Disclaimer
The Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro mentioned in this review was provided directly by Rose Technics for evaluation and review purposes, and I’m very thankful to them for this great opportunity. However, all opinions expressed in this review are unbiased and based solely on the product’s performance and features observed during the testing period.
Introduction
Rose Technics, they are not as widely recognized as some other brands… but I really think that they deserves to be well known for their innovative and high-quality products! Their products crafted with great quality which makes them a brand worth acknowledging.
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Today, I present to you the Star City 5 Pro. An amazing blend of craftsmanship and great audio engineering, these IEMs focuses on delivering a balanced, neutral, and uncolored sound, comfortable fit, and a nice accessories package. I can clearly say that the Star City 5 Pro aims to set new standards at an affordable price of just $75.99!
Unboxing
The Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro comes in a medium to large box. The box has a two tone color scheme with a soft brown background on the top side and a black background on the bottom side.
Sliding the cardboard sleeve out, I saw a magnetized black box with “Light Year” written in silver. Opening the box reveals a sheet of onion paper with the product design and a slogan on it.
Inside the box are the Star City 5 Pro IEMs securely placed on the left side within a thick black foam mold. And now lets see that else comes inside.
Accessories:
On the right side, I have found a round storage box made of high quality leather like material. This storage box not only adds to the premium feel but also a safe storage when not in use. Inside are some accessories, which include:
- 3 pairs of white translucent tips with narrow orange cores in sizes S, M, and L.
- 1 two-strand cable with a black textile sheath.
- 1 user manual.
- 1 USB Type-C to 3.5mm dongle.
Under the foam layer, additional accessories are housed in a black plastic compartment. These accessories include:
- 4 pairs of white tips with wide orange cores in various sizes (XS, S, M, and L).
A noteworthy surprise included in the accessories is the USB Type-C to 3.5mm dongle, which is a great addition which is rarely found with affordable IEMs like this one. The inclusion of various tip sizes ensures a comfortable and customized fit for users.
Overall, I really liked the unboxing experience of the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro, and I will add more that its is probably the best I have yet to experience at this price point and it gives a great value and user experience.
Technical specifications
- Driver Units: 1DD + 2BA.
- IEM Material: Metal and resin.
- Distortion: 1% @ 1000Hz.
- Sensitivity: 104dB @ 1mW.
- Impedance: 24 Ω.
- Frequency Response Range: 10 – 25000 Hz.
- Interface Type: 3.5 mm.
- Weight: 28 g.
- Cable Length: 120 cm.
- Connector Type: MMCX.
Construction and Design
Rose Technics has crafted the Star City 5 Pro with a pretty unique and stylish design that really sets it apart! The inner side of the IEM features black 3D-printed resin that has a semi custom shape, giving it a deeper insertion for better sound isolation.
The backside, the MMCX connectors and the mouthpieces are all metallic. The IEMs themselves are compact and lightweight and this makes them comfortable for extended listening sessions.
One notable aspect of the design is the inclusion of two balanced armature drivers imported from Denmark, customized by Rose Technics for optimal performance in the midrange and high frequencies. Rose technics claims that the dynamic driver features a 10mm Japanese LCP diaphragm with a high performance N52 magnetic circuit for reduced distortion.
The cable of the Star City 5 Pro consists of two thin strands made inside of two 6N OCC monocrystalline copper and covered with a black textile sheath, providing durability and flexibility. It could have been great if they were a bit thicker. The plug is a gold-plated 3.5mm SE plug, and there is no balanced option. The MMCX interface adds versatility, although some users may prefer a 2-pin connection option instead, which is not available in this model.
Overall I think that the construction of the Star City 5 Pro reflects Rose Technics’ shows their commitment to quality materials and innovative design and this is resulting in a great looking and functional pair of earphones and definitely one of the most comfortable IEMs I have.
Sound performance
Bass
The Star City 5 Pro delivers a commendable bass performance that strikes a balance between impact, warmth, and accuracy. It’s well-suited for a variety of music genres and contributes positively to the overall sound.
Sub-Bass:
The Star City 5 Pro handles mid bass very nicely, though its sub bass extension has a slight roll off… This means that the deepest bass frequencies may not have the same level of impact or presence compared to the mid bass range… A slight rise in the sub bass response could enhance the overall depth and immersion, especially in tracks that rely heavily on sub bass elements.
