Consumer expectations for music reproduction, particularly from high-resolution audio (HRA) sources, are placing more pressure on OEMs across markets to deliver premium sound performance with robust connectivity and long-wear comfort. The hybrid dual driver system consists of a dynamic speaker for robust bass combined with a Knowles balanced armature (BA) tweeter for precise treble. The combination is able to deliver a full-range frequency response with lower distortion, while the small form factor of the system enables a comfortable fit without compromising sound quality and range.
Knowles recently released its Preferred Listening Response Curve study for earphone design, expanding on previous research on consumer's listening preferences, specifically for in-ear designs. Knowles began by analyzing 200 Billboard Hot 100 songs to determine the treble content of popular music, then performed double-blind listening tests on a range of consumers to evaluate their preferred treble response when listening to that music. Knowles’ study revealed that treble response beyond 10kHz is essential for delivering the best and most satisfying music listening experience. Designing and tuning an earphone that matches the high frequency response of the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve is expected to consistently provide a highly satisfactory end user experience and solicit high ratings from consumers. KN2 is the first earphone reference design to be tuned to the curve, optimizing the full range frequency response.
The reference design is based on a Qualcomm QCC5144 Bluetooth 5.2 SoC with support for the aptX Adaptive suite of audio codecs, allowing for all required modes from compatible sources, from standard aptX, low latency, or HRA support with aptX HD. The SoC also delivers all optimization features for the Hybrid ANC platform. Within the earbuds are multiple Knowles SiSonic MEMS microphones to enable voice call algorithms for enhanced noise canceling performance.
"Consumer expectations for TWS performance are high and now technology is primed to deliver HD audio wirelessly. OEMs across all market segments – from luxury brands to household names to new entrants – are growing more ambitious and competing to deliver feature-rich devices with the best sounding audio," says Jon Kiachian, Vice President and GM of Knowles Hearing Health Technologies. "Knowles knows the audio business beyond just components. KN2 is designed from over 75 years of audio performance expertise to enable manufacturers to bring wireless HD audio to the masses and deliver the functionality, range and performance customers crave, without the hurdles of product design."
The KN2 reference design will be available for purchase on Digi-Key and Mouser.
www.knowles.com/KN2
