Ziigaat Arcanis VS Epz K9
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Ziigaat Arcanis and Epz K9 use 2DD+5BA and 1DD+8BA driver setups respectively. Ziigaat Arcanis costs $399 while Epz K9 costs $299. Ziigaat Arcanis is $100 more expensive. Epz K9 holds a slight 0.3-point edge in reviewer scores (7.3 vs 7.7). Ziigaat Arcanis carries a user score of 8.5. Ziigaat Arcanis has significantly better mids with a 1-point edge and Epz K9 has better dynamics with a 0.7-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Ziigaat Arcanis | Epz K9 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7.3 | 8.1 |
| Mids | 8 | 7 |
| Treble | 7 | 6.9 |
| Details | 7.3 | 7.6 |
| Soundstage | 7.5 | 7.6 |
| Imaging | 7.3 | 7.4 |
| Dynamics | 7 | 7.7 |
| Tonality | 8 | 7.7 |
| Technicalities | 8 | 7.4 |
Ziigaat Arcanis Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.3Generally Favorable
Epz K9 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.7Strongly Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Jaytiss
8.4
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis, priced at $400 as the brand's most expensive standalone IEM, presents a mixed bag outside of its core sound. Build quality is decent but unremarkable, featuring comfortable shells with a well-fitting nozzle, though the aesthetic is described as slightly "weird." The included cable feels distinctly mid-tier and underwhelming for the price, while the case shows noticeable fraying almost immediately, contributing to an absolutely horrific unboxing experience deemed unacceptable at this cost.
Sonically, the Arcanis is a deeply divisive set with an extremely dark tilt and a significant dip around 6kHz. Initial impressions can be harsh or disappointing, but extended listening reveals its strengths: pure, clean sound free of sibilance or harshness, quality bass, clean highs, and beautiful vocals. This unique tuning philosophy creates a smooth, sophisticated, and non-fatiguing presentation. While the $230 Odyssey is praised as a fantastic value and the second-best in Ziigaat's lineup, the Arcanis is considered sonically superior, offering a more refined experience – albeit only marginally better for some. It competes favorably against sets like the Mega5EST and Dunu DaVinci, and surprisingly challenges far pricier offerings like the $1,800 Apostle in tonal beauty, though the Apostle has more "show." The $320 Volume S is a close competitor with a different, brighter tonality, making the Arcanis's value proposition relative.
Ultimately, the Arcanis shines as a beautifully dark, serious, and smooth IEM that excels at high volumes without becoming offensive. It delivers great detail without fatigue, standing out in a market saturated with energetic tunings. Despite the subpar accessories and unboxing befitting a much cheaper product, its unique and effective sound signature makes it a highly recommended pick under $400 for those seeking a refined, non-sibilant listen, though the Odyssey remains the smarter choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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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.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Jays Audio
8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis positions itself as a potential new vocal benchmark under $500, offering a clean yet full sound signature. A slight boost from 6 to 15kHz makes the upper mids and early treble pop out, adding extra dynamics without becoming sharp or fatiguing. Essentially, the Arcanis is a smoother, more resolving, and more spacious evolution of the original Mangird TEs, retaining their essence but with greater refinement. Vocals, the main attraction, are exceptionally clear, natural, resolving, and open, featuring the "special sauce" – a distinct bite to consonants that enhances dynamics and emotional impact. This is achieved through a careful balance: a cut at 3-6k reduces sharpness and fatigue, while a gradual rise from 800Hz to 2kHz pushes vocals slightly forward for clarity, and the 6-15k boost provides essential extension and openness.
Technical performance is impressive, with a notably open stage, pinpoint imaging, and excellent micro-details, making it great for gaming, OSTs, and classical. The bass is quick, well-textured, resolving, and controlled, offering good slam without bleeding. However, it lacks the deep sub-bass extension for genres like hip-hop or EDM, where sets like the Estrella or Dusk outperform. Scaling is crucial: busy pop or EDM tracks sound best at mid-volumes (around 60-65 dB) to prevent the treble bite from becoming overwhelming, while slower ballads and acoustics truly shine and open up at higher volumes (around 80 dB+), revealing micro-nuances and emotional depth.
