double bass sounds great, we can’t confound cello with violin due to vibrant and dense attack release of infra bass.

The mids are very open and crisp with impressive multi layering of center stage instruments. The note weight is on the light side and presence of instrument and vocal is boosted in upper mids and quite upfront in loudness.
Yet, vocals aren’t sibilant nor wonky in texture balance, intelligibility of lyric is in monitor level, very easy to follow each word of both male and female vocal. Male are brighter than warmer and thicker, while for female vocals the timbre isn’t very lush. I’m impressed by how wide open the vocal release is. It's not shouty or compressed in sound pressure, it stretches very widely and embraces the listener with good transparency that permits other instruments to cohabit in an holographic spatiality. Personally I prefer softer and lusher vocals with more lower mids warmth and fullness but the hybrid drivers implementation delivers a very readable macro dynamic even if presence is bright and forwards, it doesn’t overshadow other mids instruments in lower range that have slightly leaner dynamism but crisp layering.
The piano is fast and thumpy in attack with good control and non blurry attack lead and release, it’s clean and transparent, a bit light in note weight and even in jazz trio where it’s supposed to be main instrument focus, it isn’t, it’s just a hint clinical in rendering, but we can say technical too, so it charm more my mind than my heart.
Again, I need to underline the mids are aggressive and soprano singer at high volume can be borderline shouty, but not in a rough way so it’s more problematic for those listening at very high volume, we don’t have sibilance added to this loud vocal, but this mean some part of piano range will suddenly sound notably louder too.


The treble is the most energetic part of the sound spectrum with the bass, it’s where the BA timbre and limitation are revealed too since while the attack is fast, crunchy and snappy, we don’t have a lot of sparkle and brilliance. Still, metallic sound will have minimal brilliance unlike some other hybrids, it’s just the sparkly resonance that cuts short.
The high timbre is a bit dry too, this can make trumpet a bit boxy sounding, percussions on the other hand are loud and agile, with good control that avoid splashing.
We have a lot of lower treble boost too, this put forwards instrument presence and permit a very lively macro dynamic that has energetically articulated layering, but this mean some might find highs a bit unbalanced and distracting when it come to percussions or high pitch instrument, it can feel forced at the listener and as noted with jazz trio, mids instrument like piano will not be as focus and loud as percussions or guitar.
Yes, we are in near analytical treble response where we get plenty of micro details, this is the type of highs that amplify sense of speed in rhythm section, but not only since violin is edgy and well textured, it’s easy to follow it’s fast playing since each string stroke has abrasive attack lead, but then for more contemplative laid back enjoyment, violin will feel a bit thin and severe in it’s playing, lacking lushness from lower fundamental that densify and warm the timbre. Again, it’s more technical than musical to my ears, nonetheless, it’s a captivating listening that will sure not bore the listener since MK3 has a treble that wakes you up, it’s nervous and highly revealing without boosting unwanted noise artifacts like background hiss of bad recording.
Another thing i find captivating but can’t explain exact acoustic phenomenon is that we do have air and sense of openness even if i feel treble pass 10khz roll off rather fast, we don’t have the airy long resonance of harp or acoustic guitar attack release but percussions aren’t mixed within a muddy macro dynamic, it well position in spatiality and has proper attack edge and snap for well define stereo separation in a 3D holographic spatiality.

This means the soundstage is quite great with the MK3 even if not the widest it’s open sounding, clean and deep. Nothing feel compressed and center stage isn’t too recessed, we are into a 3D bubble that extend about 1 meter at each side of the head, the instrument are fastly projected towards the listener, it’s not a flat center stage with static instrument presence, your into a mini concert hall fulfill with speaker and even a subwoofer.

The imaging is another highlight of the MK3, this perhaps explains my ‘’analytical rendering’’ perception in the sense that the presence of the instrument is bright and very well layered due to great resolution and transparency. Bass line are easy to position as well as most mid range instrument and percussions.




SIDE NOTES

At 18ohm of impedance and rather low 105db of sensitivity, the QT9 MK3 are one-of-a-kind when it come to pairing, it seem they like a mix of low impedance output and proper amping push, i’ll suggest a min of 100mW@32ohm for those.

Then they are ear tips sensitive and my fav pairing was with Penon Liqueur black ear tips that seem to cancel the sub bass resonance and warmth, improving imaging and cleaning clarity which make the soundstage deeper and background blacker.

Cable pairing wise, the stock one is good enough but I never use it because all my source are balanced.


COMPARISONS



VS Rose QT9 MK2

The MK2 is warmer, darker and less U shaped and crisp sounding than the more bassy, lively and dynamic MK3.

The bass is less punchy and rumbly, thicker and warmer, less resonant and not as deep too. Separation is warmer and less well layered, slipping into mids in a more sticky buttery way. MK3 offers more slam with wider head room and faster attack too, the sub bass elasticity is superior and infra bass is more vibrant and naturally extended. Sub bass is more rolled off and muddy with MK2.

Mids are darker and thicker as well as more intimate with MK2, upper mids are more softened and dynamic is overall leaner and less edgy. MK3 is more airy and open with higher resolution but not as fully bodied as the presence of instruments like piano and vocal, which aren’t as loud and energetic in attack. Vocals are lusher and more natural sounding with MK2 but more compressed and dark than more open and well layered MK3 vocals.

Treble is more blunted, less snappy and sparkly than crisper and cleaner sounding MK3. Percussion's attack is more blurry and less fast and controlled, we don’t have as much air on top nor as sharp definition of highs, this makes the whole macro dynamic feel less lively and W shaped than MK3.

Soundstage is notably wider, taller and deeper with MK3.

Imaging is superior, instrument separation having more space in both X and Y axis as well as layering being more transparent and articulated.

All in all, the Mk3 is a legit upgrade both technically and tonaly, unless you're against a well balanced bright tuning you shouldn't care about MK3 which has inferior imaging, bass and treble extension and more compressed and intimate soundstage.


VS KINERA FREYA 2 (1DD+3BAs-260$)

The Freya is warmer, darker and more L shape sounding than brighter, more W shape and highly resolved MK3.

Bass is slower, more muddy and sloppy, the slam is more muffled and warm and separation is poorer but thickens more the mids than cleaner sounding MK3 which has more transparent, speedy and resonant slam as well as deeper rumble.

Mids are warmer and lusher, as well as darker and hazier with Freya, upper mids are less loud and edgy, instrument like saxophone is fuller in tone but overall mids are less open and crisp in separation, center stage feel more foggy and lifeless in rendering with the Freya, the dynamic is notably leaner and macro dynamic come in a whole package, making all instrument limited in loudness release, vocal get more veiled too, lyric can be very hard to understand properly unlike more resolved MK3 which offer faster and more controlled attack of instruments.

