Empire Ears Odin MKII vs 64Audio Volur
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and 64Audio Volur 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 Volur Price Comparison
The Odin MKII and Volur come in two very different price points.
The Odin MKII comes in at $4,299.00.
The Volur comes in at $2,499.00
The Odin MKII costs significantly more than the Volur. 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 Volur
The 64Audio Volur is a premium hybrid IEM that combines dynamic drivers and balanced armatures to deliver enhanced bass quality and treble clarity to your music. It packs Apex, tia, and LID technology for distortion-free sound and lasting comfort.
64Audio Volur Features:
- Isobaric Dual Dynamic Drivers: Utilizes two custom 9mm dynamic drivers in a true isobaric configuration for improved bass response and reduced distortion.
- tia Waveguide: Incorporates a new tia waveguide to enhance high-frequency response and provide a smoother treble presentation.
- apex Technology: Features interchangeable apex modules (mX, m12, m15, m20) to control air pressure and modify isolation levels, reducing listener fatigue.
- LID (Linear Impedance Design): Ensures a consistent sound signature across various audio sources by correcting non-linear electrical resistance.
64Audio Volur Specs:
Driver Configuration: 2 low dynamic drivers, 6 mid balanced armatures, 1 high-mid balanced armature, 1 tia high balanced armature
Frequency Response: 5Hz – 22kHz
Sensitivity: 103 dB/mW @1kHz
Impedance: 6.3Ω @1kHz
Crossover: Integrated 4-way passive crossover
Isolation: Options of -20dB, -15dB, -12dB, or -10dB depending on the selected apex module
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and 64Audio Volur are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting class-leading 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 Volur features purple abalone faceplates, offering a vibrant and striking appearance. It uses 64Audio's industrial half-moon shell shape for an ergonomic fit and a lightweight feel. The Volur's shells are small and lightweight, making them 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.
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.
Volur Sound Signature
The Volur delivers a rich and engaging sound signature, characterized by deep, well-controlled bass thanks to its True Isobaric dual dynamic drivers. The mids are warm and smooth, while the highs are clear and extended, thanks to the tia waveguide. This combination results in a sound profile that is both musical and detailed.
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.
The $2,499 Volur provides a rich and engaging listening experience with innovative driver technology. The dual dynamic drivers in True Isobaric configuration work wonders in delivering an impactful yet detailed bass response, unlike any other IEM on the market. The Volur also features Apex, LID, and tia technology for enhanced clarity, customizable sound, and variable noise isolation.
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 $2,499 Volur provides a rich and engaging listening experience with its innovative driver technology. Like the Odin MKII, the Volur offers an exciting and engaging sound that works exceptionally well for a wide variety of genres. The Volur also features Apex, LID, and tia technology for enhanced clarity, customizable sound, and variable noise isolation. Get the Volur if you love bass and like having the option of customizing through the swappable Apex Modules.
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