Epz K9 VS INTUAURA Balance
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Epz K9 and INTUAURA Balance use 1DD+8BA and 1DD+4BA driver setups respectively. Epz K9 costs $299 while INTUAURA Balance costs $299. Epz K9 holds a slight 0.1-point edge in reviewer scores (7.5 vs 7.4). Epz K9 has significantly better dynamics with a 1.6-point edge and Epz K9 has better soundstage with a 0.9-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Epz K9 | INTUAURA Balance |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.4 | 7.4 |
| Mids | 7 | 7 |
| Treble | 6.8 | 7 |
| Details | 7.7 | 7.4 |
| Soundstage | 7.4 | 6.5 |
| Imaging | 7.8 | 7.4 |
| Dynamics | 7.6 | 6 |
| Tonality | 7.6 | 7 |
| Technicalities | 7.3 | 7 |
Epz K9 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.5Strongly Favorable
INTUAURA Balance Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.4Generally Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Epz K9 reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-09-21
7.5
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
INTUAURA Balance reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-08-14
7.6
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Epz K9 reviewed by IEMRanking AI
2025-09-21
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.
INTUAURA Balance reviewed by IEMRanking AI
2025-08-14
7.2
Reviewer Score
The INTUAURA Balance delivers a cohesive sound with well-controlled bass that avoids overwhelming the mids, while maintaining clarity in vocal reproduction. Its treble presentation is smooth and non-fatiguing, making it suitable for extended listening sessions without harshness. This tuning approach creates a balanced yet engaging signature that works across genres like acoustic and pop music.
Technical performance shows decent instrument separation and soundstage width for its price bracket, though complex tracks can reveal some limitations in layering depth. The included accessories, such as the detachable cable and multiple ear tip options, provide practical customization for fit and comfort. At its MSRP, it competes effectively against other hybrid models in the sub-$300 category.
Epz K9 (more reviews)
Epz K9 reviewed by Jays Audio
7.5
Reviewer Score
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 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+8BA
Tuning Type: Warm W-Shaped
Price (Msrp): $299
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INTUAURA Balance Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+4BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with bass boost
Price (Msrp): $299
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Epz K9 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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INTUAURA Balance User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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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
7.4Gaming Grade
A-INTUAURA Balance Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7Gaming Grade
A-Epz K9 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Well-executed tonal character. No major flaws with good technical control. Smooth presentation works with multiple genres.
Average Technical Grade
A-- Competent technical presentation. Handles separation and detail well in most tracks, with modest soundstage and acceptable imaging capabilities.
INTUAURA Balance Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A-- Pleasing tonal balance with good technical control. Minor quirks present but not distracting. Demonstrates decent genre versatility.
Average Technical Grade
A-- Competent technical presentation. Handles separation and detail well in most tracks, with modest soundstage and acceptable imaging capabilities.
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