The treble is softer and muddier with Freya, their zero air to be found unlike open airy highs of MK3, highs attack is blunted and hazy in edge, definition being sharper and cleaner with MK3. Acoustic guitar has more bite and natural sparkle with MK3 too, while spikier it’s still better balanced in lively macro dynamics while for Freya everything is just crumpled into a foggy safeness….

Soundstage is notably taller and deeper with MK3 and about the same width.

Imaging is next level superior, more holographic, 3D and spacious in placement, cleaner in separation space, more defined in instrument presence ... .it puts Freya to shame that MK3 feels like a way pricier IEM.

All in all, this comparison confirms how bad Freya 2 is and while tonality is duller and safer, it’s muddier, dynamic less and rolled off in both sub bass and upper treble. Technical performance of QT9 MK3 is from another league here.



CONCLUSION


The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 are technical monster IEM that deliver plenty of bass fun and take the opposite road of safe tuning that can often be very dull or boring to listen to.

The bass performance is incredible for the price, it’s fast and rumbly yet clean and elastic, thanks to the phenomenal DD and tesla magnet that permit to achieve a transient speed that properly match the one of 4 other BAs to deliver a captivating energetic and vividly resolved musical experience.

The Mk3 aren’t for faint of heart, nor for treble sensitive audiophile, as well, mid range isn’t the most natural or lushest we can find, nonetheless, i could say this for flagship headphones like Hifiman Arya Organic which offer similar sound experience to MK3.

All in all, I'm truly impressed by the QT9 MK3 performance and while I would prefer smoother upper mids, there is nothing wrong with being a treble head with such rewarding resolution and attack speed.

Recommended for bass and treble lover!


----------------------------

PS: I want to thanks Rose Technics for sending me this review sample. I'm not involved into any form of affiliation program or $ hubris bias. As always, those are just my subjective opinion and audio impressions.

You can order the Rose QT9 MK3 here for 210$ (look around their plenty of deals): https://www.aliexpress.com/i/1005006080160902.html

Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 Review​

​

Rose Technics QT9 MK3​

Intro​

Today I am reviewing one of the latest sets crafted by Rose Technics called the “Rose Technics QT9 MK3”. The QT9 MK3 is currently priced at $280 at their website but can be found as low as $182 on Aliexpress which by the way is very nice. For review purposes I will consider the MK3 closer to the actual price, so to rank them accordingly. That said, it’s smack dab in the middle of a mountain of fantastic sets. Somehow, I don’t think they (Rose Technics) are very worried. Rose Technics has proven to me to be a brand which all but oozes quality for the price. They seem to place a very high priority on the structural Integrity, design, packaging and the tuning of an earphone. Like I said, there’s a lot of competition but… I really don’t think Rose Technics are too worried. They’ve done the leg work, homework, and the hard work resulting in very fine products, and now it’s up to the consumer to take a chance.

I have actually reviewed a couple iems from this brand thus far and in each review, I handed out very high marks. Those being the “Rose Technics QuietSea” (QuietSea Review), as well as the “Rose Technics QT9 Mk2s” (Mk2s Review), and one of my partners at the website “Pavan” reviewed the “Rose Technics QT-X” recently as well (QT-X Review). Folks, Rose Technics is a solid 3 for 3 from the writers at Mobileaudiophile.com. The QT9 MK3 is a five-driver hybrid iem that consists of one Dynamic Driver and four Balanced Armature Drivers and a smaller chassis than most sets of this configuration, but I’ll cover that later.

Rosetech Selsa​

Rose Technics actually was founded as “Rosetech Selsa” which began way back in 2012. From what I gathered; the name of the company was derived from an ancient proverb which means “There’s a lot of water yet only one scoop is taken to drink”. Rose Technics has had over a decade of creating and designing earphones l while doing their best to maintain a sense of simplicity while crafting small pieces of artwork. These are actually Rose Technics words (paraphrasing) folks, and I can appreciate this cornerstone fundamental core principle. You can build a company with these words, and so long as everyone buys in… you’ll have a very good and prosperous thing.

Rose Technics was born…​

Now, Rose Technics was actually established in 2015. Since then, they have held tight to the idea that they will always create their products with “original design” and “simplicity”. In fact, the declaration made at Rose Technics conception was “dare to make a difference”. Rose Technics needs not blow you away with flashy products or litter an acoustic cavity with a thousand drivers. They keep things simple and create what works with the intent to provide something that is unique and original. Oh, and they also make sure their products sound… really good. Now that we’ve met the company let’s get back to the QT9 MK3.
Like I said earlier, the QT9 MK3 is quite literally floating in a sea of great iems within a price point that just may be the best in all of audio where price to performance is qualified. Obviously, that is up for debate, and I wouldn’t argue anyone’s opinions, but I have truly seen some amazing iems between $200 to $400. Just fantastic! So, the QT9 MK3 also needs to be pretty special to keep its head above water… so to speak. With all that said, I’d like to enter into this review of the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3, thanks for reading.

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:​

–Aliexpress

Disclaimer:​

I received the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 from Rose Technics in exchange for a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have not received any payment or any other form of compensation for this review. This set is a sample iem. Rose Technics 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 Rose Technics and thanks for reading.

Gear used for testing​

–Ifi Go Blu

–Qudelix 5K

-Rose Technics RZ200-m (included in the packaging)

–Moondrop Dawn 4.4

–Hidizs S9 Pro Plus

–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2

–Shanling M6 Ultra

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Packaging / Accessories​

Unboxing​

Beginning with the packaging of the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3, I found this to be a very clever and unique type of unboxing experience. I realize that many of you could care less about the unboxing, after all it is a short dopamine burst and then it’s done. However, Rose Technics does at least “try”. The first thing you see is a larger box with a sleeve which covers it. You’ll see the number “9” on the front and Rose Technics underneath. It just looks “class” folks. It’s somehow even elegant in a weird way. Anyways, take the sleeve off and you are met with the actual box and the name Rose in the middle. This is about when I realized that this was an all-wooden box. Once again, class. The box opens right to left like a book and on the top right are the earphones themselves seated nicely attached to the cable in felt cut-outs. To the left of the earphones, you’ll see the gorgeous case and just under both of those is a larger box holding different items. Inside you’ll see many eartips, an mmcx removal tool, a ¼” adapter as well as eight backup mesh filters. Rose Technics even added in a 3.5 dongle dac for use with the QT9 MK3 or any other earphone you’d like to try with it. By the way, it actually sounds pretty darn good for a small dongle dac.

Fitting for the price​

Again, I know many of you don’t care at all about the unboxing, but I do feel it is nice when a brand adds a little bit of excitement to the process. We spend a lot of money on some of these earphones and it is a nice bonus to open something that is well thought out, with quality materials and a nice design. Also, it’s nice to receive quality accessories that are actually useful. In the case of the QT9 MK3, all of the accessories are useful, and they aren’t simply arbitrary add-ons. Really well-done Rose Technics. The box and the presentation are very fitting for the price folks are going to pay.

