64 Audio Ocean IEMs Review: 32 Ways to Rethink Your Sound
Read Time: Approx. 14 min.
TL;DR:
- The 64 Audio Ocean is a 6-driver, 4-way flagship universal IEM with 32 possible sound tunings via Passive Acoustic Control
- Out-of-the-box sound is natural and musical, with flagship-level detail retrieval and imaging
- Champagne copper aluminum shell and aeolian-ripple faceplate deliver standout comfort and a distinctive design
- Comes loaded with accessories: dual cables, three tip types, four apex modules, and a hardshell case
- Best suited for listeners who want one IEM that adapts across genres, moods, and years of use — not just a single sound signature
64 Audio's Most Adaptable Flagship UIEM Yet
You know it's going to be a good week when your colleague drops not one, not two, but three brand-new products on your desk for review–especially when one of those products is from your favorite IEM manufacturer. 64 Audio has spent the last 16 years earning a loyal following among musicians, audio professionals, and audiophiles alike, and their newest flagship, the Ocean, feels like a culmination of everything they've learned along the way.
Built around a 6-driver, 4-way hybrid system, the Ocean IEMs pair a dynamically neutral sound signature with impressive broadband realism. But what truly sets it apart is its sheer adjustability. With 32 possible tuning combinations available via 64 Audio's brand-new Passive Acoustic Control system, the Ocean isn't just a pair of IEMs; it's a fully customizable listening instrument that adapts to your music, your mood, and your gear. Before I discovered 64 Audio, I didn't think IEMs were for me. Universal models never fit my ears right, and I was always stuck choosing between "too bassy" and "too sterile." The Ocean IEMs don't just solve that problem. It obliterates it.
PROS
- 32 tuning combinations mean the Ocean can adapt to nearly any genre or mood, from airy jazz to visceral bass-forward hip-hop
- Best for listeners who want one IEM that adapts across all genres, moods, and years of use
- Out-of-the-box sound is musical and natural with fine detail retrieval and precise imaging
CONS
- Learning curve for passive acoustic control: Requires patience and a steady hand
- Treble can lean peaky at default (REF/REF) tuning, requiring some trial and error to dial in
Design
The Ocean IEMs deliberately stand out from other models in 64 Audio's universal lineup. There's no distinct company logo or two-toned color scheme. Instead, you'll find a champagne copper-colored aluminum shell with a machined faceplate sporting a design inspired by aeolian ripples. What are aeolian ripples, you ask? Well, according to 64 Audio's product page, they're geological patterns formed in sediment and shifted by the movement of wind. Math, history, and science were my weakest subjects in school, and it shows because I don't recall learning about aeolian ripples–although I probably did. I like to call myself creative, but when I'm stacked up against the design forces behind products like the Ocean, I feel quite inferior.
The Ocean's physical ripples on the faceplate solidify its flagship status in the lineup. They stand out without commanding attention. Using the SpinFit silicone ear tips, I enjoyed a tight seal that never broke for a second and a comfortable fit during my entire listening session. They're light enough that I didn't feel like they were pulling on my ears or resting awkwardly, yet durable enough that I wasn't tiptoeing around how I used them. I never have many notes for 64 Audio when it comes to design, because they do it so well there's nothing more to say.
64 Audio has never been one to skimp on the included accessories, and the Ocean is no different. In the box you'll find the usual suspects: a hardshell circular carrying case, three sets of ear tip types in S, M, L (TrueFidelity foam tips, SpinFit silicone ear tips, Silicone ear tips), a shirt clip, a cleaning tool, a cleaning cloth, a round sticker, four apex modules (m20, m15, m12, mX), and the passive acoustic control panel (which we dive into further down). The Ocean IEMs come with two shielded cables, terminated in 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm, offering outstanding noise shielding and transparent signal transmission with a low impedance of just 0.29Ω.
Sound
Given the 32 possible tuning combinations on the Ocean IEMs, these weren't the type of IEMs you get to know in a few hours, so I took my time getting acquainted, starting with the REF high-frequency screen and REF low-frequency filter.
