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.

Product Strengths

  • Praised for its beautiful design
  • Very comfortable, almost expected from an IEM based on resin
  • Easy to drive due to its low impedance and high sensitivity
  • Provides a lot of clarity
  • Has a very natural tonality, even with balanced drivers

Product Considerations

  • Its design might be too fragile and prone to scratches
  • May lack impact and slam for music with a lot of low-octave focus
  • Some amplifiers might not synergize well, needing experimentation

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Moondrop variations, the Cadenza is preferred for its handling of transitions

Takeaway: The Cadenza is a beautiful IEM with great clarity that's also comfortable to wear. It is an easy to drive IEM, with great potential to provide enjoyable listening sessions.

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

Cadenza

reviews

[{"title":"LETSHUOER Cadenza 4 Deserves More Credit! (Review & Comparison)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8f5DwlGkJgE","source":"AndyAudioVault","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"in-Ear Fetish Review \\\\ Letshuoer Cadenza IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ2u94my3D8","source":"AndyAudioVault","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Review - High-Roller Hunt Ep.3","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wD99nYqrOQ","source":"Hangout․Audio","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"LETSHUOER Cadenza 4 Review - 1DD+3BA Hybrid","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2gXbNhEIgs","source":"Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Save Your MONEY!! | LetShuoer Cadenza 4 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXOcz5kQpV4","source":"Audio Amigo","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"When tonality + technicality + affordable met together 🍀 Letshuoer Cadenza 4 Review (English)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNvpPz2u5J8","source":"The Headphone Show","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Letshuoer Cadenza 4 | Jack of all trades master of none (v/s Timeless AE, EA1000, S15)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOvb93MXUDU","source":"Vortex Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"LETSHUOER Cadenza 12 2024 Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/letshuoer-cadenza-12-2024-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"LETSHUOER CADENZA 12 (2024) REVIEW","link":"https://audionotions.com/letshuoer-cadenza-12-2024-review-definitive-flagship","source":"audionotions.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"LETSHUOER Cadenza 12: Form vs Function","link":"https://headphones.com/blogs/reviews/letshuoer-cadenza-12-review?srsltid=AfmBOorShBHLQd5b1C4xHIZBI9DDdIutlJPHNazGkf5c2vZqv6zJoKSS","source":"headphones.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"LETSHUOER CADENZA 4 REVIEW – The Midrange King","link":"https://www.headphoneer.com/letshuoer-cadenza-4-review","source":"headphoneer.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Letshuoer Cadenza 4 Review: Pietro's Take","link":"https://mobileaudiophile.com/in-ear-earphones-iem-iems-reviews/letshuoer-cadenza-4-review-pietros-take","source":"mobileaudiophile.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Letshuoer Cadenza 4 Review • Ear Fidelity","link":"https://www.ear-fidelity.com/letshuoer-cadenza-4-revie","source":"ear-fidelity.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

  • Drivers: 11 BA drivers + 1 composite dynamic driver
  • Shell Material: Titanium alloy
  • Cable: 204-strands 6N Monocrystalline Copper and Silver Hybrid
LETSHUOER Cadenza is the new LETSHUOER flagship in-ear headphones. It features with 12 hybrid drivers, titanium chassis, six-way electronic crossover five acoustic bores, and 204-strands cable 6N Monocrystalline Copper and Silver Hybrid. Most importantly, it represents the TOP artisanship from LETSHUOER ACOUSTIC.
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:

LETSHUOER DZ4  

  • Positioning: A budget-oriented IEM designed for everyday use with a unique dynamic driver setup.  
  • Description: Combines three 6mm titanium dome dynamic drivers with a passive filtering module that helps maintain clarity in a compact design. Compared to other models like the DX1 or S08, it offers basic sound performance ideal for standard personal use at a low price, suitable for buyers with modest budgets and conventional connectivity needs.

LETSHUOER S08  

  • Positioning: An entry-level planar IEM using advanced production techniques.  
  • Description: Uses a fourth-generation dual voice coil planar driver enhanced by nanoscopic magnetron sputtering and a PTR elastic film surround to improve stability and low-frequency response. Compared to the DZ4 and DX1, its planar technology delivers a distinct tonal character that may appeal to users needing precise monitoring in controlled environments.

LETSHUOER DX1  

  • Positioning: A mid-range IEM featuring a self-developed 11mm dynamic driver with additional tuning features for versatile listening.  
  • Description: Includes a built-in 5kHz notch filter and high-precision CNC components that help reduce distortion and refine sound detail. Relative to the entry-level models, it provides enhanced clarity and richer detail.

LETSHUOER Mystic 8  

  • Positioning: A high-resolution IEM designed for live performance and detailed monitoring with an eight balanced armature driver array.  
  • Description: Features eight BA drivers paired with a low-pass filtering module, three-way electronic crossover, and four-way acoustic tube to ensure controlled bass and crisp high frequencies. Compared to the dynamic models, its complex driver configuration offers greater sound precision and depth.

LETSHUOER Cadenza  

  • Positioning: The flagship in-ear headphone, built with a hybrid driver system and premium materials.  
  • Description: Combines 12 hybrid drivers, a titanium chassis, and a 204-strand cable made from 6N monocrystalline copper and silver hybrid elements to deliver balanced tone and clarity. When compared with all other products in the lineup, it is aimed at audiophiles who require cutting-edge technology, superior build quality, and advanced functionality for critical listening and professional studio use.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
814
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
6
Founding Year
2016

Our take on the brand

Letshuoer is a hifi audio brand known for democratizing planar-magnetic IEMs with their S12 model, which brought exceptional technical performance to the $150 price point. The brand sets itself apart through unconventional driver architectures like their proprietary R-Sonic passive filtering module for pressure relief and staging expansion.

