Epz K9 VS Dunu 242
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Epz K9 and Dunu 242 use 1DD+8BA and 2DD+4BA+2Planar driver setups respectively. Epz K9 costs $299 while Dunu 242 costs $349. Dunu 242 is $50 more expensive. Dunu 242 holds a slight 0.3-point edge in reviewer scores (7.7 vs 8). Epz K9 has significantly better bass with a 1-point edge, Dunu 242 has significantly better mids with a 1.2-point edge, Dunu 242 has better treble with a 0.7-point edge and Epz K9 has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Epz K9 | Dunu 242 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.1 | 7.1 |
| Mids | 7 | 8.2 |
| Treble | 6.9 | 7.6 |
| Details | 7.6 | 7.4 |
| Soundstage | 7.6 | 7.4 |
| Imaging | 7.4 | 7.4 |
| Dynamics | 7.7 | 6.7 |
| Tonality | 7.7 | 7.8 |
| Technicalities | 7.4 | 7.6 |
Epz K9 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.7Strongly Favorable
Dunu 242 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8Very Positive
Reviews Comparison
Epz K9 reviewed by Jaytiss
7.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
EPZ K9 brings a flashy spec sheet and premium feel: a 9-driver hybrid (1DD+8BA) dressed in a world-class shell that fits securely, vents properly, and looks gorgeous with its blue-white case. The stock cable offers swappable 3.5↔4.4 termination and a steady chin slider, though the fabric sheathing and barely visible L/R markers are quirks. Originally teased near $300 and now closer to $400, the package screams polish more than compromise.
Sonically, this is a V-shaped tuning with rich bass, thick lower mids, and extra energy in the 3–6 kHz band that can make stick hits and sibilants feel a touch sharp. The midrange clarity is only decent and the upper-air/treble extension is just okay, but staging comes across pleasantly open. Graph comparisons paint the picture: versus EPZ’s own P50 (safer, flatter upper mids) and the more majestic, warm-lean V of the EPZ 530, K9 pushes that presence region a few dB higher. Sets like Afu Dawn X flatten that band while extending air; Softears Volume offers a very similar profile but even more 5–6 kHz energy; and options around this price—Magic Top Pro, Yu9 Chua—show alternate takes with either dipped presence or stronger bass/1 kHz support.
In practice, K9 aims for excitement: weighty bass, a forward upper-mid/low-treble bite, and a lively stage. Listeners craving a crisp, energetic V will find plenty to enjoy, while those sensitive to brightness or seeking mid clarity and airy refinement may prefer the P50, 530, or similarly priced competitors. Stunning build and respectable performance, but the tuning choices make it a taste-dependent recommendation rather than a universal pick.
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Dunu 242 reviewed by Jaytiss
8.8
Reviewer Score
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Epz K9 reviewed by Web Search
7.6
Reviewer Score
The EPZ K9 is a 9-driver hybrid (1DD+8BA) with a 3-way acoustic/electronic crossover, rated at 14 Ω and 108 dB sensitivity; it also ships with interchangeable 3.5 mm/4.4 mm plugs, making it easy to pair with portable sources. Retail pricing varies by region—seen around $299 at some retailers and into the low-$400s elsewhere—so value will depend on where it’s purchased.
Tonally, K9 presents a warm W-shaped balance with substantive mid-bass and a restrained but present upper-mid/treble rise, aiming for smoothness over bite. Frequency-response sets published by community sources also show insertion-depth sensitivity (deep vs shallow), which helps explain reports of “calmer” treble and broader perceived width with deeper seals.
Technical performance is competent for the segment: macro-dynamics and bass slam are a noted strength, while resolution and imaging sit a touch below the class leaders; stage is more wide than deep, but cohesive for a multi-BA hybrid. Multiple long-form impressions describe it as clean and open yet non-fatiguing, which aligns with a safe-tilt treble and fuller lower mids.
Dunu 242 reviewed by Web Search
7.7
Reviewer Score
The Dunu DN242 (often referred to as “242”) is an eight-driver tribrid IEM featuring 2 dynamic drivers, 4 balanced armatures and 2 micro planar drivers per side, coordinated via a multi-way crossover to cover the full spectrum. With an impedance of around 35 Ω and sensitivity of about 110 dB/mW, it is easy to drive from most modern sources while still benefitting from higher-quality DAC/amps. The lightweight resin shells (~6 g per side) and modular Q-Lock style cable provide a practical, comfort-oriented package at an MSRP of roughly $349, placing it in the competitive upper-midrange bracket.
Sonically, the DN242 presents a neutral-bright, vocal-focused tuning with restrained but articulate bass, a clear midrange and energetic treble. Reviewers consistently note that the midrange is clean and evenly toned, giving vocals strong intelligibility and preserving textural nuance, while the dual dynamic drivers prioritize control and definition over sheer quantity in the low end. The upper mids and treble are described as bright and very resolving, with quick transients and a “spry” character that pushes vocals and leading edges forward, but can introduce a touch of sharpness or upper-treble bloom for more treble-sensitive listeners unless managed with careful tip choice.
Technical performance is a strong point for this price tier: users and reviewers describe detail retrieval as above average, with disciplined, non-boomy bass, stable imaging and a stage that organizes complex material without obvious congestion, even if sheer width is not class-leading. The combination of clarity, separation and midrange focus makes the DN242 particularly suitable for vocal, acoustic, jazz and classical material where precision and neutrality matter more than warmth or powerful slam. However, its moderate low-end emphasis and bright top mean it is less ideal for listeners seeking a very relaxed or bass-heavy presentation, especially given the number of warmer alternatives around the same price.
Epz K9 (more reviews)
Epz K9 reviewed by Fox Told Me So
7.8
Reviewer Score
Sub-bass reaches good depth—elastic and bouncy rather than thunderous—giving just enough physicality without overloading the mix. The bass isn’t heavy-handed; quantity is moderate, punch on the softer side, yet always clearly outlined with clean texture and tight control.
Mids tilt slightly toward female vocals, made airier by a 500Hz dip that trims warmth and opens the space. Vocals sit forward, sweet, and expressive, aided by a mild lift between 600Hz and 1 kHz. A 6kHz rise sharpens edges and adds clarity to cymbals and hi-hats, but a smooth roll-off past 5–8kHz keeps sibilance comfortably restrained.
Treble is bright but polished, extending easily with a gentle 13kHz rise that introduces a touch of air without excess sparkle. The stage impresses with width and layering, offering a lively yet well-controlled image.
Verdict: EPZ K9 isn’t about brute force—it’s about coherence. Smooth highs, open mids, articulate bass, and a wide stage make it an elegant, finely balanced hybrid that performs far beyond expectation.
Fox Told Me So original ranking
Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel
Epz K9 reviewed by Jays Audio
7.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
EPZ K9 lands as a sweet, balanced all-rounder with a tasteful, slightly V-shaped tilt. Bass is snappy and well-controlled, with a mid-bass fill that adds natural note weight to vocals and drums without muddying the mids. Treble extends cleanly with a hint of air, steering clear of both dullness and sharpness, while imaging is a touch sharper than entry peers. Think EM6L’s vibe but less shouty up top, a bit more resolving, and a clear upgrade path from sets like the Clean/EW300.
Against rivals, K9 takes a more vocal-centric approach: fuller mid-bass, smoother presence, and better slam/body on drums. Astral counters with stronger sub-bass texture, extra air, and a tamer upper-mid for high-energy genres; both trade blows on detail with K9 edging imaging. Versus Odyssey, K9 offers cleaner treble extension and forward vocals, while Odyssey is bassier, with deeper sub-bass texture and louder-volume scaling. Overall technicals sit around Pilgrim/Dusk level, which is solid for the price, especially with the nicer cable, case, and a black color option.
Usability is largely easygoing—tip-rolling is flexible and the stock clears keep things smooth—though the shell edge can feel uncomfortable over long sessions. Best at mid-volume listening (around 60–65 dB); push higher and upper mids/treble can get lively on K-pop/EDM, while R&B/indie scales sweetly up to ~75 dB. Compared with bass-tilted sets (Tea Pro/Hype 4/Estrella/Punch/Martello), K9 is cleaner, tighter, and more mid-range focused; versus neutral leaners (Pilgrim/Dusk/Canon Pro/“5+2”), it has a more complete upper-mid for vocals. Not a market-breaker in pure price/perf, but as a refined, musical package with balanced tonality and comfort-adjacent caveats, K9 is a very solid all-rounder.
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Epz K9 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
7.9
* score rescaled + normalized
Dunu 242 (more reviews)
Dunu 242 reviewed by Audio-In Reviews
7.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Dunu 242 comes in at around 350 dollars and presents itself as a substantial tribrid with dual dynamics, four balanced armatures and two micro planar drivers in a large 3D printed shell. The fiery red faceplate with gold trim and the modular cable give it a very premium feel, even if the cable is a little on the stiff side. Fit is surprisingly secure and comfortable despite the larger shell and thick nozzle, though getting tips mounted can require some effort. Overall build, finish and accessories are very solid and clearly positioned as a higher mid tier all rounder.
On a low impedance source the 242 offers a basically neutral tuning with bass sitting slightly behind forward upper mids and elevated lower treble. Bass quantity is not boosted and will not satisfy bass heads, but it is clean, quick and well balanced between mid bass punch and sub bass extension with almost no bleed into the mids. Lower mids carry enough presence to keep things from sounding thin, yet the focus is clearly on the upper mids where vocals and instruments step forward with very natural tone, just lacking a little extra weight. Lower treble around 5 to 8 kHz brings clarity and bite, but can introduce some edge and sibilance at higher volumes, while the slightly relaxed upper treble still gives a sense of air and shimmer with cymbals rendered in a convincingly natural timbre.
Technical performance is decent for the price, with an average width soundstage and a more intimate sense of depth that keeps vocals and instruments relatively close. Imaging is clear enough to track positions across the stage, even if notes do not always feel sharply locked in place and can sound a little floaty. Compared with sets like Volume S, Studio 4 and Da Vinci, the 242 is less warm and less forgiving but offers more vocal clarity and a brighter, more energetic top half. As a result it comes across as a balanced yet vocal focused specialist that suits listeners who value natural, forward vocals and clean bass over big slam and spacious staging, and who are comfortable keeping volume in check to avoid treble sharpness.
Audio-In Reviews original ranking
Audio-In Reviews Youtube ChannelEpz K9 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+8BA
Tuning Type: Warm, W-Shaped
Price (Msrp): $299
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Dunu 242 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA+2Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral-bright (vocal-focused)
Brand: DUNU Top DUNU IEMs
Price (Msrp): $349
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Epz K9 User Review Score
Average User Scores
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Dunu 242 User Review Score
Average User Scores
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Epz K9 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.5Gaming Grade
ADunu 242 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.7Gaming Grade
AEpz K9 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Tuning feels well executed, keeping a natural flow across the spectrum. Switching genres feels seamless.
Average Technical Grade
A-- You get a controlled, composed performance, marrying decent clarity with a still-modest sense of space. A safe technical performer for the price bracket.
Dunu 242 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- It presents a smooth, well-integrated tonal balance that plays nicely with many styles. It maintains natural timbre across the range.
Average Technical Grade
A- The balance of resolution and space feels assured, keeping complex passages coherent. Layering is convincing on most studio mixes.
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