Custom IEM Model Overview
64 Audio makes nine custom in-ear monitor (CIEM) models ranging from 2-18 drivers per side which cost between $499-$2,999. Our goal with the whole product range is to offer the best possible sounding monitor at each price point. Regardless of driver-count we aim to get the most out of components for balanced, accurate and musical IEMs. All of our models reflect that signature sound, and with the increase of drivers and cost you get increased fidelity/resolution.
For more IEM info take a look at our Educational Series.
A3e Story
A3e is one of our three driver custom in-ear monitors (CIEM) that follows a similar design methodology to our other economically priced IEM, A2e. Unlike A2e this is a 3-way design, meaning there is a dedicated driver for high-frequencies, a larger driver handling the mids, and the largest driver reproducing lows.
At Winter NAMM 2018 we unveiled our new lineup of CIEMs, all upgraded to include our patented tia drivers and LID technology. In that lineup was a three driver IEM called A3t. A3e was originally not a part of this product refresh. As the summer release of these new “tia” CIEMs loomed, we came to the realization that A3t didn’t quite fit into product range and couldn’t be sustained at the proposed price so it was shelved (to be later reworked and released in 2021). We needed to improve our current three driver model at the time (A3) without the use of our “tia” driver and keep the cost unchanged.
With the inclusion of our patented LID technology and single-bore design borrowed from our patented tia technology A3e is a significant sonic upgrade to its predecessor. LID allows you to use your A3e through different devices and expect a consistent frequency response between all of those devices. The single bore is an alternative to the standard multi-bore design that has made CIEMs so difficult to clean and maintain. With all of our CIEMs you just have one large opening which is a lot easier to keep debris and wax out of. A3e is also built with our patented 3Dfit process and utilizes our patented Apex technology. The results of our A3e project were so positive that it was used as the blueprint for our A2e upgrade a few months later in 2018.
A3e Sound
When you read descriptions of our IEM models’ sonic characteristics you will often run into very similar phrasing. We aim for a balanced, natural, and musical sounding end-product; the foundation of 64 Audio’s signature sound. This signature sound is expressed in its simplest form with A3e. A full-range sound achieved with minimal components. Capable bass, present mids, and composed highs. Blurring the line between an entry-level and end-all CIEM.
Interestingly enough when you average the frequency response measurements of all of our CIEM models, it looks like the frequency response measurement of A3e. When monitoring with A3e you can expect a very neutral, yet full-range, presentation of your mix. Recordings sound accurate, without any fluff or exaggeration. There is a definite increase in bass response and high-frequency extension, coming from the A2e.
Custom-Fit, Custom-Look, & Custom-Made
Each 64 Audio CIEM is hand built in Vancouver Washington by highly specialized technicians.
Ear impressions are first trimmed and scanned into our 3D detailing software. Our patented 3Dfit technology is used to perfectly recreate the intricacies of your ear shape. We virtually accommodate for all of the internal components before 3D printing with hypoallergenic acrylic material.
Once the shell is printed our assemblers insert the pre-soldered driver packs associated with the model of the IEM.
The assembled CIEMs are later completed with a faceplate. Along with the 5 shell options, there are dozens of faceplate colors and materials which translates to hundreds of variations. On top of all of those options we’re also able to use custom artwork to make your IEMs truly one-of-a-kind.
A3e Specs
- Transducer Type: Three precision balanced armature drivers
- Transducer Configuration: 1 low, 1 mid, 1 high
- Freq. Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Sensitivity: 109 dB/mW
- Impedance: 11Ω @ 1kHz
- Crossover: Integrated 3-way passive crossover
- Isolation: -20dB with m20 apex module
A3e Technology
Air Pressure Exchange (Apex) is a patented vent that releases air pressure in a sealed ear canal. In addition to relieving air pressure, it also maintains standard IEM levels of noise isolation. The attenuation of ambient noise and pressure relief enables musicians and music enthusiasts to listen more comfortably for longer. This venting alleviates listener fatigue and allows for a much more realistic soundstage. Apex comes in three module variations available for A3e: mX, m15 and m20.
3D-Fit preserves the detail of your ear impressions using a new process of digital rendering and 3D-printing. The patented process of incorporating acoustical tuning features within an IEM’s shell allows for designs that would otherwise be impossible to build using traditional methods. We incorporate these advanced and uniquely complex features into the shell in order to manipulate the audio produced by the IEM. This process also reduces distortion in the impression for the most precise and comfortable custom in-ear monitors available.
Linear Impedance Design (LID) is a patented circuit that corrects the non-linear electrical resistance of the multiple driver-sets comprising this 3 driver IEM. Varying source amplifier output impedance in devices like smartphones, body packs, DAC/amps, and DAPs typically results in varying frequency response across them, depending on the increase in resistance. Restoring proper interaction with the source and preserving the desired sound signature enables a consistent reliable sound.