Astell & Kern
Expected Nov 1, 2024
NOVUS In-Ear Monitors
$4,999.00 USDFeatures
LIMITED EDITION
Aluminum shell finished in 24K wet gold-plated faceplates
Custom 4-wire hybrid gold, copper, and silver cable
Incredible dynamic tuning with excellent imaging and presentation
What's in the Box?
Warranty
Astell&Kern, known for their relentless pursuit of pure, uncompromising sound, has teamed up with Empire Ears, a prestigious IEM manufacturer renowned for their innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, to create NOVUS – their second collaborative in-ear monitor. This is a LIMITED EDITION in-ear monitor. Their first joint venture, the Astell&Kern X Empire Ears Odyssey, showcased the innovative capabilities of both companies by unlocking the full potential of Astell&Kern's flagship SP3000 player. The Odyssey garnered significant attention for its exceptional sound quality and distinctive design. Building upon the technological advancements of its predecessor, the newly unveiled NOVUS seamlessly integrates Astell&Kern's sound and design philosophy with Empire Ears' unique technology. This collaboration establishes a remarkable new standard in the world of high-end IEMs, pushing the boundaries of audio performance to astonishing levels.
The NOVUS has been meticulously developed to extract the pinnacle of sound from the Astell&Kern SP3000T player, combining the most delicately crafted analog vacuum tube sound with ultra-high-resolution original audio. Every component and material has been carefully selected without compromise to deliver an unparalleled flagship sound experience. The IEM is completed with a design that befits a product of the highest caliber, encapsulating the essence of the Astell&Kern X Empire Ears partnership.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the NOVUS IEM with the Silver Dragon IEM Cable for Astell&Kern. The Silver Dragon IEM Cable takes a no-holds-barred approach to quality. It features eight conductors of 99.99998% UP-OCC stranded silver in each cable. It is the purest wire that can currently be produced and is void of all impurities. It includes all the sonic strengths of our original Silver Dragon IEM cable with an enhanced level of resolution and detail. It is not an overly forward or bright-sounding cable. It is extremely smooth and clean with an accurate reflection of the music, making it a non-fatiguing option for mastering and reference sound. The bass is tight, and well-controlled bass with more layers of resolution than any other cable we have produced.
Features of NOVUS include:
- 13 driver design
- LIMITED EDITION
- Aluminum shell finished in 24K wet gold-plated faceplates
- Custom 4-wire hybrid gold, copper, and silver cable
- Incredible dynamic tuning with excellent imaging and presentation
About Empire Ears
Empire Ears is an avant-garde summit-fi and innovative in-ear monitor company. A record-breaking tradition courses through our history – the result of pushing the boundaries of in-ear monitors to achieve higher standards in ultimate performance.
"The NOVUS symbolizes this dream brought to life—a fusion of our shared values and a milestone in my personal journey toward excellence in IEM design. It represents more than a product; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the pursuit of perfection in sound. When you listen to the NOVUS, you're connecting with our shared dream, a dream of transcending the ordinary and crafting an experience that's as close to the music as possible. It’s our privilege to share this dream with you, in the hope that it deepens your connection to the music that moves us all" -Jack Vang, Co-Founder of Empire Ears
NOVUS
In an audacious leap forward, Empire Ears, in collaboration with Astell&Kern, unveils the Novus: a beacon of innovation in the in-ear monitor landscape. This partnership marries Empire Ears' relentless drive for excellence with Astell&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 both companies' shared commitment to transcend the conventional and redefine the extraordinary. With each pioneering technology it introduces, the Novus stands as a testament to its collective inventive spirit, a fusion of visionary design and unparalleled acoustic performance that propels the IEM industry into a new era.
13 Driver, Quadbrid, Dual Conduction
- Dual W9+ Drivers - Legendary, unparalleled bass reproduction is made possible by Empire Ears purpose-built, W9+ subwoofers
- Five Balanced Armature Drivers featuring one Sonion driver and Quad Proprietary NOVA Drivers by Knowles
- Quad Electrostatic Drivers by Sonion
- Dual Bone Conductors by Sonion
Quadbrid Driver Design
The NOVUS is a testament to the groundbreaking achievements that can be realized when a pioneering spirit combines with engineering excellence. Its innovative Quadbrid design seamlessly blends multiple driver technologies to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience. By incorporating a diverse array of drivers, the NOVUS pushes the boundaries of what is possible in IEM technology, showcasing Astell&Kern and Empire Ears' unwavering commitment to sound superiority.
This collaboration not only highlights the dedication of both brands to crafting the finest audio products but also demonstrates their ability to redefine the very nature of IEM technology. The NOVUS stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when two industry leaders join forces to pursue a shared vision of audio perfection.
