Quick answer

If you want the most vibrant colors and are willing to pay a premium, Block 064 stands out. For a similar look at a lower price, Block 014 or 097 offer great value, while Block 518 is the priciest but may appeal if its pattern speaks to you.

Price vs. aesthetics: what you're really paying for

All four blocks belong to the Build Your Own Prestige series, but they are not priced equally. Block 064 costs USD 2879.28, while Block 014 and 097 are both USD 2719.32. Block 518 is the most expensive at USD 2919.27. The difference is about USD 200 between the cheapest and most expensive, which is significant when you're already investing in a custom IEM.

The price variation likely reflects the rarity or complexity of the block's pattern. However, the catalog doesn't specify what makes one block cost more than another. So your choice should be based on which visual design you prefer and whether the extra cost feels justified to you.

Remember that colors become more vibrant with lacquer, so the final product will look richer than the raw block image. This is a key consideration when comparing blocks—what you see online may be muted compared to the finished IEM.

Build risk: a shared consideration

All Build Your Own Prestige blocks carry the same risk: some blocks fail during the building process. If that happens, Noble Audio will notify you, and you can either choose another block or cancel your order. This is an important factor to weigh, especially if you have your heart set on a specific pattern.

Because the risk is identical across all four blocks, your decision should focus on aesthetics and price rather than build reliability. There's no block that's 'safer' than another in this regard.

Also note that all sales are final unless a block fails. So be confident in your choice before ordering—there's no return or exchange based on buyer's remorse.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Block 064 (USD 2879.28): Mid-priced. Choose it if you love its pattern and are comfortable paying a bit more than the base price. Check if the pattern is worth the extra USD 160 over Blocks 014/097.
  • Block 014 (USD 2719.32): Budget-friendly. Pick it if you want to save money and like its design as much as the others. Compare its pattern side-by-side with Block 097 before deciding.
  • Block 097 (USD 2719.32): Same price as Block 014. Choose based purely on aesthetic preference. Consider how the lacquer will enhance its colors.
  • Block 518 (USD 2919.27): Premium price. Select it only if its design is a must-have for you. Weigh the extra cost against other potential upgrades or accessories.

Block-by-block breakdown

  • Build Your Own Prestige - Block 064: Block 064 is priced at USD 2879.28, with a catalog comparison price of USD 3999.00. It's a mid-priced option that may offer a distinctive pattern worth the extra cost over Blocks 014 and 097.

    Build Your Own Prestige - Block 064

    Build Your Own Prestige - Block 064

  • Build Your Own Prestige - Block 014: Block 014 is priced at USD 2719.32, with a catalog comparison price of USD 3999.00. It's one of the more affordable blocks, making it a good entry point if you're budget-conscious but still want a custom Prestige.

    Build Your Own Prestige - Block 014

    Build Your Own Prestige - Block 014

  • Build Your Own Prestige - Block 097: Block 097 is also priced at USD 2719.32, with a catalog comparison price of USD 3999.00. It offers the same price as Block 014, so your choice between them comes down purely to which pattern you prefer.

  • Build Your Own Prestige - Block 518: Block 518 is the most expensive at USD 2919.27, with a catalog comparison price of USD 3999.00. It commands a premium over the others, so it's worth choosing only if its design truly appeals to you more than the alternatives.

Which block fits you?

Best for

  • Budget-conscious buyers who want a custom Prestige without the highest price: Block 014 or 097.
  • Collectors or enthusiasts who prioritize a unique pattern and are willing to pay more: Block 064 or 518.

Not for

  • Buyers who want the absolute lowest price: consider waiting for a sale or a different block.
  • Those who are risk-averse about block failure: all blocks carry the same risk, so this option isn't for you.