QOA Cloud Scape Review 

Intro 

Hello, this review and feature covers the latest from the audio brand QOA (Queen of Audio) named the QOA Cloud Scape $123. Once again QOA comes out with a wonderful new idea for an iem series which has its genesis with the Cloud Scape. The name of this new line of iems is appropriately called the “Impressionist Oil Painting Series”. As you can see from the pictures… the Cloud Scape is without question a work of art. The beauty of that statement is that this set is actually the work of an artist’s hand. There’s no brand more creative than QOA and their sister brand Kinera and they continue to prove this time and time again. To be perfectly honest, I can’t wait to speak on this set folks because I’ve only been impressed with the Cloud Scape. No doubt it has its subtle quirks and subjective issues that some folks may have, but it is a solid set all around. Thank you to Kinera. 

Great driver setup

I’ve actually had the QOA Cloud Scape with me as a weekly addition to my lineup for over a month now and I have a lot to say about this set. The Cloud Scape is a two-driver hybrid iem consisting of one dynamic driver and one micro planar driver similar to the setup that QOA used for the QOA Mimosa (Mimosa Review) which was, and still is, a highly praised iem under the $100 threshold. Honestly folks, I am really beginning to see the obvious benefits from using this type of configuration. Something about a good and strong DD occupying the lows through the midrange and a micro planar producing the highs. Really a nice compliment to each other. However, I will cover this more in depth later. 

QOA

If ever there was a brand committed to creating a “wow effect” … it’s QOA. Every last product that I’ve ever owned or reviewed from QOA is always a beautiful artistic expression from a very creative place. I realize that most of my reviews have a little blurb about the brand. I like to give credit where credit is due, if credit is due. Most of you probably skip right on by these sections. I get it. However, brands like QOA & Kinera are not a dime a dozen folks. These are two outfits which really do put all of their effort into their creations. I can say with absolute confidence that there is no other brand which covers every aspect of a product quite like QOA & Kinera. So much thought is put into every audio product, which stands as a huge confidence builder for the consumer. Friends, did you know that QOA “Queen of Audio” was actually established in 2019 by two women? That’s right! Sophie & Youku Yu are the two females who brought this awesome brand to market. I give those two women a huge amount of praise. While they share some design and development resources etc. with Kinera, they are very much distinct in having their own design aesthetic and brand philosophy. Granted, Kinera itself is very similar in their approach, but you can tell a QOA set fairly easily. There’s an elegance to their designs, their themes, their ideas, and there are a certain panache-like grace and classy appeal to their products in my opinion. At any rate, Sophie… Youko… great job! QOA is most certainly something to be proud of. 

Themes

One thing that Kinera and QOA have been praised over is that they resource their ideas for their products from themes. Kinera sticks mainly to Norse Mythology, and they always follow those themes to-thee-tee. However, QOA takes a different route and usually structures their creations off of alcoholic beverages… cocktails. Now, the Cloud Scape is one of the first QOA iems to buck that trend as QOA has started a new series… and its absolutely genius! As I said in the intro, QOA decided to create this series based off of “Impressionist Oil Paintings” and in fact that is exactly what you see in the Cloud Scape. QOA actually got their inspiration from Vincent Van Gogh with his particular style captured very well. Like I said earlier, I will speak on the design in a little bit, but I think you’d have to be a rock to not see the beauty in the hand painted design of this set. Whether you like the design or not. I’m comfortable in my manly skin and so I can say the design is gorgeous. Anyways, this type of design is one that you can get used to in this series and I’m all for it. I’ve always given Kinera and QOA their flowers over their thematic products as I am so intrigued by the “how” & “why” that these products come to fruition. Hence why you always see me talking about it. I wish more people who put a spotlight on the ideas, on the artwork, and the dedication that some of these brands have to bring their visions into reality. Maybe I’m weird. Anyways, credit is due, take your flowers. 

Let’s get it going… 

Well folks, I think I’m about ready to get into this one. I have spent a very long time with this set. I do so for a couple very good reasons. For one, the longer a reviewer has with a product then the better it is for everyone. I like to have about a month with a product but that is not always possible, at the least 2.5-3 weeks. I get to know the product better, all of its nuances. Also, I like taking my time with a product because brain burn is real. Sometimes it takes a long time to finally hear the greatness of a product. You all know, I only review what I enjoy, or I will review a product if I think a vast amount of people will enjoy (whether I like it or not). I have made huge mistakes in the past “not” reviewing a product because at first, I thought they weren’t good enough, there were issues etc. only to learn months later that I was wrong. So, taking a longer time usually let’s brain burn set in and also, I’ll usually be able to process my thoughts better as well as put together a more complete assessment. Something I take very seriously. Anyways, with all of that said I am ready to get into this review folks. So, without further ado, the QOA Cloud Scape… 

Non-Affiliated Purchasing Links:

–Aliexpress

Cloud Scape Pros

-Another very well built iem from QOQ

-Hand Painted design for QOA’s “Impressionist Oil Painting” series, beautiful

-Comfort is fantastic 

-Does great with many different source tonalities, source flexible

-Scales well with power

-Great unboxing with quality accessories (cable is dope) 

-Rich musical sound with fantastic timbre, warmly layered, very much organic 

-Great cohesiveness 

-Deep and full-bodied low-end with solid control 

-Milky midrange with a very smooth and rhythmical sound with excellent female vocal presence

-Non-Offensive treble region 

-Nice soundstage width and depth 

-Price

Cloud Scape Cons

-Not everyone is going to enjoy or appreciate the design 

-Bass may be too emphasized for some

-Analytical lovers or fans of a more detailed and technical sound may not be impressed 

