Empire Ears Odin vs FiR Audio Krypton 5
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin and FiR Audio Krypton 5 are flagship IEMs designed to deliver a clear, impactful, and detailed 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 FiR Audio.
Odin vs Krypton 5 Price Comparison
The Empire Ears Odin and FiR Audio Krypton 5 sit at two very different price points.
The Odin comes in at $3,399.00.
The Krypton 5 comes in at $2,999.00.
The Odin costs significantly more than the Krypton 5. 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
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 FiR Audio Krypton 5
The Krypton 5 (NE5) is a 5-driver hybrid IEM packed with advanced technologies like Kinetic Bass, Open Acoustics, and ATOM XS for enhanced sound and comfort.
FiR Audio Krypton 5 Features:
- Hybrid configuration with 1 dynamic and 4 balanced armature drivers
- Kinetic Bass technology combines bone and air conduction for impactful lows
- Open Acoustics design with tubeless balanced armature drivers
- ATOM XS interchangeable modules for customizable isolation and bass response
- Machined aluminum shells with sapphire glass faceplates
FiR Audio Krypton 5 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1 Dynamic (10mm) + 4 Balanced Armature Drivers
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
Impedance: 22Ω
Isolation: 10dB to 17dB depending on ATOM module used
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears Odin and FiR Audio Krypton 5 are flagship 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 FiR Audio Krypton 5 features machined aluminum shells in a striking chrome color. The KR5's faceplates feature premium sapphire glass with a subtle brushed fiber design for a unique look and feel. At the back, the Krypton 5 features a large mesh port for the Kinetic Bass technology and on the side, an ATOM XS port.
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.
Krypton 5 Sound Signature
The FiR Audio Krypton 5 delivers a smooth, engaging, and immersive sound.
The bass of the KR5 delivers a powerful punch with sub-bass rumbles you can feel - courtesy of Kinetic Bass technology. The midrange is smooth, offering a clear and natural presentation for vocals and instrumentals. The treble is crisp and detailed - but never harsh.
The soundstage is wide, deep, and accurate. Sounds spread far left and right and can sound distant as well. Imaging is also very precise - pinpointing sounds within the mix is effortless as vocals and instruments are well-defined even in busy tracks.
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 $2,999 Krypton 5 offer a premium look and feel with its machined aluminum shells and sapphire glass faceplates. It is packed with advanced technologies like Kinetic Bass for enhanced bass and ATOM interchangeable modules for customizable pressure relief and sound.
In the box, the Krypton 5 comes with a braided 4.4mm cable, a hard leather case, three sets of ATOM XS modules, a cleaning tool, an ATOM module tool, and three pairs of foam and silicone ear tips.
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.
If you're looking for an exciting IEM with flagship-level clarity, detail, and soundstage, then the Krypton 5 is for you. The Krypton 5 boasts an exciting sound with its tactile bass, ultra-detailed midrange, and smooth treble. The KR5's incredible resolution breathes new life into your favorite tracks and unveils details you've never heard before. Technologies like ATOM XS, Kinetic Bass, and Open Acoustics let you enjoy your music like never before in absolute comfort.
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