Empire Ears ESR MKII vs FiR Audio Krypton 5
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and FiR Audio Krypton 5 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 FiR Audio.
ESR MKII vs Krypton 5 Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and Krypton 5 sit at two very different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The Krypton 5 comes in at $2,999.00
The ESR MKII costs significantly less than the Krypton 5. 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 FiR Audio Krypton 5
The Krypton 5 (NE5) is a 5-driver hybrid IEM packed with advanced technologies like Kinetic Bass, Open Acoustics, and ATOM XS for enhanced sound and comfort.
FiR Audio Krypton 5 Features:
- Hybrid configuration with 1 dynamic and 4 balanced armature drivers
- Kinetic Bass technology combines bone and air conduction for impactful lows
- Open Acoustics design with tubeless balanced armature drivers
- ATOM XS interchangeable modules for customizable isolation and bass response
- Machined aluminum shells with sapphire glass faceplates
FiR Audio Krypton 5 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 Dynamic (10mm) + 4 Balanced Armature Drivers
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Impedance: 22Ω
Isolation: 10dB to 17dB depending on ATOM module used
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and Krypton 5 are premium IEMs with excellent build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The ESR MKII keeps things professional yet simple. 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 FiR Audio Krypton 5 features machined aluminum shells in a striking chrome color. The KR5's faceplates feature premium sapphire glass with a subtle brushed fiber design for a unique look and feel. At the back, the Krypton 5 features a large mesh port for the Kinetic Bass technology and on the side, an ATOM XS port.
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.
Krypton 5 Sound Signature
The FiR Audio Krypton 5 delivers a smooth, engaging, and immersive sound.
The bass of the KR5 delivers a powerful punch with sub-bass rumbles you can feel - courtesy of Kinetic Bass technology. The midrange is smooth, offering a clear and natural presentation for vocals and instrumentals. The treble is crisp and detailed - but never harsh.
The soundstage is wide, deep, and accurate. Sounds spread far left and right and can sound distant as well. Imaging is also very precise - pinpointing sounds within the mix is effortless as vocals and instruments are well-defined even in busy tracks.
Price and Value
At $1,099, the Empire Ears ESR MKII delivers flagship-level precision at a mid-tier price point. Its hybrid driver setup offers clean, neutral tuning with excellent clarity and speed, ideal for studio or reference listening. With solid build quality and a premium cable, it’s a refined, accurate IEM that prioritizes balance and technical performance.
In the box, the ESR MKII comes with the high-quality Alpha IV OCC copper cable, a protective carrying case, a selection of Final Audio Type E ear tips, and a cleaning tool.
The $2,999 Krypton 5 offer a premium look and feel with its machined aluminum shells and sapphire glass faceplates. It is packed with advanced technologies like Kinetic Bass for enhanced bass and ATOM interchangeable modules for customizable pressure relief and sound.
In the box, the Krypton 5 comes with a braided 4.4mm cable, a hard leather case, three sets of ATOM XS modules, a cleaning tool, an ATOM module tool, and three pairs of foam and silicone ear tips.
Our Thoughts
The Empire Ears ESR MKII is built for those who value precision, balance, and clarity above all else. Its reference-grade tuning delivers an accurate replay with exceptional detail and separation - perfect for mixing, mastering, or critical listening. Vocals and instruments sound lifelike and accurate, giving you an honest playback of your music.
Get the ESR MKII if you want studio-level neutrality and detail without fatigue.
If you're looking for an exciting IEM with flagship-level clarity, detail, and soundstage, then the Krypton 5 is for you. The Krypton 5 boasts an exciting sound with its tactile bass, ultra-detailed midrange, and smooth treble. Technologies like ATOM XS, Kinetic Bass, and Open Acoustics let you enjoy your music like never before in absolute comfort.
Get the KR5 if you want to experience music with clarity and impact like you've never heard before.
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