My impressions after switching between them for a few weeks..
I've been switching between the Ziigaat Odyssey 2 and Ziigaat Arcanis for a while now, and I thought it was time to write some thoughts. This isn't a lab test or a deep dive into frequency charts; it's simply the honest impressions of an audiophile who's been researching IEMs for a long time and still wants to believe that "the next one might stick."
Let's get started.
Features and Setup
To set the stage, let's take a quick look at what's inside each:
Odyssey 2 ($224)
1 Dynamic Driver + 3 Balanced Armatures (Knowles)
20 Ω impedance, 105 dB, 20 Hz–25 kHz response
Aluminum body, 2-pin detachable cable
(hybrid, simple, classic formula)
Arcanis ($359)
2 Dynamic Drivers (isobaric setup) + 5 Balanced Armatures (Knowles)
4-way crossover network, 12 Ω impedance, 20 Hz–25 kHz response, 106 dB
Medical-grade resin body. Overall, a more assertive design—much like the Odyssey's larger, more tech-focused sibling.
Powering both is quite easy. I mostly tried it with an iPhone 14 Pro Max + Apple adapter, and an iPad Pro M1.
Sound Comparison:
Bass:
The Odyssey 2 delivers a clean sound. It's punchy, fast, and well controlled. You hear a bit of hum, but it's not a subwoofer party, it's more like a balanced pressure that keeps everything in balance. It has a great mid bass texture without any bloat. But it's definitely not a bass head.
The Arcanis, on the other hand, goes deeper. The dual DDs in the isobaric configuration really work, the sub-bass extends further down, giving you a tactile thump in your chest feeling. It's fun, but also a bit more prominent. It's not a bass head like its sibling.
Bass verdict:
The Odyssey = controlled and balanced.
The Arcanis = deeper and richer.
Midrange:
The Odyssey's midrange is neutral and clean. Male vocals sound natural, while female vocals have presence without becoming shouty. Guitars and pianos are clearly audible, with good separation and sufficient warmth.
But the Arcanis is a step ahead here. Vocals stand out more realistically; the mic is closer, and the air is clearer. The tuning feels refined; the upper midrange is detailed without that "bitter" factor. It's the kind of midrange you'll notice when you switch back from a flatter sound.
Midrange verdict:
The Odyssey2 plays it safe.
The Arcanis takes risks and mostly wins.
Treble:
The Odyssey's treble is gentle. It's airy enough, but not sharp. You get a sparkle and shimmer, but it's never harsh. It's great for long sessions or for listeners prone to fatigue.
The Arcanis brings more energy to the upper register; brighter, more extended, a bit more "hi-fi." It's great on well-recorded material, but it can feel harsh on brighter masters.
Treble verdict:
Odyssey = smoother and more confident.
Arcanis = airier and more exciting.
Soundstage and Imaging:
The Odyssey's soundstage is moderately wide, offering good imaging and nice separation. It's not holographic, but it's clean and competent.
This is where the Arcanis shines—wider soundstage, better layering, and clearer instrument placement. It's like stepping back in the mix and seeing more space between sounds. In orchestral or live performances, this extra depth really comes into its own.
Technical evaluation:
The Arcanis is a step up from the Odyssey, resolving more micro details.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Model Strengths Weaknesses Who's It For:
Odyssey 2 Balanced, forgiving tuning; smooth treble; easy to drive; good clarity Less sub-bass depth; smaller soundstage Great all-rounder for mixed genres, perfect for long term listening.
Arcanis Deep bass, wide soundstage, detailed mids, technical and live sound Can be brightened; A bit more demanding on the source. For those who want more power and resolution; pairs well with warm DACs/amps.
Personal Opinion
The Odyssey 2 feels like a reliable pair of headphones you can wear all day, it really works. It doesn't blow you away every time, but it never gets annoying either.
The Arcanis, on the other hand, are more of an event. They create that Wow, I didn't notice that before effect. Better imaging, stronger sub-bass, more sparkle. But they're also more revealing, poor recordings reveal their flaws.
If I had to keep one, I'd probably choose the Arcanis for private listening and the Odyssey 2 for quiet, all-day use. They have different tunings that complement each other well.
SUMMARY
Odyssey 2 = Smooth, confident, musical
Arcanis = Detailed, dynamic, vibrant
Both are well above their price point
If you value comfort and balance, choose the Odyssey
If you seek detail and depth, choose the Arcanis
Let's discuss with friends who have experience with which competitors are better in this price range.
* Disclaimer: I would like to thank Linsoul and Ziigaat for providing the Arcanis & Odyssey2 In-Ear Monitor for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Linsoul and Ziigaat beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Thanks for reading.. (ADR from Electro Audio World)
Youtube Ziigaat Odyssey 2 - Unboxing video >> https://youtu.be/M5ei-LU_T1o
Youtube Ziigaat ARCANIS - Unboxing video >> https://youtu.be/H7d3BksPRnY
Instagram: electroaudioworld > > https://www.instagram.com/electroaudioworld/
Used photo Gear : Sony A7 III + Sigma 24–70mm F/2.8 DG DN II Art Lens
Ziigaat Arcanis Purchasing Link >> https://www.linsoul.com/products/ziigaat-arcanis?sca_ref=9444330.aiDThGLeXH
Ziigaat Odyssey2 Purchasing Link >> https://www.linsoul.com/products/ziigaat-x-hangout-audio-odyssey-2?sca_ref=9444330.aiDThGLeXH
