{"product_id":"empire-ears-x-astell-kern-novus","title":"Astell\u0026Kern x Empire Ears Novus | Flagship 13-Driver Quadbrid IEMs","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern plus Empire Ears logo black\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-logo-blk.jpg?v=1709142132\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern and Empire Ears Reunite to Unveil Novus: a Beacon of Innovation in the IEM Landscape\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that due to Empire Ears going out of business, warranty support is currently unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 Driver Quadbrid, Dual Conduction (x2 Dynamic, x5 BA, x4 EST, x2 Bone Conductor)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e24K Wet Gold-plating faceplates with integrated Sapphire glass\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6061-T6 Aluminum shell finished in DLC\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4-Wire hybrid Copper, Gold \u0026amp; Silver \u003ca title=\"Effect Audio Collections Page\" href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/collections\/effect-audio\"\u003eEffect Audio\u003c\/a\u003e cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDesigned, engineered, and hand-assembled in the USA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/blogs\/measurements-database\/astell-kern-x-empire-ears-novus-frequency-response\"\u003eCheck out our measurement of Novus\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-banner.jpg?v=1709142244\" alt=\"AK Empire Ears Novus banner ad with stock cable and logos\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"90%\" bgcolor=\"”#f6f6f6”\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #a30e0b;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBloom's Take\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Astell\u0026amp;Kern x Empire Ears Novus is a masterful blend of cutting-edge technology and artisanal craftsmanship. With a hybrid driver system and precision tuning, Novus delivers deep, textured bass, rich mids, and sparkling highs, creating an immersive and highly detailed listening experience. Its stunning 24K Wet Gold-plating steel faceplate and premium build reflect the artistry behind its sonic performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis collaboration between Astell\u0026amp;Kern and Empire Ears brings together years of expertise in audio innovation, resulting in a truly exceptional IEM. Designed for audiophiles seeking both luxury and top-tier sound, Novus is a statement piece that pushes the boundaries of IEM innovation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/blogs\/articles\/pinnacle-sound-and-design-astell-kern-x-empire-ears-novus-review\" title=\"Pinnacle Sound and Design: Astell\u0026amp;Kern x Empire Ears Novus Review\"\u003eRead the full review here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/L8_oWJ4z1oo?si=mduAj69lx8CE00qU\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEmpire Ears X Astell\u0026amp;Kern\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern and Empire Ears are once again joining forces to introduce their 2nd collaboration IEM, embodying the essence of audio technology. The 1st collaboration, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/empire-ears-x-astell-kern-odyssey\" title=\"Empire Ears x Astell\u0026amp;Kern Odyssey Limited Edition IEM\"\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern X Empire Ears Odyssey\u003c\/a\u003e, was a product that epitomized the innovation of both companies in unlocking the full potential of Astell\u0026amp;Kern's flagship SP3000, garnering significant attention with its flawless sound and distinctive design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe newly unveiled Astell\u0026amp;Kern X Empire Ears NOVUS builds upon the technological advancements of its predecessor. It seamlessly integrates the sound and design philosophy of A\u0026amp;K players with Empire Ears' unique technology, establishing a remarkable new paradigm at an astonishing level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-1-lifestyle.jpg?v=1720641220\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern Novus extreme closeup sitting on wooden table\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNovus: Where Artistry Meets Technology\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNOVUS has been developed to extract the pinnacle of sound from the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/astell-kern-ak-sp3000t-dap\" title=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T Flagship DAP\"\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T\u003c\/a\u003e, combining the most delicately crafted analog vacuum tube sound with ultra-high-resolution original sound. Every component and material has been meticulously chosen without compromise to deliver a flagship sound that has never been experienced before, befitting the highest-grade product and encapsulating the essence of Astell\u0026amp;Kern and Empire Ears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn an audacious leap forward, the NOVUS collaboration is a beacon of innovation in the in-ear monitor landscape. The partnership marries Empire Ears' relentless drive for excellence with Astell\u0026amp;Kern's renowned audio engineering prowess, setting new horizons in sound fidelity and technological sophistication. The NOVUS is not merely an advancement - it's a revolution, embodying a shared commitment to transcend the conventional and redefine the extraordinary. With each pioneering technology it introduces, the NOVUS stands as a testament to the collective inventive spirit, a fusion of visionary design and unparalleled acoustic performance that will propel the IEM industry into a new era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-3-lifestyle.jpg?v=1720641105\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;kern Novus on top of A\u0026amp;K spt3000\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA Technological Achievement\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith precision and artistry, NOVUS orchestrates an era-defining auditory experience, seamlessly blending four superior driver technologies into a single, unparalleled symphony of sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-driver-expl.jpg?v=1714595885\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern Novus internal components explosion diagram\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuadbrid Design\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDual W9+\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the core of the NOVUS’ bass response is Empire’s signature Dual W9+ subwoofers standing as the pinnacle of low-frequency finesse. The bespoke drivers are engineered with a unique dual-role functionality: one for bass frequencies, the other for capturing sub-bass depth. This strategic setup enhances the interplay between bass and sub-bass, adding remarkable depth and dimension to the sound and ensuring the Dual W9+ subwoofers consistently deliver an unparalleled low-frequency performance for a legendary bass experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDual Bone Conductors\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe NOVUS advances bone conduction tech by integrating Dual High Mass Bone