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Eartips​

Rose Technics added in a healthy amount of eartips. Included in the packaging are four sets of silicone shallow fit wide-bore tips which come in a little black case. These tips have a firm stem and a semi firm flange. Really very nice tips. The next set of tips are three pairs of white silicone tips with a semi-wide bore and a slightly flimsier flange. The bore is identical in size to the KBear 07 tips, if that helps. Also, included in the box are one pair of white silicone double flange tips and one pair of small sized foam tips. As for me, I used none of these though they are all very nice tips. However, for Fitment purposes I used some Fiio ole’ school “vocal” tips which are longer and have a semi-wide bore for most of my listening. I also used Final E-tips as well. I found that any tip which was longer fit my ears much better. The nozzle on the QT9 MK3 is short and so I either had to find a very wide shallow fit or a longer tip with a firm flange. I should also add that a narrower bore does help with some of the shout in the upper-mids area and adds some much-needed low-end oomph. The Fiio vocal tips seemed to work the best for me.

Carrying Case​

The carrying case which comes with the QT9 MK3 is a gorgeous square dark brownish/gray leather case that is very nice looking. It feels leather anyways, though it may be a faux leather. It’s a looker folks. I don’t usually speak much on the carrying case because I rarely use them, but I’ve actually used this case quite a bit. The case is all black as I’ve said, and it has the logo imprinted on the top with the name Rose Technics underneath. The stitching which outlines the top of the case is a solid touch with a very appealing look. I know, so many of you could care less about a case. I get it. Usually, I don’t either. Still, I think this is a great addition and really shows off the character of Rose Technics as a brand. Very nice.

Cable​

The included cable is a 3.5 single ended black cable with a fabric sheath covering it. It is a 5N Monocrystalline Cooper OCC cable that ends with a 3.5 right angled jack. I’ll be honest, this isn’t my favorite cable I’ve ever used but isn’t necessarily a bad cable either. Yes, it is very much usable, sounds perfectly fine, and looks nice. Still, I would have liked to have seen a slightly better wire with a set like this. For one, the cable gets twisted and knotted-up pretty easily which is a small issue but one that I wish I didn’t have to deal with. Next, it isn’t the best fit aesthetically for the QT9 MK3. Please don’t take this as a rebuke either, because the cable is certainly fine and serves its purpose. I did use this cable for any 3.5 single ended listening and found it to be fine. However, I used a 4.4 FSIjiangyi Copper Cable which has a beautiful copper color to it and looks fabulous with the QT9 MK3. Really a great fit in terms of look and sound. Again, the included cable is fine but simply not to the standard of the QT9 MK3 in my humble opinion. This is actually the exact cable handed out for the Mk2s model I reviewed last year. I suppose I came to this conclusion because their $50 QuietSea has one of the best cables under $250. No joke. It is a beautiful cable. I was anticipating a big beefy banger of a cable like that one. Oh well, it is a simple task to swap the cable out and I don’t mind doing it.

Not that bad​

Also, please understand that there is no sonic reason anyone has to change cables. The included cable pairs very well as far as sound goes. It simply gets knotted-up fairly easily and never wants to stay coiled up either. Not a big issue at all. If this is the worst of the problems than the QT9 MK3 is doing very well.

Build / Design / Internals / Fit​

Build Quality​

The QT9 MK3’s shell is made by way of 3D printed medical grade resin with a very clean and almost medical grade look, if that’s a thing. Seemingly smaller in size than normal five driver hybrid sets. The resin is nice with a transparent design so that you can see the nicely aligned inner workings. The shell is of a darker color depending on which colorway you choose. The faceplates are made using 7000 series Aviation grade aluminum alloy which is nicely incorporated into the overall design and finished look. I love the contrast in colors, but I’ll get to that next. As I’ve stated, the nozzle is a hair shorter than most, but the nozzle is also very well crafted as the angle seems to fit my particular ears very well. Of course, I do have to use a slightly longer eartip but the way the QT9 MK3 seats in my ears is fantastic. If you have had the opportunity to try out Rose Technics’ previous version, the Mk2s then you’ll know that these two are identical in size and shape. So… Small, very small. Also, this set is extremely lightweight folks. Truly they feel like nothing in the ear and because they are so small, they seem to nestle in perfectly.

I thought the Mk2s were built very solid, and my tune has not changed with this set. The build is one of the cleaner builds you’ll see. I suppose at first glance they don’t seem like much but when in hand it is fairly obvious that the build quality is very high here. Rose Technics has been in this game for quite some time, and they know how to make a set of earphones.

【New Appearance】
The QT9 uses 7000-series aerospace aluminum alloy panels polished by 5-axis CNC cutting and high-precision 3D-printed medical resins to form a brand-new look for the headphones.
Rose Technics Promotional​

Click to expand...

Design​

This possibly could be an area where some may not feel the QT9 MK3 is as aesthetically pleasing as some other sets. Let’s put it this way, I could understand someone not thinking this is the most stylish iem on planet earth. However, I love the design here! Fantastic job once again Rose Technics! I love something that is understated, minimalist or uncluttered, yet still appears nice to the eye. The QT9 MK3 comes in two colorways which are Grey (actually more brownish gray) and silver (the color of the set you see here). The faceplate has a simple matte version of silver covering the whole of the faceplate yet with the name “Rose Technics QT9 Mk3” imposed in small writing along the bottom. So simple yet somehow elegant and tastefully charming. Truly a class act. Like I said, Rose Technics doesn’t have to create some ultra flashy, shiny, glittery or color filled design to look like it means business. They aren’t trying to attract consumers with their fashionable exterior. No sir, yet somehow the QT9 MK3 seems to achieve just that. Very nice Rose Technics.

Internals​

Rose Technics chose to use one moving coil, 10mm dynamic driver with a liquid-crystal diaphragm to handle the low-end frequency. The DD has upwards of one-tesla magnetic flux which serves the bass with some added impact. They also used two balanced armature drivers to handle the midrange as well as two BAs to handle the top-end of the mix. I don’t know exactly what BA drivers were used exactly but I will circle-back and edit this review when I do find out. Folks, it is easily apparent that the drivers used are if a high quality and tuned very well. I never sense distortion and the way these drivers handle all micro-dynamics and macro-dynamics on most any track while always showing very good control is a good indication of the quality.

The third generation Hybrid Technology frame
QT9 after 6 years to replace four generations, constantly optimize the acoustic structure to solve the harmonic distortion between the unit connection problem, phase difference and other technical problems.

