KNOWLES BLOG

New Multi-Way Balanced Armature Drivers Now Available: Streamlining Premium IEM Design

At Knowles, we've spent over 75 years perfecting the art of precision audio. Our balanced armature (BA) drivers have become the go-to choice for professional musicians, audiophiles, and consumers who demand exceptional sound quality. Today, we're excited to share more about our latest innovation: a family of multi-way BA driver combinations that make it easier than ever to design world-class audio products.

Designing premium in-ear monitors (IEMs) traditionally requires carefully selecting and integrating multiple individual drivers, then fine-tuning complex crossover circuits to achieve the perfect sound signature. It's a time-consuming process that requires deep expertise in acoustic engineering.

Our new multi-way drivers change that equation. By combining our most advanced BA technologies, including dual-diaphragm woofers, automated receivers, and supertweeters, into pre-configured packages with integrated crossover circuits, we're taking the guesswork out of IEM design and providing a plug-and-play solution that delivers exceptional sound quality right out of the box.

The Technology Behind the Sound

What makes these multi-way drivers special? It starts with the fundamental advantage of balanced armature technology: unlike traditional speakers, BA drivers feature a stationary coil that can be wound with various impedances, giving designers precise control over how multiple drivers interact. Combined with venting options and acoustic dampers, this allows for simpler crossover circuits and extensive tuning flexibility.

We've packed each driver combination with our latest innovations:

  • Dual-diaphragm woofers deliver bass response rivaling dual receivers while using only a fraction of the space, doubling output with two diaphragms driven by a single motor
  • Automated receivers provide precise tolerances and uninterruptible supply continuity, with tightened performance tolerances and improved supply chain traceability
  • Tweeters deliver high-res audio with superior performance
  • Supertweeters offer unparalleled treble extension through 40kHz, establishing stability in the detail and air range for true lossless and high-resolution audio

Together, these technologies create vivid audio experiences with superior sound staging and precise playback across the full sound spectrum.

Four Models, Endless Possibilities

We've designed four distinct multi-way driver models to match different performance requirements and applications:

T202: The Versatile Foundation Our two-way, two-driver combination uses exclusively Knowles automated receivers in a compact package. It's perfect for entry-level universal earphones and gaming IEMs, delivering flat bass response, crystal-clear mid-range, and high-frequency extension capable of hi-res audio. The T202 provides clarity across the full sound spectrum with the reliability and precise tolerances that only automated receivers can offer.

T303: Enhanced Bass Performance The three-way, three-driver T303 builds on the T202 by adding a dual-diaphragm woofer for enhanced bass extension. This configuration features dedicated BAs for bass, mid, and treble ranges, delivering clarity alongside a defined and punchy low-end—all while maintaining an ultra-small footprint. It's ideal for high-end universal earphones, mid-tier custom IEMs, and premium gaming earphones.

T404: The Audiophile's Choice Our four-way, four-driver T404 takes the T303 design and adds a Knowles supertweeter for extraordinary treble extension up to 40kHz. With dedicated BAs for bass, lower-mid, upper-mid, and treble ranges, the T404 delivers a universally pleasing listening experience: punchy low-end, transparent mids, and airy, detailed treble. Tuned closely to the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve, this industry-standard configuration expands treble response beyond 10kHz for optimal audio performance. It's perfect for professional IEMs used by top music performers and sound engineers.

T408: Best-in-Class Performance The ultimate configuration, our four-way, eight-driver T408 represents the pinnacle of our multi-way driver technology. It features best-in-class bass enhancement using two dual-diaphragm receivers and enhanced high-frequency extension with dual supertweeters. This combination makes it the industry-best offering for high-end custom earphones, audiophile-grade products, and premium gaming applications where no compromise is acceptable.

Designed for Easy Integration

While each model is pre-tuned to meet the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve for transparent sound reproduction, they're also fully customizable. Designers can modify capacitor values and fine-tune amplitude with added resistors to achieve their unique sound signature. The integrated crossover circuits mean these drivers can be seamlessly integrated into any earphone form factor and shell design, significantly accelerating time to market.

Available Now on DigiKey

Ready to experience the difference? Our multi-way BA drivers are now available through DigiKey, making it easier than ever to source these precision-engineered components for your next project. Visit DigiKey's Knowles Multi-Way Driver page to explore specifications, pricing, and availability.

Whether you're designing entry-level gaming earphones or flagship IEMs for professional musicians, our multi-way driver family offers the tools you need to create products that meet the exacting standards of today's most demanding listeners. We're currently sampling these drivers with customers. Reach out to your Knowles representative to learn more about how they can elevate your next audio design.