Conductors by Sonion, an innovative leap from the single conductor approach. This advanced system features two high-efficiency, high mass membranes that operate in sync, expanding the vibrational range and enhancing the depth and complexity of sound. They excel in capturing intricate nuances, delivering a sound profile that is not only profound in the lower frequencies but also remarkably clear and detailed across the spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eQuintuple Balanced Armatures\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe NOVUS transcends ordinary audio experiences with its exclusive NOVA BA drivers: a quartet of custom-designed masterpieces by Knowles. They excel in delivering mid to high frequencies with unparalleled clarity and breathtaking midrange richness. Central to their superiority is a purpose-built quad vent exhaust system that optimizes airflow and reduces acoustic impedance. Accompanied by a 5th balanced armature driver, this innovative setup produces a full-bodied signature mid-range for which Empire Ears is celebrated, delivering an unmatched auditory experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eQuad Electrostatics\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNOVUS redefines high-frequency audio with its quad configuration of advanced electrostatic tweeters, each equipped with an ultra-light membrane. These tweeters operate based on a sophisticated mechanism involving a diaphragm and two electrodes, with high DC voltage applied creating an electrostatic field. This arrangement allows for incredibly precise audio signal handling, enabling the diaphragm to vibrate in perfect synchronization with the incoming sound waves through electrostatic attraction and repulsion. The result is unparalleled clarity, pristine separation, and an extraordinary level of detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"cube concept high angle, NOVUS with attached stock cable\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-concept_b1761210-b049-4ff8-9d5d-4543d001b070.jpg?v=1714597911\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArhitectural Harmony\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern and Empire Ears deliberately chose materials for their exceptional sound-enhancing qualities for NOVUS. Each component of NOVUS is designed with a commitment to unmatched sound reproduction, ensuring that every design element contributes to an auditory experience that transcends the ordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6061-T6 Aluminum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, sourced from Japan, was chosen for its structural elegance and superior properties, ensuring NOVUS meets the exacting demands of the sophisticated acoustic design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiamond Like Carbon (DLC)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe application of DLC coating is a deliberate nod to the quest for enduring beauty and functionality. This advanced material enhances the visual appeal of NOVUS, allowing the underlying craftsmanship to shine through while contributing to the acoustic integrity of the device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGold Plating\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith 24k gold plating adorning its faceplate, the NOVUS stands as an emblem of opulence and refinement. Complemented by the DLC-coated logo grid and distinguished gold-plated brand logos, it serves to highlight its unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSapphire Glass\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIntegrating sapphire glass between the gold-plated faceplates not only ensures protection but also adds to NOVUS' allure, offering a clear view of the intricate logo grid beneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern Novus sitting on A\u0026amp;K spt3000\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-2-lifestyle.jpg?v=1720641308\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdditional Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBespoke Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDrawing inspiration from the revered world of Haute Horlogerie, NOVUS was seamlessly woven together with the opulent, detailed craftsmanship characteristic of luxury timepieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esynX Crossover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDissimilar from the IEM herd, the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/empireears.com\/pages\/the-empire-ears-game-changer-synx-crossover-networks\" title=\"Empire Ears Game Changer - synX Crossover Networks\" target=\"_blank\"\u003esynX crossover\u003c\/a\u003e stands out with bespoke methodology and marries 4 distinct driver technologies ensuring max performance from all 13 drivers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDual Conduction Architecture\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA commitment to innovation gave birth to the Dual Conduction Architecture (DCA), a groundbreaking approach to sound reproduction that marries air and bone conduction, allowing you to feel the resonance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eARC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith NOVUS, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/empireears.com\/pages\/an-elegant-finish-a-r-c-technology\" title=\"A Cut Above the Rest - A.R.C. Technology\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAnti-Resonance Control\u003c\/a\u003e technology has been elevated extending its precision to key internal components and harmonizing with the frame, an approach that mitigates unwanted vibrations and resonance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVENT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNOVUS' acoustic architecture necessitated a precise approach to air volume and exhaust design. Through meticulous calibration of the vented drivers' volume requirements, their full potential has been unlocked, optimizing output and delivering unparalleled sound fidelity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"stock NOVUS Effect Audio Ares coiled cable\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-cable.jpg?v=1714612588\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/blogs\/measurements-database\/astell-kern-x-empire-ears-novus-frequency-response\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"astell \u0026amp; kern empire ears novus iem measurement graph\" height=\"1098\" width=\"2048\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-empire-ears-novus-graph.webp?v=1726842635\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"A\u0026amp;K NOVUS with all included accessories\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-inthebox.jpg?v=1714595647\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Astell\u0026Kern","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":41457393598539,"sku":"AK-EE-NOVUS","price":4999.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Open Box","offer_id":41457393631307,"sku":"AK-EE-NOVUS-OB","price":4999.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/ak-ee-novus-0-thumb.jpg?v=1709143143","url":"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/empire-ears-x-astell-kern-novus","provider":"Bloom Audio","version":"1.0","type":"link"}