Empire Ears Odin vs 64Audio U12t
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin and 64Audio U12t are premium IEMs designed to deliver an exciting high-resolution sound experience. We compare both models to help you find the best in-ear monitors for your listening preferences.
Not the right fit? Browse other In-Ear Monitors from Empire Ears and 64Audio.
Empire Ears Odin vs 64Audio U12t Price Comparison
The Empire Ears Odin and 64Audio U12t sit at two very different price points.
The Odin comes in at $3,399.00.
The 64Audio U12t comes in at $1,999.00.
The Odin costs significantly more than the U12t. Let's examine the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these in-ear monitors to get a better idea of what each IEM offers.
The Empire Ears Odin
The Odin is Empire Ears' ultra-flagship model, featuring stunning Bifrost Faceplates, Weapon IX subwoofers, synX Crossover, and A.R.C. technology so you can experience an impactful, high-resolution sound in style.
Empire Ears Odin Features:
- 11-driver setup for unmatched impact, clarity, and detail.
- Dual W9+ subwoofers for deep, powerful bass.
- Five Balanced Armatures for natural vocals and instrumentals.
- Four Electrostatic Drivers for an airy and detailed sound.
- synX Crossover for a smooth and cohesive sound.
- A.R.C. for reduced driver vibrations and distortion.
- Premium Stormbreaker cable for seamless sound and connectivity.
Empire Ears Odin Specs:
Driver Configuration: 2x W9+ Dynamic Subwoofers, 5x Balanced Armatures, 4x Electrostatic Drivers
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 100kHz
Sensitivity: 108dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Crossover: 7-Way synX Crossover Network
Impedance: 3 Ohms @ 1kHz
The 64Audio U12t
The U12t is a high-end universal in-ear monitor from 64Audio. It packs 12 balanced armature drivers per side (one of which is 64Audio's patented tia high driver) and features 64Audio technologies like Apex, Tia, and Linear Impedance Design for precise sound reproduction.
64Audio U12t Features:
- Twelve precision balanced armature drivers
- tia™ (Tubeless In-ear Audio) technology for open, natural sound
- apex™ modules (m12, m15, m20, mX) to reduce ear fatigue
- LID™ (Linear Impedance Design) for consistent sound across sources
- Ergonomic textured aluminum shell with raised metal logos and chamfered faceplate bezels.
64Audio U12t Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 tia High Driver – 1 High-Mid Driver – 6 Mid Driver – 4 Low Driver
Frequency Response: 10hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW @1kHz
Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
Impedance: 12.6 +1/-2 Ω from 10hz – 20kHz
Apex Technology Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -12dB, -10dB
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears Odin and 64Audio U12t are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The Empire Ears Odin boasts an eye-catching, bold design, combining a unique faceplate design with an ergonomic resin shell for a blend of style, comfort, and durability.
The Bifröst-inspired faceplates are the star of the show, featuring nine individual polymer layers in three proprietary lamination steps, which produce a multi-color aesthetic that shifts under different angles and lighting conditions.
The Odin's premium design extends to its premium cable. The included Stormbreaker cable from PWAudio boasts outstanding build quality for added style and comfort.
The U12t features fresh aesthetics for 2025 with Textured Silver Shell Color, Raised Metal Logos, and Chamfered Faceplate Bezel deliver a more elegant look and feel. At the front, you'll find the Apex ports under the chamfered 64Audio logo. Overall build quality is top-notch - the U12t feels solid in the hand and the new textured shells offer a more premium feel.
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 Sound Signature
The Odin was designed to showcase balance and precision, delivering a sound that’s both powerful and refined.
Its dual W9+ drivers provide deep, textured sub-bass with tight mid-bass punch - impactful yet controlled. The midrange is clear and natural, bringing vocals and instruments to life with detail and realism. Treble extends smoothly with sparkle and air, adding energy without harshness.
The soundstage is wide and holographic, creating a 3D-like experience where sound wraps around the listener with excellent layering and pinpoint imaging for an immersive experience.
U12t Sound Signature
The U12t features a neutral, reference-level tuning known for its accurate, detailed, and immersive sound presentation. It is the perfect in-ear monitor if you're looking to scrutinize every note and detail in your favorite music.
The bass in the U12t is well-balanced, delivering good impact and rumble when needed. Its midrange is natural and clear, allowing voices to come through with life-like clarity. Its soundstage is one of the largest you'll hear in an IEM, offering accurate sound placement for an immersive sound.
Price and Value
At $3,399, the Odin represents Empire Ears’ ultimate vision of summit-fi performance. It features an 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 on the market.
In the box, the Empire Ears Odin comes with a premium case, cleaning cloth, cleaning tool, and Final Audio Type E ear tips in various sizes.
The $1,999 U12t comes with a fresh new look and a generous set of accessories in the package. In the box, you get all the current Apex Modules and a pair of Pearl Premium Cables in 3.5mm & 4.4mm. You also get a selection of ear tips, a leather case, a cleaning tool, clips, and stickers in the package.
Our Thoughts
The Empire Ears Odin is a flagship IEM designed to deliver an exciting and bold sound. The Odin doesn't aim for the ultimate accuracy and detail, instead offering a more 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.
The 64Audio U12t delivers reference-level resolution, detail, tone, and an immersive soundstage. It is the IEM to get if you want to experience an authentic studio-quality sound. Music on the U12t sounds clean, clear, and accurate - no matter the genre. The 2025 version is even better - boasting an updated design and accessories package without the extra cost. You can swap out Apex Modules to fine-tune the sound to your liking.
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