-Not for treble heads or straight up hardcore bassheads

Gear used for testing 

–Shanling UP6

–Shanling UA6 

–Ifi Go Blu 

–Hidizs S9 Pro Plus  

–Shanling H0

–Hidizs AP80 Pro Max 

–Fiio JM21 

–Hiby R3 Pro II

–Hiby R6 Pro II 2025 

–Shanling M1 Plus

–IBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2 

–Shanling M6 Ultra 

–Fiio Q15

Packaging / Accessories 

Unboxing experience 

The Cloud Scape arrived at my door in a smaller box (5 ⅞” x 4 ¼” x 2”), nothing wasted here. It may be a small box, but the oil painted copy of the same design found on the faceplates of the Cloud Scape is on the outer sleeve. Which happens to be an original piece of artwork from QOA artisans. Nothing copied, AI generated, or anything like that. I feel that this makes the art in the box that much better. Name another brand doing that! Anyways, slip off the sleeve and you’ll see a white box with a gold colored “QOA” in the center. Open the box and right away you’ll see both the pretty Cloud Scape earphones and the handsome brown suede carrying case. Inside you’ll also find the eartips as well as the gorgeous cable. Folks, for the cost the unboxing experience is well worth it. Another quality job from QOA/Kinera. 

Eartips

QOA added in a total of six pairs of eartips (standard) over two different styles of tips. The first style of eartips are three pairs (S, M, L) of white silicone tips which are shallow fit and wide-bore as well as a pretty flimsy flange. Most likely these tips are meant to reduce bass presence and increase upper mid through treble energy. I can tell you that they do not seal in my ears at all. Of course, I always need a firm flange, something rigid. Thankfully I found that in the next set of three (S, M, L) eartips. The next style of tips are made of gray silicone with a blue stem. Very similar in build and style to the KBear 07 eartips. Hence why I like them. These tips are very firm at the flange, semi-wide bore, rigid stem, and they seal perfectly for my ears. I have always loved the 07’s and so this type of eartips was right up my alley. I did try other eartips but felt it made no sense being that the packaged tips worked I might as well use them. However, I do like the Divinus Velvet tips, the Dunu S&S tips, and Azla Crystal. Each set paired nicely. Though I really don’t think you need anything other than the included tips as they do a good job of bringing out the upper mids and adding a nice punch in the bass region. 

Carrying Case

Another accessory added into the packaging is the carrying case. I’m not big into carrying cases but I’ve always liked them. Something about a small slick looking case. Of course, I rarely ever use them. At any rate, the case provided with the QOA Cloud Scape is very unique. It’s a decently sized case (3″ x 3″ x 1 ½”) which can easily fit your earphones and cable along with some extra tips. I wouldn’t try to cram any more in there. So, the case is cladded in a very neat looking/feeling brown suede material. Actually, it almost feels like raw hide material. Very cool. You’ll see a nice silver colored aluminum placard on the magnetic flap with “QOA” imprinted on it. I’ll put it like this; if I used carrying cases, I’d use this one for sure. It’s dope looking. 

Cable

Now, I love a good cable friends. Always have. It’s important to me to have an aesthetically pleasing cable that also sounds good. One thing that QOA specializes in is providing color matched or perfectly color contrasted cables that look super slick with their iems and also sound very well paired with each respective iem. The cable provided in the packaging is flat-out awesome. It’s a nicely fat, and it’s a nicely braided cable made of 6N monocrystalline silver-plated-copper with Litz shielding. It’s also a perfect color match with the blue of the sky which can be found on the Cloud Scape. This sky-blue colorway couldn’t get any better. Also, all of the fittings (y-split, 2-pins, jack etc.) are all made of bright mirror polished electroplated aluminum. Which looks great. At purchasing you can elect to receive either a 3.5 single ended or 4.4 balanced styles. I of course have the 4.4 balanced. Friends, I love when I have a provided cable that I don’t need to cable swap. QOA does an excellent job in finding appropriately colored cables that perfectly match the earphones. Nice one QOA. 

Build / Design / Internals / Fit 

Build Quality 

The build is just like every other QOA set that I’ve either owned or featured as it is built very well. Smooth everywhere, ergonomically sound, durable too with a nice dense feel to the Cloud Scape. It’s actually made entirely out of 3D printed resin material. QOA added one small vent towards the backside of the housing. The nozzles are what I’d call medium or average length with a 6mm standard nozzle width. The nozzles tip is made of what I’d think is either aluminum or stainless steel as they also have a mirror polish. The build is nice folks. QOA never lets us down and always thinks about longevity, ergonomics, and durability. 

Design 

This brings us to the design of the Cloud Scape. Now, this set comes in two variations. You can opt for the version that you see in the pictures of the Impressionist art, or you can choose the dark blue version which is more in line with a typical resin design. Both designs are hand painted using skin friendly acrylics, both original, and both unique. The man in me would say the dark blue is better but the artistic side of me adores the Cloudscape image hand painted in the pair that I got. Naturally I am going to speak on the beautiful set that I received. Folks, this set is stunning. The entire housing has a sky-blue color. On that sky blue you’ll see clouds floating around as well as golden wheat in the foreground as well as the ocean waves in the background. It’s a beautiful painting folks. As I said in the intro, this design was inspired by Vincent Van Gogh and I’d say that the artisans at QOA designed and hand painted a scene which does look similar to something that you’d see on the wall of an art gallery. Only this is on a tiny earphone faceplate. It’s such an original and crafty idea. Only QOA would think of this and it’s brilliant. I feel we should all give them a round of applause, whether the design is for you or not. Truly a wonderful job. 

Internals

This brings us to the innards of the Cloud Scape. Like I said, the Cloud Scape is a two-driver hybrid consisting of one 10mm dynamic driver and one micro planar driver. To be exact, the DD is a 10mm driver with a polymer diaphragm made of composite materials and covers the whole of the bass and midrange. Next, the micro planar covers the highs and ultra highs. I have said this a few times that this particular setup seems to simply work. We saw the same configuration in QOA’s very popular QOA Mimosa (Mimosa Review). That set’s drivers were implemented very well, and the Cloud Scape is even better. There’s something about a DD cohesively taking on the bass and mids and a micro planar providing the highs. They just melt together very well. 

