Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
N8
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Driver Type/Count: 8 precision BA drivers and 1 dynamic driver
- Driver Configuration: 1 tia high, 1 hi-mid, 6 mid, 1 DD low
- Frequency Response: 10Hz – 20kHz
- Sensitivity: 105 dB/mW
- Impedance: 6Ω @ 1kHz
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way passive crossover
- Isolation: -15dB w/ m15 module, -20dB w/ m20 module
Description
The N8, or "Nate," is an industry-first signature in-ear monitor developed in collaboration with legendary bassist and producer, Nathan East. This hybrid in-ear monitor offers unique textures and rich, soulful sound. It's powerful lows and deep, airy sub-bass define the sound signature, making it a favorite among multi-instrumentalists, audiophiles, engineers, and, of course, bassists.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- 64 Audio utilizes a unique "tia" (tubeless in-ear audio) system, which eliminates traditional tubes and dampers in favor of open balanced armature drivers set within custom-designed acoustic chambers, with a single bore nozzle to maximize coherence and minimize resonances.
- They implement "Apex" technology across their IEM lines, a pneumatically controlled venting system using swappable modules designed to alleviate pressure in the ear canal, thereby reducing listening fatigue, in addition to subtly modifying the low-end response.
- 64 Audio offers a fully computerized CIEM manufacturing process, utilizing digital ear mold scanning, software trimming, and 3D printing which significantly reduces turnaround time, allows for precise fits, and retains customer ear mold data for future purchases.
- The brand distinguishes itself by designing IEMs to maintain a consistent sound signature regardless of the source device's output impedance through its proprietary "LID" (Linear Impedance Design) tech.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Aspire Series
- Positioning: A practical entry-level line designed for live performance use.
- Description: Offers reliable, straightforward performance with a focus on robustness and comfort for stage monitoring. Compared to higher-tier models like the U4s and U6t, it delivers essential functionality for small rooms and tight budgets without extra driver complexity.
U4s
- Positioning: A balanced model offering a simple 4-driver setup for clear, accessible sound.
- Description: Provides clear mids and highs through a TIA high driver paired with balanced armature lows for straightforward performance. Compared to the Aspire Series and U6t, it offers a middle ground in cost and technical refinement.
U6t
- Positioning: A mid-tier design focused on delivering dynamic musical reproduction with subtle added color.
- Description: Features a neutral tuning base with slight tonal enhancements and a more refined driver layout than the U4s. Compared to the Aspire Series and U4s, it caters to users seeking improved sonic detail and versatility without a significant price jump.
Nio
- Positioning: A high-end option engineered with an advanced 8-driver configuration for richer sound.
- Description: Delivers smoother treble and fuller mids through its combination of one TIA high driver, a balanced armature high-mid, multiple mid drivers, and a dynamic low, ensuring organic sound quality. Compared to the U6t and U4s, it targets users with higher budgets seeking versatile performance.
Fourte
- Positioning: A flagship model showcasing groundbreaking in-ear design with premium materials.
- Description: Stands out with an advanced tubeless design and superior TIA technology that delivers exceptional clarity and dynamic range through multiple drivers. In contrast to the Nio and other lower-tier products, it represents state-of-the-art performance and refined functionality for high-resolution, critical listening scenarios.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
776
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
20
Founding Year
1964
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Used
64 Audio
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What if you spend more?
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64 Audio
U18s
2999
2999
/
7
Reviews
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent technical performance, resolving details previously unnoticed
- Great soundstage with realistic and immersive holographic presentation
- Comfortable shell geometry and fit, with Apex modules preventing pressure build-up
- Includes a premium 8-core braided silver cable
- Reference-level tuning that's balanced overall and enjoyable for day-to-day listening
Product Considerations
- Price is quite high
- The U18s can sound a bit dark for some listeners because of its treble presentation
- Treble can be 'zingy' or fatiguing to some
- Midrange presentation can be distant or dull
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the U6t, the U18s is a more advanced version with better resolution and nuance, especially in the lower octaves and backing notes, as well as better balance in the mids
- The U18S is a darker, more relaxed U12T
Takeaway: The 64 Audio U18s is a high-end IEM that offers excellent technical performance and a balanced, enjoyable sound. With its comfortable design and immersive soundstage, it is great for audiophiles who want a reference-level listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Product Page
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64 Audio
A18s
3997
3997
/
2
Reviews
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Product Page
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Empire Ears
Legend Evo (Universal)
3099
3099
/
12
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent technical performance and detail retrieval, considered several cuts above other IEMs
- Outstanding imaging performance, with precise soundstage and instrument separation
- The bass response is a highlight, delivering a punchy sub-bass with texture and articulation
- Offers a warmer tonal balance that is easy to get into with a mostly 'neutral' sound
- Bone conduction enhances low-frequency extension, reverb, and detail
Product Considerations
- Large chassis that may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with smaller ears
- The subdued treble range may not provide enough energy and sparkle for some listeners
- Stock cable is lackluster in terms of usability due to its plasticky feel, rigidity, and microphonic feedback
- Driver flex (a harmless crinkling sound upon insertion) is present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Legend Evo delivers a stronger bass impact, depth, and extension than the Legend X
- Legend Evo produces better constructed highs than the Legend X
- Legend Evo shows better clarity than the Legend X, and has more detail
- The Legend X can sound veiled concerning the Legend Evo
- The Legend Evo feels a touch smoother than the Empire Ears ODIN
Takeaway: The Legend Evo is a top-tier IEM with innovative bone conduction technology that creates a unique and immersive listening experience with enhanced bass. It is a great option for those seeking flagship-level performance with a warm, bass-focused sound signature.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Product Page
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Noble
Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)
4000
4000
/
9
Reviews
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent detail retrieval, resolving with the best over-ear headphones, challenging the brain to take it all in.
