Estron Recommends Updated T2 Socket Dual Spring Audio Connector System for Hybrid Earbuds and In-Ear Monitors

Estron introduced the new T2 Socket DS (Dual Spring), bringing its established T2 Connector System up in a league of its own with the potential to be a new standard 2 pole earphone connector system with an IP67 rating. While the entire T2 Connector System focuses on ease of use and to minimize wear on the connector system, the new T2 Socket DS is designed for improved durability and reliability, sustaining more than 10,000 insertions consistently.
Estron a/s is a leading developer and manufacturer of miniature components to the hearing instruments, audio, security/communication and similar industries. The Danish manufacturer offers a complete catalog of top quality wires, detachable cables and connector solutions for earphones, in-ear monitors and hearing-aids. As a litz wire technology pioneer and specialists in design and production of ultra-fine litz wires, Estron is the preferred supplier for many brands such as Oticon, Sonova, Starkey, GN Hearing, Panasonic, Logitech (Ultimate Ears) and many others. 

With the popularity of in-ear monitors (IEMs) used by both musicians and audio engineers but also by music enthusiasts, Estron found an expanding market in both factory and aftermarket solutions for those professional and consumer designs. Manufacturers of these products have adopted micro-miniature coaxial (MMCX) connectors for detachable cables, which have been designed primarily for antenna applications and are rated for only 500 insertion cycles. Estron offers a superior and proven alternative with the T2 connector system, and some manufacturers are already focusing exclusively on this connector for its stability and sealed connector system (IP67) for sweat and corrosion resistance.

The Estron T2 connector system is a miniature plug-socket connector system developed originally for the medical industry, benefiting from a proven design, tested in audiology applications. The T2 connector system together with the detachable Linum cable have been developed in parallel as a truly reliable solution for maximum connectivity and supporting long battery life in hearing-aids.

The Estron T2 connector system is promoted also as a reliable solution for hybrid hearables, which can be used in wireless mode or with a cable when extended lifetime is required. A cabled in-ear solution also enables higher sound quality. No microphonics, nearly invisible and featherlight are just some of the features of a Linum cable making users feel almost wireless. The now released Estron T2 Socket DS (Dual Spring - shown above), brings the Estron T2 Connector System to a whole new level, with the potential to be a new standard 2 pole earphone connector system with an IP67 rating. Designed for durability and reliability, the T2 Socket DS features four robust connection points that grab the plug again and again. Extensive testing demonstrated a solid connection even after 10,000 insertions, with no intermittence, stable pull force and consistent tactility.

Compared to standard connectors extensively used today for in-ear monitors - not designed for long-term performance - the T2 Socket DS shows minimal wear even after 10,000 cycles. To ensure this best long-term reliability, the socket is marginally bigger than the existing T2, yet still designed for easy product integration. Four small wings are designed to keep the socket in place. The plug interface is the same, and earphones with the T2 Socket DS can be used with all detachable cables using the Estron T2 Plug.

The new T2 Socket DS is now in production and the price is the same as the existing T2 Socket 2Spring, which Estron continues to supply for existing applications. Yet, Estron recommends adopting the new T2 Socket DS in viable replacement, product updates, and new designs. 

Estron is headquartered in Them, Denmark, with own production facilities in Denmark, China and Vietnam. Questions from designers and developers, application notes, step files, samples, and quote, can be required by e-mail. 
www.estron.dk | www.linum.dk