64Audio U12t vs Empire Ears ESR MKII
Introduction
The 64Audio U12t and Empire Ears ESR MKII are premium IEMs designed to deliver ultra-accurate, high-resolution sound. Let's compare both models so you can decide which IEM suits your needs best.
Not the right fit? Browse other In-Ear Monitors from 64Audio or Empire Ears.
64Audio U12t vs Empire Ears ESR MKII Price Comparison
The U12t and ESR MKII sit at two very different price points.
The U12t comes in at $1,999.00.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The U12t costs almost twice as much as the ESR MKII. Let's dive deep into the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of both so you can get a better idea of what each IEM brings to the table.
The 64Audio U12t
The U12t is a high-end universal in-ear monitor from 64Audio. It sports 12-drivers per side, consisting Balanced Armatures and 64Audio's patented tia driver. The U12t features 64Audio technologies like Apex, Tia, and Linear Impedance Design for unmatched comfort and sound.
64Audio U12t Features:
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex)
- Linear Impedance Design (LID)
64Audio U12t Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 tia High Driver – 1 High-Mid Driver – 6 Mid Driver – 4 Low Driver
Frequency Response: 10hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW @1kHz
Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
Impedance: 12.6 +1/-2 Ω from 10hz – 20kHz
Apex Technology Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
The Empire Ears ESR MKII
The ESR MKII is Empire Ears' studio-reference IEM. It features a five-driver hybrid setup with three BA and two Electrostatic drivers. In terms of features, the ESR MKII packs SynX, EIVEC, and A.R.C technology for enhanced sound and reliability.
Empire Ears ESR MKII Features:
- Anti-Resonance Compound (A.R.C.)
- SynX Crossover Technology
- Proprietary Drivers
- UPOCC Cable
- EIVEC Module
Empire Ears ESR MKII Specs:
Driver Configuration: 3x Balanced Armature Drivers + 2x Electrostatic Drivers
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 100kHz
Sensitivity: 111dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Crossover: 4-Way synX Crossover Network
Impedance: 3.9 Ohms @ 1kHz
Design and Build Quality
The 64Audio U12t and Empire Ears ESR MKII are solid IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality and ergonomics.
64Audio updated the U12t for 2025 with a fresh new aesthetic. A Textured Silver Shell Color, Raised Metal Logos, and Chamfered Faceplate Bezel deliver a more elegant look and feel. At front you'll find the Apex ports under the chamfered 64Audio logo. Overall build quality is top-notch - the U12t feels solid in the hand and the new textured shells offer a more premium feel.
The Empire Ears ESR MKII features a brushed aluminum faceplates mated to medical-grade resin shells. Its shells feature an ergonomic shape and are slightly larger in size compared to IEMs like the U12t.
Sound Signature
You're probably looking to see how these IEMs stack up on sound. We'll share our thoughts here, although keep in mind this information tends to be anecdotal and subjective.
U12t Sound Signature
The U12t features a neutral, reference-level tuning known for its accurate, detailed, and immersive sound presentation. It is the perfect in-ear monitor if you're looking to scrutinize every note and detail in your favorite music.
The bass in the U12t is well-balanced, delivering good impact and rumble when needed. Its midrange is natural and clear, allowing voices to come through with life-like clarity. Its soundstage is one of the largest you'll hear in an IEM, offering accurate sound placement for an immersive sound.
ESR MKII Sound Signature
Like the U12t, the ESR MKII features a neutral, studio-reference tuning. It offers a clear and detailed listening experience with its accurate vocals and instrumentals, making it a great IEM for critical listening and professional monitoring.
Bass is tight and punchy with the ESR MKII but is leaner and less prominent than the U12t's bass. Midrange is clean and detailed, allowing you to hear subtle details like breaths and guitar slides. The treble is sparkly and well-extended, adding extra air and space between instruments. Soundstage-wise, the ESR MKII has a realistic soundstage with accurate sound positioning.
Price and Value
The 64Audio U12t and Empire Ears ESR MKII come in two very different price points. These IEMs offer a completely different listening experience and features.
The $1,999 U12t delivers an enjoyable high-resolution sound - it doesn't get much better than this IEM in terms of balance, clarity, detail, and immersion. The 2025 version is even better - delivering the same sound audiophiles have come to love but with a fresh new look and a generous set of accessories in the package.
The U12t packs 64Audio features like Apex, tia, and LID, and now comes with all the current Apex Modules in the box, alongside a pair of Pearl Premium Cables in 3.5mm & 4.4mm. You also get ear tips, a leather case, a cleaning tool, clips, and stickers in the package.
The Empire Ears ESR MKII is tuned and designed for serious mixing and mastering work at home or in the studio. Its flat tuning presents music as intended by the artist, making it the perfect pair of IEMs for critical listening or studio work. The ESR MKII comes with a case, cleaning cloth/tool, Final Audio Type E Tips in various sizes, and a premium Alpha-IV cable in the box.
Our Thoughts
The 64Audio U12t and Empire Ears ESR MKII feature solid sound and build quality. Both IEMs are solid choices whether you're a casual listener, an avid audiophile, or a professional artist.
The 64Audio U12t is a very popular IEM known for delivering exceptional resolution, detail, tone, and soundstage immersion. It is the IEM to get if you want to experience your music like never before. The 2025 version is even better - boasting an updated design and accessories package without the extra cost. Like other universal 64Audio IEMs, you can swap out Apex Modules to fine-tune sound to your liking.
If you're looking for the most accurate sound possible, the ESR MKII is the IEM to get. With the ESR MKII, your music will sound pure, clean, and immaculate - just like it did in the studio. Its balanced bass, midrange, and treble frequencies make it easy to pick out every note and detail in music, while its realistic soundstage lets you enjoy your favorite music with satisfying immersion. In the box, you get a decent selection of accessories, including a premium cable and a wide selection of ear tips.
Elevate Your Listening Experience With These Related Articles
Enjoyed this article? Check out our other product comparisons!