- Wide soundstage with precise imaging, creating an immersive, holographic 3D image.
- Easy to drive, delivering speed and impact even with low-power sources.
- High level of craftsmanship and build quality, using premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum and Damascus steel faceplates.
- Comes with the Magnus cable, a high-quality 8-core cable constructed with graphene, monocrystalline silver, and copper-silver alloy.
Product Considerations
- Treble can become a bit hot and fatiguing over long periods, but can be mitigated by using foam ear tips.
- Bass presence is more nominal and cohesive, not dominant or overpowering like some bass-head IEMs.
- Fit may be an issue for some due to the larger-than-average size of the IEM.
- Could be fatiguing over time due to sensory overload from extreme detail.
- Some reviewers found that the upper mids/lower treble frequency range could use a little boost.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers a stronger balance of detail, performance, and musicality, a fuller, richer midrange, and better texture and timbre, when compared to the Empire Ears Odin—Odin has stronger holographic separation, an intense sense of vocal performance, and more potential for fatigue.
Takeaway: The Noble Viking Ragnar is a top-tier IEM, offering incredible detail and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience. Its build quality and design are exceptional, making it a great choice for those who want some of the best IEMs in the market.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
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What competes at this price?
64 Audio
U4s
1099
/
Released
2023
A quad driver hybrid UIEM featuring ground-breaking patented technologies originally developed for our flagship products in order to bring a wider audience closer to their music.
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile sound signature, going from bassy to neutral with the use of included tuning modules
- Excellent bass response with a dynamic driver, providing strong texture, deep extension, and impact
- Very good treble extension, air, and sparkle for detail retrieval without harshness
- Expertly captures the 64 Audio character of balancing pro audio sensibilities and a more audiophile-friendly sound
- Comfortable and durable design, with a lightweight anodized aluminum shell and well-thought-out accessories
Product Considerations
- Imaging and instrument separation are decent, but not standout for the price range
- Mid-range may sound a bit thin to some, with a more relaxed upper mid-range that results in vocals being a little bit on the husky side
- The nozzle doesn’t have lip holder and is a bit problematic
- Isolation isn't exceptional due to the apex module
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs 64 Audio Neo: U4S is preferred due to the U4S being the cheaper IEM
- Vs Thieaudio Monarch MkII: The Monarch is comparatively lean sounding
- Vs 64 Audio U6T: U6T is a little more neutral overall with a stronger technicality, but the U4S injects a little more fun into the sound
- Vs Campfire Audio Andromeda Emerald Sea: The U4S offers a more natural mid-range presentation
- Vs 64 Audio Nio: The U4s effectively undercuts the Nio by a third of the price with comparable sound quality
- Vs Custom Art Fibae 5: If you want technicalities and details, Fibae 5 is superior, if you want a very capable yet slightly musical and mainstream IEM, opt for the U4s
Takeaway:
The 64 Audio U4s is a well-rounded IEM that offers a fun and engaging sound signature with the ability to customize the bass response. With its comfortable fit and excellent build quality, it's a great option for those looking for a versatile and enjoyable listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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64 Audio
Volür
2499
/
Released
2023
Ushering in a new era of technological innovation, Volür is a 10-driver hybrid UIEM, building on the heritage of Nio. The pulsating heart of Volür is made up of two new custom 9mm dynamic drivers in a True Isobaric configuration, delivering unprecedented low-frequency capability. While our tia ™ high-driver remains the criterion in high-frequency performance, our new tia waveguide optimizes its efficiency while offering greater tuning control. The six low-mid and single high-mid balanced armature drivers carry through to Volür. Their implementation was re-engineered to maximize space while integrating 3D printed acoustic tuning features.
