I still like GK10 though, and I’m not Penon follower in general, as GK10 is the only purchase for me from Penon exclusiv, and some other ear tips / low cost supplies.
GK10 is known for a premature QC issues, and tonal consistency lover will not appreciate the way it sound.
I left
a lengthy review of GK10 on its dedicated thread.
GK10 is a one of challenge to cast a unique low cost tribrid IEM with all costs and resources spent on inside, and so little about outside.
I can conclude GK10 is a controversial IEM due to the mid-bass floor (mine set has relatively low floor, and I pushed even lower with ear tips to make it bright neutral) , and tonal consistency isn’t what you should expect but at the same time, GK10 is one of fun sounding IEM with wide diffusing field, not so offensive mid, nicely tuned piezo x BA sparkle, and ZS5 like 1 bass dd, 1 mid dd independently designed dynamic. It has less dampening process so each drivers will have its best sound pressure and transient playing at their best.
There is no way it could referred at natural or tonally consistent, however from the other side it sound like a carnival with dynamic details of full of high sound pressure, and also GK10 has micro detail very good imaging & wide range of dynamics, a unique experience you’d have.
People who love analytical and accurate note touch may avoid, and people who love musicality and dynamism may consider GK10.
What’s so special?:
Independently resonating surrounding reverb(mid, upper mid, treble) x independently separated bass-line(clear sounding but doesn’t bleed) x crystal clear upper sky = new sensation of highly separated lower floor and upper registers forming a new harmony, very unique & coherent
GK10 in one word:
“Feel the Air”
Noting there is a gambling factor in QC and phase match, as it’s made by an average auntie who never made IEM before, the first lot of production could have high scrap rate. Also stock ear tip won’t help GK10 at all, it will make bass too boomy, Bass tame ear tips are recommended.
Back then it was first IEM that hit on my Grade A, now with bunch of new highly potent IEMs coming out, I still see GK10 sits in solid B grade, where Salnotes Zero, CRA+, Chu, etc are playing around. So Cost to performance GK10 isn’t the one to consider anymore for 2023 market, as we have Truthear now.
GK10 is still one of great IEM to enjoy “reverb” and air it generates.