Fit / Comfort 

As far as fit goes, the Cloud Scape fits my ears better than most any set I’ve tried this year. The ergonomics of this set are through-the-roof. Once I found the right tips and got a good seal I was in love. The Cloud Scape fits my ears perfectly, to the tee. I also found that isolation is also very good on this set with good passive noise reduction. Better than most sets. Honestly, I have to imagine that the Cloud Scape would fit most of you very well too, but I obviously cannot confirm that. 

Drivability / Pairings 

Sensitivity 

Like most iems nowadays the Cloud Scape is a relatively sensitive iem and fairly easy to drive with just about any device. In QOA’s promotional material at their website it lists the Cloud Scape having an impedance of around 32 ohms as well as a sensitivity of about 102 db’s. While it isn’t the most sensitive iem I’ve ever tried it does play loud and dynamic enough with a simple 3.5 se jack on an Android phone. I’ve actually used this set with many different weaker sources, and the conclusion is the same for all of them. Basically, the Cloud Scape had zero issue with my iPad, three or four weak 3.5 se Conexant dongle dacs, the KZ AN01, as well as the KZ AZ20. All fairly weak, all sounds nice. So, I wouldn’t worry if all that you have is a smartphone or a weaker budget dongle dac. Having said that, she really likes more juice… 

Scalability 

Once again, the Cloud Scape is yet another set which really responds well to more power from my sources. Without question the sound started to become more dynamically forward, cleaner, and tighter across the board when I attached the Hiby R3 Pro II. Of course, I had the same response from just about every halfway decent dongle dac that I have in my arsenal. Now, the Cloud Scape doesn’t need a thousand watts to bring it to its best fidelity in my opinion. Some good and clean power from a dongle dac should suffice. However, I can confidently say that the best I heard from this set was attached to my Fiio Q15 and my Hiby R6 Pro II 2025. So, the Cloud Scape will most certainly respond to the quality of the source that you use as well as power output. I realize that this should go without saying but I’m saying it anyway. At any rate, the moral of the story is that the QOA Cloud Scape does scale nicely with added juice. 

Source Pairing 

As far as source pairing, to my ears the Cloud Scape comes across with a warmer tonal color and a nice spritz of treble emphasis as well. That said, it definitely leans warm. Naturally one would think that a neutral or cooler source would contrast that warmth. No doubt this is mostly true. However, my warm/neutral devices actually sound fantastic with this set. Devices like the Shanling M6 Ultra, Shanling M1 Plus, etc. did a fantastic job of providing solid dynamics, nothing muffled, and I never felt like the warmth of this set was being exaggerated. What I wouldn’t do is give this set anything that is straight-up warm in tonality unless you are a total warm-head (is that a thing?). Everything else seems to pair very well. So, I wouldn’t be too overly concerned about source pairing. Honestly, I really find the Cloud Space does a great job with most sources. 

Sound Impressions 

*Note: before I dive head first into the sound portion of this review I want to point out a few things which may or may not be of importance to you. I did burn in the Cloud Scape for roughly 3 full days. As honest as I can be, I didn’t hear any differences in its sound afterwards. Of course, there wasn’t anything that I was looking to have changed. When listening to music critically I only use flac or better files (some mp3) which are stored on my devices. The Android music player of my choice is mainly UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro) as well as the Hiby Music Player and Eddict Player depending on what dap I am using at any given time. Beyond that, I used the included gray eartips as well as the cable which was included. 

What’s it sound like? 

One thing that initially impressed me the most about the Cloud Scape was how pleasant the sound is. I’d definitely call this set a musicality-first iem. The musical/analytical split is what I’d call 60/40, depending on the track. A completely melodic sound from the sublevels to the treble with a very emotionally charged warm-musical sound. Very even kneeled without any real spikes in any portion of the frequency. This is one set where you’ll never have to worry about upper mid glare, treble shout, or anything piercing at all. It’s really a non-offensive sound. Also, if I were to describe the signature I’d say a warm U-shaped sound and possibly a very slight V-shaped sound. I lean more to the mild V-shaped side of the aisle, though the mids are really not distant or recessed at all. To my ears the midrange actually has a very solid presence. Not too forward, but vivid and compelling. Couple that with an emphasized, weighted, punchy, and robust low-end. Also, the treble has a semi-brilliant and tactile sound. It’s a very clean, somewhat sparkly, yet reserved treble. Overall, the Cloud Scape has a very cohesive, immersive, and rhythmical sound. Again, it’s pleasant, it’s fun, and it’s very groovy, almost dulcet with its harmonious-musical style and cadence. 

Smooth like butter

Now, without a doubt the Cloud Scape has its subjective tonal issues which some folks may have, and I will try to outline those the best I can. However, overall, the Cloud Scape has a very fun sound that isn’t trying to be the picture of technical perfection. Yet also doesn’t miss out on very much of the technical aspects either. It simply doesn’t feature an analytical sound. Basically, it’s a set that won’t force the listener to hear every last detail or every nuance. It’s a great set to simply listen and enjoy music. It really is folks. Without question this is a set which provides a rounded and smooth delivery of note surfaces prioritized over crisp and sharp edges. It’s smooth like butter yet not veiled or murky and while it may be a smoother sound I still hear nice note separation. Which is a very nice thing to have for a set at this cost. We’ve seen more and more of these style tunings of late and I think it’s great. Having said that, those folks who desire a more clinical, analytical, and overly resolute sound may be disappointed. I find the Cloud Scape to actually be very fluid, warm, and lush towards the bottom of the spectrum while the top end has that nice micro planar precision. I also really enjoy how well QOA was able to cohesively blend the two driver techs in such a seamless and effortless way. 