Dual W9+ Subwoofers
The NOVUS' rich and expansive bass response is driven by Empire's signature Dual W9+ subwoofers, which represent the pinnacle of low-frequency finesse. These custom-designed drivers feature a unique dual-role functionality, with one subwoofer meticulously tuned to master bass frequencies and the other dedicated to capturing the depths of sub-bass. This strategic configuration enhances the interplay between bass and sub-bass, adding remarkable depth and dimensionality to the sound.
Each W9+ subwoofer is integrated within a precision-tuned bass-reflex system, which incorporates a proprietary internal coil diameter and a carefully engineered excursion envelope. The subwoofers are supported by a robust suspension system that enables them to manage extensive peak-to-peak excursions while minimizing distortion. This advanced design ensures that the Dual W9+ subwoofers consistently deliver unparalleled low-frequency performance, creating a legendary bass experience that resonates with exceptional depth and clarity.
Dual High Mass Bone Conductors
NOVUS takes bone conduction technology to new heights by incorporating Dual High Mass Bone Conductors developed by Sonion, a groundbreaking advancement from the traditional single-conductor approach. This sophisticated system features two high-efficiency, high-mass membranes that work in unison, expanding the vibrational range and enhancing the depth and complexity of the sound. These cutting-edge conductors are at the forefront of acoustic innovation, designed to redefine the immersive listening experience by pushing the limits of bone conduction technology.
Engineered for unparalleled imaging and precision, the Dual High Mass Bone Conductors excel in capturing intricate sonic nuances, delivering a sound profile that is not only rich and profound in the lower frequencies but also exceptionally clear and detailed across the entire spectrum. This breakthrough in sound delivery enhances the depth and clarity of music, providing a lush, detailed timbre that resonates deep within the listener.
The result is a profoundly immersive sonic journey that envelops the listener, setting a new standard in the evolution of in-ear monitor technology. The NOVUS' implementation of Dual High Mass Bone Conductors marks a significant milestone in audio innovation, offering an unparalleled listening experience that immerses the audience in a world of captivating sound.
Quad Electrostatic Symphony
NOVUS revolutionizes high-frequency audio reproduction with its quad configuration of advanced electrostatic tweeters, each featuring an ultra-light membrane that sets new industry standards. These sophisticated tweeters operate using a complex mechanism involving a diaphragm and two electrodes, with a high DC voltage applied to create an electrostatic field. This setup enables incredibly precise audio signal handling, allowing the diaphragm to vibrate in perfect synchronization with the incoming sound waves through electrostatic attraction and repulsion.
The diaphragm of each tweeter is meticulously crafted from an exceptionally thin and lightweight PET film, measured in microns. Despite its minimal thickness, the diaphragm is highly responsive, providing excellent transient response and detailed sound analysis. The electrodes are designed with numerous hollow sections to ensure unobstructed airflow, further enhancing the overall acoustic performance.
This meticulous design allows each of the four electrostatic tweeters to deliver unparalleled clarity, pristine separation, and an extraordinary level of detail, capturing every nuance of the music. The quad configuration of these advanced tweeters in the NOVUS ensures a high-frequency response that is both precise and immersive, setting a new benchmark for in-ear monitor technology.
NOVUS In Ear Monitor Shell Design
The NOVUS in-ear monitor boasts a meticulously crafted 6061-T6 aluminum shell, which is finished with a durable Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating. The faceplates are adorned with luxurious 24K Wet Gold-Plating and feature elegant sapphire glass inserts. This combination of premium materials and expert craftsmanship results in a sleek, sophisticated design that exudes both style and durability.
In the creation of the NOVUS, Astell&Kern and Empire Ears have meticulously selected materials renowned for their exceptional sound-enhancing properties. This purposeful collaboration is designed to surpass the high expectations of both audio enthusiasts and professionals who demand perfection in every facet of their listening experience. Each component of the NOVUS has been thoughtfully engineered with an unwavering commitment to unmatched sound reproduction. Every design element has been carefully considered to ensure that it contributes to an auditory experience that transcends the ordinary. From the choice of materials to the precise construction, no detail has been overlooked in the pursuit of sonic excellence.
The NOVUS stands as a testament to this relentless dedication, with each aspect of its design carefully integrated to satisfy the rigorous demands of users who accept nothing less than extraordinary sound quality. It represents the pinnacle of audio engineering, showcasing the combined expertise of Astell&Kern and Empire Ears in creating a product that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in in-ear monitor technology.
