Yeah, so here’s my general process batch-editing photos in Adobe Camera Raw:

1. Drop the contrast
2. Drop the highlights
3. Punch up the shadows
4. Boost whites and blacks
5. Adjust white balance
6. Adjust exposure

When I’m done, I have a stark, professional looking photo to export. In darktable, trying this leaves me with a grey mess. I’ve also tried rawtherapee, but with even worse results. I’m 96% sure that the problem is me, though.