Timbre

The timbre of the QOA Cloud Scape can be described as earthy and organic with a touch of toned-down radiance. I find it to have a very engaging, inviting, and expressive sound with an adequate level of vivacity and treble sparkle. Not exactly full of energy, but also not really reserved either. Now, to my ears I’d call it warm-natural. I call it “warm-natural” because I don’t feel like the Cloud Scape has many of the usual hangups which accompany most warmly infused budget iems. The actual timbre sounds very unprocessed, almost authentic to life. Certainly, colored from the bass region, but I don’t hear the veil and murky atmosphere that you’d usually have to contend with. Actually, for a smooth sound the Cloud Scape has good clarity and decent resolution. It’s clean, it’s reasonably well detailed and it has clean note outlines, but it’s simply just… warmer in tonality. Transients are still very natural, not slow, not super-fast either, but rather there’s a natural decay. Also, note weight is definitely what I’d call rich, full-bodied, and semi-weighted. I can tell you this; there is not one part of the spectrum that isn’t smooth and rich sounding. Note weight is solid across the board. Needless to say, that timbre and tonality are two of the Cloud Scape’s greatest strengths. Let’s take a look at each 3rd of the mix… 

Bass Region 

The low-end of the QOA Cloud Scape is what I would call foundational. Foundational to the overall tuning that is. Based on the available frequency graphs I can see about a 12-13 dB bass shelf which certainly tops out near the sub-bass. Not basshead, but not even close to moderate either. This is a bass which has the capacity to hit with authority. It has that bulbous juddering rumble to feel the sound. This bass has the punch to hit with a pretty precise and acute force with a hard-edged attack. And the bass has the type of speed which can take on a fairly complicated bassline as well. I did say “fairly complicated”. I wouldn’t say that the transient response is anything faster than natural as other is a somewhat atmospheric feel to the decay. So, it cannot take on the speediest of tracks. Still, the bass region of the Cloud Scape is flat out great at times, especially considering its price. It has a certain depth to it. Essentially, this is not a 2D bass. Songs like “Kids with Guns” by the Gorillaz shows that off as there is a definite roundness to each note, with a sense of immersion and physicality. It’s expansive and somewhat enveloping rather than simply tight and punchy or bulbous and booming. I love a bass which doesn’t go overboard, yet is meaty, full of weighted rumble but succinct enough to never sound muddy. I like a bass that’s tight for its quantity, and I love a bass that has that hard lined note edge. Nothing pillowy, weak, or hollow. Thankfully the Cloud Scape has enough of those qualities for the cost to render this a very well-done bass region. 

This bass is fun! 

To be perfectly truthful, there’s a very popular set that I refused to review recently which had that hollow style boosted bass and I just couldn’t do it. I’m not into trashing anything and so I won’t say the name. Not my style, but that’s not the point. The point is that brought me right into the Cloud Scape review and I’ve been very much enjoying what I’m hearing. Perhaps the Cloud Scape gave me what I was craving to a small extent. The bass is fun folks! Though it is never oversaturated and isn’t what I’d ever call one-noted. QOA took this bass right to the border of sublevel basshead and stopped just short, dialed back the mid-bass, and contrasted it with the highs. There’s enough definition here to draw distinctions between bass notes. There’s enough full-bodied bullishness to give bass guitars the raw weight to be true to life. Also, there’s enough slam and boom to provide a very satisfying bass drop on any hip-hop track. No doubt there are also downsides to a bass such as this, but I’ll cover that in a bit. 

Sub-Bass 

As I said the sub-bass carries the majority share of emphasis and it does so in very nice fashion. I think what I enjoy the most is that the sublevels have the weight, the rigidity, and the density yet they never really seem to mud the mix. Again, there’s a definite succinctness to the sublevels in relation to the bass shelf. “Got Your Back” by Washed Out is one track which I use all the time in review periods and it’s perfect to quickly assess sublevel weight. Friends, I love the Cloud Scape and this track. Such a heavy and deep bass as it rolls through to the main verse sounding very groovy with a sublevel haptic presence that I can feel. Nice texture too, which is nice. The sub-bass isn’t so boosted that all you can hear is some mishmash of bass rumble and it doesn’t seem to cloud or blurry the melody which surrounds that bassline. With respect to the tuning of course. No doubt the sub-bass isn’t going to sound as clean and defined as a more snappy and less bullish low-end style. All of my words are in respect to the tuning style. 

Sub-Bass cont… 

Anyways, another very heavy and juddering track is “Heavy as the Ocean” by Bush. Folks, it sounds like a mini earthquake is starting as the rising thudding and pulsating tremor of a bassline grows in volume until the payoff at the main verse. I’m not going to lie and say the Cloud Scape does anything that many other sets can’t do (especially with this track), but it does do what I wanted it to do… come across seriously heavy and do so with authority. As I said, the sub-bass is the most dominant frequency on this set. The beautiful thing is that it meshes well with the rest of the mix with relative speed and solid control. 

Mid-Bass 

This naturally brings us to the mid-bass of the Cloud Scape. Now, the mid-bass isn’t as hefty or lifted as the sublevels, but it still has enough weight to sound full bodied and warm. To my ears the Cloud Scape has a moderately boosted mid-bass without over-coloration or veil which helps to maintain clarity into the midrange. I find the mid-bass actually does have a bit more control and is built a hair better for speed and note definition. Bass guitars have that fullness you’d like without sounding too forward. Kick drums hit with a nice snap and hollow boom yet never seem to overpower the rest of the mix. Enough weight to keep rhythms pretty tight and balance out the sound nicely. To my ears the mid-bass offers a nice segway from the sub-bass through to the midrange. Just enough slam to sound enjoyable, fun, and fulfilling and enough speed and vibrance to sound nicely contoured. I should also add that the mid-bass does spill over into the midrange enough to provide a warm atmosphere, yet not so much that we lose midrange clarity. I actually greatly enjoy the subtle richness. 

