Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

Zurq

reviews

[{"title":"They should rename to LushEars instead - Flipears Aether & Zurq","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpeTWgx3kZc","source":"Jordan Oki Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"FlipEars Zurq XXIV Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/flipears-zurq-xxiv-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Speaker Configuration: 7 Tribrid (2 EST, 3 BA, 2 SoniXwoofers)
  • Sensitivity: 116dB @ 1mW
  • Impedance: 20 ohms @ 1 kHz
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz – 70kHz
The all new FlipEars Zurq XXIV features 2 electrostatic, 3 balanced armature, and 2 of our signature dynamic SoniXwoofer drivers, reimagined in a 5-way crossover configuration. The result? Thunderous sub-lows, silky smooth mids, a PHENOMENALLY wide soundstage, and better detailed highs – detail retrieval is unquestionable!
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:

  • FlipEars emphasizes providing "insight into music that only a musician can offer," tailoring their IEMs for both professional musicians and audiophiles.
  • A signature feature across several models is the inclusion of dip switches on the IEM shells, allowing users to adjust the sound signature for different listening preferences.

Aegis

  • Positioning: Entry-level model offering balanced sound with essential features.  
  • Description: Uses a proprietary hybrid driver setup combined with EarQuake bone conduction for clear bass and midrange that suits everyday listening. Compared to models like Legion and Aurora XXIV, keeps the design simple and affordable while still providing coherent sound for daily use.

Legion 

  • Positioning: Mid-range model in the Arsenal Collection aimed at users desiring enhanced audio dynamics.  
  • Description: Features a three-driver system with a dynamic driver, EarQuake bone conductor, and SPARK electret tweeter that work together for a broader, natural soundstage. When compared to the basic Aegis, it adds more depth and spatial cues.

Zurq XXIV  

  • Positioning: Upper mid-range model focused on delivering energetic and detailed sound.  
  • Description: Uses a reimagined 5-way crossover configuration that combines electrostatic, balanced armature, and dynamic drivers to offer precise highs and deep, controlled bass. In contrast to the Aegis and Legion, it provides a more expansive soundstage and refined detail.

Aurora XXIV  

  • Positioning: Flagship model known for its advanced design and immersive audio presentation.  
  • Description: Offers a 10-tribrid speaker configuration with twin dynamic SoniXwoofers that create deep bass extension and crisp highs without fatigue. Compared to the Zurq XXIV, its elaborate build delivers a uniquely wide and detailed soundstage.

Artha Argentum  

  • Positioning: Premium high-end model that combines high-resolution sound with luxurious styling.  
  • Description: Features a versatile switching system that allows users to select between clear vocals, boosted bass, or extended highs, showing a unique approach to tailoring sound output. Relative to models like Aegis and Legion, its advanced build quality and customizable tuning set it apart.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
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0
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Brand Popularity
831
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Top 50 Brand
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Products Listed
13
Founding Year

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

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Flipears

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What if you spend more?

Product image
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Odin (Universal)
3399
3399
/
9
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Tremendous transparency, offering a wealth of microdynamics and spatial cues, critical in determining positioning and layering.
  • Incredibly clear sound, yet wrapped in a warm, lush, and inviting overall picture.
  • Highs are extended, detailed, and wonderfully resolved, easily able to summon the ethereal or holographic when called for.
  • The soundstage is quite impressive—deep, wide, with very good headroom, and holographic when called to be so.
  • The shell design is comfortable with a short nozzle, and light weight.

Product Considerations

  • The treble is a little bit relaxed, and some songs may not cut through the way they need to.
  • Amplifiers for this particular headphone are going to matter, and they are going to make a difference between several different amplifiers.
  • The bass does not bring the rumble, nor the impact, nor does it reach to the stygian depths of the Holy-Bass-Head-Grail.
  • Though the Odin provides for a comfortable fit, it can be uncomfortable for people who have really small ear holes, as the stem itself is quite wide.
  • The 'Bifröst' faceplate design might be too flashy for some.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Empire Ears Zeus: The Odin smashes the Zeus all day, every day, for sound quality, with a better midrange and significantly nixed highs.
  • Vs 64 Audio U12T: Odin is at least as good, if not better, in the mids and the bass, and has better punch and slam to the bass frequencies.
  • Vs Empire Ears Legend X: The Odin is a much more balanced-tuned IEM.
  • Vs 64 Audio Tia Forte: The Odin has a more agreeable frequency response.
  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch: The Monarch has a really nice bass shelf, but the Odin has better technical performance and a better frequency response.

Takeaway: The Empire Ears Odin offers an easygoing listening experience and clear sound, and has tight bass response with a great midrange. It could be a great choice for those seeking a warm IEM with finesse.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Odin (Custom)
3599
3599
/
9
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Incredibly clear and detailed sound, offering a transparent window into the music
  • Well-defined, punchy, and high-quality bass response, with good impact and rumble, without being muddy
  • Smooth and well-defined treble, avoiding sibilance or harshness, and retaining excellent resolution
  • Broad and deep soundstage with excellent imaging, layering, and separation of instruments
  • Visually striking and beautiful Bifrost faceplate design

Product Considerations

  • The fit may be uncomfortable for users with smaller ears, as the stem is quite wide and the monitors themselves are fairly large
  • Upper mid-range can be forward, and at times can be borderline shouty or fatiguing in some tracks
  • Treble response, while detailed, might be a little relaxed for some, not cutting through as much as some other IEMs
  • Some reviewers found the build quality of the resin shell to be just okay, not feeling particularly premium or durable relative to the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. 64 Audio U12T: The Odin has better punch and slam in the bass, while the U12T has a more layered and separated sound with slightly more micro-details
  • Vs. Empire Ears Legend X: The Odin is much more balanced and refined compared to the bass-heavy Legend X
  • Vs. Fir M5: The M5 has a more forward and clearer treble response and wider soundstage, but the Odin's midrange is more forward and produces a more enjoyable vocal response
  • Vs. Empire Ears Zeus: The Odin is smoother with more bass response and a better mid range
  • Vs. Vision Ears Elysium: The Elysium brings an analog-like ease to the midrange, but is not a match for the Odin in detail and transient speed

Takeaway: The Empire Ears Odin is a technically impressive IEM with a smooth, clear sound, detailed bass and a striking design. If one is seeking a high-end listening experience where details are clearly displayed in an immersive 3D stage, these could be a great match.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Flipears
Artha
1699
/
Released
2023
The FlipEars Artha is an ode to someone who has spoken sense and purpose into our very being – someone who has given us the courage to keep going and thrive in every circumstance we faced in the last decade. When you listen to the Artha in all of its different configurations, you'll find out how it's so purposeful; how it gives meaning to the different tunes you enjoy; how it pulls out the very essence of the music you love to listen to.
Check Amazon
FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very mature and engaging sound
  • Meaningful dip switch tuning effects adjust the sound profile
  • The packaging includes an innovative video display

Product Considerations

  • The large nozzle may be problematic for people with smaller ear canals
  • Some air and height may be lacking on some of the switch configurations

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the 64 Audio Trio, the Artha has a very refined mid-range and treble, making it an overall more complete package

Takeaway: The FlipEars Artha is a high-end IEM with good sound and innovative features, like the dip switch tuning and video unboxing experience. It could be a great choice for people who want a versatile and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Flipears
Aurora Custom
2099
/
Released
Stunned – you're left in awe and wonder. When you see the northern lights up close and personal, no other feeling comes close. They say, the journey counts so much more when you finally get to see the Aurora Borealis' ribbons of light seemingly running and dancing endlessly up the dark, northern night sky. We proudly say the same about our journey towards our latest flagship model – the FlipEars Aurora XXIV: A thing of awe; a thing of beauty. These have left us stunned.
Check Amazon
FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Flipears
Aurora
2099
/
Released
2024
When you see the northern lights up close and personal, no other feeling comes close. They say, the journey counts so much more when you finally get to see the Aurora Borealis' ribbons of light seemingly running and dancing endlessly up the dark, northern night sky. We proudly say the same about our journey towards our latest flagship model – the FlipEars Aurora XXIV: A thing of awe; a thing of beauty. These have left us stunned.
Check Amazon
FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Flipears
Artha Custom
1699
/
Released
2019
The FlipEars Artha is an ode to someone who has spoken sense and purpose into our very being – someone who has given us the courage to keep going and thrive in every circumstance we faced in the last decade. When you listen to the Artha in all of its different configurations, you'll find out how it's so purposeful; how it gives meaning to the different tunes you enjoy; how it pulls out the very essence of the music you love to listen to.
Check Amazon
FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Flipears
Argentum
2250
/
Released
2024
FlipEars’ Artha Argentum is an 8-BA universal IEM with a true 4-way crossover and dual tuning switches that offer four sound profiles (Balanced, Bass Boost, Extended HF, and a combined mode). Designed for both performance and presentation, it uses a triple-bore acoustic layout and is supplied with a balanced 4.4 mm cable and ear tips. Noise isolation is rated at −26 dB, sensitivity is 118 dB @ 1 mW, and impedance is 16 Ω @ 1 kHz—making it easy to drive while offering configurable voicing to suit different music and preferences.
Check Amazon
FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

FlipEars, the first Filipino company to manufacture both universal and custom in-ear monitors domestically, was founded by singer-songwriter Aries Sales. The brand features distinctive jewelry-grade faceplates, hand-painted with enamel by jewelers from Bulacan. They're known for proprietary technologies including their EarQuake bone conduction driver, SPARK Electret Tweeter (a self-powered electret high-frequency driver), and their SoniXwoofer twin 10mm dynamic bass system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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