A new level of clarity
In developing the IE 900, we faced a fundamental choice. The inherent compromises multi-driver systems require (phase issues and the resulting distortion in overlapping frequency bands) made the decision easy. There would be a single dynamic driver only — of the highest quality, of course.
To get exactly the sound we were looking for, we designed a sophisticated system of three Helmholtz resonators — the X3R. It’s milled right into the solid aluminum housing of each earphone. These tiny channels eliminate resonance peaks which, in less advanced products, can color the sound signature and alter the feel of your music. In addition, a complex structure in the nozzle of each earphone — the Vortex — swirls acoustic energy in these frequency bands to smooth out peaks.
An acoustic back-volume establishes balance
Our goal was to achieve a transparent sound with no distracting peaks or troughs. One thing this requires is clear separation of lows and mids. To ensure accuracy across this critical frequency band, we’ve employed what is known as an acoustic back volume. It’s a small chamber within a chamber we have tuned to manage the slope and amplitude of the base lift. The way the back volume helps achieve such a clear and natural sound signature is by controlling the direction and overall volume of air as it moves through the transducer system. What you hear is a pleasantly disciplined bass and mid-range experience. Unpleasant resonances and listening fatigue vanish in this small space with a big effect.