Downsides to the Bass Region 

Without question the number one issue that I predict others will have with this bass region is the emphasis provided to the bass. Anyone who is a lover of a snappier, speedier, less intense, and better detailed bass is not going to enjoy the atmospheric style of the Cloud Scape’s low-end. I could also say that bassheads won’t find the Cloud Scape perfectly enjoyable either. The Cloud Scape is tuned somewhat in-between. Technically, the Cloud Scape’s bass region will mask over certain frequencies when a bass heavy track is playing as well. Lastly, the Cloud Scape’s low-end does bleed into the midrange enough to add warmth. To some people, warmth of any kind is the same as stealing clarity. While I do feel that there is a very slight loss of that clarity here, I also don’t feel it’s enough to lose clarity altogether. In truth, I find the spill-over adds to my listening experience bringing on an organic midrange timbre with substantial note richness and note body without sacrificing definition to a detrimental extent. 

Midrange

The midrange to me is one of solid presence and a very natural and engaging sound. I go back and forth whether there is any sort of recession of this range, but for the most part all I hear is a nicely balanced sound with good note projection. Nothing sounded pushed-back or distant in my time of critical listening. I hear zero artificial boost or any peakiness and I don’t hear anything metallic or sibilant. Truly, the timbre is the key here as the midrange takes on that warm, smooth, and earthy sound without any rough edges. Now, I could use a hint more crispness, but all-in-all the Cloud Scape’s midrange has such an immersive musicality that I hardly notice any lack of anything at all. Vocals are pretty nice too. Males and females carry solid note weight making them sound valid and pretty real to life. Another quality of this midrange is the wider and fuller stage which helps to give instruments and voices some space and room to breathe. Again, there is definitely nice depth to this sound which comes across warm but also layered.

Musicality-Over-Details

I wouldn’t say that detail retrieval is anything to boast about, but also, this set isn’t trying to be the picture of technical precision. Nor would I want it to be. Most certainly this midrange shows off the theme of the Cloud Scape’s melodic tuning with what I’d cal a “musicality-over details” style midrange tuning. With that said, I hear plenty of details just fine without the sound coming across analytical and staying true to the Cloud Scape’s musical nature. Again, nothing sounds thin, dry, or papery and everything about this midrange is moist, lush, and dynamic. I love the warm-ish energy that this region brings to my music. QOA made sure to add just enough of that subtle vibrance to keep the sound engaging as well as enough upper mid vivacity to bring upon some decent enough tonal contrast. 

Lower-Midrange 

The lower midrange features some nice male vocals, and I don’t detect any real recession but instead a well-balanced sound with the rest. There is a very well-done transition into the lower midrange from the bass. I hear nothing abrupt as the glide down from the bass region sounds very natural and contributes to the somewhat forward presence in this region without any real attenuation of the lower mids. Fundamental tones are subtly soft, smooth, but also substantial in their body as the bass region adds a slight layer of warmth. Instruments like cellos sound bodied with a robust sonorous sound, nicely weighted too. Others like rhythm guitars (for instance) may lack the edginess for definition but are aided by the organic timbre and dulcet quality of that timbre. Also, rhythm guitars have a certain warm vibrance to them without ever sounding flabby or distant. Again, those too have good presence. There’s definitely a theme with this lower midrange. In fact, most instruments come across in much the same way. Sure, there are some which may lack vibrance to a degree, but most sound prominent and authentic. However, it’s the male voices which I am mostly interested in. Males seem to be very well grounded, almost supported underneath with a chesty and rich flavor. It honestly sounds like I’m in the room with many male vocalists. Alex Warren sings “Ordinary” and I can plainly hear the body, the substantive meat to his voice (for lack of better words). Like other male vocalists he sounds authoritative, bold, and his vocals carry that clean warmth. Very nice folks. 

Upper-Midrange 

This brings us to the upper midrange which comes across with a subtle vibrance, slightly more forward, more energetic as well. Which is a very common thing with iems. However, the Cloud Scape’s upper-mids are actually ever-so-slightly dialed back from most iems. Basically, there’s no chance at fatigue or glare with this set. Just enough sparkle, just enough levity and a misting of warm air as well but for the most part the upper midrange follows-suit with the rest of the mix sounding smooth, semi-rich, and musically gifted. Forward and prominent enough to come across alluring & engaging but still relaxed and less intense to avoid any harshness or glare. I find the upper mids to be a healthy dose of shimmer without the shine, if that makes sense. Of course, not everyone is seeking out a less energetic upper mid delivery. I realize that many folks enjoy being pushed right to the edge of comfort, but QOA is doing things a bit differently and after a month with this set I can tell you that it’s paid off nicely. I go back and forth depending on my mood. Still, females come across with a subtle softness which clads the body of all notes. Again, smooth, refined, polished, and they flow fluid with a viscous richness and again… just enough sparkle. 

Upper-mids cont… 

Songs like “I Forgive You” by Sia truly shine on a set like this. Especially with Sia’s edgy and raspy voice which seemingly always finds a way to find some glare. Mostly when she’s really belting her heart out. The Cloud Scape sands down all rough edges, smooths over the grain, and presents this track in a very palatable way. The best way to describe females while listening with the Cloud Scape would be breathy, full-bodied, and uplifted with creamy texture. No doubt the upper mids are slightly less robust in body then their lower-mid counterpart, but they still come across with some solid richness. Another track is “Stampede” by Jess Williamson with her very sweet-toned and silvery voice that carries a tuneful edge to it. Once again, the Cloud Scape dials back the knife-edged subtle abrasiveness. However, more importantly the Cloud Scape really does well to fortify the emotion in her voice and help tremendously to tell her story from an emotionally engaging standpoint. The Cloud Scape does well to help portray a young girl who is going through some self-reflection. This is the beauty of a set and a tuning like the Cloud Scape. Instruments quite literally do the exact same. Every instrument is appealing, organic, never harsh, and always bold with good body. I won’t go through every instrument because I want this review to be under 12,000 words, but I have been nothing but pleased. The only issue would be with those who want a more clarity focused sound and more energy. 

