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Astell&Kern, renowned for its relentless pursuit of pure and uncompromising sound, has partnered with Empire Ears, a prestigious in-ear headphone manufacturer known for its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, to create NOVUS. This is their second collaboration following the Odyssey model, which had already pushed the boundaries of audio performance by harnessing the full potential of Astell&Kern’s flagship SP3000 player.
The NOVUS features no less than 13 speakers, a rare technical feat in the market. Each earphone is equipped with:
This configuration allows for highly precise sound reproduction across the entire audible spectrum.
The zirconia-based resin acoustic chamber has been specially designed to optimize performance. Its geometry and properties ensure optimal sound wave flow while minimizing parasitic resonances. The result is pure, detailed sound, free from distortion.
The NOVUS has been meticulously developed to extract the best sound from the Astell&Kern SP3000T player, combining the analog sound of the finest vacuum tube with ultra-high-resolution original sound. Every component and material has been carefully selected to offer an unparalleled sound experience worthy of a flagship product.
The earphones boast a design befitting a product of the highest quality, embodying the essence of the Astell&Kern X Empire Ears partnership. Every aspect has been carefully integrated to meet the rigorous demands of users who accept nothing less than extraordinary sound quality. The NOVUS represents the pinnacle of audio engineering, showcasing the combined expertise of Astell&Kern and Empire Ears in creating a product that pushes the boundaries of in-ear headphone technology.
The choice of aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum from Japan reflects Astell&Kern and Empire Ears’ commitment to acoustic perfection and structural elegance. Its superior properties ensure that the NOVUS meets the stringent demands of sophisticated acoustic design.
The DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating enhances the visual appeal of the NOVUS while contributing to the device’s acoustic integrity. It symbolizes the commitment of both companies to offer an auditory experience that is as visually captivating as it is sonically profound.
The front plate adorned with 24-carat gold plating presents the NOVUS as an emblem of opulence and refinement. This exquisite detail, complemented by the DLC-coated logo grille and the gold-plated Astell&Kern and Empire Ears logos, highlights the unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail that define this flagship product.
The integration of sapphire glass between the gold-plated front plates not only ensures protection but also adds to the NOVUS’s allure by offering a clear view of the intricate logo grille beneath. This choice underscores the fusion of ultimate durability with pure elegance.
The NOVUS comes with a custom hybrid four-wire cable, meticulously designed with copper, gold, and silver for optimal conductivity. The cable features a 23.7 AWG Litz Type 4S structure, reinforced with black macro-molecular fiber for added durability. Terminated with a 4.4 mm balanced plug, this cable ensures a seamless connection for an immersive listening experience.
Mario
These are the most beautiful and high-performing IEMs I have ever tried. I even prefer listening to them over my Hifiman Susvara Unveiled.
Comment from July 02, 2025
