Redefining In-Ear Audio: The 64 Audio Guide
Read Time: Approx. 20 min.
Tubeless In-Ear Audio, Timeless Designs, and Premium Sound Quality–That's a 64 Audio IEM
64 Audio is arguably one of the top IEM brands on the market, backed by musicians, artists, and audio professionals alike who exclusively use their In-Ear Monitors. From Beyonce, Bon Jovi, and the Black Eyed Peas to Jay-Z, Toni Braxton, and MGMT, 64 Audio has catered to the stars and gained a reputation as a trusted universal and custom IEM manufacturer.
As the first company to introduce a tubeless IEM design, 64 Audio has forged a path as an innovator that continues to push the boundaries of IEM performance with every new product release. Don't let the flashy faceplates fool you, this isn't just another hi-fi manufacturer trying to win you over with looks–64 Audio is the real deal. With the most included accessories we've seen from an IEM manufacturer to date, 64 Audio ensures you get your money back...and some.
Continue reading to discover why 64 Audio is the number one IEM trusted by musicians, and why every audiophile is dying to own a pair.
Ingenious design, innovative technology, and a host of accessories–64 Audio IEMs are worth every penny and more
64 Audio Product Line
From sound quality to design and internal technology, 64 Audio produces IEMs that border on the line of exquisite. 64 Audio has left no stone unturned, going to great lengths to create universal IEMs that fit like a custom in-ear monitor, sound like a flagship, and perform like no other. Included with most 64 Audio universal IEMs–but not every model–are the Apex Modules, which we go into more detail about in the section "The 64 Audio Edge" below. These modules allow listeners to swap the tonality of their IEMs on a dime, much like our Dragon Audio Cables do for your headphones and IEMs.
With the promise of delivering our customers a curated collection of hi-fi gear, we've picked out the very best of the best 64 Audio Universal IEMs to carry at Moon Audio. Alongside universal IEMs, we also offer 64 Audio custom IEMs for audiophiles and music lovers to enjoy. Please see the section "The 64 Audio Edge" below for detailed information on ordering a custom 64 Audio IEM, and reach out to us with any additional questions and inquiries.
64 Audio U6t In-Ear Monitors
Flagship-level performance at an accessible price
Balanced, natural-sounding with a soft presentation
At $1,299, the U6t IEM is 64 Audio's entry-level universal IEM, boasting 6 drivers and a balanced sound quality. Drawing sonic inspiration from the U12t, the U6t IEM is natural with upper-mid imaging that realistically presents instruments with character and life. With the same groundbreaking technology as 64 Audio's flagship IEMs, the U6t offers top-of-the-line performance at an accessible price point.
The U6t sets itself apart from other UIEM models by offering a softer presentation that breathes life into saturated mid-bass mixes, especially when vocal-focused. The U6t features 64 Audio's proprietary tia, apex, and LID technology, as well as the apex modules for tonal customization.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Bronze Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- Six precision-tuned balanced armature drivers
- Three-way crossover design
- Apex modules
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex)
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Linear Impedance Design (LID)
Specs:
- Transducer Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Driver, 2 Mid DRivers, 2 Low Drivers
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 10 ohms
- Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
64 Audio Solo In-Ear Monitors
Full-range sound quality
Single planar magnetic driver IEM
At $1,399, the Solo is 64 Audio's dynamic, fun-sounding IEM. Living up to its name, the Solo IEM only features one planar magnetic driver, covering the entire sonic spectrum and achieving maximum realism. Transients emerge from the mix, lending a harmonious, full-range sound to your music. The planar magnetic driver features a flat diaphragm with embedded conductors suspended between two sets of magnets, unlike traditional dynamic drivers that utilize a conical diaphragm driven by a voice coil. Since the diaphragm isn't driven by a voice coil, 64 Audio has managed to extract a true high-resolution full-range sound from a single driver.
