Looking for a high-quality listening experience without breaking the bank? Meet the Activo Q1 wired earbuds, the latest addition to the audio lineup from Activo, a sub-brand of renowned audio company Astell & Kern.
Priced at $349 / £299, these in-ear monitors (IEMs) are designed to pair seamlessly with the Activo P1 digital audio player, released in July 2024, offering incredible value for audiophiles on a budget.
What Makes Activo Q1 Stand Out?
The Activo Q1 earbuds are the result of a collaboration between Activo and Singapore-based DITA Audio, combining over 45 years of audio expertise. The Q1 features a hybrid driver system:
- A PM1+ 9.8mm dynamic driver with brass housing, designed to deliver powerful, precise audio.
- A Knowles balanced armature driver for enhanced clarity and detail.
These earbuds promise to reproduce every nuance of your favorite tracks with finesse.
Custom MOCCA2 Cable for Premium Sound
DITA Audio is known for its bespoke cables, and the Activo Q1 includes the MOCCA2 cable, built with precision by Cardas Audio in the USA. The cable boasts 32 strands of high-quality conductors, twisted to meet DITA’s exacting standards.
The Q1 package includes two connector options:
- 4.4mm balanced plug for audiophile-grade performance.
- 3.5mm single-ended plug for standard listening.
These options ensure compatibility with the Activo P1’s dual-port design and most other devices.
Stylish Design with Practical Accessories
Sporting a sleek white finish, the Activo Q1 earbuds are visually striking and complement the design of the Activo P1 audio player. But these earbuds aren’t just about aesthetics. The package includes:
- A systainer mini hard case co-branded with Activo and DITA, made by Tanos, for secure storage.
- Five sizes of eartips to ensure a snug, comfortable fit for every user.
Why Choose Activo Q1?
The Activo Q1 earbuds offer the signature Astell & Kern sound quality at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
With DITA Audio’s engineering prowess and custom components like the MOCCA2 cable, these IEMs deliver superior audio fidelity in a compact, affordable package.
For those who invested in the Activo P1 audio player, the Q1 earbuds are the ideal sonic partners, designed to maximize the player’s potential while remaining accessible to budget-conscious music lovers.
Pricing and Availability
The Activo Q1 earbuds are available now for $349 / £299 / €399 (around AU$590). You can purchase them on Amazon and enjoy a top-tier wired audio experience without the Astell & Kern premium price tag.
Audiophiles, rejoice! The Activo Q1 may soon find its place among the best wired earbuds on the market. Stay tuned for more reviews to see how they perform in real-world testing.