Additional Features of the Astell&Kern x Empire Ears NOVUS IEM:
6061-T6 Aluminum: The choice of aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, sourced from Japan, is a testament to Astell&Kern and Empire Ears' dedication to both acoustic perfection and structural elegance. Its superior properties ensure the NOVUS meets the exacting demands of sophisticated acoustic design, offering unmatched sound clarity that elevates the listening experience to an art form.
Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC): The application of DLC coating is a deliberate nod to Astell&Kern and Empire Ears' quest for enduring beauty and functionality. This advanced material enhances the visual appeal of the NOVUS, allowing the underlying craftsmanship to shine through, while also contributing to the acoustic integrity of the device. It is a symbol of both companies' commitment to providing an auditory experience that is as visually compelling as it is sonically profound.
Gold Plating: With 24k gold plating adorning its faceplate, the NOVUS stands as an emblem of opulence and refinement. This exquisite detailing, complemented by the DLC-coated logo grid and the distinguished gold-plated logos of Astell & Kern and Empire Ears, serves to highlight the unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines this flagship product.
Sapphire Glass: Integrating sapphire glass between the gold-plated faceplates not only ensures protection but also adds to the NOVUS's allure, offering a clear view of the intricate logo grid beneath. This choice underscores the fusion of ultimate durability with sheer elegance, ensuring the NOVUS is recognized not just as a piece of technology, but as a work of art that stands at the pinnacle of luxury and innovation.
Advanced Crossover Design: Distinctively engineered to surpass the conventional boundaries of the IEM world, the NOVUS features Empire Ears’ exceptional synX crossover network. This unparalleled technology, protected by bespoke methods, ensures a harmonious blend of four distinct driver technologies, orchestrating them into a symphony of sound. Through the proprietary multi-point synX crossover network, every one of the 13 drivers is optimized to its full potential, delivering an auditory experience that is nothing short of a masterpiece.
Resonance Manipulation: In sculpting the NOVUS, AK and Empire Ears have elevated the ARC Resonance Control technology, extending its precision to key internal components and harmonizing with the 6061-T6 frame. This refined approach mitigates unwanted vibrations and resonance, crafting an auditory landscape that is distinctly Empire in its elegance. The deliberate integration of ARC enhances bone conduction capabilities within a sleek metal housing, merging unparalleled sound clarity with sophisticated design, for an audio experience that transcends expectations.
Ventilation Mastery: The NOVUS's acoustic architecture, particularly due to the NOVA drivers and Dual Bone Conductors, necessitated a precise approach to air volume and exhaust design. Fine-tuning the enclosure’s ventilation was critical, as minute adjustments in vent diameter and placement profoundly influenced sound quality and performance. Through meticulous calibration of the vented drivers' volume requirements, they have optimized the output and maximized the auditory experience. This precision ensures the NOVUS delivers unparalleled sound fidelity, demonstrating Astell&Kern and Empire Ears' commitment to acoustic perfection.
Bespoke Hybrid Cable
The NOVUS comes with a bespoke four-wire hybrid cable that combines copper, gold, and silver materials. The cable features a 23.7AWG Litz Type 4S structure, which is further reinforced with black macro-molecular fiber for enhanced durability and reduced microphonics. The cable is terminated with a 4.4mm balanced jack, ensuring optimal signal transmission and compatibility with balanced audio outputs.
This custom-made cable showcases the attention to detail and commitment to quality that both Astell&Kern and Empire Ears bring to the NOVUS in-ear monitor, providing users with a high-performance accessory that complements the exceptional sound quality of the IEMs.
What's in the Box:
- Novus In-Ear Monitor
- Astell & Kern X Empire Ears 4-Wire Tribrid Copper, Gold & Silver 4.4 Cable
- · 4.4mm to 3.5mm Pentaconn adapter
- · 5 pairs of Final Audio E-Type Tips (XS/S/M/L/XL) with Aluminum Tip tray
- · Pandora V2 CNC anodized black aluminum case
- · Cleaning Tool
- · EE X AK Microfiber Cloth
NOVUS Review: A New Astell&Kern & Empire Ears IEM
A Premium In-Ear Monitor You'll Have to Hear to Believe
Alongside the groundbreaking release of the latest addition to Astell&Kern's prestigious A&ultima flagship player line: the SP3000T, Astell&Kern is thrilled to unveil NOVUS, the second collaboration In-Ear Monitor (IEM) with renowned manufacturer Empire Ears. These innovative IEMs (with the SP3000T) made their global debut at CanJam NYC 2024 earlier this month (March 9-10) at the prestigious New York Marriott Marquis in the heart of New York City.
