Empire Ears ESR MKII vs Odin
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and Odin 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.
Empire Ears ESR MKII vs Odin Price Comparison
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and Odin sit at two very different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The Odin comes in at $3,399.00.
The Odin costs over 3x 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 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 Empire Ears Odin
The Odin is Empire Ears’ classic flagship IEM. It combines dynamic, BA, and electrostatic drivers in a tribrid system that delivers unmatched scale, detail, and engagement.
Empire Ears Odin Features:
- 11-driver tribrid system (2 Weapon IX+ dynamics, 5 BA, 4 electrostatics)
- 7-way synX crossover with EIVEC control for precision
- A.R.C. technology for resonance control inside the shell
- Striking Bifrost faceplate with a premium resin body
- Ships with the ultra-premium Stormbreaker premium UPOCC Copper Litz cable
Empire Ears Odin Specs:
Driver Configuration: 11 (2 Dynamic + 5 BA + 4 Electrostatic)
Frequency Response: 5Hz–100kHz
Impedance: 3 Ohms @ 1kHz
Sensitivity: 108dB SPL @ 1kHz, 1mW
Connector: 2-pin, 0.78mm
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and Odin are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The ESR MKII keeps aesthetics clean and simple. It features a medical-grade resin shell for an ergonomic and lightweight feel and fatigue-free comfort. The brushed aluminum faceplate with Empire Ears logo on each side add an understated yet premium look. Inside, the ESR MKII is treated with A.R.C. compound, which reduces unwanted resonances for a cleaner and more accurate sound. The included Alpha IV cable adds a touch of class to the overall look while offering a cleaner and more consistent sound.
The Odin is the complete opposite of the ESR MKII, featuring a stunning aesthetic that will turn heads wherever you go. Its shells are on the larger side to accommodate the 11-driver array, but the ergonomic shape ensures great comfort even during extended wear. The Bifrost faceplate shifts colors under light, giving it an exclusive and unique look, while the Stormbreaker adds a comfortable feel and even more eye-catching style.
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 features a studio-accurate sound signature, 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.
Odin Sound Signature
The Odin is all about excitement and immersion. Its dual Weapon IX+ subwoofers provide deep, textured bass with physical impact. The mids are lush and life-like, thanks to the multi-BA array, and the highs from the four electrostatics are airy, sparkling, and add an expansive feel to music. Combined with its 7-way crossover, the Odin creates a holographic soundstage with precise layering, making music feel cinematic and immersive.
Price and Value
At $1,099, the ESR MKII delivers excellent value for professionals and die-hard audiophiles looking for the most accurate sound possible. Its hybrid BA + EST design, resonance-free housing, and neutral tuning make it a cost-efficient reference monitor without unnecessary frills. The included Alpha IV cable is a nice added value as well.
At $3,399, the Odin represents Empire Ears’ ultimate vision of summit-fi performance. The price reflects its ambitious 11-driver tribrid design, delivering impact and immersion you won't get with lower-tier IEMs. Its Bifrost faceplates and bespoke Stormbreaker cable give it aesthetics and feel unlike any other in-ear monitor.
Our Thoughts
The choice between the Empire Ears ESR MKII and Odin is clear-cut - both IEMs are specifically designed to deliver high-resolution sound for specific purposes.
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 Empire Ears Odin is a flagship IEM designed to deliver an exciting and bold sound. The Odin is less about accuracy and detail, leaning more towards a musical and enjoyable sound that will make your favorite playlists sound alive and exciting. Get the Odin if you love bass and want an immersive listening experience for music, movies, and games.
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