Punch Audio Martilo VS Epz K9

IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side

Punch Audio Martilo and Epz K9 use 2DD+2BA+1Planar and 1DD+8BA driver setups respectively. Punch Audio Martilo costs $329 while Epz K9 costs $299. Punch Audio Martilo is $30 more expensive. Punch Audio Martilo holds a decisive 1.1-point edge in reviewer scores (8.6 vs 7.5). Punch Audio Martilo has significantly better mids with a 1-point edge, Punch Audio Martilo has significantly better treble with a 1-point edge, Punch Audio Martilo has significantly better dynamics with a 2-point edge and Punch Audio Martilo has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge.

Insights

Jaytiss Score
Punch Audio Martilo
8.6 /10
Jaytiss Score
Epz K9
7.5 /10
Score gap: 1.1
Metric Punch Audio Martilo Epz K9
Mids 7 6
Treble 7 6
Soundstage 7.5 7
Dynamics 9 7
Tonality 7.6 6.5
Technicalities 7 6
Take these comparisons with a grain of salt—we don't have enough Punch Audio Martilo and Epz K9 reviews saved yet to provide an unbiased result.

Jaytiss Reviews Comparison

Punch Audio Martilo reviewed by

Jaytiss 8.6 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
A- Tech
BASS
Youtube Video Summary

Punch Audio Martilo steps in as a new-brand debut with a confident package: a hybrid array (planar + BAs + DDs), a metal nozzle, proper venting, and a recessed 2-pin socket set into a shell that sits securely thanks to an anti-tragus catch. The faceplate gives off AFUL Performer 7 vibes, the included cable is supple with clear R/L markings, and the textured carry case plus two tip sets round out a thoughtful accessory kit. Priced around $329—with occasional deep discounts during big Linsoul sales—build and accessories feel dialed in for the bracket.

Sonically, this is a bassy set that still behaves like an all-rounder. The bass shelf rises from roughly ~150 Hz, bringing weight and warmth without turning podcasts and vocals into mud; upper-mids are present yet controlled, minimizing shout, while mid-treble energy keeps things crisp. Female vocals avoid huskiness, note weight is satisfying, and the tuning strikes a balanced, fun profile that works across genres. On the graph it hugs a safe line, then sprinkles in extra low-end for flavor—bass-head friendly, but not a blunt instrument.

In A/Bs, it addresses the AFUL Explorer’s softness with more bass and mid presence, and compared to similarly priced Kiwi Ears Astral (the safer neutral pick), Martilo offers the spicier, more engaging option. Against “specialist” bass sets like Deuce or Quantum, Martilo feels cleaner in the mids, less abrupt in its slam, and more universally usable; versus warmer bass champs (e.g., Mega 5 Bass), it trades some warmth for clarity and refinement. This isn’t sterile “audiophile-neutral”—it’s audiophile-fun done with taste. Scoring reads like: bass (10/10), note weight (10/10), mids (9/10), with surprisingly solid highs, stage, and imaging for the money. Not flawless, but distinctive, well-tuned, and easy to recommend—especially for listeners who want real bass without sacrificing everyday versatility.

Mids: A- Treble: A- Dynamics: S Soundstage: A

Jaytiss original ranking

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Price: $329

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Epz K9 reviewed by

2025-09-21
Jaytiss 7.5 Reviewer Score
B+ Tuning
B Tech
A little bit too much lower trebble, but it's still a good balanced set.
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.

Mids: B Treble: B Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A-

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

Punch Audio Martilo Details

Driver Configuration: 2DD+2BA+1Planar

Tuning Type: Basshead

Price (Msrp): $329

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Epz K9 Details

Driver Configuration: 1DD+8BA

Tuning Type: Warm, W-Shaped

Price (Msrp): $299

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Punch Audio Martilo Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

A
  • You get a polished tonal profile that stays natural from bass through treble. Subtle tuning choices keep things engaging.

Average Technical Grade

A-
  • Technical chops are reliable, pairing tidy separation with a soundstage that stays conservative. Micro-detail is decent, though never spotlighted.
Mids A-
The mids sound lush and articulate, capturing emotion effortlessly. Strings and keys shimmer with realism.
Treble A-
It provides outstanding treble finesse, balancing brightness and control gracefully. It's engaging yet remarkably controlled.
Dynamics S
The presentation feels lifelike, translating every swell and attack flawlessly. The presentation feels startlingly lifelike.
Soundstage A
The stage stretches in every direction, carving out clear three-dimensional pockets for each player. Placement accuracy impresses from the start.

Epz K9 Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B+
  • The tuning leans easygoing, yet occasional unevenness nudges it away from greatness. A bit of EQ polish can smooth things nicely.

Average Technical Grade

B
  • Overall technicalities are acceptable, delivering enough clarity for casual sessions. Imaging is serviceable though not immersive.
Mids B
Midrange presence is good, delivering clear vocals and solid texture. Voices come through with pleasing clarity.
Treble B
Highs sound lively and extended while remaining controlled. Detail retrieval keeps shimmer intact.
Dynamics A-
Expect excellent punch and micro-detail that render rhythmic shifts effortlessly. It keeps up with complex rhythmic swings.
Soundstage A-
All dimensions bloom together, producing an expansive venue that feels carefully rendered. You can map the ensemble easily.

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