Empire Ears Raven vs 64Audio U18s
Introduction
The Empire Ears Raven and 64Audio U18s 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 64Audio.
Raven vs U18s Price Comparison
The Raven and U18s sit at two very different price points.
The Raven comes in at $3,599.00.
The U18s comes in at $2,999.00.
The Raven 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 Raven
The Raven is Empire Ears’ ultra-flagship in-ear monitor, blending cutting-edge tech with a bold, musical tuning. It’s designed for those who want visceral bass impact, immersive soundstage, and life-like clarity in their listening experience.
Empire Ears Raven Features:
- Quadbrid driver system with Dynamic + BA + Electrostatic + Bone Conduction
- Weapon IX+ dynamic subwoofers for thunderous bass
- W10 Bone Conduction for rich tones and crisp detail
- synX Crossover Network for a cohesive sound
- Premium materials and a sleek, blacked-out design
Empire Ears Raven Specs:
Driver Configuration: 12 Drivers (2 Dynamic, 5 Balanced Armatures, 4 Electrostatic, 1 Bone Conductor)
Frequency Response: 5Hz–100kHz
Impedance: 2 Ohms @ 1kHz
Sensitivity: 99dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Connector: 2-pin, 0.78mm
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 design
Design and Build Quality
The Raven and U18s are high-end IEMs with exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The Empire Ears Raven features build quality and aesthetics befitting its flagship status. It uses premium materials with a bold, futuristic aesthetic that instantly stands out anywhere. Its multi-driver housing is larger but surprisingly ergonomic, distributing weight comfortably across the ear for a fatigue-free feel.
The striking faceplate design is more than just a pretty face - it features Empire Ears' Harmonic Resonance Core, which enhances the W10 Bone Conductor's performance for a more tactile sound. Finally, the reinforced construction and matching black cable give it the premium durability and aesthetics you would expect from an in-ear monitor costing over $3,000.
The 64Audio U18s features a refined, professional design built from precision-milled aluminum. The matte black finish gives it a sleek, understated look, while aluminum faceplates with web-like design 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.
Raven Sound Signature
The Empire Ears Raven delivers a bold yet refined sound with deep, controlled bass, rich mids, and detailed highs.
Dual Weapon IX+ dynamic drivers deliver powerful sub-bass impact with tight control, providing every track with weight and energy without compromising the mix. The balanced armature mids bring vocals forward with natural warmth and clarity, while the quad electrostatic drivers add crisp sparkle and air.
With its wide, immersive soundstage and excellent layering, the Raven offers both musical excitement and precision - a flagship IEM tuned to bring out power, finesse, and emotion in every track.
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 $3,599, the Empire Ears Raven features a quadbrid driver configuration featuring dual Weapon IX+ dynamic drivers, balanced armatures, electrostatic drivers, and a bone conduction driver. Its Dual Conduction Architecture, SynX crossover, and Harmonic Resonance Core combine to deliver deep, visceral bass, ultra-clear mids, and airy treble extension. All this is housed in a striking, handcrafted shell with premium materials.
In the box, the Raven comes with a premium PW Audio cable, a protective carrying case, and a selection of tips for a secure fit. Other accessories include a cleaning tool, a cable clip, and some documentation. The launch editions come with gold-plated faceplates or a personalized card.
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 Raven is for listeners who want power, excitement, and technical precision in a single package. Its bold, immersive sound makes it ideal for modern genres like EDM, hip-hop, and rock, while its wide soundstage and layering satisfy those who love detail and depth. If you enjoy an impactful listening experience but don't want to sacrifice clarity and resolution, get the EE Raven.
The 64Audio U18s is for audiophiles and professionals who prioritize accuracy, balance, and fatigue-free listening. Its smooth, natural tuning and precise separation make it perfect for critical listening, long studio sessions, or anyone who wants reference-level clarity without added coloration. If you value tonal fidelity and long-term comfort over raw impact and detail, the U18s is the IEM you want.
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