Empire Ears Odin MKII vs 64Audio U18s
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and 64Audio U18s are top-of-the-line IEMs designed to deliver an immersive, high-resolution sound experience. 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.
Odin MKII vs U18s Price Comparison
The Odin MKII and U18s come in two different price points.
The Odin MKII comes in at $4,299.00.
The U18t comes in at $2,999.00
The Odin MKII costs significantly more than the U18s. 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 Odin MKII
The Odin MKII is the latest iteration of Empire Ears' legendary Odin IEM. New for the MKII model is a stunning 24K Gold-Plated Faceplates and a matte black aerospace-grade aluminum chassis. Inside, the Odin features a revolutionary 11-driver quadbrid system, comprising dual W9+ subwoofers, balanced armatures, electrostatic drivers, and bone conduction drivers, for a vivid sound experience that you can feel.
Empire Ears Odin MKII Features:
- 24K Gold-Plated Faceplates with matte black aerospace-grade aluminum chassis
- Dual W9+ subwoofers for tight, textured bass
- Five Precision Balanced Armature Drivers for organic vocals and instrumentals
- Twin EIVEC MKII-powered Electrostatic Drivers for breathtaking air and resolution
- Twin Bone Conduction Drivers for a tactile and immersive feel
- 2-pin, 4.4mm KVASIR Cable for enhanced sound and aesthetics
Empire Ears Odin MKII Specs:
Driver Configuration: 11 Drivers (Dual W9+ Subwoofers, 5x Balanced Armatures, 2x Electrostatic, 2x Bone Conduction)
Frequency Response: 5Hz–100kHz
Impedance: 2.7 Ohms @ 1kHz
Sensitivity: 105dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Connector: 2-pin, 0.78mm, 4.4mm Termination
The 64Audio U18s
The 64Audio U18s is a flagship-grade in-ear monitor designed for professionals and audiophiles looking for balance and technical precision. It features 64Audio’s core technologies: tia, apex, and LID to deliver reference-level sound with fatigue-free comfort.
64Audio U18s Features:
- tia High Driver for extended, open treble and natural air
- Apex Technology for personalized comfort and fatigue-free listening
- LID (Linear Impedance Design) for consistent tonal balance across different sources
- 4-Way Passive Crossover for smooth frequency transition and tonal accuracy
- Precision-Machined Aluminum Shell for ergonomic comfort during long sessions
64Audio U18s Specs:
Driver Configuration: 18 balanced armature drivers (8 low, 8 mid, 1 high-mid, 1 tia high)
Crossover: Integrated 4-way passive crossover
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 106dB/mW @1kHz
Impedance: 8Ω @1kHz
Isolation: -20dB (m20), -15dB (m15), -10dB (mX) depending on apex module
Connector: 2-pin 0.78mm
Cable: Premium 8-braid silver-plated OCC copper cable
Shell Material: Aluminum faceplates with web-like pattern design
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and 64Audio U18s are ultra-premium IEMs with top-tier build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The Odin MKII is departure from typical Empire Ears design and build. Gone is the multi-colored, Bifröst-inspired faceplates of the original Odin in favor of stunning 24K Gold-Plated faceplates with enigmatic runic engravings and Empire Ears insignia. Empire Ears swapped out the medical-grade resin shells for a more durable matte black, aerospace-grade aluminum chassis. Together, these design elements give the Odin MKII an eye-catching style that's robust and elegant.
Like the original Odin, the Odin MKII comes with a custom bespoke cable called the KVASIR - a four-stand braided cable with gold, silver, and copper conductors for enhanced musical detail and clarity. Intricate design details include etched Valknut on the cable's Y-Split piece and a blacked-out plug with Empire Ears branding.
The U18s blends style and ergonomics for fuss-free stage and studio work. It features a refined, professional design built from precision-milled aluminum. The matte black finish gives it a sleek, understated look, while the unique web-like-pattern faceplates add a touch of elegance and style.
Despite housing eighteen drivers inside, the U18s shells are compact and comfortable, contoured to fit naturally in the ear for long listening sessions. The included premium cable feels soft yet durable, with solid 2-pin connectors that ensure a secure fit. The U18s blends style and ergonomics for fuss-free stage and studio work.
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.
Odin MKII Sound Signature
The first thing you notice with the Odin MKII's sound is its wide, spacious, and open soundstage. There's excellent width, but the overall tuning goes for a more intimate presentation where the performer sounds closer to you.
The overall tuning is now more balanced compared to the original Odin, offering a less-exaggerated sub-bass rumble and a more polite mid-bass impact. Vocals and instruments now sound more weighty compared to the OG Odin, offering a more emotional and life-like tonality for both male and female voices. The treble has also been scaled back, now sounding smoother and less crisp than the previous Odin.
U18s Sound Signature
The 64Audio U18s delivers a balanced, refined sound signature that leans toward a natural and smooth presentation.
Bass is tight and well-controlled, offering depth and texture rather than sheer impact. It extends low with excellent definition, adding warmth without overpowering the mids. The midrange is smooth and organic, giving vocals and instruments a lifelike tone with just the right amount of body. Everything sounds cohesive and well-layered, with impressive separation that keeps complex tracks clean and clear. Treble is airy and detailed, courtesy of the tia high driver. It’s extended and crisp, yet never harsh - offering just enough sparkle to bring out subtle details while ensuring long-term listening comfort.
The U18s strikes a fine balance between precision and musicality, making it excellent for critical listening and everyday use.
Price and Value
At $4,299, the Odin MKII is a significant step up in price and build quality. It features authentic 24K Gold-plated Faceplates with matte aerospace-grade aluminum shells and an 11-driver quadbrid design for an emotional sound you can feel. It also comes with a brand new KVASIR custom cable in 4.4mm Termination, giving the Odin MKII a stunning look, feel, and sound befitting its flagship price tag.
In the box, the Odin MKII comes with a black leather Odin MKII case, cleaning tool and microfiber cloth, black mesh IEM sleeves, and Final Audio Type E Tips in SS, S, M, L, and LL.
At $2,999, the 64Audio U18s offers precision and control courtesy of 18 balanced armature drivers per side, paired with Apex modules for pressure-free listening and LID (Linear Impedance Design) for consistent sound across sources. The U18s offers a refined, studio-grade presentation with exceptional resolution and long-term comfort for critical listening sessions.
The 64Audio U18s comes with a leather carrying case, multiple foam and silicone tips, the 8-braid silver-plated cable, and interchangeable Apex modules. A cable clip, cleaning tool, and documentation round out the package.
Our Thoughts
The Empire Ears Odin MKII is a step up in terms of build quality and aesthetics over past Empire Ears IEMs, highlighted by the 24K Gold-plated faceplate with aerospace-grade shells. In terms of sound, the Odin MKII boasts a more mature, balanced sound signature that's tuned to give you a more emotional sound experience while preserving detail.
Get the Odin MKII if like the OG Odin's sound but want a more balanced, vocal-centric sound signature for daily listening.
The 64Audio U18s is for audiophiles and professionals who prioritize accuracy, balance, and long-term comfort. Its 18-driver configuration, Apex modules, and LID technology provide a smooth, detailed sound with controlled bass, natural mids, and airy treble.
If you value reference-level clarity, precise separation, and fatigue-free listening for studio production or casual music listening, the U18s is the perfect choice.
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