Compared to Canpur CP622B (Review link)
These two IEMs may be in the same tier as well as both being all-rounders, though they are very different in very interesting ways. First, the reverbs – the CP622B is fun-tuned while remaining thoroughly reference-like and balanced, having faster roll-off and tightened reverbs. The sound is unveiled (or desleeved) for a cleaner, tactile presentation. Dark Knight does the opposite of that, having a lot more generous reverbs and slower roll-off, making a more glamorous and heavenly atmosphere go on, which is great for enjoying the decay and the lingering aftertastes.
Dark Knight executed this presentation very cleverly so that it won’t come off messy or dull in sound. The CP622B also keeps the sound a lot more linear and less three-dimensional (only relatively speaking, as CP622B still has a lot of spatialness than actual flat IEMs), whereas Dark Knight goes full on with creating spatialness or three-dimensional impressions. Both IEMs are similar in overall quantity distribution, though Dark Knight is more mid-centric.
Compared to Starry Audio Bolide (Review coming soon)
Bolide is the latest, limited-edition flagship IEM by Starry Audio featuring 2DD+4BA+4EST drivers. Compared to Dark Knight, Bolide has a darker, warmer sound that desires neutrality and evenness. The sound distribution is better spread out across the entire spectrum, having the sound relatively less dynamic compared to Dark Knight, but this also translates to easier, more comfortable listening. Bolide uses a relatively more traditional approach in sound, focusing on highlighting the textural details of the dynamic driver diaphragm paired with smooth BA sounds, whereas Dark Knight offers a musically-emphasized, boosted sound.
Dark Knight is also more mid-centric and sounds a lot more energetic finesse. Bolide sticks with the natural resonance that happens within the IEM. Dark Knight, on the other hand, desires a sound presentation that goes further than that, having it sound extra immersive, which demands you to focus more on the music. Dark Knight is neutral-bright and transparency-focused, while Bolide is warmer, darker, and fatigue-free. So this will be an easier question to solve when it comes to figuring out which would fit better to your taste.
The Powerful Invader to the Flagship IEM market
Being a newcomer to the summit-fi portable audio scene, Palavox initially made me put my guard up, though after some critical testing and listening sessions, it didn’t take long for me to gain strong faith in them. Dark Knight is an exquisitely-tuned IEM that easily combats reputable IEMs known as ‘the best of the best’. The sound that Palavox pulled off with Dark Knight is very clever, leveraging the strengths of each driver type and blending them into one cohesive presentation. It carries the tonal fluency and seamless frequency transitions that are usually the privilege of simpler driver configurations, all while making full and deliberate use of each driver’s strengths across the spectrum.
Despite the higher hurdle I’ve set for it, Dark Knight earns its worthiness and price through a combination of technical ambition and tuning maturity that a brand this young has no business delivering this convincingly. If you’re looking for a TOTL, endgame earphone for you to finish it all, make sure to check out Palavox and especially the Dark Knight. There’s a high chance that this epic IEM will kidnap your heart and ears…