Despite only featuring one 14.2mm planar driver, the Solo IEM is a technical feat with several patented technologies like LID, apex core, tia, and two Helmholtz Resonators, meticulously tuned to acoustically sculpt its frequency response. The two micro-cavities, 3D printed into the Solo’s sound chamber, operate by forcing air in and out, causing the air inside to resonate at a specific frequency.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Silver Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- 14.2mm custom planar magnetic driver
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Air Pressure Exchange Core (Apex Core)
- Linear Impedance Design (LID)
Sepcs:
- Transducer Configuration: 14.2mm planar magnetic driver
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW @ 1 kHz
- Impedance: 16 Ohms
- Isolation: -12 dB
64 Audio Nio In-Ear Monitors
Well-balanced, Neutral Sound Signature
Complements many genres
At $1,699, the Nio is a high driver-count hybrid universal IEM featuring a 9mm dynamic driver and eight balanced armature drivers. With a total of nine drivers in each earphone, the Nio's sound signature is characterized as being well-balanced and neutral with a rich 3-dimensional soundstage and nice detail retrieval in the mids and highs. That, plus the Nio's smooth treble and natural warmth, provides hours of enjoyable listening with all genres of music.
The Nio is one of 64 Audio's more striking IEMs with a unique faceplate that's finished with a naturally sourced striking blue abalone shell. The Nio features 64 Audio's tia, apex, and LID technology, as well as the apex modules for tonal customization.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Silver Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- Professional-grade balanced armature driver
- Apex M20 module for comfort and reduced fatigue
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex)
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
Specs:
- Transducer Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Driver, 6 Mid Drivers, 1 Dynamic Low Driver
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 105dB/mW
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 6 Ohms
- Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
64 Audio U12t In-Ear Monitors
Most highly-regarded and sought after audiophile UIEM
Immersive sound and impeccable spatial imaging
At $1,999, the U12t IEM is 64 Audio's jack of all trades. It does it all, delivering immersive sound, impeccable spatial imaging, and reference-level detail. Whether you're a warm and musical listener or a discerning audiophile, the U12t's sound quality is versatile enough to complement any listener. Its articulate highs extend beautifully with a warm and engaging low-end response.
The U12t's balanced armature drivers lend to its incredible timbre, bass, and resolution. The U12t is equipped with 64 Audio's tia, apex, and LID technology, as well as the apex modules for tonal customization.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Silver Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- 12 drivers
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex)
- Linear Impedance Design (LID)
Specs:
- Transducer Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Driver, 6 Mid Drivers, 4 Low Drivers
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 108dB @ 1kHz @ 1mW
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 12.6 Ohms from 10Hz-20kHz
- Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
64 Audio Volür In-Ear Monitors
Rich, emotionally engaging sound with deep visceral bass
Warm and Musical Listeners Choice
At $2,499, the Volür IEM is the perfect choice for warm and musical listeners who love nothing more than to dive headfirst into their music. The Volür expands on the success of the Nio IEM–a well-loved universal IEM with a well-balanced sound signature. The difference? A warmer, fuller, more emotive and musical sound quality.
The Volür is most notably one of 64 Audio's most daring innovations yet, with 10 drivers, crossed over four ways (2 dynamic drivers for the bass, 6 balanced armature drivers for the low mids, one balanced armature driver for the high-mids, and the direct-radiating tia driver for the highs). The two custom 9mm dynamic drivers are arrayed in a True Isobaric Configuration, delivering unprecedented performance in the low-frequency band. Fitted with 64 Audio's tia (Tubeless In-Ear Audio) technology, Apex (Air Pressure Exchange) technology, and LID (Linear Impedance Design) technology, the Volür is a high-performing IEM ready to join your hi-fi setup.
The Volür stands out in 64 Audio's lineup with its deep, visceral bass, which is sure to please the demands of any bass lover. You're immediately transported into the center of a song with an "in your head" experience that wraps around you. The included Apex Modules (m15, m12, m20, mX) allow listeners to enjoy multiple tonalities in a single IEM, like having four IEMs in one shell. If you're in the market for an IEM that's musical, dynamic, and capable of putting a smile on your face from ear to ear, check out the Volür Universal IEMs.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Silver Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- Unprecedented Low-Frequency Capabilities
- Boasts two new custom 9mm dynamic drivers configured in a True Isobaric™ setup
- Refined High-Frequency Performance
- Unique Mid-Range Presentation
- New M12 Module
- Air Pressure Exchange (Apex)
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
Specs:
- Transducer Type: Dynamic + Balanced Armature
- Transducer Configuration: 2 Low Dynamic Drivers, 6 Mid Balanced Armature, 1 High-Mid Balanced Armature, 1 tia High BA
- Frequency Response: 5Hz-22kHz
- Sensitivity: 103 dB/mW @ 1kHz @ 1mW (94mV)
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 6.3 Ohms @ 1kHz
- Isolation: -20dB with m20 module, -15dB with m15 module, -12dB with m12 module, -10dB with mX module
64 Audio U18t In-Ear Monitors
Incredible detail, extension, and clarity across all frequencies
Top-of-the-line Reference IEM for Critical Listeners
When you think 64 Audio couldn't squeeze any more drivers inside an IEM, they raise the bar with 18 balanced armature drivers per side in the U18t IEM. At $2,999, the U18t is 64 Audio's top-of-the-line reference IEM, released and developed alongside the Fourté in 2016. The U18t features 64 Audio's proprietary tia and apex technology, delivering incredible detail, extension, and clarity across all frequencies.
