EPZ has finally made the much needed update to the Q5 with the Q5 Pro. Fresh design, new connectors and today, we’ll find out if they’ve also changed the sound!
Unboxing is definitely one thing that EPZ has gradually been improving on in their last few releases. The Q5 Pro feels premium to unboxing with a good set of accessories that pairs really well the IEM. Shame that they got rid of their mini S&S eartips as that was my favorite thing about the original Q5.
As mentioned prior, the Q5 Pro has taken a new look and updated connectors. Gone is the MMCX and is finally replaced by the much better 2-pin connector (I still have trauma from MMCX as besides QDC, they’re the only connectors that have died on me). The look is interesting, but not something that I would’ve preferred over the original design. However, I also understand that the original design had very clean inspirations with where it was based on. Fit wise, it’s similar to the original Q5 in many ways, but the small size and comfort are two note worthy things that were adapted to the Pro variant. The cable is also a slight improvement as it’s thicker and more durable, but also more tangle prone than the original’s cable.
As for the sound, the Q5 Pro seems to be an interesting case of unit variance because I found the unit I demo’d at SIAS to be quite bright compared to the original Q5, but my unit seems to follow the original Q5 a little closer. However, the thing factor that really changed during my impressions was the DAC that I used during my Demo. I used their TP35 which emphasizes transients and clarity during SIAS while I used my own Fosi SK02 during my home testing. So I’d argue that the Q5 Pro is a more source sensitive IEM compared to the original Q5. Regardless, the improvements in smoothness is evident as the bright U-Shaped tuning that was the highlight of the Q5 is still present and improved nicely. Still a technical beast for $50 and one that treble and detail heads would absolutely adore.
Thank you for reading my impressions on the EPZ Q5 Pro.
