Recommendations for Open-back IEMs?

[Turbodub]

Hi all,

I’m interested in picking up a set of IEMs that are “open-back” or semi-open-back in nature. To be clear, they don’t need to be true open-back like over-ears, but I’d love something that doesn’t have the plugged up / isolating feeling. Something open / airier is my goal (btw - totally acknowledging that this is counter to most IEMs which are aiming for isolation). My use case is wearing them in my personal office, so I’m not worried about sound leakage.

I’m curious about the 64 Audio Duo, and whether they are truly more “open” then the u4s with the modules. The only other options that I’m aware of are the Alter Ego or the Audeze i3/i4. I’m not interested in the Audeze just purely due to form factor.

Does anyone have other recommendations and/or opinions on the Duo vs u4s?

 

[dunring]

The KZ PR2 are affordable, planar magnetic, and have the open back sound by their design. You need an amplifier for them though. The US version of the Apple 3.5mm is bare minimum. Something like the SMSL C200 is ideal, they need current to really shine. The Tanchjim Space on the balanced 4.4mm is great too and very compact.

 

[570315]

You could also look at the two versions of the Raptgo Hook-X, they are said to be semi-open back.

 

[arifgraphy]

I love my MP145 which is semi-open-back, and the Aoshida E20 too.

 

[aaarr21]

Try Madoo 821 if you can find one.