This more affordable model in the IE range essentially expands the quality and features that are usually reserved for top-of-the-line devices, creating a more attractive entry-level version in the family. Important to remember that Sennheiser professional audio solutions such as microphones, meeting solutions, streaming technologies and monitoring systems are part of the business of Sennheiser electronic GmbH & Co. KG. The business with consumer devices such as headphones, soundbars and speech-enhanced hearables is operated by Sonova Holding AG under the license of Sennheiser.
In that regard, products that would be described as IEMs, would naturally fit in the "professional" category handled by the mother-company since they are essentially targeted at musicians, although many music enthusiasts also adopted the same product philosophy. Currently integrated in the "consumer" range of Sonova, the IE series is now intended to be marketed purely to those "enthusiasts" that still admire the qualities of wired earphones. In that perspective, the introduction of a more affordable model is not surprising and its success might very well determine the future of the series.
"The Sennheiser IE 200 represents an open invitation for everyone to enjoy high-end sound," says Jermo Koehnke, Sennheiser Audiophile Product Manager. "With balanced, true-to-life audio reproduction, users will be able to hear the details that they’ve been missing in ordinary headphones."
The IE 200 enables seasoned hi-fi enthusiasts and newcomers alike to experience what the company describes as "new dimensions of sound quality." Based on 15 years of Sennheiser TrueResponse Transducer technology, the IE 200 features a 7-millimeter extra-wide band transducer. And in another hallmark of the IE family, the latest addition to the in-ear lineup continues to bring superbly balanced and realistic audio to an ultra-compact form factor.
"With IE 200, nothing stands between the user and discovering new sonic landscapes. Harmonic distortion is almost non-existent, with a natural frequency response curve typically found in earphones costing significantly more. Furthermore, the IE 200 can appeal to a variety of listening preferences thanks to its unique dual-tuning feature. Audiophiles can mount the included ear tips in one of two positions, giving them control over the balance of their audio experience – from deep and emotional bass response to texture-rich treble presence," the company details.
Otherwise, the new IE 200 model, which was previewed at CES 2023, offers an exceptionally comfortable fit during uninterrupted listening sessions - in the best tradition of wired, around the ear in-ear monitors. Able to accommodate ears of all sizes, the inconspicuous design boasts a proven ergonomic design that promotes a secure seal and lasting comfort. Viscoelastic foam and silicone ear adapters in multiple sizes block ambient distractions while maximizing low-end response. A revised, braided cable reduces handling noise, and terminates to widely a 3.5mm stereo plug and MMCX connectors for connection to countless source devices.
The Sennheiser IE 200 is available for pre-order globally, and will go on sale from January 31, 2023, with an MSRP of 149.90 Euros.
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