Comparisons highlight the Arcanis's strengths. It's more technical and spacious than the Volume S (warmer, better for male vocals) and Studio 4 (fuller, more neutral), offering superior treble air and detail. It outpaces the RS5 in technicalities and value, though the RS5 has fuller male vocals. Against the Oracle MK1, the Arcanis boasts better treble extension, micro-details, dynamics, and that crucial vocal bite. While bright-neutral sets like the Dusk or Meta have more bass and treble emphasis, the Arcanis feels more natural and musical, especially in vocals and bass texture. Compared to Ziigaat's own Odyssey, the Arcanis is cleaner, more technical, more vocal-focused, and airier, while the Odyssey is bassier, darker, and scales better for hip-hop/rock. Despite its strengths, the accessories and cable feel unacceptably basic for the $400 price point. Ultimately, the Arcanis is highly recommended for higher-volume listening on vocal-focused tracks, but other options might be better all-rounders for mid-volume pop or bass-heavy genres.
Jays Audio 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
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Head-Fi.org
7.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Epz K9 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
7.9
* score rescaled + normalized
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Web Search
8
Reviewer Score
The Ziigaat Arcanis offers a bright-neutral sound profile, leaning heavily on technical prowess over bass impact. Its dual dynamic drivers in an isobaric configuration deliver tight, textured sub-bass rumble but lack mid-bass slam, making them better suited for analytical listening than bass-heavy genres. Vocals and midrange instruments shine with exceptional clarity and natural timbre, though an upper-mid lift can induce fatigue on sibilant tracks or at higher volumes.
Technical performance is the Arcanis’ standout trait, with pinpoint imaging and a holographic soundstage that excels in gaming and complex orchestral pieces. However, its treble polarizes listeners: some praise its airy extension, while others find it harsh with metallic tinge. Comfort is excellent for long sessions, but driver flex during fit adjustments and sparse accessories (basic cable, minimal tips) undermine its $399 positioning.
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.
Ziigaat Arcanis (more reviews)
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Audionotions
7.5
Reviewer Score
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Z-Reviews
7.2
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis, priced at $379, immediately raises eyebrows with its cheap packaging and accessories. The included 3.5mm cable is deemed insufficient, especially for the low 12-ohm impedance, and the IEM shells themselves have an unfortunate mold-like appearance. The basic case and lack of balanced cable option feel mismatched for the price tag. Simply put, the unboxing experience and stock accessories scream budget, not near $400.
Getting great sound out of the Arcanis requires significant aftermarket investment. The stock cable must be swapped for a high-quality, low-impedance cable (like Effect Audio) and the stock tips replaced with Velvet tips to fix staging compression and treble issues. Pairing with a powerful, capable amplifier is also essential. Once these costly upgrades are made, the 2DD + 5BA configuration truly shines, delivering excellent clarity, a unique "gooey" texture, and surprisingly good detail retrieval. However, the soundstage is notably intimate, with everything happening "behind the eyeballs", lacking the width found in competitors.
Ultimately, the Arcanis offers genuinely excellent sound quality that justifies a $400 tag – but only after spending significantly more on cables, tips, and amplification. The stock experience feels like a $300 product hampered by the included accessories and questionable shell design. It's a frustratingly high-maintenance IEM; you absolutely can achieve top-tier performance, but the effort and extra cost required make the overall value proposition hard to swallow at full price.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by
Fresh Reviews
7*
* The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming
Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis and Lush IEMs offer distinct flavors at their price points, both featuring resin builds with eye-catching faceplates—sparkly green for the Arcanis and silver-black for the Lush. Fit is familiar to other Ziigaat models, and accessories include a basic cable, ear tips, and carrying pouch. Sonically, the Arcanis delivers a holographic, punchy presentation with emphasized sub-bass and upper mids, making footsteps, slides, and distant gunfire pop with urgency. The Lush leans darker and smoother, relaxing upper mids to tame gunfire harshness while maintaining clean bass and excellent separation.
For gaming, performance varies by title. In Valorant and CS2, the Lush shines with precise imaging and a smoother, fatigue-free experience—gunfire feels controlled without sacrificing detail. The Arcanis excels in COD, where its aggressive tuning highlights critical cues like footsteps and slides with greater potency. However, in Apex Legends, the Lush’s relaxed profile struggles with subtle audio cues (e.g., light taps or shield cells), earning a B rating. The Arcanis fares better (B+) with superior depth reads and emphasis on environmental sounds, though complex fights can overwhelm its separation compared to top-tier sets like the Mangird Tea Pro.
Ultimately, the Arcanis is a versatile all-rounder, slightly favored for both music and most gaming scenarios. The Lush carves a niche for smooth, non-fatiguing sessions in Valorant/CS2, filling a unique spot in Ziigaat’s lineup. Both IEMs offer exceptional resolution and layering for their prices, but the choice hinges on preference: the Arcanis for its energetic clarity, or the Lush for its refined, relaxed signature.