Downsides to the Midrange 

The largest issue with the midrange isn’t really an “issue” at all, but rather a subjective tonal dislike that some folks might have. If anything, those people who enjoy a more energetic midrange may not be completely thrilled with the Cloud Scape’s slightly more reserved display of the midrange. As much as I enjoy the mids (they are nice), I could also use a bit more macro-dynamic energy, some vibrant expression, more bite and a crisper edge at times. However, that smooth delivery is like creamy butter and the rhythmicity of the midrange is a style all its own. Adding any more vivacity would change what I consider to be a very well-tuned set. I’m not the only one. There are many folks who enjoy that lustrous and bright midrange. Heck, even those who enjoy a drier, crystal clear and analytical take on the midrange will also be let down. They want micro-dynamics, loads of clean air, super distinct note separation, and easy to discern details. Not that the Cloud Scape is at a loss for details, note separation, and some air either. It’s simply not that amazingly technical sound. So of course that will go against what some enjoy. Beyond that, I really cannot find any issue worth noting. Just subjective tonal aspects that some gravitate to a bit more. 

Treble Region 

In my opinion, the treble on the QOA Cloud Scape is more of a supporting actor upholding this part of the spectrum with only hints of brilliance and without ever inducing fatigue. The treble region is controlled by the added micro-planar driver which does a nice job of presenting moderate levels of emphasis which come across less radiant but also have a solid level of treble details. It isn’t bright or analytical, but it also isn’t what some would consider a dark treble either. Just like the rest of the mix it lands somewhere in between as far as actual emphasis is concerned. The beauty of a tuning like this is that you really have zero shot at sibilance, treble glare, or any moments of exaggerated peirce. QOA made sure to add just enough emphasis to counteract the bigger and more abundant bass region providing a touch of sparkle along with just enough levity to add some warmly colored air to the mix. Again, I would never consider the treble on the Cloud Scape to be dark or overly rolled off. This is an easy listening sound with a sound that isn’t hyper focused on forensic details but rather opts for subtly softened resolution. Sparkly enough to come across sprightly, but instead of shining with effulgent brilliance… it more-so glows. Basically, treble heads will not enjoy this set but those who can appreciate an organic sound will realize that the treble actually has some very good quality. 

Timbre

As far as timbre is concerned, the Cloud Scape’s treble region follows suit with the organic narrative of the rest of the tuning and obviously plays a big part in that. The treble comes across warm-natural with less acute edge and crispness to help define the subtleties as many of the top-class technical sets can accomplish. In my opinion the note delivery remains softer at the note edges, smoother in character, never rambunctious, and not even close to having any forced resolution. In fact, I don’t hear an artificially boosted or metallic inflection in this treble. That’s over many-many hours of listening to this set. All instruments have clarity without the bite, resolution without the glare, and they all sound at least somewhat natural to life. Perhaps some instruments would benefit from a bit more brilliance, but I still feel there’s enough of a bright hue to at least sound engaging. 

Extension 

Now, when it comes to upper treble extension, I wouldn’t say that the Cloud Scape offers the best that I’ve ever heard. However, it’s extended enough to add openness with what I’d call moderate air. Also, it’s a very clean top end which doesn’t feature overtly splashy cymbals, and instruments like the flute sound bodied and fully flavored. Anyways, this subtle air does a world of good for the rest of the mix and even adds to the soundstage width. Good enough extension to help create some subtle note separation and good enough to sound open without chasing radiance. It’s tastefully composed and nice for what it is. 

Technically astute? 

Beyond that, I actually hear decent detail retrieval within the treble region as well as adequate amounts of note bite and treble punch. Micro-planars seem to do a fine job at replaying this end of the spectrum with very clean lines, as well as pretty distinct note contours. I’d also say that the transient attack through sustain is rather tight. So, it’s certainly a quality over quantity style treble display. Now, I wouldn’t expect expert or class leading details and I wouldn’t expect EST worthy definition and treble bite. However, with this set I would expect a nice cohesive transition from the mids to the treble. I’d expect a very clean rendition of a slightly warmer sound. Also, I’d expect great tonal qualities with fantastic timbre that never sounds offensive, can be listened to for hours, and it’ll replay your favorite tracks in a very natural way. Treble sensitive listeners will live the sound. Also, folks who adore subdued brightness that also carries excellent control. Lastly, those who much more desire a melodic and musicality-first treble theme over dry, analytical, and bright will enjoy the sound here. 

Downsides to the Treble Region 

The biggest gripe that people may have is the fact that the treble isn’t the most technically sound treble I’ve ever heard. Those folks who desperately want to hear every last detail should probably look elsewhere. No, it is not the most detailed I’ve ever heard. This is a smooth and rhythmical sound with a less fatiguing and less boosted treble playback. Sure, more forced brightness would illuminate some more details, but it would be at the cost of the timbre quality. So, people who really enjoy a bright and radiant top end will definitely not completely enjoy the highs on this set, and I totally understand that. I’d be lying if I told you that I didn’t frequently enjoy some brightly lit treble sets. Having said that, I just feel that QOA did a wonderful job crafting a treble which perfectly fits the sound of this set and compliments the whole of the frequency very well. It’s very cohesive, and it is truly a timbre head quality treble. 

Technicalities 

Soundstage 

When it comes to the soundstage, I was very happy with what I heard on this set. I definitely feel that the overall soundstage is average to just-above-average, but it also sounds somewhat intimate, and it fills out the whole of my mind space. This certainly isn’t some panoramic psycho-acoustic wizardry or anything like that. Nothing overly holographic either. Though, there is some good dimensionality on this set. Really, the Cloud Scape has above average width which goes just outside of my ears. Height is average. But the Cloud Scape does have some depth too. I think it’s the depth which makes this stage feel and sound as well dimensioned as it is. Stuff like layering definitely exists as there is most certainly some front to back depth. Also, like I said, the soundstage is also fairly intimate in that the stage sounds a hair closer to the listener. This is due in part from the closer midrange. I actually enjoy a more intimate stage that sounds full and has depth and so it’s no wonder that I enjoyed the Cloud Scape’s stage. 

