Empire Ears Odin vs 64Audio U18s
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin and 64Audio U18s 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 U18s Price Comparison
The Empire Ears Odin and 64Audio U18s sit at two slightly different price points.
The Odin comes in at $3,399.00.
The 64Audio U18s comes in at $2,999.00.
The Odin costs less than the U18s. 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 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 and 64Audio U18s are premium IEMs with 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 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 its unique web-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 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.
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.
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.
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 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 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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