Introduction
Today, we're reviewing the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro IEM. Many might be hearing about Rose Technics for the first time, so let me introduce you: it started in 2012 in China with a simple philosophy—create memorable products at reasonable prices. The Star City 5 Pro in-ear monitors are equipped with one dynamic driver and two balanced armature drivers. They come with fabric-coated, dual-strand 6N OCC monocrystalline copper cables with MMCX and a 3.5mm audio jack. Surprisingly, it includes a 3.5mm to Type-C CX31993 DAC adapter, all for just Rs. 6990. This looks like a value-for-money package with both the IEM and DAC dongle. Let’s delve deeper into the sound of the Star City 5 Pro earphones.
Design and Build Quality
The Star City 5 Pro shells are made of high-quality 3D-printed material. The inner shell is black, while the circular-shaped faceplate is metal and engraved with "Light Year" wording. The outer cavity of the MMCX shells is also metal. This fusion of plastic and metal gives the design a modern touch. The provided cable and portable DAC dongle feature fabric coating with metal elements. The carry case is circular and made of high-quality PU leather. The eartips provided are narrow and wide bore, allowing you to choose the best fit for your preference. Design-wise, it’s simple and classic but gives a very premium feeling, and the overall build quality is outstanding.
Comfort and Fit
The Star City 5 Pro has a medium shell size. The provided eartips offer a good seal and fit. I used the Star City 5 Pro for long listening sessions without any fatigue or fitting issues.
Sound Quality
I tested the Star City 5 Pro IEM with SpinFit W1 eartips, the provided DAC, and the HiBy R4 DAP. The Star City 5 Pro delivers controlled bass, a midrange with emotion and texture, and sparkly highs with an airy presentation.
Bass
The Star City 5 Pro has a well-controlled bass presentation. The sub-bass is fast and clean, with a bit more mid-bass focus. The bass is just enough in quantity, though not suitable for bassheads. While I'm not a big fan of this bass, it does the job. If you prefer balanced bass, you might like the bass delivery of the Star City 5 Pro.
Midrange
The midrange of the Star City 5 Pro is smooth, clean, and emotional. It handles both male and female vocals nicely. The midrange has enough weight and body, and while the timbre is not entirely natural, it's still good.
Treble
The treble of the Star City 5 Pro is well-executed—detailed, sparkly, and smooth. It’s safely tuned with no piercing peaks or sharpness. The airy treble presentation makes the sound more open.
Soundstage & Imaging
The Star City 5 Pro in-ear headphones have a good width, depth, and height in the soundstage. The imaging and layering feel accurate and well-defined.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Balanced bass | Bass is lacking for bassheads |
| Excellent midrange | Slightly less natural timbre |
| Sparkly, airy treble | |
| Wide soundstage with depth | |
| Accurate imaging and layering | |
| Decent provided Type-C DAC | |
| Very good build quality for IEM and shell | |
| High-quality carry case and eartips | |
| Value for money with very good sound quality |
Conclusion
If you’re looking for in-ear monitors under Rs. 10,000 with both 3.5mm and Type-C DAC options, the Rose Technics Star City 5 Pro is a perfect choice. It has a balanced sound signature—not too dry and analytical but also fun and musical. I highly recommend this set for those seeking their first IEM under 10K or for audiophiles needing a mild V-shaped sounding IEM for daily use.
I would like to thank Mr. Vikash from Treble Well Xtended and Rose Technics for giving me the opportunity to try the Star City 5 Pro in-ear headphones. All opinions are mine. If you need any help related to the Star City 5 Pro IEMs, feel free to ask in the comments section, and don’t forget to subscribe to our WhatsApp Channel for more amazing audiophile content.