When you're making micro adjustments like these, the results will in turn be micro, so while I did map out all 32 possible combinations and tested them using the same song, it would be splitting hairs to give detailed impressions for each option. Instead, I've given impressions for the top combinations; any standout combinations were given a second listen using multiple tracks, and detailed impressions were added accordingly.
All listening impressions were done using the Astell&Kern PD5 Digital Audio Player as the source device.
Stock Combination: REF HF screen, REF LF filter, m15 apex module
Combination with the boldest low-end reproduction: REF HF screen, +2dB LF filter (or -2dB HF screen depending on treble tolerance), m20 apex module
Combination with the most airy, open, neutral reproduction: REF HF screen, REF LF filter, mX apex module
Right out of the box, the Ocean IEMs will come with the REF HF screen, REF LF filter, and m15 apex module installed. Consider this the baseline. Going off this combination, the Ocean IEMs deliver a musical sound signature that's natural and organic, with great fine detail retrieval and just the right amount of treble extension. The treble does lean peaky at times, but with 32 possible combinations, courtesy of the passive acoustic control panel, that's something you can easily rectify by swapping the REF HF screen for the -2dB one. The REF LF filter delivers a bass response that's tight and punchy, but not visceral or round.
Stacking it up against several other 64 Audio IEMs, it has a sound quality reminiscent of the U6t IEMs. It's got the same well-rounded, musical sound quality, but the Ocean's fine detail retrieval and imaging are not even on the same playing field as the U6t. It's flagship-level through and through. Those are two sonic attributes you pay for when you upgrade to a flagship-level IEM.
Cycling through the four apex modules with the REF HF screen and REF LF filter, the m20 apex module delivered the boldest low-end presentation. On the opposite end of the spectrum sits the mX apex module with its minimal isolation, lending the most open, airy presentation bordering on neutral at times. Swap out that REF HF screen for the -2dB HF screen, and the treble becomes noticeably tamer, and this combination would be my personal choice for swing/big band music, oldies, and acoustic. With the REF HF screen, the treble had its fatiguing moments, but the second I swapped it out for the -2dB one, I was in heaven. I always use Frank Sinatra as my sibilance gauge, largely due to the brass instrumentation present in almost every one of his tracks. I could've listened to that combination (-2dB HF screen, REF LF filter, mX module) for hours on end, starting and restarting Sinatra's tracks to recreate a live concert experience.
As a self-proclaimed basshead, I'm always chasing low-end reproduction. If it doesn't make my skull rattle, I don't want it–just kidding! The +2dB LF filter flexes its sonic muscle, adding an incredibly visceral and round low-end response to R&B, hip-hop, and pop tracks. The m20 apex module delivers the most isolation of all four apex modules, so once I paired it with that +2dB LF filter, I found the sweet spot. Now, I can't definitively say whether the REF HF screen or -2dB HF screen sounded better here; the differences were so small, so I'll leave that choice up to you.
With 32 different combinations suited for every song in your library, piece of gear in your collection, and mood you're in, the Ocean IEMs are your gateway to audio nirvana. They're the first and last IEMs you purchase, flexible enough to withstand the changing landscape of your audiophile setup. Rather than being siloed into a certain sound signature that works with most, but not everything, the Ocean IEMs adapt to you and your listening habits. They're a unicorn in the sea of high-end IEMs.
As an incredibly versatile listener, no two days are the same for me. One day I might crave big, bold bass, and the next I'm seeking quiet, relaxing melodies. With ever-changing listening preferences, I need a level of flexibility that most gear doesn't offer. The Ocean's endless combinations don't leave me feeling pigeonholed the way other headphones and IEMs do. Who are the Ocean IEMs for? Anyone who craves versatility in their day-to-day listening and is ready to invest in a pair of IEMs that they won't tire of in six months, a year, or five years from now.