Professional sound generator
4 units moving iron unit
Double 26UA medium frequency
Moving iron voice soft 30017 medium frequency unit strings nimble
Rose Technics Promotional​

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Fit​

The fit I’ve already spoken about a little. Like I said earlier the fit can be an issue for some, simply due to the shorter nozzle. All I needed to do was find tips which covered the difference and I find this one of the most comfortable sets in my collection. It is just so small, and the ergonomics are great. Once I found tips which allowed a good seal, I found these to be some of the best fitting and most comfy sets. I felt the same way with the Mk2s though for some reason I had a harder time getting a seal with that set. Anyways, I once again used Fiio “vocal” tips or Final Audio’s E-tips for the entirety of the review process. I did use some shallow fit wide bore tips, but I didn’t like the way they felt in my ears, although I did get a good seal that way. Now, I have no idea if this set will fit your ears but hopefully this helps. Isolation is only average though. Perfectly fine when music is playing but some sound does get through. Not bad at all though.

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Drivability​

To begin, I don’t think that the QT9 MK3 needs a ton of power. There is scaling happening though. Only, it isn’t just from output power but more so from the quality of the source. For whatever reason the QT9 MK3 is one of those sets which sounds pretty darn good with anything. Even brighter sources don’t expound upon the slightly bright nature of the QT9 MK3. Basically, a brighter source isn’t going to turn the MK3 into a peak fest or a sheened-out shout convention with exaggerated and oversaturated treble brilliance. You could call this set somewhat of a chameleon in that sense and I wouldn’t argue.

Mobile Listening​

For more mobile situations I will usually bring with me a dongle dac or a Bluetooth dac with which the QT9 MK3 is perfectly suited. With an impedance of around 18 ohms and a sensitivity of around 104 dB’s the MK3 is pretty sensitive. I find no trouble driving this set from even weaker sources. I actually used the RZ200-m dongle (don’t know if that’s the actual name?) that comes with the QT9 MK3 more than I thought I would. It isn’t exactly a powerhouse. Sidenote: it does sound pretty nice. Still, the QT9 MK3 sounded fine with that dongle and had plenty of power for this set. For an add-on in the packaging, it is actually a nice dongle.

Out and about
Still, for regular “out and about” usage I mostly opted for my Qudelix 5k or Ifi Go Blu. To be clear, in this review period I used both, alot. The Go Blu has a slightly warmer tonality and so I do prefer that pairing over the Qudelix, but the 5K also has a litany of features, which almost trumps the slightly better sound of the Go Blu. Still the point is, the QT9 MK3 sounded very nice on both, whether I was using 3.5 single ended or 4.4/2.5 balanced. Dynamics were in abundance whether I used the dongle which came with this set or the more powerful Go Blu. I also spent a lot of great moments with the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus and Moondrop Dawn 4.4 using 4.4 balanced and I will say, there is some scaling using a more powerful output, but not enough to warrant needing more power. Out of all of these I found the S9 Pro Plus paired best for my preferences. That vibrant warmth against the neutrality of the QT9 MK3 was a great match.

Dap listening​

Always my most used source would come from my daps that I have on hand. Those being the iBasso DX240 and the Shanling M6 Ultra. Both devices have low output impedance, and both have a ton of power under the hood. The QT9 MK3 took well to both source tonalities. The M6 Ultra (AK4493SEQ dac chip) is warmer, more velvet in smoothness and a thicker note weight while the DX240 with the iBasso Amp8 MK2 module attached (ES9038 Pro dac chip) is more energetic, dynamically charged and closer to neutrality. Both are fantastic in their price point of just under 1k and just over 1k. The QT9 MK3 loves both, which in turn means that I love both.

What should you use​

I don’t have a million sources to compare but I did find the MK3 does an admirable job adapting to most any source. Certainly, any of them that I have. But I do have my preferences. Of my dongle dacs, listening with 4.4 balanced on the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus was a treat. It’s warmer but doesn’t lack in its macro-dynamic expression. Also, for my daps the warmer and silkier sound of the M6 Ultra was my choice. The only thing you need is (at least) a decent Dongle Dac, though I would assume you could run this set off of a simple phone. I can’t imagine the dongle dac which came with the QT9 MK3 is that powerful but again, it easily powered this set.

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Sound Impressions​

The Rose Technics QT9 MK3 comes across very energetic with a tonality that hangs around the neutral side of the aisle. Sounding more like a very clean U-shaped to W-shaped sound signature with a punchy bass, nicely emphasized mids and a strong treble performance. Overall, I would call this a nicely balanced set. There is the tiniest bit of warmth in the low-end, a neutral low-mid, slightly more lustrous upper midrange and a spicy but controlled treble. No one area of the mix masks any other area either. Meaning; you won’t hear the bass covering over the midrange and muddying it up, and you won’t hear the treble sheen sizzling over any area either. I find the cohesion is fantastic on this set as it has a very nice tuning with capable and quality drivers. Rose Technics truly did a wonderful job in my opinion and hit the target they were going for. Perhaps a tad bright for some folks or not bass boosted enough for others but very nicely balanced, nicely detailed with vibrant macro-dynamics and able to take on most of my complicated tracks in my Playlist. Note weight isn’t the richest or thickest though so, keep that in mind.

Soft bright hue​

Furthermore, the sound is very clean across the mix. Transients seem peppery and quick with very nice separation of elements and very nice note definition. Also, looking at my notes; time and time again I write how nice the timbre is. Who needs notes though, I have the MK3 in my ears as I type this, and “Hotel California” is playing “right now”. The timbre is really nice folks. It’s organic with such a nicely tidy note structure. I feel there is certainly an upper-mids to lower treble focus (if any) but also a slightly emphasized sub-bass. I’d say the only thing keeping the QT9 MK3 from being completely natural is the soft bright hue in the upper mids and the snappy transient behavior. It really is great folks. That said, some more warmth would help to make it more “my” preferred signature, maybe a pinch more from the sub to the mid-bass and a titch slower decay would make it more atmospheric. However, I’m not speaking badly here, this set sounds sensational for the price.

Quick look Between the 20’s ​

The bass region has only a slight emphasis making the bass quantity only moderate to me. This isn’t some ultra thumpy boom fest folks. Basically, bassheads won’t be drooling. No, this is a cleanly controlled bass with enough oomph to carry most genres but not enough to say it “Bangs”. But “boy o’ boy” it’s speedy. This bass is very precise with an elastic control. The mids are neutral across and smooth as well. They are clean and clear with great resolution and sounds great when listening to well-produced and quality music files. The mids aren’t very recessed at all and sound forward and energetic. The treble has good extension, decent body, very well detailed, and has enough emphasis to lift the entire spectrum. I would say this set peaks out in the treble region but never goes overboard into sharpness. Detail retrieval is great across the board as the QT9 MK3 serves up technicalities very well. Imaging is pretty nice with decent layering of sounds and the stage is pretty wide if you ask me. Macro-dynamics are exuberant and bold, especially in orchestral pieces but it’s pretty obvious in most any track.

