Astell & Kern’s AK Zero1 hybrid earphones pack three types of drivers into an angular design
The pair features balanced armature drivers, a 5.6 mm dynamic driver as well as a planar dynamic driver.
(Image: Astell & Kern)
Astell & Kern has unveiled the AK Zero1, the South Korean audio specialist’s newest in-ear earphones that promise “ground-breaking hybrid sound” with a design that uses three different types of drivers.
The AK Zero1 features two balanced armature drivers to handle midrange frequencies, a 5.6 mm dynamic driver for the bottom end and a planar dynamic driver, which features a sturdy and lightweight planar membrane, to minimise frequency loss.
The earphones aim to reproduce natural, uncoloured sound that stays closer to the source material. They have a frequency response of 25Hz to 30kHz.
Each driver is carefully positioned within the AK Zero1’s 3D-printed acoustic chamber to ensure they are in the optimal positions to serve their purposes.
The AK Zero1 comes with a silver-coated OFC 4 core cable with 3.5 mm headphone jack. Astell & Kern is also launching an optional, larger aluminium-machined 4.4 mm cable called the PEP11.
Each pair comes with five pairs of silicone ear tips and a single pair of foam ear tips to provide listeners with a snug fit. They also come with a leather case to keep them in.
The AK Zero1 will be available this November, priced at £649 / $699 / €749. Meanwhile, the optional PEP11 cable is priced at £119 / $130 / €139.
Learn more at astellkern.com
