Ultimate Ears Pro & Knowles Surpass Expectations With 21-Driver IEM Design

Knowles Corporation is proud to partner with Ultimate Ears Pro on the rollout of its most powerful in-ear monitor (IEM) to date: UE PREMIER. Unveiled at the 2023 NAMM show, UE PREMIER features a five-way crossover design with 21 drivers per earpiece, an industry-first, to deliver a signature sound with unparalleled fidelity, control and precision.

Balanced armatures (BAs) have long been an industry favorite for top-shelf IEM design – boasting superior treble output to achieve high-fidelity audio, a small form factor for comfort and design headroom, and lower power consumption than other comparable technologies. UE PREMIER combines two revolutionary audio products from Knowles in its design: eight patented dual-diaphragm BA receivers and four supertweeters.

With unmatched output levels for its ultra-small footprint and a first-peak resonance of 3kHz – the same as the human ear canal – the dual-diaphragm BA achieves warm, natural sound without a substantial size increase. Meanwhile, the Knowles supertweeter achieves high-res streaming with an ultra-high frequency extension of up to 40kHz. Together, these technologies deliver the highest quality frequency response encompassing a clear, rich sound with realistic details.

“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.

Learn more about Knowles BAs and premium sound technologies.