The U18t IEM pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a universal In-Ear Monitor, attaining a level of detail and precision fit for critical listeners and mixing and mastering engineers. The U18t achieves its quick bass response, while retaining enough sub-bass amplitude, by coupling eight modified mid-drivers for the low frequency band rather than using fewer/larger drivers. Another eight low-mid drivers match that amplitude in the mids. The U18t's design is rounded out with PVD Stainless Steel faceplates that're finished with an Imperial Red enamel-like chip inlay.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Bronze Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- 18 balanced armature drivers
- 4-way passive crossover
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Air Pressure Exchange (apex)
Specs:
- Transducer Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Driver, 8 Mid Drivers, 8 Low Drivers
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 111 dB/mW @ 1kHz @ 1mW
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 9 Ohms @ 1kHz
- Isolation: -20dB, -15dB, -10dB
64 Audio Fourté In-Ear Monitors
Detailed, Balanced, Natural Tonality
Discerning Listeners Choice
64 Audio's flagship IEM, the Fourté, is the pinnacle of audio performance with remarkable clarity and precision and proprietary technologies like the tia system. At $3,599, the Fourté is much more than a four-driver Hybrid UIEM–it's a representation of the company's commitment to delivering exceptional audio performance in a comfortable, stylish package. The Fourté's unique drivers, acoustic chambers, integrated apex technology, and passive radiator work harmoniously to deliver an unrivaled sonic experience. Unlike several of the other models, the Fourté does not use the apex modules.
The Fourté's black anodized aluminum shell is topped with a copper color anodized aluminum faceplate and an aged copper faceplate chip that gives it a striking look without being overly flashy. The Fourté's balanced, natural tonality makes it an incredibly versatile-sounding IEM that complements just about every genre. It's the perfect IEM for audiophiles seeking a detailed, lifelike sound quality and a supremely comfortable fit.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: Bronze Dragon IEM Cable
Features:
- Four-driver hybrid design
- Universal fit with detachable cable
- Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia)
- Air Pressure Exchange (apex)
Specs:
- Transducer Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Driver, 1 tia Mid Driver, 1 Dynamic Low Driver
- Frequency Response: 5Hz-22kHz
- Sensitivity: 114dB @ 1kHz @ 1mW
- Crossover: Integrated 4-way Passive Crossover
- Impedance: 10 Ohms @ 1kHz
- Isolation: -20dB Internal Apex Technology
The 64 Audio Edge: Proprietary Technology, Apex Modules, and Exceptional Comfort
64 Audio Proprietary Technology
64 Audio is no stranger to innovation. With several proprietary technologies incorporated into their IEMs, 64 Audio pushes the boundaries of IEM performance, delivering exceptional audio performance to audiophiles, artists, musicians, and audio pros alike.
"The industry just kind of repeats history, and copies itself. It's all just tubes, drivers, and dampers. Over the years, we've learned that it's not necessarily about the total number of drivers, but how you arrange them."
–Vitaliy Belonozhko, 64 Audio Founder and Chief Sound Designer
Tia: Tubeless In-Ear Audio
The Tubeless In-Ear Audio (Tia) technology is 64 Audio's claim to fame. They were the first to launch an IEM that didn't use a single tube, setting them apart from the competition. Tia allows sound to travel to the ear more naturally, resulting in an expansive soundstage and smooth frequency response. The tia system consists of three major elements: One balanced armature tia drivers, the tia single-bore design, and tia acoustic chambers. The tia single-bore serves as a sound-shaping chamber that helps the tia high driver deliver a linear and coherent frequency response. The tia driver is an open-balanced armature speaker design that eliminates a lot of vibrations and resonances that are inherent in conventional, closed-balanced armature designs.