If this is all you read​

You probably already know if this is a set you want to learn more about. It won’t be for bassheads, it narrowly may be for treble junkies, and it won’t be for those who enjoy the richest note weight. Not for warm and dark tonality lovers either. The QT9 MK3 does a lot very well though. In my opinion there aren’t many in the price point quite like it and all it performs well at. Not exactly anyways, and definitely none I’ve heard. I don’t feel it punches above its price necessarily but is very good against most any set for many different qualities. Please hear me though, this will not be for everyone. One of the hardest things about being a reviewer is making sure people read and understand these words… ”Not for Everyone”. Is the MK3 a special set? No question about it, it’s a special set. Will it feel special to Bob the basshead? Um… probably not, Bob the basshead probably won’t dig this set! Do we have an understanding? I just want to make sure. The MK3 has a very refined and clean sound that I have really grown to enjoy.

Bass Region​

Looking at the low-end of the QT9 MK3, it reminds me a lot of the Aful Performer 8. Only the bass on the QT9 MK3 is probably a bit tighter with a denser feel to it. Not by much though. In fact, the entire sound signature reminds me a little of the Aful Performer 8. However, back to the bass, it has a very nice and linear glide down from the sub-bass through to the midrange with a streamlined and well contoured note structure. Abrasive when it needs to be, smooth when it needs to be, and concrete hard when it needs to be. Like “Take on Me” by Weezer. Those Kick-drums are elastic as you hear the solidity of the tacky edge, and the hollow rebound is full. It isn’t the deepest or most robust, but it is authentic. Clean enough to reproduce all the little nuances of something like successive kick drum booms. Also, it is very fast. There really hasn’t been many tracks that this set has gotten confused by down low. Very nicely structured and clean. The leading edge in attack or the crest if a bass note is tactile, it’s textured, it isn’t pillowy or fuzzy. It’s controlled and like I said… Contoured.

Sub-bass​

Now that I’ve said all that nice stuff, I should also say that the sub-bass rumble is only decently beefy, and it isn’t my perfect preference, but there’s still a nice rumble that I find satisfying enough. Now, if you like a big, fun, bone-rattling sub bass with a guttural haptic reverb that vibrates your temples… then you won’t exactly find that with this set. It isn’t moving mass amounts of air but somehow still renders a thrumming and reverberant bassline with some physicality. The QT9 MK3 sub-bass sounds like it’s just north of neutral and can dig pretty deep with good depth to the sound. Thankfully Rose Technics saw fit to add just enough to carry certain genres which require some rumble. Beyond that, the bass is tight! It’s nimble in its ductility with a rubbery type of elasticity and far from a one-noted or a blended affair. I can’t help but applaud the compact nature of the sub-bass. Also, the sub-bass somewhat carries the load in the bass department, as the mid-bass is a bit less full.

Pristine, tight & detailed​

“Groove” by Ray Wylie Hubbard is a song of choice which I use in most of my reviews because of the haptic reverb from the bass right out the gate. No waiting around for some melody all to finally get to the bass drop. Listening with the QT9 MK3 gives off a substantial gravelly grunge with a solid note outline. Very clean sounding. The haptic feel is there and pretty meaty as far as quantity is concerned, for me anyways. I feel like the bass is just so clean and rides that bassline very nicely. “West Texas is the Best Texas” is a track by The Panhandlers which incorporates a deep bass guitar that sounds fantastic on this set. It sounds pristine, tight, and detailed amongst the strumming guitar and the melody being sung in tandem. There’s certainly some heaviness to the bass guitar which has a nice textured feel to it and still comes across very naturally.

Mid-bass​

Listening to the mid-bass on the QT9 MK3 I get a constant urge to have just a tad more emphasis. No, it isn’t the most bullish and authoritative, but the mid-bass does carry with it a punchiness with a solid, or compacted slam even though it isn’t the most imposing of mid-bass replays. The mid-bass has a solid texture presence like lean muscle texture but with punch and buoyancy. It comes across very well rounded and can be very nuanced. But it just isn’t the most bloated bass you’ve ever heard. To the contrary, the QT9 MK3 also doesn’t have a plastic sounding mid-bass as it does have a condensed command to it. There’s still some potency and warm weight to it. Now, bass guitars are at times a bit less full sounding (depending on the pitch and the track) and a slight bit more of a vibrant sounding fundamental tone, but not so much that I’d label this a direct “con”. Double bass still has enough morbid drone when it needs it. Perhaps a bit thinner than perfectly and organically true, but it still can muster a nice silvery bellow.

Mid-bass cont…​

The mid-bass does have a solidity to it on the attack edge with a hardened bite that sounds pretty darn nice. You won’t hear any soft notes unless a track is recorded that way. Take “Old Man Gillich” by Muscadine Bloodline. There is a nice kick drum partly serving as the foundation to this track with a tight snare drum which follows suit. I really enjoy the hollow and round thud on the drum here. Folks, I can honestly envision the kick drum so well because of how nicely the QT9 MK3 replicates all sides of the boom. It has a nice hollow punch and wet edge to it, but again, you hear and feel the rebound. So very well textured and always moist or dense. Another track “Wolves” by Big Sean releases a bass drop at around 29 seconds that I can feel just as well as hear. The QT9 MK3 gives off a solid boom but still not over-saturated or overly bulbous. This is a case of a set replaying exactly what is recorded. So, the MK3 can rise to the occasion but it simply isn’t overdone or as “fun” as some other more bass heavy sets.

Downsides to the Bass Region​

The mid-bass to me is the one area that I’d like to see a few more dB’s. Let’s just get that out of the way. There are a few reasons for this. I feel the midrange could use some warmth and weight from the low-end bleeding into the region… in a calculated manner. A healthy bleed, if you will. Just a bit more to help the midrange from sounding as dry and to add some beef to low-mid vocals. Fans of big bass will want to keep looking. I feel I’ve gotten this point across by now and pretty much beaten this horse past death a bit too long. You get the picture. Other than that, this is an amazing bass. Truly a well-done area for the QT9 MK3 and one of the standout features of this set.

Folks, the low end can handle most anything you throw at it and does so in a seemingly effortless way. Most certainly its “quality over quantity” in the best way possible. The transient speed will honestly suck you in like a tractor beam when coupled with the organic and natural solidity. No, it’s not the most emphasized and it is a bit leaner but there is real density to it. Just a very endearing and engaging sound in most anything I play through them.

