Knowles Corporation today announced the availability of a new family of multi-way balanced armature driver combinations designed to streamline the development of premium in-ear monitors (IEMs), gaming earphones, and high-resolution audio products.
For decades, designing high-performance IEMs has required the careful selection and integration of multiple individual drivers, along with complex crossover tuning to achieve the desired sound signature. Knowles’ new multi-way driver family simplifies that process by combining advanced BA technologies into compact, pre-configured packages with integrated crossover circuits — enabling faster development and consistent, world-class audio performance.
Advanced BA Technologies in a Single Integrated Package
Each multi-way driver combination incorporates Knowles’ most advanced balanced armature innovations, delivering full-spectrum clarity, improved tuning flexibility, and premium sound staging.
Key technology features include:
- Dual-diaphragm woofers, delivering bass output comparable to dual receivers while using only a fraction of the space
- Automated receivers, offering tightened performance tolerances, improved traceability, and supply continuity
- High-resolution tweeters, engineered for superior clarity and detailed playback
- Supertweeters, providing extended treble response through 40kHz for true lossless and high-resolution audio applications
Balanced armature technology also enables simplified crossover design through impedance control, venting options, and acoustic dampers — giving engineers greater flexibility in compact form factors.
Four Multi-Way Models for a Range of Premium Applications
Knowles’ multi-way driver family includes four distinct configurations optimized for different performance levels and end products:
T202 — Versatile Two-Way Foundation
A compact two-way, two-driver combination using Knowles automated receivers, ideal for entry-level universal earphones and gaming IEMs. The T202 delivers flat bass response, clear mid-range, and extended high-frequency performance suitable for hi-res audio.
T303 — Enhanced Bass Extension
A three-way, three-driver configuration that adds a dual-diaphragm woofer for punchier low-end performance while maintaining an ultra-small footprint. Designed for high-end universal earphones, mid-tier custom IEMs, and premium gaming products.
T404 — Audiophile-Grade Reference Design
A four-way, four-driver combination featuring a Knowles supertweeter for treble extension up to 40kHz. Tuned closely to the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve, the T404 delivers punchy bass, transparent mids, and airy, detailed highs — ideal for professional performer and studio IEMs.
T408 — Best-in-Class Multi-Way Performance
A four-way, eight-driver flagship configuration with dual dual-diaphragm woofers and dual supertweeters for maximum bass enhancement and high-frequency extension. The T408 is engineered for top-tier custom IEMs, audiophile-grade products, and uncompromising premium gaming applications.
Designed for Fast Integration and Custom Tuning
While each model is pre-tuned to align with the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve for transparent sound reproduction, designers retain the ability to customize capacitor values and adjust amplitude with additional resistors to achieve unique sound signatures.
With integrated crossover circuits, the drivers can be seamlessly incorporated into a wide range of earphone shell designs, significantly reducing development time and complexity.
Availability
Knowles’ multi-way balanced armature driver family is available now through DigiKey, providing easy access to specifications, pricing, and ordering for audio designers worldwide.
Knowles is also currently sampling these drivers with customers. To learn more, contact your Knowles representative.
