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Altec Lansing announces a trio of 'Custom Series' in-ear monitors -- no, seriously

Joe Pollicino
Updated ·6 min read

Sure, we've covered in-ear monitors from the likes of Westone and Shure, but Altec Lansing? Believe it. Taking a sidestep from its usual consumer-focusedaudio wares, the company today announced a partnership with ACS Custom to bring a trio of custom-molded IEMs, packing balanced-armature drivers to market. Each ear-mold is "handcrafted from advanced, medical-grade silicone" and you can expect noise isolation in upwards of 27dB, although, you'll somewhat disappointingly be stuck with Altec's signature smoked-grey and gold color scheme. The IEMs feature kevlar-wrapped cabling -- which notably, isn't removable like similar offerings at this price -- and a right-angle 3.5mm plug for hook-up.

The trophy piece of the bunch, dubbed A3 (pictured), is aimed at music professionals and will retail for $1000, featuring a duo of treble and mid-range drivers along with a single woofer. For those leaning toward something less spendy, the $750 A2 variant drops one of the high / mid drivers in favor of a dual-driver setup, while the $500 A1 gets even smaller with a single full-range driver. Better yet, after ordering a set from Altec or an authorized retailer, you'll have a choice of about 300 audiologists -- hopefully within reasonable distance your abode -- to get you ear's impressions taken and sent over for creation. If you're willing to give 'em a shot, the Altec Lansing Custom Series IEMs will be available starting this month, and you'll find the full press release after the break. %Gallery-139366%

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ALTEC LANSING AND ACS CUSTOM DELIVER PROFESSIONAL-CALIBER AUDIO WITH TRILOGY OF CUSTOM MADE, IN-EAR MONITORS

New "Custom Series" of Single, Double and Triple Balanced Armature Earphones Provide Amazing Clarity and Comfort

SAN DIEGO, CA – November 15, 2011 – Today, Altec Lansing announced availability of hand-crafted, armature-based in-ear monitors for professionals and audio enthusiasts who demand only the best in audio accuracy, noise isolation, and comfort. Through a partnership with global audio specialist ACS Custom, custom fitted in-ear monitors will be available for retail consumers as well as audio professionals. Engineered for DJs, professional producers, recording / mixing engineers and performing musicians, these new monitors bring to consumers Altec Lansing's legendary sound quality coupled with ACS Custom's reputation for innovative custom in-ear products.

"For nearly 75 years, Altec Lansing has focused on authentic sound quality, and the new Custom Series balanced armature monitors are designed to provide phenomenal sound to professionals and consumers alike who demand high fidelity music, exceptional fit and long-wearing comfort," said Raleigh Wilson, VP Sales & Marketing.

Offering premium audio products is part of Altec Lansing's renewed emphasis on returning to its roots in high-end sound solutions designed for those who want to hear music like the artist intended. These new headphones will promise an unparalleled user experience, as they are custom-built through every phase of production. Once a user purchases an Altec Lansing by ACS Custom monitor set, they will be referred to one of more than 300 local pre-qualified audiologists, who will create individual custom ear molds from which to craft the monitors. Altec Lansing and ACS Custom have a trained network of over 300 professional audiologists who are skilled at making great ear impressions. The custom ear molds are then sent to ACS Custom to create a product to exacting specifications, promising a perfect fit to maximize the listening experience.

"We hand craft every individual Custom Series product in our private labs in the US and the UK for the best possible customer experience. Premium materials, innovative designs and a relentless focus on the details means that the new Altec Lansing by ACS Custom in-ear monitors will provide nearly flawless sound reproduction and an enthralling musical experience for audiophiles and professionals alike," said Craig Kasper, Audiologist and Managing Director, ACS Custom USA.

The new Custom Series In-Ear Monitors are handcrafted from advanced, medical-grade silicone that is extremely soft. The 40 Shore silicone quickly adapts to a user's body temperature, forming a flexible yet complete seal that ensures comfort for extended wear and isolates noise up to -27db. Furthermore, SteriTouch provides an antimicrobial benefit to the silicone.

The three new models have a frequency response range of 16Hz ~ 20KHz, so users will experience music that is most closely matched to the true sound of the original recording. All three models are fitted with finely tuned balanced armature drivers and provide a complete seal of the ear canal that requires less volume while isolating outside noise. Unlike conventional drivers, no air is required for the sound to be conducted. Because of this, the Custom Series In-Ear Monitors can be much more accurately tuned for specific frequency ranges. The result is precise, sharp audio clarity from deep bass tones to crystal clear mid and high range notes. The cables are reinforced with Kevlar for strength and feature an innovative sheath to prevent noise transference to the earpiece. The plug is right-angled and custom-molded for resilience, and the 3.5mm connector is gold plated.

Three custom models are available; each has been carefully constructed for maximum sound clarity, comfort and longevity. The choice of professional musicians and serious audiophiles, the triple driver A3 offers unmatched range, depth and clarity of sound. Three independent drivers work in harmony to sharpen every detail across the entire frequency range. Treble and mid-range drivers deliver clear and nimble notes while the large bass driver produces deep and smooth tones. Each channel is further enhanced with specially selected acoustic filters.

The dual-driver A2 In-Ear Monitor is a favorite of audio enthusiasts, providing the dynamic range, power and clarity of sound that has been the hallmark of Altec Lansing for nearly 75 years. Each hand-made A2 features a large bass driver for deep, mellow tones and a mid to high range driver for a crystal clear top end. The lightweight A1 features one of the most dynamically powerful and accurate drivers ever developed. Delivering an incredible range with stunning clarity, this single driver in-ear monitor is perfect for anyone wishing a discreet and comfortable way to enjoy live-concert quality with a custom canal-molded monitor.

Price and Availability
The Altec Lansing by ACS Custom Series In-Ear Monitors will be available beginning in November. Pricing for the triple armature A3 is $999.95, while the A2 and A1 models will have a suggested retail price of $749.95 and $499.95, respectively. Additionally, J&R Music and Computer World in Manhattan will have a planned launch event offering on-site ear impressions by a professional audiologist. Audiologists will also take custom ear impressions at the Altec Lansing CES booth (South Hall 1, Booth #20621). Consumers are urged to visit HYPERLINK "http://www.alteclansing.com/custom" www.alteclansing.com/custom for more information.