Midrange​

The midrange is another selling point to me. I wouldn’t call it tops in class like some other more organically weighted midrange efforts, but it is organic, nonetheless. We have two BA’s managing the midrange and I feel that Rose Technics did a great job of walking the fine line of less bass intrusion for a clean midrange, and the type of midrange which comes across too analytical and dry from not having that warmth. To be clear, this is not dry to me and while I wouldn’t consider it lush and rich, I would consider it lean-lush throughout with great timbre. This set does have some semblance of saturated texture within the leaner profile. The lower half is a bit more recessed yet pristine in its note delivery, while the upper half is more vivacious and has hues of brightness, but both keep that timbral integrity. This is a highly resolving midrange which comes across as airy and open and still has a measured uniform balance across the mids. Maybe not perfectly symmetrical but very cohesive and liquid in the transitions. Again, transients are rapid while the QT9 MK3 still carries a nicely smoothened body to notes. It isn’t grainy or coarse, unless the track being played has these attributes.

The subtleties ​

Another fine thing about the QT9 MK3 is its ability to illuminate even subtle details within my music, I hear some pretty nice details that I wasn’t exactly expecting. This set has agile micro-dynamics shifts which opens up the stage and the MK3 has a nice balance across the mix which also helps in bringing out the details. Staging is also very nice in this region as the MK3 does well to render the sound field in a 3D fashion. It is a nice add on to the great timbre of this set and really helps the QT9 MK3 to sound pretty great.

Lower-midrange​

Listening to male vocals I would have thought the QT9 MK3 would’ve been very lean and distant. Granted the lower midrange is pushed a hair further back than the rest of the midrange. However, within that framework the MK3 has very good presence and an alluringly flush note body with good texture. “A Fathers First Spring” by The Avett Brothers is a nice example of good texture to a male voice. Not the type which has a rough grain to it even though his voice is more lifted in pitch. Instead, I hear something very finely contoured with a smooth overlay along the crest of his vocal notes. I could have just said it’s clean, or resolute but I feel the way that the QT9 MK3 swims around the modulations of this track are commendable.

They sound good folks​

“Colorado” by Cody Jinks shows off this man’s deep and coarse-grained voice with a knife-edged sound and great control. This is a voice which is weighted and heavy no matter the earphone. What I didn’t want was more vibrance to his voice or a more metallic edginess to it. Thankfully, I don’t hear that at all. His voice is weighted-neutral, if that makes sense. Not warmly heavy. It’s still dense in texture permeation and carries this density through the entire song and each individual note. Maybe not as translucent because of this lean-lush sound but very resolute. If it were up to me and my preference, I already stated I’d have a bit more low-mid warmth, but I am impressed by what Rose Technics was able to accomplish with this set here. Males sound good folks.

Upper-Midrange​

Another area when through a macro lens the upper-mids come across very well sculpted. Again, they are leaner in their presentation but have a solid compactness and textured consistency. Perhaps females gain a bit more of a soft brightness to them, or shimmer, but they still remain melodic, and the timbre doesn’t become metallic or rough. Again, clean sounding all the way through. “Half In Half Out” by Gabrielle Aplin sounds both delicate as well as radiant. Radiant as in; luminous. Elevated to a degree. Still harmonious and controlled but with some svelte sparkles which adds some life to her vocals. Not that she needs the help. Ella Henderson in “Everything I Didn’t Say” is another track which elegantly shows off her voice with some vibrance all the while not losing the musicality to her voice. Transients are so quick and agile while there is still that saturation of density to her voice. She sounds very good on this set. Maybe there are the slightest touches of sibilance, but it didn’t bother me one bit.

Only with tracks which are prone to it…​

Most females come across almost resplendent in their subtle brightness which can be lively and comfortably energetic. Oddly enough this tinge towards brightness is not something which derails the note integrity. All the time anyways. I should add that, on some tracks, because of this soft brightness, I do hear some shout in the upper mid/lower treble area. For me it has only shown up in certain tracks. Like “Sensitive” by Megan Trainor. Her voice just cuts through the air with razor sharpness and enters all ears with this piercing tone. For whatever reason this song is simply prone to that sharpness. Of course, I get this on many iems but I had to mention it here. Yes, the QT9 MK3 is very vivid and energetic, and the timbre is tilted more organic and controlled, but at times in the right tracks… You may get some subtle glare.

Instrumentation​

Most instruments which dabble in the midrange walk in stride with the vocals in that they are closer to a more organic sound. I find that vocals sit a hair in front of instruments, for the most part. Strings have a very lively and nice sharpness and bite that is mostly always satisfying and very detailed. Electric guitars have that bodied but energized gruffness and abrasiveness that I always look for without going overboard and coming across too sharp. Acoustic jams are nice with the QT9 MK3 too. Piano is tuneful but possibly not warm enough for a realistic sound in the lower mids but I feel the upper mids give off that resounding sound. I still hear a rich sound across the board with great secondary harmonics. Even with the short decay. Percussion of almost every form has a snap to it or a pointed charge of energy at attack with nice weight to them. The fundamental frequency of a cymbal strike usually comes across nicely and doesn’t sound splashy to me even in the secondary harmonics (mostly in the treble). Violin has a soft or hard edge (depending on the track) to it and can come across silvery or very melodic. I won’t sit here and list every instrument, but I hope you get the idea. Instruments sound very natural with only a peppering of vibrance added on. There’s nothing strange, nothing too odd as far as timbre is concerned either. At least that I intentionally listened for. If anything, near the upper mids most instruments have a glaze of extra shimmer to them.

Downsides to the Midrange​

I think the most obvious downside to the midrange would likely be the note weight and warmth being a hair less lush and rich then some folks would like to have it. There is also some shoutiness in the upper mids along with the most subtle metallic timbre on rare occasions (very rare). The MK3 does have the slightest tinges of sibilance at times too. However, I am only reporting this to you for the sake of the review. Also, none of these downsides bothered me at all, not even in the slightest. I’m sure that there’s some of you who are ultra-sensitive to such things so be aware. Folks, at the end of the day the midrange on this set is very nice. Not so gifted as some sets which quite literally are tuned to master the midrange but for a balanced U-shaped iem I have to say that the QT9 MK3 is very impressive to this guy.

Treble Region​

The treble has some fun energy. It comes across with some added spice and some extra razzle-dazzle to up the presence of this set. I find the treble brings a sense of openness and subtle airiness to the sound. Maybe not the “most open” but certainly there is room to breathe up top. The highs on this set do seem to stretch out the sound within my mind space with the added vivacity. I also feel the MK3 has good extension into the upper treble, which also helps to widen the sound field. So yes, the treble has a little bit of added luster and glossy luminance. However, this doesn’t mean the highs are necessarily too sharp either as I wouldn’t call them fatiguing. I have grown accustomed to this sound and I really am not finding many issues with too much brightness. Maybe to some treble sensitive people I suppose. Actually, definitely to sensitive hobbyists. To everyone else, I think you’ll enjoy what Rose Technics was able to achieve here.

