Two celebrated names from the UK audio scene – audiolab and ACS – have teamed up to deliver a range of British-made, multi-driver in-ear monitors called audiolab M-EAR. The M-EAR 2D is a two-way, two-driver design, with one driver handling mid/high frequencies and the other dedicated to bass. The M-EAR 4D is a three-way design sporting four drive units – one for high frequencies, another for midrange and two for bass.
Both M-EAR models incorporate balanced armature drivers, which differ from the dynamic drivers found in most headphones and earphones. These drivers use an electronic signal to vibrate a tiny reed suspended between two magnets; this movement is transferred to an aluminium diaphragm that generates soundwaves. Balanced armature drivers deliver greater efficiency and are extremely compact, enabling several drivers to be combined in small, sound-isolating in-ear monitors.
The result, in the case of the M-EAR 2D, is a pair of discrete IEMs (In Ear Monitors) delivering taut, punchy bass, captivating midrange clarity and crisp, clean high-frequency detail, with no harmonic interference. Invest in the M-EAR 4D and the sonic return is even greater space, scale and dynamic expression.
Both M-EARs are supplied with a high-quality detachable cable with an in-line microphone, included for hands-free convenience when making calls. This is no ordinary miniature mic – it is a Knowles SiSonic TM MEMS-based microphone, selected as a result of ACS’s pro-audio experience for excellent wide-band voice reproduction in noisy environments. To ensure a snug fit and superb noise isolation, the M-EARs come with six pairs of ear tips in three different sizes.
