I have decided to opt out of a review on these IEM because I dislike their sound, not that they're terrible just they have a few flaws which don't agree with me.
Its much safer to leave my impressions here as closure.
When it comes to packaging and overall design I believe Q-Jays nailed it, the presentation shines through and I would even consider it slightly overkill but more than welcome for the consumer. From the thickness of the boxing giving premium character to the marketing information provided Q-Jays went all out in this area.
It also shines through in the build of these IEMs, detachable cable and accessories. There are some brilliant marketing photos around online expressing this, even the size of the shells are great keeping things petite reminding me of Brainwavs B2 but a lot more stylish in appearance.
Areas like the fit were a little tricky for me personally as the tips didn't like to seal correctly to my canal and I had some problem guessing which was right and left, for example, if they came fresh out of the case for a listening session I had to fiddle around looking for the correct sides to insert.
Its just when we get to the sound my experience was short lived. I found them suitable at lower volumes, particularly with acoustic tracks or anything non-demanding of some low-end but when I lifted the volume there was a real absence of bass, this then emphasised the treble bringing out quite a tinny metallic to hollow sound. I imagine they'd be perfect for laying down late at night how I remember listening to Brainwavz B2 with some Ane Brun tracks, however, Q-Jays analytical nature doesn't seem to hold complete versatility at higher decibels.
Its rather genre specific, volume levels depend how Q-jays will present itself which I think is why we have numerous opinions.
By nature, I admire bright sounding earphones, while I don't listen 10/10 heavy I do require a moderate/high volume because I can extract detail from the vocal tracks I adore. In the case of these Q-Jays, I do question if they can maintain the correct signature for example, outdoors on a bus if you need to lift the volume up to compensate ambient noise. And I'll be honest, once these earphones didn't present themselves correctly at a volume I require they virtually sat in the corner. (I don't mean that in an offensive way)
So what we need to keep in mind is:
- Volumes levels you listen at
- Genres you listen too (maybe not suited for EDM listeners, but very much for acoustic and the likes)
- Will you be using them full-time on the go
- Is excellent packaging important to you
- Do you have small ears - the housings are well suited
Thanks Q-Jays for sending them out, regardless of my slightly underwhelming thoughts.