Energetic & crunchy​

The treble does have a nice crunch and a keen acuteness to its note definition which does an admirable job of separating instruments while still having a slight richness and treble body. If that makes any sense to you. The treble has bite to it folks. Micro details come alive but not to the point of any analytical type of papery dryness. There is some saturation to the note body. Don’t get me wrong though, I find detail retrieval to be nice, just not to the degree that the MK3 are detail monsters. Transients are still fairly quick and tight. On top of all that, I also find the cohesion between drivers as well as between frequencies is really great. A lot has to do with the nice cadence and timing that the treble has with the rest of the mix. This is just a well-tuned and energetically charged treble.

Examples​

Listening to a track like “Bishop School” by Yusef Lateef the QT9 MK3 quite easily manages all treble activity without even skipping a beat. Every last instrument is accounted for. This track is lathered in both blistering treble activity as well as slower progressions. In it you’ll hear the congas, flute, electric guitar, guitar, the trumpet and percussion all intertwining and crossing paths. This is a nice track to test for imaging, separation, treble bite and punch, peaks, transient response and any other treble attributes. The flute comes across ethereal, bright, silvery and rich. The trumpet sounds brassy with a controlled brilliance that isn’t harsh as the trumpet blare comes across with a voluminous sound. Also, “Way Back When” by The String Cheese Incident is another track from my notes with nice treble activity. The MK3 really does separate each instrument nicely and each sound comes across organic and closer to natural than not.

Downsides to the Treble Region ​

Obviously, this set may be too bright, too brilliant and simply too peaky for many folks. Granted, those people probably stopped reading this review a while ago. Also, I really do feel that Rose Technics did a marvelous job of tuning the treble to bolster and enhance other areas of the mix. Still, I’m very positive this set will be too energetic for those who desire less emphasis and a sooner roll-off. Those who enjoy a more analytical and even more detailed and resolving treble may not be completely satisfied. While the treble is nicely resolving I also feel that the density to treble notes sometimes cramps things to the slightest degree. However, this only occurs in crazy complicated tracks but also, the QT9 MK3 does it better than most. So, take that for what you must.

Overall, I feel the treble is great. It comes right to the brink of over brilliance and stops just short. Not too over saturated in treble sheen but just saturated enough in the note body. I like the crispness of the treble without the sibilance. All in all, this is a well-tuned set folks. I like it.

​

Technicalities ​

Soundstage ​

Listening to the track “Hook” by Blues Traveler, what I hear is above average width, average height and good depth to the sound. Listening to this track always gives me a good idea of the approximate vastness of a set. I find the MK3 to be open sounding, for the most part which stretches the psycho-acoustic sound field within my mind space. It’s a nice stage size. Nothing which will blow anyone’s mind. This is an iem after all. That said, the stage certainly has an engaging quality to it. There is subtle depth to the sound which does present a certain 3D picture of the stage as I listen. Some recordings show this off better than others but for the most part I hear an almost holographic representation of my music. You don’t get a simple wall of sound on this set. Instead, the sound is full. Now, the midrange sounds a hair closer to the listener (which I enjoy) and so it is another stage which is intimate in that sense. Yet it also reaches past my ears in width. The stage is a good one folks.

Separation / Imaging ​

As far as separation of the elements within an imaginary stage, I feel the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 does a very nice job. It does have that lean-lush approach to note delivery which is somewhat saturated but still lean enough to not feel cramped. At the same time the cleanliness and resolution are very nice. Good width of the stage, tighter transients and a more open feeling to the MK3 all helps to perceive good separation of instruments and vocals. Imaging kind of follows suit as well. The spatial recognition doesn’t seem to have any real issues, at least that I’ve noted. There is also depth for layering of the sound as well. Honestly, I find no real issues in this department.

Details​

The detail retrieval of the QT9 MK3 is very nice. I can pick apart even the most subtle of details in my music. Even with more complicated tracks, so long as the recording is good, I don’t feel that any other set is head and shoulders better than the QT9 MK3. Take everything we’ve learned about this set, the separation, everything’s in its place, speedy and clean micro-dynamics, very nice note definition, a balance across the mix with no one frequency masking any other and what you get (usually) is a pretty detailed sound. Now, there are certainly sets which are even more dry analytical sounding, thinner, tighter and there are some which are better tuned to bring out the subtleties. However, those sets don’t offer the same musicality of the QT9 MK3. There is a nice balance of musical and technical which helps the overall sound to be very engaging and dynamic, but also clean and detailed.

Comparison ​

QOA Aviation ($199)​

The QOA Aviation is a solid option in the price point that I don’t think anyone should sleep on. I reviewed this set around the beginning of October and was especially smitten with it. There is so much to like about it; the way it delivers music to my earholes, the fantastic build quality, the awesome look, the unboxing is awesome too. Most important is that creamy and lush sound. Basically, it is a complete change from the sound of the QT9 MK3. I think it makes a good comparison this way. Many people have heard the Aviation too and so it does help if others have some sort of a gauge as to what I’m referring to. I really like the Aviation as a wonderful change of pace type set and I more than enjoy it in my collection.

Differences ​

For one, the build of both these sets are like polar opposites. One set (Aviation) seeks to wow you with the resin shell and the glittery and colorful look and the other (MK3) would rather act like they’ve been there before (so to speak) with a clean, minimalist, and pro look. Both builds are great. This is one comparison where the look alone may be pulling you to one direction or the other. Next, the MK3 does have one extra driver in the treble area. The MK3 is also much smaller which is a feat in and of itself. It’s lighter, easier on the ears maybe. The only other nonsound difference would be in the price. Right now, at this moment the MK3 is actually cheaper at $182 (Aliexpress), yet it’s MSRP is considerably higher. Both sets have very nice unboxing experiences with great accessories. I would certainly take the Aviation’s modular cable, but the rest is pretty on par with each other.

Sound Differences ​

The first thing you’ll notice is how different these two really are sound wise. The Aviation is this warm and lush earphone with a penchant for musicality and a fatigue-free listen. The MK3 on the other hand is neutral/bright, technically gifted, better balance across the mix, and a much cleaner sound altogether. The MK3 has a leaner note weight but much better note definition whereas the Aviation comes across lush and rich. The Aviation has a lot more low-end thump and rumble. It has quite a bit more in the tank as the bass does give off a warm presence to the rest of the mix. As you know now, the MK3 has that fast paced and detailed bass with a lean but solid punch. The Aviation is softer in its note delivery and doesn’t have the definition like the MK3 does. The midrange cleanliness and lean-lush vocal delivery of the MK3 is more forward but less thick in note weight. Much better in midrange detail retrieval though, separation and airiness. Again, the Aviation is is creamy, milky and offers that rich emotionally melodic sound that is like a warm blanket. The treble of the MK3 is much more energetic, much better defined, more resolute and better extended. Those who are sensitive to treble may like the Aviation as it is easy on the ears and more smoothened with a much less offensive sound. Technicalities pretty much exclusively go to the MK3 except for height of the stage. Musicality and feel-good richness go to the Aviation.