Separation / Imaging 

Now, separation of notes is a mixed bag. I want to say it like this; the note separation on the Cloud Scape is very good for a warm, lush, and smooth tuning. Remember, there is some air and space with this tuning. You have natural transients which aren’t really slow or lagging, and the sound is very clean for this tuning as well. So, separation is actually pretty nice (about average), but against similarly tuned iems I find the separation to be very good. Imaging is reliable, good placement, and I find that I can dial in where instruments and voices exist in the imaginary stage. Also, layering is very easy to discern. Sure, they are softer layers and not knife-edged and perfectly contoured, but layering is good. Imaging is really the same way. However, I wouldn’t say they are pinpoint. That label is reserved for a more balanced and analytical sound. Usually anyways. Of course, you have that hefty bass which will mask some sounds. Also, smoother sounding sets will have a harder time sounding clean with their imaging capabilities. I almost want to echo what I said about separation. Again, good against the market at this cost but very good versus similarly tuned and similarly priced iems. 

Detail Retrieval 

You already know what I’m about to say. No, the Cloud Scape won’t blow your mind with its technical abilities and no you won’t hear “amazing” detail retrieval. This is where I say… Thankfully. I love a musical set. Always have. I would truly hate to lose any of that musicality just for the brand to try to squeeze out a few more details. In truth, the Cloud Scape doesn’t do bad at all in this regard. It’s actually quite good. Detail retrieval won’t win any awards, but I think you’d be surprised how well it does for a bass heavy, smooth, rich, and full-bodied sound. 

Comparisons 

Simgot SuperMix 4 ($169)

Man, this is a solid iem! One of my absolute favorite multi-driver iems under $200 and one that I consistently reach for outside of review periods. So, I reviewed the SuperMix 4 (SM4 for review purposes) about a year ago (SM4 Review) and I gave it top marks. No doubt the SM4 will be quite the challenge for the Cloud Scape. However, maybe they are just different enough that they really don’t compete against each other. Anyways, the SM4 is a quad-brid iem featuring one DD, one BA, one micro-planar, and one PZT driver. To think that Simgot created a quad-brid iem this good for under $200 is astounding. Let’s check out some differences. 

Non-sound stuff

To start, I find the QOA Cloud Scape’s unboxing and accessory haul to be much better. Which is awesome being that it costs over $40 less. Better case, better eartips, and a much better cable. I think that the Cloud Scape is also more comfortable with a more ergonomic build. Of course, the SM4 is a hair larger too, which does seem to be a hair more difficult to get a solid fit. As far as the build goes, both sets are made well but I think it’s clear that the Cloud Scape is a bit better. To add to that, the Cloud Scape is much better designed. I like the SM4’s design too. I just think that a hand-painted faceplate wins this hands down. 

Sound Differences 

Now, as far as the sound, the SM4 is a hair harder to drive as the SM4 does require a bit more oomph from your source. Yet both sets scale very well with power. To me the Cloud Scape comes across warmer, more musically inclined, and much more fluid in its sounds. Much easier on the ears. The SM4 has a better technical display with more precise transients, finer detail retrieval, and a more clarity rich playback. The bass on the Cloud Scape is deeper, fuller, and more robust. While the SM4 has a hard hitting and punchy bass it simply isn’t as boosted. Though it does have a sharper and more defined bass. The midrange of the Cloud Scape is more melodic, better for vocals, more forward, intimate, and it simply sounds more tuneful. While the SM4 is better detailed, better resolution, decent at vocals but excellent at rendering micro-dynamics and doing so in a harmonious manner without sounding too analytical. The treble of the SM4 is light-years ahead of the Cloud Scape with solid bite, solid punch, well extended, and it has that nice, brilliant energy that extends the stage and simply comes across crisp. The Cloud Scape is much less illuminate, less fatiguing, easier on the ears and better for longer listening sessions. I think it fair to say that these two are very different. The SM4 has much better detail retrieval, more transient tight, better note separation, more multi-layered and it’s just cleaner. Though, the Cloud Scape has the better dimensioned and fuller stage. All in all, the Cloud Scape relies on its musical and smooth warmth to engage the listener while the SM4 wants to wow you with its macro-dynamic energy and tight replay. 

Final thoughts on this comparison 

Honestly, this has all the earmarks of a perfect preference battle. The two sets are different enough that you’ll know right away which one you jive with more. Like I said, it’s almost to the point that they aren’t even competing with each other. Both are absolutely top class sets per their respective tunings and both sets are well worth the cost of ownership. Of course, the Cloud Scape does cost quite a bit less. 

Last word on the QOA Cloud Scape 

Friends, my thoughts on the QOA Cloud Scape are all very positive. It’s hard to be anything else. This set does what it was tuned to do very well. QOA wasn’t trying to blow your mind by crafting and creating the most detail rich and technically sound iem in the market, they wanted to wow you with their ability to create a musical set to listen to music with. After all, it’s the Cloud Scape’s musicality which is its superpower. When I review a set like this I have to do so from that perspective. Folks, it wasn’t tuned to be the greatest analytical iem ever, it was tuned to make your feet move, your head bob, and it was made to help you soak into your music. So naturally I cannot take points away from this set because it isn’t completely technically astute. I review to the target tuning that the brand was going for. Always have and always will. It only makes sense.

Worth the cost…

However, with that thought in mind, there are loads of musicality-first iems under that $150 price point. This is not the only set which can carry a tune in a harmonious manner. Shoot, you can find iems like that at $20. So why in the world would the Cloud Scape cost $125? I’ll tell you why. Because of the cohesive and totally musical sound that not only sounds warm, smooth, and rich, but it also does the technical stuff very well too. As I said earlier, the Cloud Scape has a very clean sound for a warmer set. This isn’t your average KZ $25 sound. The Cloud Scape is utterly and totally refined from the sub-bass to the upper treble and it does so in an effortless way. I cannot tell you how many times I put away other sets that I was trying to write reviews for… only to get lost in the Cloud Scape’s sound instead. Such a dynamic sound for a warm set yet also well-defined and well layered. It all comes together very well folks. No doubt that $125 that it costs to own the Cloud Scape is very much worth every penny. 