Mid-Bass:
I can say that where the Star City 5 Pro really shines is in its mid bass! It offers a good amount of warmth, punch and impact in this range, and I feel like it gives it a lively and engaging sound signature! This mid bass presence adds a bit body and fullness to instruments like drums, guitars, and low male vocals.
Texture:
Despite the sub bass roll off… the Star City 5 Pro retains a level of textural detail, clarity, and speed in the bass region. I can still tell nuances and textures in bass heavy passages thanks to its controlled, fast, and well defined bass! I will add that the bass always remains well defined and does not overpower or muddy the rest of the spectrum.
Overall, from my point of view, the bass performance of the Star City 5 Pro makes it pretty versatile. It gives a balance between musicality and technical performance which offers an enjoyable bass without giving up on overall sound quality, despite the early roll off…
Mids
Lower Midrange:
I would say that the lower midrange of the Star City 5 Pro has a good balance. It gives instruments like guitars, pianos, and vocals a very nice and pretty forward presentation. And they have a mostly warm and natural timbre.
Upper Midrange:
Now moving to the upper midrange. Here I find the Star City 5 Pro having a good clarity and detail. Instruments and vocals in this range are well separated and presented. Female vocals benefit from the focus in this region and appear more vibrant, detailed, and expressive! And there’s also a sense of airiness and transparency.
Vocal Performance:
Both male and female vocals are rendered beautifully on the Star City 5 Pro. Male vocals benefit from the warmth of the lower midrange, giving them a natural and engaging presence. There’s a richness and fullness to male vocals that adds emotional depth.
Female vocals on the other hand, shine with clarity and definition in the upper midrange. The Star City 5 Pro does an excellent job of separating elements, allowing each voice and instrument to be heard distinctly within the mix.
Instrument Detail and Texture:
Instruments in the midrange range are rendered with impressive detail and texture. String instruments and brass have a lifelike quality to them. The midrange presentation of the Star City 5 Pro brings a balance between analytical detail and musicality which makes every instrument sound natural!
So I find the midrange of the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro to be very impressive, natural and realistic. It gives a great vocal reproduction, instrument detail and overall musicality.
Highs
Lower Treble:
The lower treble region of the Star City 5 Pro continues the clarity and detail from the upper midrange. It has a minimal sibilance of high frequency notes. Instruments like cymbals, hi hats, and upper register strings are presented with a nice sparkle which adda=s excitement to the music without without every sounding harsh or causing a fatigue.
Upper Treble:
As we move into the upper treble range, the Star City 5 Pro demonstrates a slight roll-off in extension. This results in a more laid-back presentation of the highest frequencies, which can result in a lack of high-pitched extension and reduce the detail. While it may lack the airy sparkle of some headphones or earphones, it keeps a pleasing tonal balance that avoids any sense of stridency or sharpness.
Resolution and detail:
Despite the roll-off in the upper treble, the Star City 5 Pro retains good resolution and detail retrieval in the high frequencies. Micro details in recordings are still present, although they may not be as pronounced or as in headphones with a better treble extension…
Treble Perception Based on tips:
The Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro comes with a variety of ear tips that can subtly influence the treble response. The narrow tips, when used, may give it a slightly more pronounced bass, and adding a punch to the overall sound signature. And on the other hand, the wide hole tips, can potentially give a bit more air to the treble region, may also result in a slight reduction in bass impact… I find it very fun to try different tips and to find the best balance.
So all in all I find the high performance of the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro to offer a pretty balanced sound, with good detail retrieval and control. While there’s a slight roll off in the upper treble, the overall tonality is still very pleasing.
Technical aspects
Detail Retrieval:
The IEMs offers a nice detail retrieval which allows me to pick up little nuances. Instruments and vocals are rendered with great clarity and each note is easy to hear, although the treble roll off punctures the details and prevents sound from reaching those high notes…
Instrument Separation:
One of the strengths of the Star City 5 Pro is its ability to separate instruments and vocals! I feel that each element in the music is distinct and very well defined.