One of the defining characteristics of the tia technology is the smooth and extended high-frequency sound achieved by the direct-radiating driver in the IEM nozzle. To enhance the treble response even more, 64 Audio created the tia waveguide mechanism. The tia waveguide is a mounting mechanism that's fitted to the direct-radiating tia high driver to increase the efficiency and general amplitude of the high-frequency band. In order to refine the high-frequency response, special diffusion windows are integrated into the front and side of the waveguide. tia waveguide plays the biggest role in improving the high-frequency response with special diffusion windows integrated into the front and side of the waveguide.
Apex: Air Pressure Exchange
Air Pressure Exchange (Apex) is a patented vent that releases air pressure in a sealed ear canal while retaining standard IEM levels of isolation for longer, more comfortable listening sessions. When you place an IEM in your ear canal, the air inside becomes trapped, and as the speaker produces sound, it moves air and causes the eardrum to work excessively. This pressure causes ear fatigue, which not only diminishes your listening time but can be uncomfortable.
The Apex's venting system relieves this pressure, allowing the eardrum to move naturally so you can enjoy longer listening sessions without fatigue. As a result, you get an extended soundstage that preserves the bass frequencies and helps you distinguish individual instruments better.
LID: Linear Impedance Design
Linear Impedance Design (LID) enables a consistent, reliable sound regardless of what device the IEMs are plugged into. This circuit corrects the non-linear impedances of the drivers, restoring proper interaction with the source device and preserving the desired sound signature. Varying source amplifier output impedance in devices like smartphones, body packs, DAC/Amps, and DAPs typically results in varying frequency responses depending on the increase in resistance.
Apex Modules
An incredibly unique offering included with several 64 Audio Universal and Custom IEMs is the apex modules. These tiny interchangeable modules afford you the luxury of having multiple IEMs without purchasing more than one. 64 Audio has four apex modules: m20, mX, m15, and m10.
The apex modules allow you to adjust pressure relief, noise isolation, bass attenuation, and mix width. The m20 module comes standard with most of 64 Audio's IEMs, and retains the most low-frequency energy and tight center imaging with roughly -20dB of noise isolation. The mX achieves the most open and transparent audio experience. It reduces ambient noise isolation to -10dB and transforms the IEMs into a "mastering-grade tool" with a very resolved sound signature.
The m15 module features a combination of dual ambient ports and modified internals to achieve -15dB isolation. It allows for slightly more ambient sound than the m20 and helps tame the bass. Lastly, the m12 module provides -12dB isolation, making it a good choice for listeners who felt that the bass drop between m15 and mX is too drastic. It's the perfect choice for tracks where the bass response is just slightly overpowering the rest of the spectrum.
Want to enjoy some classical compositions? Switch out the m15 for the mX module. Not getting the instrument separation you desire? Switch to the m20 module. Need to tame the bass response? The m12 module can do the job. It's that easy. No frills, no fuss.
Exceptional Fit and Comfort
Anyone with experience wearing and using universal IEMs knows the struggle of finding the perfect fit and achieving a strong seal. In the same way that no two ears hear alike, they're also not shaped alike. From a manufacturer's perspective, they're tasked with the impossible: Create an IEM that will appeal to the masses with minimal complaints. The goal is to create an IEM that isn't too big, is comfortable for extended periods, and can achieve a tight, strong seal.
From a consumer standpoint, there's nothing worse than getting a new pair of IEMs only to find out they're too big to fit comfortably in your ears. You try swapping ear tips, placing them differently, and shortening your listening sessions. And sometimes, regardless of what you do, an IEM is just straight-up uncomfortable–and you can't do anything about it.
If this profile sounds like you, you're entitled to better-fitting IEMs. 64 Audio is here to provide you with that long-awaited relief!
64 Audio has cracked the code for creating the perfect universal IEM. Strip away the patented technology, fancy faceplates, and exceptional sound quality, and you're left with an IEM that fits as if it were made for your ears and no one else's. Their form factor resembles a tiny kidney bean, complementing the natural ear shape perfectly.
When it comes to the shell and faceplate design, 64 Audio's custom IEMs take a more daring approach than their universal models. Their custom models are made of hypoallergenic, durable hard acrylic plastic from a 3D printed resin. The process is as customizable as you want, with various shell colors, artwork/icons, and faceplate finishes. For more information on ordering a 64 Audio Custom IEM, please contact us, and we'd be happy to walk you through the process.