The Why… 

Because the unboxing is very good for a set which costs $125. Every accessory is well thought out and works perfectly with this set. Also, the build is robust for an all-resin iem. Not just robust, but it’s also extremely comfortable, very ergonomically sound. However, one of its most awesome selling points comes from the beautiful artwork hand-painted in the gorgeous faceplates. Friends, whether you like this design or not I cannot believe that any of you would say that the Cloud Scape isn’t very well done. This goes for both style variations too. Both are beautiful. The Impressionist Oil Painting theme is one of the most well thought-out and well implemented themes that they’ve come up with to date. I cannot wait to see future products of this theme. Just a very nice piece of art. Art whose artisan deserves to be applauded. My opinion of course. 

That sound! 

However, no set (audio product) on earth would be worthy of its cost (no matter the cost) if it didn’t have good sonics which resonate with the buyer. Yes, the Cloud Space is a work of art, but it’s the sound which truly makes this a set worth picking up. There are plenty of musically strong iems which litter the Audioverse, but there’s very few which put it all together like the Cloud Scape does at $125. 

Each 3rd of the mix… 

The bass region is the bread and butter of this iem with a very hard hitting and authoritative slam which keeps tight reigns on its note control. I love a big and full-bodied low-end that is also very clean. The sublevels rumble with depth, and the mid-bass flavors the rest of the frequency. Honestly, the bass is great, but what is a solid set without a solid midrange? I go back and forth on what I like better, the bass or the mids. The midrange has that smoothly rendered and rich sound without even a hint of fatigue. The great aspect of the mids is that the Cloud Scape still has nice energy. Such a warm, yet dynamic sound with a very well dimensioned sound field. Nothing piercing, nothing glaring, nothing sibilant, and the timbre is a warmly tilted version of organic that is so very nice. Also, the treble is no slouch. No, it isn’t boosted to the stars, but it is great right where it’s at. Decently detailed, mildly brilliant, nicely extended, but it’s the timbre which sells this treble. Smooth across the board and non-offensive to the core. Again, for a musically rich sound to come across with such nice clarity and resolution is not a common thing folks. Furthermore, the soundstage really is a multi-layered experience. Granted, they are slightly softened layers, but they are layers, and there’s depth, there’s a subtly holographic take in a charming and intimate delivery. Details are nice enough, separation is decent to good, and imaging is certainly well done. Overall, this set is really one of the better musicality-first hybrid iems under $150. If not the best. Really a tremendous job by QOA. Easy rec. 

Some issues? 

I hate to end this with a sour note, but I do need to recap some issues and try to explain who this set may or may not be for and what genres seem to thrive the most, in my opinion. Please take this with a grain of salt as everyone seeks out different sound in any given genre. 

A bit more before I go… 

With all that the Cloud Scape does well, it won’t appeal to those who desire that reference analytical sound with perfect crystalline clarity and top shelf resolution. The Cloud Scape will not be for those people. Also, those folks who desire that ultra-airy type sound with a big treble presence. Those people may also not enjoy this set. The bass bleed does subtly soften and render the separation and clarity within the low-mids a bit too much for some. Not everyone wants a set that doesn’t have that hard edged resolving sound. As far as what genres I feel the Cloud Scape does the best with. Well, for one, any genre which thrives off of tight speed and fast transients won’t do well with the Cloud Scape. Remember, it’s warm, bass heavy, smooth throughout, yes, it’s clean, but it’s also not super energetic in a boisterous macro-dynamic sense. However, I feel that the Cloud Scape thrives with Hip-Hop, R&B, Jazz, lo-fi chill electronic stuff. It also does very well with acoustic style tracks, singer-songwriter stuff and of course it thrives in Pop and more mainstream tracks too. So, it’s not quite an all-rounder, but it does well with most genres excluding stuff which demands a faster response or more treble brilliance. Now, who this set is for is anyone who prioritizes a musicality-first sound. Those who like fun, emotionally charged, and organic sounds. It’s for those who aren’t interested in hearing every last detail. Also, the Cloud Scape is definitely for those who desire comfort and long-term wearability over long sessions. I’m sure I could come up with more, but I think this review is long enough. Just fill in the blanks, I think you get it. 

Conclusion 

To conclude my full review and feature of the QOA Cloud Scape, I absolutely need to thank the really great people of Kinera. I thank you very much. Kinera sent over three sets to my door and asked or expected nothing from me. They let me take my time (over a month) to write these reviews and never once said a word to me. So many of these brands are very pushy and they don’t understand that the longer a reviewer has a set usually is better for the brand. Kinera/QOA is awesome. I realize that you all don’t have a clue about this side of the review but to me it means a lot. So, thank you Kinera and the very professional contact that I routinely deal with. I also always have to thank you, the reader, for taking your time to read any word that I pen. I know you think it’s just a quick click of a link, no big deal. However, to us at Mobileaudiophile.com it is a very big deal. Not long ago we weren’t big at all. Friends, our numbers at the website are very good anymore with thousands and thousands of people visiting us every week and I cannot thank you enough. Every click matters. It’s you who keeps us going and it’s you who keeps our doors open, so to speak. Thank you. 

Other Perspectives 

I always end with this. That is, please take time to read other reviews. We at Mobileaudiophile.com aren’t trying to hog the audio space. There’s more than enough clicks to go around. The greater point is that we want you to find the audio product that fits your life. I love hearing how any one of you has found that one gem that made the hobby complete for you. It brings a smile to my face. That doesn’t happen without you doing your homework and checking many different reviews. This matters because none of us are the same. We are all different. Every hobbyist, every reviewer. We hear differently, our likes and dislikes are different, our journeys have all been different, maybe our musical libraries are different, and there’s a good chance that we don’t have the same source devices etc. There’s so many more differences which alter how we perceive sound through any one device. So please, just take a moment to skim over other perspectives. It’ll only be a good thing. With that, I’m done folks. So, take good care, stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!!