Empire Ears ESR MKII vs 64Audio U6t
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and U6t are premium IEMs designed to deliver studio-accurate, high-resolution sound. Let's compare both models so you can find the best in-ear monitors for your listening preferences.
Not the right fit? Browse other In-Ear Monitors from Empire Ears and 64Audio.
Empire Ears ESR MKII vs 64Audio U6t Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and U6t sit at two very different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The U6t comes in at $1,299.00.
The ESR MKII costs slightly less than the U6t. 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 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:
- 5-driver hybrid system with 3 BA + 2 electrostatic drivers
- 4-way synX crossover with EIVEC for electrostatic integration
- A.R.C. technology to reduce resonance for cleaner sound
- Brushed Silver aluminum faceplate with ergonomic resin shell
- Includes Alpha IV UPOCC Copper Litz cable
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
The 64Audio U6t
The U6t is 64Audio's upper-midrange universal IEM. It features six Balanced Armature drivers, including 64Audio's patented tia high-driver. Like most 64Audio universal IEMs, the U6t packs Apex, Linear Impedance Design, and tia technology underneath its ergonomic dark grey aluminum shell.
64Audio U6t Features:
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia) for smooth and accurate highs.
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex) for improved comfort and soundstage performance.
- Linear Impedance Design (LID) for consistent sound across a wide range of sources.
64Audio U6t Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 tia High, 1 High-Mid, 2 Mid, 2 Low
Frequency Response: 10hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW
Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
Impedance: 10Ω
Apex Technology Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and U6t are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The ESR MKII keeps things professional and understated. Its medical-grade resin shell is ergonomic and lightweight, ensuring long-term comfort, while the brushed aluminum faceplate adds a subtle touch of refinement. With A.R.C. applied inside the housing, internal resonances are minimized, making the sound cleaner and more accurate.
The U6t features 64Audio's precision-machined aluminum shell for a lightweight yet robust feel. In terms of aesthetics, the U6t features a unique Grey colorway with a sleek black faceplate for an elegant look. At the front you'll find Apex Ports and 64Audio branding.
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.
ESR MKII Sound Signature
The ESR MKII is built around accuracy and balance, making it ideal for professionals or listeners who want to hear music exactly as it’s recorded.
Its bass is tight and controlled, never overpowering the mix. The midrange is clean and transparent, bringing out vocals and instruments with lifelike clarity - perfect for mixing or critical listening. The treble is extended yet smooth, revealing subtle details without harshness, ensuring long listening sessions stay fatigue-free. This combination gives you the confidence to make precise judgments on recordings while still enjoying natural musicality.
U6t Sound Signature
The 64Audio U6t is tuned for clarity and detail. Its prominent upper-midrange tuning makes vocals sound closer and presents instruments like snares and guitar with more impact. Speaking of impact, the bass on the U6t is also emphasized, which makes genres like Pop, Hip-Hop, and Electronic sound fun, powerful, and enjoyable.
In terms of soundstage, the U6t delivers a moderately-sized soundstage. Instruments are well-spaced and are easy to pick out, making the U6t very good for music, movies, and games.
Price and Value
At $1,099, the ESR MKII is a strong value proposition for professionals and purists. Its hybrid BA + EST design, resonance-free housing, and neutral tuning make it a cost-efficient reference monitor without unnecessary frills. The ESR MKII features high-quality resin shells with brushed aluminum faceplates, alongside a premium braided cable for enhanced sound and aesthetics.
The U6t is slightly more expensive than the ESR MKII, coming in at $1,299. At that price, you get a real taste of high-resolution sound - life-like vocals with incredible clarity and an impactful bass with no distortion. At a slightly higher price point, the U6t comes with a full suit of 64Audio technologies, including Apex, Linear Impedance Design, and tia technology.
Our Thoughts
Get the ESR MKII IEM if you're looking for a flat, accurate, and detailed sound for music production or mixing. The ESR MKII's reference-grade sound will help reveal subtle details in music making it a joy to use for mixing and mastering at home or in the studio.
If you love listening to vocal-centric and instrumental tracks, you'll love the 64Audio U6t. Its tuning, which combines powerful bass and emphasized vocals, makes it great for mainstream genres like Pop and R&B. Gaming is also great on the U6t. Its pinpoint-accurate soundstage makes it easy to know where sounds are coming from - perfect for playing competitive FPS and MOBA. You also get all the 64Audio technologies like Apex, LID, and tia, so you can enjoy great comfort and sound for hours on end.
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