The EPZ K9 is a hybrid driver (1DD+8BA) HiFi earphone positioned in the mid-to-high-end segment. With its unique design, and multi-driver configuration, it demonstrates strong competitiveness in the $400 price range.

$363 – Check latest price on AliExpress

Design & Acoustic Structure

The earphone panel features a hand-burned foil pattern with irregular blue, green, and black textures. The frame is made of CNC-machined hollowed-out metal, with a narrow seam between it and the front cavity.

The transparent 3D-printed resin shell reveals the internal structure clearly. EPZ K9 adopts a hybrid driver structure – 1 dynamic driver + 8 armature drivers.

The bass part is handled by an 8mm PEK + PU composite diaphragm dynamic driver. The mids part is handled by two customized 32257 composite dual-balanced armature drivers. The treble part is handled by two customized 31735 composite dual-balanced armature drivers. Each driver group has an independent sound tube, forming a 3-way crossover system after electronic frequency division.

The comfort is quite good, with an ergonomic inner shell that fits the ear contour well, providing a full concha fit. Those with smaller ears might find it slightly bloated.

Headphone Cable & Accessories

The EPZ K9 comes with a 4-strand 6N single crystal copper cable, moderately braided. The cable is soft, covered with a fabric shield, and exhibits slight self-coiling.

The interchangeable cable system uses a 0.78mm 2PIN connector, compatible with both flush and protruding pins. The socket is sturdy, ensuring stability and durability. The pins fit tightly and remain secure even after prolonged use.

The interchangeable plug features a 4PIN screw-lock mechanism with foolproof grooves. The package includes 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced plugs. Additionally, it comes with 6 pairs of silicone eartips and a storage case.

Sound Description of EPZ K9

With an impedance of 14Ω and sensitivity of 108dB, the EPZ K9 is relatively easy to drive, delivering good loudness even with entry-level DAC/amps.

Bass: Moderate in bass quantity, with controlled thickness and fullness. Good elasticity, deep bass extension. Moderate retraction and release speed, less reverberation. The sub-bass doesn’t overwhelm transparency.

Mids: The distance between the vocal is moderate, with no obvious bias between male and female voices. The graininess is somewhat retained, and the smoothness of the human voice is improved. The timbre is less rendered and is relatively neutral. The sibilance is polished and sounds transparent enough.

Treble: The brightness is relatively high, the information quantity and resolution are very good, and the connection with the midrange is also smooth enough. The treble details are very rich and the extension ability is excellent. The extension ability of the sub-treble has been improved, and the roll-off will not be too early or too fast.

Instruments: For most instruments, the texture and lines can be balanced. Violins, guitars, and violas all have a certain thickness, and the details of plucking the strings are relatively rich. Electric guitars can present texture and a sense of oppression.

The timbre of woodwind instruments is relatively neutral, and the sense of air is not strong. The naturalness of the overtones of the instruments is moderate and not very prominent. The brightness of the cymbals is sufficient, and there is a slight metallic feel.

The imaging is slightly forward, and the extension to the left and right is wide enough, which brings a good sense of envelopment. The vertical separation is very good, the individual outlines are clear and three-dimensional, and the intervals between them are clear. The separation between vocals and instruments is good. The dynamics are excellent, and the transients are not bad.

Conclusion

The EPZ K9 has differentiated its competitiveness with its breakthrough design and mature tuning, and is especially suitable for users who value personalized appearance and multi-style music needs. Its listenable style and surging dynamic performance make it an ideal choice for both everyday use and HiFi.