This ultimate guide ranks all 64 Audio in-ear monitors (IEMs) in 2025, offering a comprehensive review and comparison of each model. From the flagship 4K Forte to the budget-friendly U4S, we delve into the sonic characteristics, technical performance, and overall value of each IEM. This detailed analysis considers various factors, including tuning style, price point, and target audience, to help you find the perfect 64 Audio IEM for your needs and preferences. We examine both lauded models and those that fell short of expectations, providing an unbiased assessment of each.This ranking isn't simply a list; it's a journey through 64 Audio's diverse lineup. We explore the strengths and weaknesses of each IEM, highlighting their unique sonic signatures and technical capabilities. Whether you're a bass enthusiast seeking powerful low-end or an audiophile prioritizing detail and accuracy, this guide offers invaluable insights to inform your purchasing decision. Discover which IEMs offer the best value for their price and which models stand out as exceptional performers in their respective categories.
Pros And Cons
- Sounds close to Neo
- Big bass boost
- Elevated upper mids and treble
- Balanced overall sound profile
- Good clarity
- Great bass dynamics and impact
- Arguably better resolution than Neo
- Upper mids peak at 2kHz instead of 3kHz
- Clear step up from other 64 Audio IMs
- Great perceived technical ability
- Great dynamic presence
- Exceptional articulation and control
- Top-tier sound stage, imaging, layering
- Excellent resolution
- Boring tuning
- Fantastic bass
- Lots of mid-range clarity
- Contrasty sound
- Strong sense of technical abilities
- Big dynamic swings in bass
- Unnatural treble peak
- Warps timbre of treble-focused instruments
- Can be grating to listen to
- Expensive
- Fun to listen to
- Indulgent, dirty bass feel without being bloated
- Smoother and more coherent sound than Velour
- No upper treble timbre issues
- Expensive
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
64 Audio Flagship Flop: The 4K Forte
The 64 Audio 4K Forte, despite its hefty $3,600 price tag, surprisingly lands at the bottom of my ranking. Its tuning is wildly unconventional, bordering on unpleasant. While I appreciate a touch of coloration, the Forte's sound signature is excessively skewed, rendering many instruments unnatural.
In my prior review, I meticulously listed instruments that sounded off-key – practically every instrument in a typical pop or rock track. The technical performance doesn't compensate for this significant flaw in tonal balance. The Forte's timbre is simply jarring and unacceptable for its price point.
Collector's Item or IM Failure? The D4 Duo
The D4 Duo boasts a heavily colored sound signature, straying significantly from my usual preferences. Yet, I tolerate its coloration. The major issue is its impracticality as a primary IEM; it feels more like a niche item, better suited for occasional use when a dramatically different sonic experience is desired.
At $1,200, the price point makes it difficult to justify given its limited practicality. This is an IEM you'd pull out to experiment with rather than use regularly. There are many superior alternatives available for frequent use.
The 64 Audio Solo: A Planar Disappointment
The 64 Audio Solo receives a C rating. While the sound is decent, stemming from its use of a Chinese planar driver within a 64 Audio shell, it doesn't justify the $1,400 price. The Solo's frequency response shows a clear similarity to other popular Chinese planar IEMs.
Although 64 Audio improved some treble issues common in planar drivers, it doesn't excuse the elevated price. It's a good-sounding IEM in isolation, but the lack of innovation and the late entry into the planar market make it disappointing. However, the copper shell's design is aesthetically pleasing.
Mid-Range Marvels: U18S and U8T
The U18S earns a B rating. It’s a very good IEM with a reference-style tuning and excellent technical performance. However, its odd upper treble wispiness due to the TIA drivers and the high price ($3,000) hold it back.
The U8T receives a similar B rating, although my experience with it was limited. Both offer impressive sound but are outperformed by other 64 Audio models. The price point is a significant factor in their lower ranking despite their strong performance.
The Velour: Bass-Heavy But Treble Troubles
The Velour, aimed at bass enthusiasts, delivers impressive bass performance with excellent mid-range clarity and dynamic swings. The tuning creates a contrasty sound with perceived technical skill. However, the upper treble suffers from an unnatural peak due to the TIA drivers.
This peak warps the timbre of treble-focused instruments and might be fatiguing. While not painful, it’s a noticeable flaw and a deal-breaker for some. The high price ($2500) compared to the Neo also impacts its ranking.
A-Tier Contenders: The Neo and Trio
The Neo earns an A rating, offering an enjoyable, indulgent bass response without bloating. Its tuning is smoother and more coherent than the Velour, lacking the latter's upper treble issues. At $1700, it’s relatively reasonably priced within 64 Audio's lineup.
The Trio, priced at $2300, also receives an A. Despite its colored sound signature and unconventional frequency response, it's exceptionally engaging, vibrant, and dynamic. The Trio excels in modern rock and alternative genres, leading to a more immersive listening experience.
Solid Performers: U6t and U4S
The U6t receives an A tier ranking; considered the best by some reviewers, it offers a well-balanced, warm sound with excellent technical performance. However, I personally wish for more lower-treble energy for added crispness and vocal breathiness.
The U4S, at $1100, is a near-S tier IEM, closely resembling the Neo's sound signature with a balanced overall profile. Its enhanced treble adds clarity, although a slightly different upper mid-range peak might further refine its sound.
Top Tier Champion: The U12t
The U12t secures an S-tier ranking. It boasts exceptional technical performance surpassing other 64 Audio IEMs. The balanced armature drivers provide impressive dynamics, articulation, and control. Soundstage, imaging, and layering are all top-notch.
While some might consider its tuning 'boring', the outstanding resolution and technical prowess make it exceptionally difficult to rank it lower. It's a clear step up in terms of overall performance compared to the other IEMs in the lineup.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect 64 Audio IEM
64 Audio offers a wide range of IEMs catering to diverse preferences and budgets. While the flagship 4K Forte underwhelmed, several models like the Neo, Trio, U6t, and U4S provide excellent value and performance. The U12t stands out as a top-tier option with unparalleled technical capabilities.
The choice ultimately depends on personal sound preferences and budget. Consider factors like tuning style (warm, neutral, colored), technical capabilities (resolution, soundstage), and bass response to find the ideal fit. For value-conscious consumers, the U4S offers exceptional performance at a competitive price.