Astell&Kern, renowned for their commitment to delivering uncompromising sound quality and exceptional design, has once again pushed the boundaries of portable audio with the NOVUS. The collaboration with Empire Ears has resulted in a sophisticated and meticulously crafted IEM that promises an unparalleled listening experience. This exciting duo represents the pinnacle of portable audio technology, embodying Astell&Kern's dedication to innovation and craftsmanship.
If you've been dying to find out how the NOVUS IEM sounds jump to the sound impressions!
PROS
- Great Bass Extension
- Engaging yet Detailed Sound
- Versatile with many Genres
CONS
- Premium Price Point
- Larger Shape. Not ideal for Small Ears
- Limited Edition, Low quantity... BOO We want more!
About Astell&Kern
Astell&Kern products stylistically stand out from the crowd with their modern metals aesthetic, sharp edges, and sleek designs. Their digital music players look like the future. They are best known for high-end music players, portable audio devices, or hi-res “iPods.” As the Financial Times notes, Astell&Kern, much like Chord Electronics, is committed to fidelity and quality. To say Astell&Kern media players are HOT would be an understatement. As consumers learn about the need for higher resolution music files to feed our high-quality media players, those made by Astell&Kern have thrived.
What makes AK different? Astell&Kern creates the best music players in the world as our customer reviews note plus their technology is easy to learn and navigate as a newbie or a technology wizard. Our founder, Drew Baird, P.E., and the staff at Moon Audio recommend Astell&Kern high-resolution music and media players for people who love “mobile audio.” Astell & Kern (A&K) music players are "iPods on steroids". If you love to listen to music “on the go” and want hi-fi sound AK Digital Audio Players (DAPs) are essential listening gear with Mastering Quality Sound (MQS).
MQS includes high-resolution digital music recording formats from 16-bit/44.1kHz to 24-bit/192kHz. Sound engineering tech-speak can be confusing. More is usually better. Higher amounts of information can mean better sound with crisper highs and fuller lows (bass). The trick is to process and play as much information as possible or as much information as your recordings started with in the first place. Playing all the high-res information captured during the music recording process is Astell & Kern’s expertise. You will not believe what your ears were missing once you try AK music players!
About the NOVUS IEM
Introducing NOVUS, the latest collaboration between Astell&Kern and renowned IEM manufacturer Empire Ears. As pioneers in the pursuit of pure, uncompromising sound, Astell&Kern and Empire Ears are united by a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio excellence. Following the success of their first collaboration, Odyssey, NOVUS represents the culmination of meticulous craftsmanship and visionary innovation.
Unrivaled Sound with 13 Drivers, Quadbrid Technology: NOVUS is a marvel of engineering, featuring a 13-driver configuration utilizing Quadbrid and Dual Conduction technologies. This includes the legendary Dual W9+ subwoofers by Empire Ears for unparalleled bass reproduction, complemented by five Balanced Armature Drivers featuring a Sonion driver and Quad Proprietary NOVA Drivers by Knowles. To further enhance the sonic experience, NOVUS incorporates Quad Electrostatic Drivers by Sonion and Dual Bone Conductors, delivering a level of detail and clarity that will captivate even the most discerning audiophiles.
Exquisite Design: The NOVUS shell is crafted from high-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, meticulously finished in Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) for durability and elegance. The faceplates are adorned with 24K Wet Gold-Plating, adding a touch of luxury to the sleek design. To protect the intricate components, NOVUS is fitted with sapphire glass, ensuring both beauty and resilience.
Premium Cable for Superior Transmission: Included with NOVUS is a custom-made four-wire hybrid cable, meticulously crafted with copper, gold, and silver for optimal conductivity. The cable boasts a 23.7AWG Litz Type 4S structure, reinforced with black macro-molecular fiber for durability. Terminated in a 4.4mm balanced jack, this cable ensures a seamless connection for an immersive listening experience.
Sound Quality
Nothing gets a group of audiophiles more riled up than being one of the few to listen and test out brand-new gear. Between the HiFiMan SUSVARA Unveiled Headphones and NOVUS IEMs, we've been busy putting in the listening hours—fangirling between listening sessions. The well-anticipated NOVUS IEMs didn't disappoint with my colleague running over to my desk practically in hysterics over how good they sound. "You've got to listen man. These things are SWEET. They're unreal." Okay, that's enough for me to bite. Now, I'm not a big IEM listener, I prefer the old-school over-ear cans and wireless headphones (I can feel the eye rolls). But every once in a while a pair of IEMs comes around and gets everyone so hyped up that I've got to see what all the fun's about. And I'm glad I did.