Soundstage:
Those IEMs gives a spacious soundstage with good width and depth. This soundstage creates a sense of openness and immersion which makes the music feel more expansive and lifelike (as much as IEM at this price can offer…), And I really like it!.
Layering:
The layering of instruments and vocals is handled admirably by the Star City 5 Pro. Different elements within the music are stacked and organized in a way that allows you to perceive multiple layers of sound, enhancing the overall depth and complexity of the audio.
Overall sound performance
So overall I think that the sound performance of the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro is very good for the price and offers an engaging sound signature, but with a more mid centric focus and a slight roll off in the sub bass and treble regions… Yet the sound is still so natural and realistic! The earphones also brings a very good instrument separation and makes each element in the music very distinctly presented. The soundstage is spacious and provides a sense of openness. Additionally, the IEMs offers an impressive layering which allows me to discern multiple layers of sound within the music.
Comparing it to the FiiO JH5
Sound Signature:
FiiO JH5: It is geared towards fun and engaging listening, with impactful bass, warm mids, and good treble extension, and it’s priced at 85$.
Star City 5 Pro: It has a balanced sound with a mid-centric focus, detailed vocals, and a slight roll-off in sub-bass and treble, but it excels in soundstage and layering and is priced at $75.
Bass Performance:
FiiO JH5: Strong and impactful bass which is great for bass lovers!
Star City 5 Pro: Gives a balanced bass with good warmth and punch, but with a slight roll off in the sub bass region…
Midrange:
FiiO JH5: Gives a warm midrange which is slightly overshadowed by the strong bass.
Star City 5 Pro: Detailed and nicely separated midrange which offers clarity and naturalness, especially in vocals.
Treble:
FiiO JH5: Non fatiguing treble with decent extension which gives sparkle and airiness.
Star City 5 Pro: Controlled treble, yet with a slight roll off that gives a smoother presentation but with less with a bit less air…
Ergonomics and Cable:
FiiO JH5: Comfortable fit, but the cable may feel slightly springy and stiff.
Star City 5 Pro: Better ergonomics with a comfortable fit which is very comfortable for long listening sessions.
Overall:
The FiiO JH5 is better in giving a fun and engaging sound signature with strong bass impact for those who enjoy a more “fun” presentation.
And the Star City 5 Pro offers a more balanced sound and natural timbre which makes it a good choice for those who prioritize clarity and naturalness in their music.
Conclusions
The Star City 5 Pro impresses with its exceptional unboxing experience, which really made me say, “Wow, you get this for just $75.99?!”. It is definitely the best unboxing experience I’ve had at a sub-$100 price, and it offers a great selection of high-quality accessories that enhance the overall value of the product. The distinctive and stylish design, coupled with the ergonomic fit and comfortable wear for even all day long, contribute to a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
In terms of sound performance, the Star City 5 Pro delivers a balanced and engaging sound signature, with a focus on detailed midrange, realism, and natural sound without coloration. While the sub-bass could benefit from a slight rise, the mid-bass provides warmth and punch without muddying things. Vocals, both female and male, and instruments are well-represented and separated, showcasing the IEM’s capability to handle different genres with finesse.
Technical aspects such as detail retrieval may suffer because of the treble roll off, but separation, soundstage, and layering are great! They offer an immersive soundscape with great details and separation. The more mid centric tonality may not appeal to all listeners… Especially those who want a more pronounced sub bass or treble extension…
But overall, the Star City 5 Pro stands out as a strong player in its price range! And in my opinion it has an exceptional value which combines excellent build quality, great accessories, comfortable fit and good sound for the asking price. I really think that those IEMs deserve to be much more known and loved!
Pros:
- Exceptional unboxing experience with high-quality accessories.
- Distinctive and stylish design.
- Comfortable ergonomics for extended listening sessions.
- Balanced, natural, and uncolored sound signature.
- Good technical performance, especially layering and soundstage.
- Well-separated vocals and instruments.
- Amazing value for $75.99.
Cons:
- Sub-bass could benefit from a slight rise for added depth.
- Treble rolls off too early.
- Mid-centric tonality may not appeal to those seeking pronounced sub-bass or treble extension.
- The cable could have been thicker.
- There is no balanced option.