My Tears Ricochet
By Taylor Swift
(Folklore)
Hang On to Your Love
By Sade
(Diamond Life)
Saturday In the Park (2002 Remaster)
By Chicago
(The Very Best of Chicago: Only the Beginning)
Hate That I Made You Love Me
By Ariana Grande
(Petal)
Features
- 6-driver, 4-way hybrid design for expansive imaging and instrument separation
- Exclusive tia™ high driver paired with a patented meta-material waveguide for natural, lifelike treble
- Passive Acoustic Control with up to 32 sound configurations for personalized tuning
- Dual custom cone-to-cone isobaric dynamic drivers deliver a powerful, clean low end
- Champagne Copper aluminum shell with a machined faceplate inspired by aeolian ripple patterns
- Includes dual shielded cables (3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm) in silver-plated UP-OCC copper
- Designed, assembled, and QC'd by skilled technicians in the United States
At the heart of the Ocean IEMs is a 6-driver, 4-way system composed of two custom dynamic cone-to-cone isobaric drivers, two mid-range balanced armature drivers, one high-mid balanced armature driver, and one tia high driver.
Supporting the Ocean's impressive driver configuration are three of 64 Audio's hallmark technologies: tia, apex, and LID. You'll find these technologies across their entire product catalog, with each serving a specific role in shaping the overall sound signature. Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia) is the company's patented IEM design that reduces unwanted resonance and distortion for a more lifelike, transparent sound signature. Air Pressure Exchange (apex) is a patented vent system that releases air pressure in a sealed ear canal all while retaining standard IEM levels of isolation. If you listen for long periods of time, the included apex modules alleviate listener fatigue while ever-so-slightly altering the tonality. Linear Impedance Design (LID) is a patented circuit that corrects the non-linear electrical resistance of the IEM's multiple driver configuration for a consistent, reliable sound regardless of the source you're using.
Passive Acoustic Control
Passive Acoustic Control is 64 Audio's latest innovation, brand-new and debuted on the Ocean IEMs. It allows you to shape the acoustic response of the IEMs with two stainless steel tia screens that control high-frequency damping and four back-vent filters that regulate the pneumatic loading of the isobaric dynamic drivers. As always, you've got the four Apex modules for pressure relief, but passive acoustic control adds two additional 'filter' options for treble attenuation and low-end response.
On the passive acoustic control panel, you'll find two high-frequency screens (REF HF screen, -2dB HF screen with an extra REF screen) and four low-frequency filters (-6dB LF filter, -2dB LF filter, REF LF filter, +2dB LF filter). The Ocean IEMs come with the REF HF screen and REF LF filter installed. The additional screens and filters can be threaded on/off using the provided tool. Use the star key to adjust the LF filters and the tri-lobe tip to adjust the HF screens.
What to Know Before You Get Started:
Given the tiny size of the HF screens and LF filters, they do require a combination of patience and dexterity. There's a slight learning curve at first, and the whole process requires an extra ounce of patience and a steady hand, so if it feels frustrating the first couple of times, don't worry; you're not alone. You'll get the hang of it. I have pretty nimble fingers and had a fairly painless time screwing and unscrewing the filters.
Know that the screens and filters must be screwed and unscrewed into the control panel itself, so don't try to jam them in there because that won't work. These are tiny, delicate instruments that require nimble fingers. Please be mindful of how tightly you screw them in to avoid over-threading and stripping them. If you lose or damage the instruments, reach out directly to 64 Audio for assistance.
Dragon Cables
[Silver Dragon IEM Cable, Bronze Dragon IEM Cable]
Given the sonic flexibility of the Ocean IEMs, any of our Dragon IEM Cables would be a worthy upgrade. The Silver Dragon IEM Cable stood out as the most resolute option, enhancing fine detail retrieval and nuance. If you're seeking a slightly warmer presentation, the Bronze Dragon IEM Cable adds musicality and fullness to the midrange presentation without masking fine details.
Our HiFi Audio Dragon Cables bring out more of what you love in your music and audio gear. If you love your headphones but wish they had a bit more top-end sparkle - a Silver Dragon Headphone Cable would be a great option. If your USB cables keep dying - as many stock cables do - then check out our quality USB Audio Cables. We say time and time again that materials matter, and our audio cables and custom geometries actually help to bring out those desired properties in your gear and music. We make tons of custom options for our customers so that you can get the right HiFi Audio cable for your exact needs. If you have any questions feel free to Contact Us and we'll be more than happy to help.