The NOVUS IEMs were right up my alley. Dynamic, engaging, detailed, great bass extension. They checked about every box for me as a warm and musical listener. Immediately I noticed an uncanny similarity to the RAVEN—an Empire Ears IEM. If you haven't gotten a chance to listen to the RAVEN IEMs they deliver a big, bold sound that's dynamic, full of energy, and slammed with bass. If you love bass and your favorite genres are all bass-heavy, you'll love the RAVEN. The NOVUS took everything great about the RAVEN and enhanced it. The NOVUS delivers a great balance of bass and detail. It is not overly obnoxious, leaving enough room for details to shine through. They had a better bass extension with more control than the RAVEN, packing a punch on genres like EDM and hip-hop while being fast enough on tamer genres like jazz, roots reggae, and country.
With highly detailed tracks like In My Life by the Beatles and some Hall and Oates tracks, I noticed excellent imaging with a three-dimensional soundstage that wraps around your head—an enveloping sound. Going back to that phrase balanced, the NOVUS IEM is just that. You can jump from high-energy songs to nuanced, emotive tracks. It's a versatile, fun-sounding IEM that can cater to all kinds of listeners—warm and musical, detail-oriented, laidback, you name it. Sound-wise the NOVUS isn't fatiguing on the ears. My only complaint, and it's a personal one, is comfort and fit. IEMs have always been a challenge for me in the fit department and the NOVUS' size isn't on the small side. If you have this problem, try to audition them before you purchase, but if you're well-versed in IEMs and have no trouble with universal fits, they'll be a great fit for you.
Who is the NOVUS for: At $5,000 the NOVUS isn't an entry-level IEM by any means. It's got some crazy technology in it supporting that price point and the sound quality helps justify the price point. If you love Empire Ears IEMs and didn't get your hands on the RAVEN, the NOVUS is a great choice for you. From the design to the sound, the NOVUS had a lot of the qualities present in Empire Ears IEMs. The NOVUS has a lifelike, emotive sound to it that pulls on the heartstrings of vocal-centric songs and breathes life into more neutral presentations. It's a great choice for the versatile listener who jumps around and doesn't really stick to one genre over another.
In My Life
by The Beatles
(Rubber Soul)
Prisoner
by Miley Cyrus
(Plastic Hearts)
Birds of a Feather
by Billie Eilish
(Hit Me Hard and Soft)
Head Over Heels
by Tears for Fears
(Songs From the Big Chair)
Dragon Audio Cable Recommendation
To give the NOVUS as fair of a chance as possible I paired it with three cables: The included stock cable, Bronze Dragon IEM Cable, and Silver Dragon IEM Cable. I'll just go ahead and say it—it sounded fine with the stock cable. However, if you're going to pony up and spend $5,000 on an IEM, what's another $350 for a premium IEM cable? In case you didn't already know we make premium audio cables, custom made-to-order everyday in our headquarters. If you've been looking for an audio or digital cable with a certain connector that you just can't find anywhere, or a stable, reliable network cable—choose Dragon Audio Cables. Trust me, we're bound to have the solution for you.
So which IEM Cable sounds best with the NOVUS? Ultimately it comes down to personal preference and what tonality you're looking for. The Silver Dragon IEM Cable complemented the NOVUS IEMs the best, adding top-end resolution and further accentuating the already fine details. I felt that the Bronze Dragon, our warm and full-bodied cable added too much warmth to the NOVUS, mudding up the low end on certain songs. If you want more detail go for the Silver Dragon. If you want more body and bottom-end weight, choose the Bronze Dragon.
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Specifications
-
13 Driver Quadbrid
- Cable
- Astell & Kern X Empire Ears 4-Wire Tribrid Copper, Gold & Silver 4.4 Cable
- Material & Finishes
-
6061-T6 Aluminum finished in DLC
Shell: DLC - Diamond-Like Carbon
Logo Grid: DLC - Diamond-Like Carbon
Faceplates: 24K Pure Gold - Components
-
4.4 to 3.5 Pentaconn adapter with AK/EE engraving
Final Audio Type E Tips with aluminum tip tray and AK/EE engraving
Empire Ears Pandora V3 CNC anodized black aluminum case
Cleaning Tool
EE X AK Microfiber Cloth
Custom, EE X AK Packaging with sleeve - Frequency Response
- 5Hz-100kHz
- Sensitivity
- 108.1dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
- Impedance
- 2 ohms @ 1kHz
Dual Bone Conductors
Dual Proprietary W9+ Subwoofers
Quintuple Bespoke Balanced Armatures by Knowles:
1 Sonion driver, Quad Proprietary NOVA Drivers by Knowles
Quad Electrostatic Tweeters by Sonion
Dual High Mass Bone Conductors by Sonion