No the eq was not enabled. As in mentioned it is not just a matter of tonality, the whole presentation, the way they layer, stage, and image was clearly different. Everyone I have spoken to who has tried both players also mentioned the same differences I heard.
If you look at pictures of both players you'll also realise that the 380 is both wider and thicker than the 320. In the world of AK where design is given so much thought, I refuse to believe that they would make the 380 chunkier for no reason either
Another example would be the 380copper. Exact same specs as the 380, exact same circuit except for the chassis. I could not care for the price as it is ridiculous. But sonically, the 380 I do not like much. The 380cu on the other hand, I found thoroughly enjoyable and impressive. Bear in mind that I was a huge skeptic on the possibility of the sound being different because of the chassis and grounding material.
Again like I said there is nothing wrong with having doubts, but until you actually hear it for yourself I would personally refrain from making bold statements about how something sounds
I try not to myself as well
I agree, very often there's just so much hype, but sometimes, just sometimes, there's some truth to it.