Empire Ears ESR MKII vs Noble Audio XM-1
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and Noble Audio XM-1 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 Noble Audio.
Empire Ears ESR MKII vs Noble Audio XM-1 Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and XM-1 sit at two very different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The XM-1 comes in at $599.00.
The ESR MKII costs significantly more than the XM-1. 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 Noble Audio XM-1
The Noble Audio XM-1 is a premium IEM loaded with cutting-edge driver tech for next-level sound. Featuring a hybrid driver system with a cutting-edge xMEMS driver and a powerful 8.3mm Dynamic Driver, the XM-1 delivers next-level clarity and detail without the high-end price tag.
Noble Audio XM-1 Features:
- Hybrid driver setup: 1 x 8.3mm dynamic driver (bass) + 1 x xMEMS Cowell MEMS driver (mids/highs)
- Integrated high-bias amplifier for direct USB-C or Lightning connectivity
- Aluminum shell with stainless steel nozzle and wax guard
- Designed for smartphone compatibility without additional equipment
Noble Audio XM-1 Specs:
Driver Configuration: xMEMS Cowell Tweeter + 8.2mm Dynamic Driver Hybrid
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 101 dB @1kHz
Impedance: 32 Ω @1kHz
USB-C cable included; Lightning adapter provided
Includes 6 pairs of ear tips and a compact carrying case
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and XM-1 are premium IEMs inside and out, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The ESR MKII features a professional yet simple design. 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 Noble Audio XM-1 features a simple but sleek design with its marble faceplates and matte black shells. It features lightweight but durable aluminum material for its shells paired with a stainless steel nozzles with integrated wax guards. The XM-1 shells are compact, making them portable and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
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.
XM-1 Sound Signature
The XM-1 is tuned to deliver Noble Audio's clean, clear, and detailed sound signature. The xMEMS drivers deliver high-resolution playback in both the midrange and treble, with vocals and instruments sounding crystal-clear. The large 8.2mm dynamic driver adds weight and punch to your favorite tunes. The soundstage on the XM-1 is 3D-like. Sounds are easy to pinpoint in the mix, which makes for a very immersive listening experience in any genre.
Price and Value
At $1,099, the ESR MKII offers tremendous value for professionals, studio engineers, or anyone who wants a reliable reference tool. Its neutral, accurate tuning gives you confidence in what you’re hearing, making it a cost-effective investment for critical work. The lightweight design and excellent isolation further enhance its practicality, delivering studio-grade performance without the premium price tag. For those who want precision sound and build, the ESR MKII delivers exactly that.
At $599, the XM-1 features a hybrid 2-way design with an 8.3 mm dynamic driver for impactful bass and Noble's first-ever xMEMS Cowell solid-state tweeter for crystal-clear mids and highs. This unique driver setup is powered by an internal high-bias amplifier, removing the need for an external DAC or amp. The build is engineered for daily use, featuring durable aluminum shells, stainless steel nozzles, and a wax guard, along with a USB-C cable that allows for both power and audio transmission directly from your smartphone. With its cutting-edge driver tech, mobile convenience, and premium construction, the XM-1 delivers high-end sound and convenience in one compact package.
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.
The Noble Audio XM-1 is built for listeners who want xMEMS performance without the hassle of external gear. Its built-in amplifier and xMEMS driver technology make it ideal for those who listen primarily from smartphones, tablets, or laptops and still expect reference-level clarity. It’s also a strong fit for travelers or commuters who value compact, durable design and plug-and-play simplicity.
If you're looking for effortless detail retrieval, tight bass with speed, cutting-edge driver tech, and the convenience of a self-powered IEM, the XM-1 is the IEM for you.
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