Softears Volume S VS Epz K9

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.