Between the ER4XR and Cadenza 12, the ER4XR comes out ahead in several specs, while the Cadenza 12 wins on impedance / driver count. Overall, the ER4XR scores 39.7 and the Cadenza 12 scores 70.1 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The Cadenza 12 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 30.4 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
The ER4XR does not pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec-table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the Cadenza 12 if you care most about impedance / driver count. Its strongest claims are impedance, driver count, sensitivity.
Both ship with comparable detachable cable, so those specs do not separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the Cadenza 12 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Etymotic - ER4XR wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Letshuoer - Cadenza 12 wins
- ▲Impedance — 29.00 Ω less. 16 vs 45.
- ▲Driver count — 11.00 more. 12 vs 1.
- ▲Sensitivity — 7.14% more. 105 dB vs 98 dB.
Spec comparison
Drivers
| Spec | Etymotic - ER4XR | Letshuoer - Cadenza 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver count | 1 | 12lead |
| Driver types | Balanced Armature | 1DD + 8BA + 2EST + 1BC Tetrabrid |
| Impedanceⓘ | 45 Ω | 16 Ωlead |
| Sensitivityⓘ | 98 dB | 105 dBlead |
Build
| Spec | Etymotic - ER4XR | Letshuoer - Cadenza 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Detachable cable | true | true |
| Connector | MMCX | 0.78mm 2-pinlead |
Spec-level deep dives
vsMars is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.