If i had to buy a "lower" tier TOTL type iem it would probably be this or the Valk. From what i can remember the valk treble presentation is not as hot as the MEST and maybe even a little less detailed. The MEST, as you mentioned might/will be an issue for treble sensitive people. However, the MEST fills the void of the Valks being a bit thin up-top. MEST has similar black background as the EE line - thumbs up there.

I thought the MEST needed more bass but the way its implemented is interesting. Its powerful but its not in some odd way. Can't really put that into words. it sneaks up on you but definitely not bass head. Just north of average.

I agree completely, especially your thoughts on Valkyrie vs MEST.

You mention the sound benefiting from the right eartips. Which type of eartip did you find optimal?

As of right now the Azla Xelastec sounds best to me. The yellow spinfits are too hot, but the stock silicones arent bad. I also like Comply foams. I thing the Azlas and foams transmit bone conduction better. I also swapped out the stock cable for a Leonidas II, so it sounds phenomenal. My SP1000M Blue is being delivered today, so I can't wait to pair the MEST with a proper DAP! (And, yes, I ended up buying them).