Their universal IEMs are machined out of solid aluminum, configured in various ways to suit each model. The faceplates are both understated and simple. No obnoxious, flashy faceplate. Just a simple, intentional design.
All of 64 Audio's universal and custom IEMs are designed, assembled, and QC'd by highly-skilled technicians in the United States using domestically and globally sourced materials
Included Accessories
One of the best perks of purchasing a pair of 64 Audio IEMs is the plethora of included accessories. You can tell that 64 Audio really cares about the user's comfort and listening experience because they've not only included standard accessories like a cable, but a cleaning tool, a cable clip, a faux-leather carrying case, and a variety of specially-designed ear tips on a tip holder. Plus a 64 Audio sticker! A cable clip, commonly used by audio pros sporting custom IEMs, keeps the cable from getting caught and damaging the IEM jacks, and the cleaning tool will help remove build-up and debris that could potentially reach the IEM driver.
The ear tips, which we're personally most excited about, are specially designed by 64 Audio to deliver you the best possible listening experience. 64 Audio's true fidelity foam tips are made of a unique foam blend that molds easily to your ear and doesn't overly accentuate the top end and alter the sound quality. The SpinFit foam ear tips are a crowd favorite because of their extreme comfort, easy placement, and ability to stay in place for long listening sessions. Lastly, 64 Audio includes silicone tips that they say provide an incredibly accurate sound reproduction.
Who is 64 Audio?
It's been 15 years since 64 Audio was founded by Vitaliy Belonozhko, who set out to revolutionize professional in-ear monitoring. Formerly known as 1964 Ears LLC, the company's first quad 4-driver IEM was released for audio professionals in 2010, and from that point forward, the company never looked back.
Innovation has been at the core of 64 Audio's business model since the beginning, with several industry firsts, including the real wooden faceplates crafted from genuine wood for a vintage look. In 2015, 64 Audio began implementing its 3D printing technology for acrylic IEM shells, which was later patented in 2021. In 2016, 64 Audio made headlines with the launch of its Air Pressure Exchange technology (Apex) and again with the launch of fully tubeless IEMs later that year.
In 2018, 64 Audio faced stardom when major touring artists and audio engineers embraced their IEMs on stage and in the studio. From that moment on, 64 Audio has become a trusted brand for audio professionals, famous artists, and musicians. If you see Beyoncé rocking a pair of diamond-embedded IEMs on stage, just know they came from a collab with Tiffany Co. and 64 Audio in 2023. Talk about star-studded!
Today, 64 Audio is supported worldwide with a list of global dealers and distributors adopting and reselling 64 Audio products with great reception. Their commitment to innovation, quality, and professional excellence is stronger than ever, and delighting the ears of every music lover is at the top of that list.
Dragon Cables
Verdict
Whether you're a music enthusiast or a professional musician, 64 Audio's range of earphones offers something for every listener, combining cutting-edge technology with accessibility and superior audio quality.
64 Audio stands alone in the high-fidelity IEM market as one of the few brands prioritizing comfort and fit above all else. Founded by a professional sound engineer who knows firsthand the limitations of traditional IEMs, 64 Audio approaches every IEM design from a user's perspective, resulting in models that eliminate listening fatigue and pressure without compromising on performance.
From the rich, enveloping sound of the Volür IEM to the well-balanced, versatile sound of the Nio, 64 Audio's product lineup suits the likes of warm and musical listeners, critical listeners, and every audiophile in between. The price-to-performance is exceptional, and the value you get from the construction and included accessories alone speaks for itself. Audiophiles interested in enhancing the tonality of their 64 Audio IEMs or upgrading the stock cable should consider our Dragon Audio Cables. The Silver Dragon IEM Cable will add detail, clarity, and resolution, while the Bronze Dragon IEM Cable enhances the low-end with warmth and musicality.
64 Audio's mission: "To inspire musicians and music lovers to unearth a deeper connection with music through extraordinary sounding products and meaningful relationships." Congratulations 64 Audio on achieving that mission...and some.
In addition to universal IEMs, we offer custom models from 64 Audio. For more information on how to order a 64 Audio custom IEM from Moon Audio, please contact us.
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