xMEMS has launched new wireless in-er headphones with which the company aims to put its self-developed solid-state MEMS micro speaker technology on the map. The new products are not intended for consumers but for manufacturers who would like to incorporate the new xMEMS drivers into their own headphones. The first products for consumers will have to wait a while.
xMEMS: drivers for headphones without coils and magnets
Founded in 2018, xMEMS Labs designs and manufactures xMEMS microspeakers for use in earbuds, in-ear monitors and other audio devices. The company’s innovative monolithic driver technology implements both the actuation and diaphragm in silicon, eliminating magnets, suspension components and diaphragms from dynamic drivers.
xMEMS wants to sell its technology to other manufacturers and to lower the threshold and demonstrate the possibilities for use in (consumer) products, the manufacturer has built two new products. The Harding is an xMEMS reference design for two-way TWS earbuds, while the Montara Plus is intended for use in audiophile-level full-range in-ear monitors (IEMs).
These new models, according to xMEMS engineers, provide the best possible starting point for other manufacturers with the end goal of offering their customers the benefits of the world’s first all-silicon, monolithic MEMS microspeakers. Mike Housholder of xMEMS states: “We continue to build momentum and awareness around our MEMS-based technologies that deliver a better sounding driver with greater production efficiency and uniformity. In the meantime, we are committed to helping every customer who understands the value of using MEMS drivers become part of their future product story. That’s why we’re making a limited number of our TWS earbuds and IEM designs available for purchase to any forward-thinking brand or manufacturer looking for a roadmap for the fastest possible adoption of xMEMS technology.”
xMEMS Harding
The Harding model is a two-way wireless earbud design that delivers superior high-frequency response and clarity with Cowell, the world’s smallest solid-state driver (also called “microspeaker” speaker by xMEMS). Cowell acts as a tweeter for realistic mids and highs and is paired with a specially designed 9mm dynamic driver woofer that delivers the bass. This is also an ANC-ready (Active Noise Canceling) design that includes a Qualcomm Bluetooth Audio SoC and three microphones per earbud for noise cancellation.
xMEMS Montara Plus
The Montara Plus is designed to be the world’s highest output xMEMS micro speaker. It is a full-range driver for use in IEMs. The Montara Plus delivers sound pressure levels up to 120 dB @ 200 Hz. The USB-C IEM design includes a high-resolution audio DAC from Synaptics and a voice microphone for phone calls and web support.
The Montara Plus also offers a fast transient response and a wide bandwidth (20 Hz to > 40 kHz), according to the manufacturer. In single-speaker IEM, this supports a smaller, lighter and simpler implementation without the phase alignment and design complexity of multi-driver IEM.
Mike Housholder comments: “We see demand for xMEMS speakers growing exponentially as brands around the world seek to differentiate themselves in the marketplace and streamline their manufacturing efforts. By selling these reference designs, we are doing our part to ensure the transition to MEMS speakers is as smooth and efficient as possible, so that more brands, manufacturers and their customers can soon benefit from xMEMS’ industry-changing innovations.”
As already noted, these new designs from xMEMS Labs can be purchased and shipped to TWS and IEM brands. Consumer products are expected to become available in the coming months or in 2025.
Knowing more? Then take a look at the xMEMS website .