Fresh Reviews original ranking
Fresh Reviews Youtube ChannelZiigaat Arcanis reviewed by Audio Amigo
6
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Ziigaat’s Arcanis takes the familiar house recipe and pushes it to the brand’s $400 tier, but the presentation still screams mid-range: the same case, tips, and cable show up again, which feels deflating at this price. The resin shells (metal nozzles, rear vent) are comfy for larger ears, though driver flex can pop up and tiny ears may struggle to seal. Styling leans nautical “tide-pool”; on the Cool Wall it looks neat, yet the Council of Ladies verdict is lukewarm. Inside sits a seven-driver hybrid with Ziigaat’s “dual 10 mm” tube-loaded dynamics plus BAs, easy to drive and slightly reactive to impedance (a mild V and a touch more sub-bass with adapters).
Sonically this is neutral-leaning with bass that favors quality over quantity: textured drops, tidy kick definition, and clean lower mids with no bleed. Female vocals pop a step forward, while upper-mids/treble show a polite attack—great for treble-sensitive listeners and high-volume sessions, but a bit soft for those craving bite and air. Technicals read as “very good, not killer”: excellent low-end texture, solid imaging and width, but treble detail doesn’t wow versus peers. An impedance adapter or “Rudy-rod” style cable can add welcome sub-bass without breaking the balance.
Against the field: the Arete (≈$250) brings more bass quantity and crisper treble, yet Arcanis wins on bass control/texture. The Hisenior Mega 5 EST (≈$550) is more V-shaped and more resolving, but less safe up top; Arcanis suits treble-sensitive vocals lovers. AFUL Performer 7 (≈$240) punches up with extra bass and sparkle and can feel more detailed per dollar. And at price parity, Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk matches or edges bass texture, adds airier treble, and ships a far better accessory pack. Verdict: a jack-of-all-trades with genuinely refined bass texture, balanced tonality, and treble safety that many will enjoy—yet the price and accessories dull the shine. On the Audio Amigo scale, this winds up in “but I like this”, especially for listeners who prefer smooth upper harmonics and long, loud sessions without fatigue.
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
Ziigaat Arcanis reviewed by Super* Review
6*
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
The Ziigaat Arcanis offers a warm, somewhat thick sound signature with a noticeable bass boost and a lean lower midrange. This is balanced by a relaxed upper midrange and lower treble, contributing to its overall smooth character. While it provides decent extension, the Arcanis can occasionally present vocals with a slightly wet or near-sibilant edge, especially depending on ear tip choice and fit depth. Its transient response is sharper than the Yanyin Canon Pro, giving it better definition and crisper imaging, though the bass physicality is only middling.
Physically, the Arcanis features lightweight plastic shells with a distinctive dark black and green aesthetic. However, the build quality feels somewhat cheap for the $400 price point, especially paired with the included thin, glossy cable. The shells are notably long, leading to a fit that can feel deep and occasionally aggressive in the ear canal, exacerbated by the stock ear tips. Users may experience noticeable driver flex or squish when inserting them. Comfort is generally acceptable for upright listening but becomes problematic when lying on your side.
Ultimately, the Arcanis earns a three-star rating. While it delivers a generally inoffensive, warm sound with decent technicalities like transient bite and imaging, it lacks standout qualities or strong definition at its price. The physical experience, particularly the fit and perceived build quality, further holds it back from being a compelling recommendation. It ends up feeling like a competent but unremarkable offering in its tier.
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube ChannelEpz 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
Ziigaat Arcanis Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+5BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Bright
Brand: ZiiGaat Top ZiiGaat IEMs
Price (Msrp): $399
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Epz K9 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+8BA
Tuning Type: Warm, W-Shaped
Price (Msrp): $299
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Ziigaat Arcanis User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
8.5Excellent
Epz K9 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
Ziigaat Arcanis Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
8.4Gaming Grade
A+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
AZiigaat Arcanis Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A+- Overall balance feels confident and refined, rewarding long listening sessions. A reliable all-rounder for everyday listening.
Average Technical Grade
A+- The tuning feels expertly organized, marrying agile dynamics with well-defined spatial cues. Technical listeners will appreciate the poise.
Epz 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.
Ziigaat Arcanis User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewA refined smooth-neutral IEM offering exceptional vocal transparency and fatigue-free listening, though let down by underwhelming accessories
Pros
Natural midrange with excellent vocal clarity, smooth non-fatiguing treble extension, and tight technical bass with good textureCons
Subpar accessories including basic cable and minimal ear tips, noticeable driver flex when adjusting fit, lacks balanced cable optionEpz K9 User Reviews
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Pros
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Cons
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