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a bass-intense sound with strong rumble and thunder, while remaining fast, impactful, and dynamic
- Offers a wide and airy soundstage with a holographic sense of separation, and precise imaging
- Provides a smooth and open midrange with a natural character, and excellent resolution and layering of instruments and vocals
- Includes Apex modules for altering the tonality of the sound
- Features a durable and attractive design with aluminum shells, and a unique abalone faceplate
Product Considerations
- May have a large upper treble peak that can cause a shimmery sibilant sheen to vocals, or make some instruments sound clicky or tizzy
- The bass response could be too impactful for analytical listeners
- The quality of the stock cable might not be worthy of the IEM's higher-end status
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs 64 Audio U12t: Volür offers something very similar, but with notable upgrades, especially in bass texture and tactile presentation
- Vs 64 Audio U4s/Nio: While Volür improves upon the U4s and Nio's bass, the difference isn't dramatic, and the U4s/Nio are arguably better tuned due to the absence of a big upper treble peak
- Vs FiR Audio Neon 4: The Ne4 has a stronger bass emphasis and warm color, while Volür has more natural timbre, and stronger vocal performance
- Vs Sennheiser IE900: Volür has a better-tuned upper midrange and more comfortable ergonomics, but the IE900 has more textured bass, and a controlled mid-treble energy
Takeaway: The Volür is a well-built IEM that delivers a bass-forward sound with a wide soundstage and excellent imaging, making music sound exciting and immersive. With the ability to change the sound with different modules, it is a flexible option for listeners who want to tailor their listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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64 Audio
Nio
1699
/
Released
2020
Nio is our first high driver-count hybrid UIEM featuring a 9mm dynamic driver and 8 balanced armature drivers. The drivers and other patented components are housed in an ergonomic shell machined out of solid aluminum. Similar to some of our other unique faceplates, Nio is finished with a naturally sourced striking blue abalone faceplate making each pair truly unique.
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Considerations
- Stock cable is functional, but may be considered flimsy or of lower quality, and tangles easily.
- Treble response is more laid-back and subdued.
- Bass can be overbearing with the M15 and M20 modules, potentially muddying the signature and overshadowing image clarity.
- Most intimate stage of the 64 Audio IMs.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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64 Audio
Solo
1399
/
Released
2024
Redefining the meaning of "full-range sound" in portable high-end audio, Solo expertly covers the entire sonic spectrum with a single planar driver. The final note in our legendary tia™ line of UIEMs has been years in the making. Staying true to the tech-disruptive legacy of Fourté, Trio, and Duo, we looked to the past for innovative solutions to the modern challenge of tuning a single driver. In addition to a traditional electronic filter that subtly shifts the tonal balance, we deploy a dual Helmholtz Resonator for precise tonal adjustments.
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Beautiful aesthetic design, featuring a copper faceplate with the 64 Audio logo and a metal shell
- Comfortable and secure fit, similar to other 64 Audio universal IEMs, suitable for extended listening
- Bass is fast, clean, textured, and well-separated, without bleeding into the midrange
- Midrange is a highlight, with natural, textured, and realistic vocals for both male and female
- Treble is detailed, transparent, and sparkly without being overly aggressive, maintaining a crisp and rounded sound
Product Considerations
- The Solo sounds like many other existing 14.2 mm planar IEMs
- Soundstage width is average
- Eartip rolling may be required to find the best fit
- Slight metallic timbre to the sound
- The nozzle length and angle, as well as the connector housing on the shells, may cause the cable to hit the ear on the top
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Solo has better resolution and accuracy, especially with complex tracks, while the 64 Audio U4s is more customizable and isolating with a more dynamic bass
- The Solo has a more tamed treble response than the 7Hz Timeless
Takeaway: The 64 Audio Solo is a finely tuned planar magnetic IEM that is both beautiful and comfortable. It offers a rich, detailed sound, especially in the midrange, making it a great choice for those who enjoy immersive and high-quality audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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64 Audio
U6t
1299
/
Released
2021
64 Audio's most popular CIEM now available in a universal form. U6t draws from the sonic palette of U12t; boasting the same groundbreaking technology as our flagship IEMs in our ergonomic aluminum shell to make it more accessible than ever.
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved cable with a more premium look and feel compared to previous 64 Audio cables
- Balanced sound with a blend of neutrality and musicality, revealing depth and complexity of music
- Slightly more bass presence and punchier bass than the U12T
- Non-fatiguing treble presentation that balances definition and accuracy without harshness or brightness
- The U6T offers a distinct blend of reference-level detail and emotional musicality
Product Considerations
- Soundstage and imaging are not as accurate or massive as the U12T
- The NEO has more bass emphasis than the U6T
- The mids are somewhat subdued, and this may not be to everyone's preference
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The U6T draws the majority of its inspiration from the U12T with a similar balance of neutrality and musicality, though the U12T has a more massive soundstage and accurate holographic imaging
- The U6T has fuller mids and a better-balanced treble with the bass compared to the NEO, which has stronger bass emphasis
- Both the Campfire Audio Andromeda and the U6T have strong imaging and soundstage, but the U6T has an advantage in resolution
- The U6T lands in the goldilocks zone between the Symphonium Helios and the Sony IER-M9
Takeaway: The U6T is a great IEM that provides a distinct blend of reference-level detail and emotional musicality. It is a great option to get into 64 Audio's IEMs, providing an immersive sound experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
64 Audio is a brand best known for IEMs with highly novel technologies like LID (Linear Impedance Design) circuits that maintain consistent frequency response across different sources, and unique driver configurations, including the industry-first 18 balanced-armature driver U18t and the Solo's single 14.2mm planar magnetic driver with dual Helmholtz resonator chambers.
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