Dunu DK-4001 Hybrid with 13mm Beryllium Dynamic

A big thank you to DUNU and the loaner program for allowing me to spend some time with these.

I did the majority of my listening using SpinFit tips, on the Sony NW-ZX300A (4.4mm balanced, high-gain, direct output mode). It was an enjoyable pairing for me, with no glaring issues in synergy, or any dreaded hiss.

Initial disclaimer - my experience with expensive (>$500) IEMs is very limited. That said, I was able to do some comparative listening with the CA Solaris loaner, and although I can't add much to @shotgunshane's helpful comparison, I have a few comparative comments below.*

On the whole I actually quite enjoyed these, and alongside the Solaris, felt like they have opened my ears to the strengths of DD+BA hybrids. Tradeoffs certainly still exist, as they always will, but I'm thinking someday I'll have to pick up a hybrid IEM.

First, what I very much liked about the DK-4001.

• Dat CABLE. The modular connector system is how it should be done by everyone. Or at least provide such as a stock option for totl IEM's.
• Fit was great, and being so light, they were very comfortable for long-term wear. I wish they were all this comfortable.
• Included accessories. From tips to case, box, manuals, etc. this felt premium. I know it's mostly a mind trick, but as much as I love Campfire Audio, their TOTL packaging comes across more like what you'd get with artisan soap from Whole Foods, Portlandia.
• Fairly neutral tonality, but with nice bass weight (not the basshead kind). I was fairly content with the tuning to begin with, but the Solaris does set the bar for me.
• Female vocals, which sounded fantastic, full and forward (how I like them) without being shouty.
• Dat sub-bass. I was quite surprised that I felt and heard more deep, clear rumble from these than the Solaris, without ever being overkill.

Next, the things that I found lacking, or not as lovable about these DUNU's.

• The soundstage and layering. I didn't hate its closer soundstage until busier passages, when all of a sudden, the music sounded congested, not as cohesive. I believe this is when the BA's (driving treble) were proving to be the weak link in the chain?
• The upper-treble. I know BA's can do this well since the Solaris was for me a masterwork in taming treble while not compromising the "air" region. The DK-4001 does not sound 'veiled' but to me was noticeably less resolving in this respect, and coupled with the somewhat claustrophobic soundstage, I really did not enjoy live recordings on it.

*But I also didn't want to make too direct of a comparison with Solaris, which costs $600 more.