Ultimate Ears Custom in-ear Monitors
January 25, 2013, NAMM, Anaheim, CA—We talked with Ultimate Ears about their custom in-ear monitors for mixing and recording. This personal reference monitor is tuned for a perceived flat response that takes in account the differences in ear canal dimensions and individual hearing response. The monitors were developed with help from Capitol Studios.
The user-tuned monitors have 5 sound drivers, a 4-way user-tuned crossover, and individualized colors. The user first has to adjust for best perceived response with a proprietary tuning device that allows the user to adjust the various crossovers. The user has to tune the left and right ears separately. The box has a bypass function to allow reference to known starting points and a-b comparisons of settings.
After logging the settings, the units and their settings are returned to the factory for final build and testing with the preferences. The monitors offer 26 dB isolation from external sounds and 101 dB output at 1 mw input power. Nominal impedance is 31 ohms at 1 kHz, and the monitors are capable of frequency response from 20- 20kHz. These monitors require a full ear impression for custom ear molds and optimal fitting. The monitors are wired to standard connectors. The monitors have customized wood grain face plate, and custom colors are available. MSPR is $1999.
Another set of monitors addresses vocals. These come in male and female versions for on-stage performances and emphasize the midrange sounds that align with most voices. The vocal monitors also have customized crossovers with individual tuning. These monitors are also wired to standard connectors to allow for connection to various sound reinforcement equipment. The wiring minimizes lag and phase delays between the monitors, something not possible with wireless monitors. Different wood grain finishes and custom colors are available for the monitors, or the units can be decorated like ear rings. MSRP is $999. for more information, see their website http://ultimateears.logitech.com
