HIDIZS MK12 X DUCBLOKE Review - ChiFi.fr

Johan Gautreau sees the HIDIZS MK12 X DUCBLOKE as a bold reinterpretation of the original MK12 Turris. Rather than preserving its more neutral character, the collaboration moves toward a pronounced V-shaped signature, giving bass lovers a warmer, harder-hitting alternative while retaining the technical foundation Johan already appreciated.

A Signature Built to Hit Hard

In its default form, Johan hears boosted bass and treble with slightly recessed mids. The low end delivers substantial punch, while sub-bass provides satisfying rumble without becoming excessive in his assessment. Voices consequently sound very warm and somewhat subdued, with a slight haze that can be addressed through PEQ.

Treble is also elevated, yet Johan finds it clean, much like the original Turris. Overall, he considers the stock tuning sufficient for listeners who already enjoy warm V-shaped signatures.

The technical presentation remains impressive. Johan describes the soundstage as very wide, deep and airy, while detail performance is top-notch. For him, the MK12 X DUCBLOKE remains robust and detailed despite its much stronger bass emphasis.

Three PEQ Flavors

DucBloke’s three PEQ settings give the collaboration another dimension. Hard Hitting pushes the bass further while emphasizing the upper mids, which Johan finds helps reduce the veiled effect. This is his preferred profile.

Neutral is more understated and mainly adjusts the treble to reveal additional detail. Sparkle adds brightness and is not Johan’s personal favorite, although he considers the approach well designed and non-fatiguing.

He does identify an implementation limitation: some recommended PEQ values cannot be fully entered on the AP80 PRO MAX because of its available frequency and gain ranges. Johan does not consider this serious, but notes that enthusiasts may object.

Bright Red From Cable to Shell

Visually, this edition keeps the MK12 design but transforms it with vivid red shells and a matching cable. Johan considers the cable good quality, although its strong plastic smell is a drawback.

Five pairs of Divinus Velvet tips replace the usual selection. He finds them soft, comfortable and suitable for several hours of listening. The package also includes a rigid faux-leather storage case.

Overall Assessment

Johan rates the HIDIZS MK12 X DUCBLOKE 4.3 out of 5. He sees it as an engaging collaboration that takes the strengths of the Turris in a more forceful direction, pairing powerful bass with excellent staging, detail and useful PEQ flexibility.

The higher price, subdued default vocals, missing pneumatic filters and partial AP80 PRO MAX PEQ incompatibility are meaningful compromises. For listeners who want an impactful V-shaped signature and enjoy experimenting with sound, however, Johan believes the MK12 X DUCBLOKE delivers a compelling experience.

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