Knowles Corporation has joined forces with Ultimate Ears Pro to create a first-of-its-kind, powerful in-ear monitor (IEM): UE PREMIER. Recently unveiled at the 2023 NAMM show, this groundbreaking creation boasts a five-way crossover design, a first in the industry, and an impressive 21 drivers per earpiece, delivering a signature sound with unmatched accuracy, control, and precision.
The audio industry has long-admired balanced armatures (BAs) for their exceptional treble output, high-fidelity audio quality, comfortable and versatile design, and low power consumption. UE PREMIER utilizes two groundbreaking audio products from Knowles in its construction: eight patented Knowles dual-diaphragm BA receivers and four Knowles supertweeters.
The dual-diaphragm BA produces warm and natural sound without taking up much space, thanks to its unmatched output levels and resonance frequency of 3kHz, which is similar to the human ear canal. The Knowles supertweeter complements this by providing high-resolution streaming with an ultra-high frequency extension of up to 40kHz. These technologies work together to deliver a high-quality frequency response, resulting in clear, rich and realistically detailed sound.
“Professional musicians and discerning audiophiles have long-trusted Ultimate Ears Pro to deliver exceptional audio experiences and hearing protection. With over 75 years of audio innovation and manufacturing excellence, Knowles is uniquely positioned to support the artisan engineering and perfect the frequency response of UE PREMIER, helping Ultimate Ears Pro deliver the signature sound their customers crave,” said Jon Kiachian, President of Medical and Specialty Audio at Knowles Corporation. “UE PREMIER is the ultimate showcase for Knowles premium sound technology.”
Knowles is a vanguard in premium sound innovation. In 2022, Knowles unveiled its Preferred Listening Response Curve for earphone design, a research study demonstrating a high consumer preference for extended treble performance to ensure the most satisfying music listening experience. Specialty components from Knowles enable UE PREMIER to exceed listener expectations, with an impressive frequency range of 5Hz to 40kHz. In addition to its expertise in BA design, Knowles employs a highly automated manufacturing operation of BAs that enables consistency, acoustic performance with tightened tolerances, and improved supply chain traceability. This ensures Ultimate Ears Pro has a sturdy supply of quality components for the demanding 21-driver design.
“As a pioneer and longtime leader in balanced armature technology, Knowles was a natural fit to collaborate on the design of UE PREMIER,” said Philippe Depallens, VP & General Manager, Ultimate Ears Pro. “The dual-diaphragm and supertweeter receivers allow us to define a new dimension of sound, achieving the best possible frequency response and acoustic resonance for an airy, rich and versatile listening experience.”
UE PREMIER is available for order now at www.custom.ultimateears.com for U.S. customers and internationally through Ultimate Ears Pro’s dealer distribution network. For more information about Knowles BAs and premium sound technologies, visit www.knowles.com/premium-sound.