Generally, stock audio cables are manufactured with subpar materials, metals with impurities, poor geometries, and an overabundance of layers to make them look and feel like a fire hose. Inconsistency and lack of quality control in stock cables can lead to poor sound quality and a veiled sound vs. what the musician intended for you to hear and feel from the music. Dragon Audio Cables are handcrafted with the highest standards and made to order according to your specific needs. At Moon Audio, we create a custom cable for you using the highest quality UP-OCC silver or copper conductors that can be manufactured. UP-OCC metals are void of impurities and are optimized for signal transfer and sound quality. We have one of the largest collections of audio and headphone connection options available online and we create limitless audio cable options depending on your specific gear and needs.
Why Dragon Cables?
You’ve heard the saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, right? Well, the same applies to your brand new audiophile-grade headphone or other audio components. The weakest link, in this case, is your stock audio cable or the cheap interconnects the manufacturer threw in the box just to get you up and running. Why is the audio cable always an afterthought, when it’s just as important as the rest of your system? At Moon Audio, we use the purest and best raw materials in our cables to unveil your music. We believe that materials matter and your audio cables should have the same care and craftsmanship that manufacturers put into their audio components and headphones. Audio cables are ultimately the connection to your music. The fact remains that cabling is often considered the last priority to that of the main product and a means to cut down the overall production costs. It’s as simple as that. Dragon Cables elevate every note - as if you were hearing your favorite music for the very first time.
Verdict
The 64 Audio Ocean IEMs aren't just another expensive, flagship release. They're 64 Audio's boldest statement yet, redefining our relationship with universal IEMs. It's easy for manufacturers to fall into a rut, recycling the same ideas release after release. It's a fine line between innovation and reinventing the wheel. 64 Audio has never had that problem–and if they ever were worried, the Ocean puts those fears to rest.
Sonically, the Ocean IEMs are difficult to pin down–in the best way possible. Out of the box, its baseline tuning delivers a natural, musical sound with excellent fine detail retrieval and just enough treble extension to keep things lively without tipping into fatigue. But that's just the starting point. Swap in the -2dB HF screen and the mX apex module, and you get an airy, smooth presentation perfect for jazz, big band, and acoustic tracks. Drop in the +2dB LF filter with the m20 apex module, and the Ocean transforms into a visceral, bass-forward IEM built for R&B, hip-hop, and pop. Pair it with our Dragon IEM Cables, like the Bronze Dragon for even greater midrange musicality or the Silver Dragon for added top-end resolution for even greater sonic fidelity. The limit doesn't have to stop at the passive acoustic control panel. Our Dragon IEM Cables made an already impressive presentation even more enjoyable.
Across all 32 combinations, there's consistency: the imaging and detail retrieval never waver, even as the tonality shifts slightly or dramatically depending on your taste.
So, who are the Ocean IEMs for? Anyone who refuses to be boxed into a single sound signature. Listeners whose tastes shift from day to day–like myself–will find the Ocean effortlessly adapts, rather than asking you to compromise. This isn't a pair of IEMs you'll outgrow in six months or two years; it's built to grow with your ears, your gear, and your mood. At the flagship level, that kind of flexibility is rare, and it's exactly what makes the Ocean a standout in the sea of high-end IEMs.
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What's in the Box
- Ocean Universal In-Ear Monitors
- Carry Case
- TrueFidelity Foam Tips (S, M, L)
- SpinFit Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
- Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
- 3.5mm Shielded Cable
- 4.4mm Balanced Shielded Cable
- Shirt Clip
- Cleaning Tool
- Cleaning Cloth
- Round Sticker
- Apex Modules (m20, m15, m12, mX)
Specifications
Color: Champagne Copper
Material: T6061 Aluminum Shell and Machined Faceplate
Driver Configuration: 1 tia High Driver, 1 High-Mid Balanced Armature, 2 Mid Balanced Armature, 2 Low Cone-to-Cone Isobaric Dynamic Drivers (6 drivers, 4-way)
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 22 kHz
Sensitivity: 103.7 dB/mW at 1kHz
Impedance: 9.5 Ω @ 1 kHz
Apex Isolation: -10 dB to -20 dB
Cable: 0.78mm 2-pin, 24 AWG 4-Core Litz, 99 strands per core, silver-plated UP-OCC copper, 0.29Ω total impedance; terminated in 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm