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?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
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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?

Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
/
Released
2024
The latest from the acoustics team at Campfire Audio, Astrolith represents the tip-of-the-spear for IEMs using a pure planar magnetic architecture. Further expanding on Campfire's lineage of planar earphones, Astrolith incorporates two new drivers wrapped in our PPR and AAOI tuning elements. Combining the inherent advantages of planar magnetic drivers with decades of acoustic engineering experiences brings about an incredible new horizon in the realm of planar magnetic IEMs.
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Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive technical performance, clarity, detail retrieval, and resolution due to its planar magnetic drivers.
  • Features a new, comfortable, and ergonomic shell design that's also lightweight and durable.
  • Includes two upgraded Time Stream Metal cables, providing both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
  • Delivers a strong, extended bass response, with texture and speed, plus a nimble, airy top-end.
  • Exhibits a spacious, wide, and holographic soundstage with good imaging and instrument separation.

Product Considerations

  • Lower sensitivity might require a dedicated DAP or amplifier for optimal performance, and can sound anemic when paired with just a phone.
  • Can be sensitive to source pairings, warmer DACs might wash out the mids and some pairings may bring out sibilance.
  • Stock tips might not provide the best seal for everyone, and the stock tip selection is poor.
  • Silicone eartips can make the treble sound harsh.
  • The mirror-finished stainless steel faceplate is prone to fingerprints and smudges.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Campfire Audio Bonneville: Astrolith has superior mids, clarity, detail and transparency, and better treble extension, articulation, and overall resolution.
  • Vs 64 Audio Volür: Astrolith offers bigger bass and a more exciting presentation, as well as faster and more resolving sound, but Volür is more accurate overall.
  • Vs. Oriolus Monachaa: Astrolith has a faster and more controlled bass with better texture, a more natural and realistic midrange with a fabulous timbre.
  • Vs. Elysian Acoustic Labs Annihilator: Astrolith delivers a more robust and organic mid-range with realistic and natural timbre and more defined lower mids.

Takeaway: The Astrolith is a technically impressive IEM with a comfortable design that delivers a powerful and detailed sound. It could be a great pick for listeners who want high-end sound that can play all kinds of music well.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
/
Released
2023
SVANAR — HiFiMAN's Flagship Single Dynamic Driver IEM with Over-Ear Detail.
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HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Captures the sound of the original Svanar, with a balanced tuning emphasizing bass and treble while maintaining the mids
  • Incredible imaging performance, offering a wide, well-rounded, three-dimensional soundstage with excellent positioning and separation—highly competitive, even compared to non-TWS IEMs under $1000
  • Has an R2R DAC which permits unreachable technical performance
  • Very light and comfortable
  • Excellent connectivity and usability

Product Considerations

  • LDAC connectivity issues with invasive intermittence and noise cutting
  • ANC and Transparency mode aren’t very useful and lack dynamic, delivering leaner dynamic, less musicality
  • Plastic build might not be most durable if dropped
  • High-frequencies are quite sensible to the source, making it one of the least forgiving TWS
  • Hiss is also present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Svanar Wireless is punchier, with better bass detail and imaging, and a wider soundstage, while the Final ZE8000 has a warmer, more neutral sound
  • The Svanar Wireless has stronger imaging performance, a wider soundstage, and a better balance between separation and cohesion
  • The Svanar Wireless is superior in technicalities and tonal balance, as well as timbre and tone naturalness, and ultimately musicality
  • The Svanar Wireless' soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more "noisy"
  • The Svanar Wireless has better sound and performs better technically
  • The Sony TWS has bloated bass that overwhelms everything else; in comparison, the soundstage and treble performance of the Svanar Wireless is miles ahead, presenting a much more detailed, natural, and sophisticated kind of sound

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless sounds impressive for wireless earbuds, and it has great connectivity and features. For those seeking high-end wireless sound, these are worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Lime Ears
Terra
1999
/
Released
2024
Terra represents your entry into the world of true high-end audio, revealing layers of music you might never have known existed in your favorite recordings.
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Lime Ears is a hifi headphone brand recognized for their VariBore acoustic design, which varies bore diameters across frequency bands to reduce air friction and smooth treble. Their models feature horn nozzles inspired by musical instruments, targeted bass switching that affects only the lowest frequencies without muddying mids, and specialized tuning such as the Aether R's far-field monitor voicing that emulates big three-way speakers with external subs.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Great build quality and design with eye-catching faceplates
  • Listeners can enjoy the versatile sound signature, suitable for all-rounder listening preferences
  • Good balance of technical performance and warm musical tonality

Product Considerations

  • Bass could use a bit more texture to color the rumble
  • Unvented shell design and larger-than-average nozzle size (6.2 mm)
  • Stock cable is stiff and without a chin cinch

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus 64 Audio U4s, the Terra falls between the U4s warmer, lusher end of the spectrum and the Symphonium Helios' lean and bright signature
  • The Terra is a better blend of technical performance as well as warmth in the musical aspect when compared to Awful Cantor

Takeaway: The Lime Ears Terra is a versatile IEM that provides a good balance of technical performance and warm, musical tonality with solid bass, mids, and excellent treble. The build quality is excellent, and they have a unique look in the marketplace.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Lime Ears is a hifi headphone brand recognized for their VariBore acoustic design, which varies bore diameters across frequency bands to reduce air friction and smooth treble. Their models feature horn nozzles inspired by musical instruments, targeted bass switching that affects only the lowest frequencies without muddying mids, and specialized tuning such as the Aether R's far-field monitor voicing that emulates big three-way speakers with external subs.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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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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.

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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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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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