My thoughts​

Folks, these are two sets which are more like polar opposites then anything. Most people would probably think it’s a horrible comparison to use. I disagree for one reason; something so different is helpful for me to explain the set I’m reviewing a bit better. Friends, I love both of these sets! Love em’. My musical palate is pretty diverse in what I enjoy but between the two I would likely prefer the MK3. The holographic stage, the cleanliness, the dynamism is all so engaging to me. That’s not taking anything away from the Aviation either. Both sets are wonderful for what they are, and they are both great differing options for any collection.

P.S.: I will edit in a couple more comparisons in the future. I simply ran out of time prior to the publish date of this review. Please comment any you’d like me to compare with the QT9 MK3. Also, DM me if you have any questions.

Is it worth the asking price? ​

I think you have to look at all sets within the price point to really get a good sense of the real worth of this set. The question is “Is it worth the asking price”? From my perspective and from every iem that I’ve had the pleasure of trying within the price point of $200 and $300 I have to say that most certainly the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 is worth the money they are asking for to own it. In fact, the price has actually gone down to as low as $182! This is a steal folks. I feel this set is worth the $280 MSRP and so cutting a cool $100 off that price most certainly makes this a no brainer if you can afford it.

Of course, the sound signature has to agree with you. You will have to enjoy an energetic and lively sound. Without question, not all hobbyists will go for the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3. I know plenty of warm & dark lovers who will find this a bit too thin and less rich in note weight than they’d like. In the same token, I know many folks who are very sensitive to any form of brightness. These folks will obviously not be the type who would spend their hard-earned money on this set. It has to fit you and your personal preferences. I did my best at explaining the sound as well as every other aspect of this set and do hope it was enough. Nothing is for everyone, the blessing and the curse of this hobby.

The Why… ​

Let’s begin with the fantastic build quality of the QT9 MK3. Like I said earlier, upon first glance the MK3 doesn’t look like much. It’s when they are in your hand and in your ear that it dawns on you the quality of materials that Rose Technics chose for this great line of iems. There’s a reason they haven’t really changed since the series began. The look is very nice, it’s minimalist, and it doesn’t call attention to itself. However, the look is also very slick, sleek, professional and classy. The unboxing & accessories are tops in class (the cable isn’t the best) which is a nice bonus too. For all of that, the number one reason that the Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 is worth the asking price is because of… you guessed it… the sound quality.

Well worth the price…​

The QT9 MK3 has all the sonic trappings of a set which could be considered near the “top in class”, especially if the tuning aligns with your preferences. While writing this review, I really did stretch myself to find negative aspects about the sound. I still came away with some drawbacks. The rest is surprisingly good, and I do hope more people will check the QT9 MK3 out. The bass is very fast, detailed, very punchy and the sub-bass extends nicely. The midrange is forward but not to a fault, it’s clean as a whistle and very melodic with some awesome lean-lush and dense note weight. Transients and micro-dynamics are speedy with minimal decay and sustain which promotes a very clean and controlled sound. The treble is energetic yet not overcooked. It’s bodied and it’s vibrant, it has some brilliance and is nicely detailed for what it is. I’ve tried so many iems and from my humble and subjective vantage point I feel this set is well worth the price that Rose Technics is asking.

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 Rose Technics QT9 Mk3 ratings below, that would be $200-$300 iems of any driver configuration. 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 to 6” is roughly average and please take into consideration the “lot” of iems these ratings are gathered against. $200-$300 US is a decent sized scope of iems and so seeing a 9 should probably be pretty special. My ratings are never the same and each set of ratings tells a different story. Each time you read one of my ratings it will be unique to that review. Basically, I create a Rating that makes sense to me.

Aesthetic ​

-Build Quality: 8.3 Built well but nothing out of the ordinary.

-Look: 7.8 This is up for debate, but I feel the look is cool.

-Accessories: 9.5 Very nice accessories & unboxing.

–Overall: 8.5

Sound Rating​

-Timbre: 9.5 The timbre and tonality are excellent.

-Bass: 9.3 Mature bass that is quality over quantity.

-Midrange: 8.5 The mids are very nice on this set.

-Treble: 9.0 The treble has good body & has great control

-Technicalities: 9.2 Technically great!

–Overall: 9.1

Ratings Summary:​

To summarize the ratings above; there’s only on area I feel the need to further explain myself, and that is the “Bass” rating. I gave this set a “9.3” in this category and it isn’t even my own preference for quantity. A 9.3 is very high after I considered every set that I’ve heard in the price point listed. How many sets does the MK3 have to beat out to get a 9.3? Think about it. I guess now you know the quality of the bass that I was speaking of. Yes, it is that good. It isn’t even up to my quantity standards, and I still really respect the output in quality. Not “Basshead” but “Bass-Fi” to a very high degree. Of course, the only way that it could’ve been better in my eyes was to add some quality db’s in the mid-bass.

Every other rating, I feel is justified against the rest of the market. Remember, please remember, these are simply my opinions against the iems I’ve actually heard and spent time with well enough to garner a string opinion over. Granted, I’ve heard a lot. Way more than I actually posts or publish. I only review sets that I actually enjoy or sets which I feel others would enjoy. Anyways, I do feel I (at least) know the price point well enough to have an opinion. Also, I haven’t heard them all. So, take this “opinion” as a grain of salt if you must.

Good at being balanced​

You have to remember that many sets “specialize” in certain areas and so they will score higher in those certain areas. Some are better in the midrange, some are higher in the bass but lower in the technicalities, some are better in the technical stuff but awful in timbre. You get the idea. However, a balanced set like this has more of an evened score across the board generally. The MK3 has relatively high scores across the board. This is a good thing folks. Yes, there are sets better at vocal delivery, without question. Also, yes there are sets which bang way deeper and are more fun, without question. Notwithstanding, the QT9 MK3 is solid pretty much everywhere. You have to figure that any set with a score higher than a 7.5 in the price point listed, is pretty darn good. I gave the MK3 a “9.1” in overall sound. My opinion.

Conclusion ​

Once again, I want to thank Rose Technics for providing the QT9 MK3 in exchange for a full review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. I have greatly enjoyed my time with this set and feel that not enough people have had a chance to listen to them. The MK3 does so much right and while it may not be everyone’s perfect cup o’ tea, it will definitely fit a vast amount of folks’ preferences. Rose Technics is one of those brands that simply creates, and crafts good products and I have seen this firsthand. I look forward to checking out more of what they have to offer in the future. So, thank you again to Rose Technics, it means a lot.

Please check out other thoughts on this set. It will always benefit the consumer to do your homework and get as much info as possible about these audio devices. Especially if you cannot try them in advance. Listen to, watch, or read other perspectives and opinions and I do hope it helps you to make an informed decision that you can be happy about. With that, I think I’m done. Please take good care friends, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!