This in-depth review delves into the QoA Mimosa, a hybrid in-ear monitor (IEM) boasting a unique 1 dynamic driver + 1 planar driver configuration. We'll explore its performance across various aspects, from the unboxing experience and build quality to its sound signature and overall value proposition within its price bracket (sub-5 million IDR). Expect a comprehensive analysis of the Mimosa's strengths and weaknesses, covering its bass response, midrange clarity, treble detail, soundstage, and imaging capabilities. We'll also discuss the included accessories and offer suggestions for optimizing the listening experience.The review will assess whether the Mimosa's V-shaped sound signature, characterized by its impactful bass and detailed treble, lives up to its promise. We will examine the reported minor flaws, such as a slightly plastic timbre and potential treble sibilance, and explore how these can be mitigated. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a clear picture of whether the QoA Mimosa is a worthy purchase for audiophiles seeking a vibrant and engaging listening experience at a competitive price point.
Pros And Cons
- Good sound for the price range (Rp. 5 million and below)
- Good bass, especially sub-bass with slam and depth
- Thick mid-bass, suitable for various music genres
- Clear and comfortable vocals, natural and not shouty
- Good micro-details
- Wide horizontal soundstage, airy and open
- Good imaging and instrument separation
- Vocals positioned a little bit backwards
- Treble has a slightly ringing planar characteristic with some sibilance and plasticity
- Cable is neon white and feels cheap
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The QoA Mimosa arrived in a standard box, nothing overly premium but adequate for the price point. The packaging included the IEMs, a carrying case, ear tips, and a 4.4mm cable (though the box mistakenly listed it as 3.5mm). The carrying case itself is surprisingly sturdy and well-made, exceeding expectations for a sub-5-million-IDR IEM.
The included ear tips are comfortable and well-fitting, a noticeable plus. They offer a good selection of sizes, and the material quality is above average. The cable, however, is a less impressive neon white that feels a bit cheap, though functionally sound.
IEM Design and Build Quality
The Mimosa IEMs themselves are compact and comfortable, smaller than many single-dynamic driver IEMs. The build quality is solid; the transparent shell allows a glimpse of the internal drivers.
The faceplate design is attractive, with a subtle pattern. The nozzle is slightly longer than average, but the overall fit is comfortable and secure. The overall build quality is well-suited for its price bracket.
Sound Impressions: Bass, Mids, and Treble
The Mimosa boasts a V-shaped sound signature. The bass is well-defined, with a good amount of slam and depth, delivering a satisfyingly immersive low-frequency experience. The sub-bass is particularly impressive for its price range.
The mid-bass is thick and impactful but doesn't overpower the other frequencies. The mids are clear and positioned slightly backward in the mix. The vocals are natural and comfortable, lacking harshness or sibilance.
The treble, exhibiting a typical planar driver characteristic, is initially slightly ringing but can be tamed with suitable ear tips. Overall, the soundstage is wide and airy, and the imaging is surprisingly precise for this price point.
Technical Performance and Recommendations
The Mimosa exhibits excellent micro-detail retrieval thanks to the planar driver. The soundstage is expansive, while imaging is three-dimensional and accurate. The instrument separation is also commendable.
The most noticeable shortcoming is a slight plastic timbre and some residual sibilance in the treble, attributable to the planar driver. This can be mitigated with careful ear tip selection (Kinera or 7Hz Barrel are suggested) and a neutral or warm audio source (avoid bright sources).
Conclusion: Is the QoA Mimosa Worth It?
The QoA Mimosa offers a compelling combination of features and sound quality at its price point. The V-shaped tuning, while not for everyone, provides an energetic and engaging listening experience.
Its strengths lie in its well-executed bass, clear mids, and detailed treble (with some caveats), alongside a spacious soundstage and precise imaging. The slight treble harshness and plastic timbre are manageable with the right ear tips and source.
Overall, the QoA Mimosa is a solid performer for the price, making it a worthy contender in the sub-5-million-IDR IEM market. It's an excellent choice for listeners who appreciate a vibrant and detailed sound signature.