Quick answer
Choose the QoA New Mimosa if you want a hybrid planar IEM with a warm, engaging sound and artisanal design. Pick the QoA Aviation if you prefer a detailed, balanced signature with multiple balanced armature drivers for analytical listening.
Driver design philosophy: planar vs. BA hybrid
The QoA New Mimosa uses a 10 mm dynamic driver for lows and mids paired with a 6 mm planar driver for crisp highs. This hybrid planar approach delivers a cohesive, natural sound with a smooth treble extension that many listeners find fatigue-free.
The QoA Aviation combines an 8 mm dynamic driver with three Knowles balanced armature drivers. The BA drivers excel at resolving fine details and transients, making this IEM a strong choice for critical listening and instrumental separation.
Build and comfort considerations
The New Mimosa features a stabilized pine-cone faceplate that makes each unit unique. The Aviation offers a more conventional resin shell, which may fit smaller ears more easily. Neither IEM has published weight or nozzle dimensions, so try them in person if fit is a primary concern.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Sound signature preference: The New Mimosa offers a warm, engaging presentation with smooth highs. The Aviation delivers a more neutral, detail-oriented sound with stronger instrument separation.
- Budget and value: The New Mimosa is priced at USD 121.68 (down from USD 169.00), making it the more affordable entry into high-quality hybrid IEMs. The Aviation costs USD 213.21 (down from USD 309.00) and justifies the premium with three BA drivers.
- Cable and connectivity: The Aviation includes a 5N OCC 4-core cable with both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs, offering balanced output out of the box. The New Mimosa's cable specs are not stated, so check the included accessories before purchasing. If balanced output matters to you, the Aviation saves you an extra cable purchase.
Product facts at a glance
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QoA Queen of Audio New Mimosa: Hybrid driver design: 10 mm dynamic driver for lows and mids, 6 mm planar driver for highs The planar tweeter provides airy, extended treble without the sharpness sometimes associated with BA drivers.
QoA Queen of Audio New Mimosa
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QoA Queen of Audio Aviation: 8 mm dynamic driver + 3 Knowles BA drivers, impedance 39 ohms, sensitivity 118 dB The multi-BA array delivers exceptional detail retrieval and a neutral-leaning sound signature ideal for analytical listening.
QoA Queen of Audio Aviation
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Listeners who want a unique, artisanal-looking IEM with a smooth, engaging sound for long listening sessions
- Budget-conscious audiophiles seeking hybrid planar performance under USD 130
Not for
- Those who need maximum detail retrieval and analytical sound — choose the Aviation instead
- Users who require balanced output without an adapter — the Aviation includes both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs
