Epz K9 VS Dunu DN242

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.

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The DUNU DN242 (often shortened to “242”) is an eight-driver tribrid with a 2DD (10 mm + 8 mm) + 4BA + 2 micro-planar array and a 5-way electronic + acoustic crossover. It’s listed at $349 USD and ships with DUNU’s Q-Lock Mini modular cable (3.5 mm & 4.4 mm), in lightweight resin shells (~6 g/side), 35 Ω impedance and 110 dB/mW sensitivity—specs that make it easy to drive from mainstream sources.

Listening impressions from early reviews point to a neutral-bright, vocal-centric balance: clear mids, quick upper-mids/treble, and articulate (rather than boosted) bass. Detail retrieval and treble “sparkle” are recurring themes, while staging is described as precise and reasonably open for the class. These traits are consistent with show-floor notes describing forward upper-mids/treble and high resolving ability.

On value, the DN242’s package (modular cable, accessories) and technical performance are strong for ~$350, but its energetic treble and mid focus may not suit listeners seeking a warmer, bass-tilted signature; some community notes also flag recording quality sensitivity. Within sub-$400, it competes well on clarity and imaging, though its tonality won’t be universally forgiving. Overall, it reads as a capable, detail-forward set with clear strengths—and a tuning that will reward the treble-tolerant more than bass-first listeners.

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EPZ K9 follows a confident W-shaped tuning that strikes a fine balance between energy and smoothness.

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.

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Fox Told Me So original ranking

Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel

5 community members have rated the EPZ K9 at an average of 4.2/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

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URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking