CrinEar Reference

Hybrid In-Ear Headphones

• 2xDD + 3BA Drivers
• Neutral Studio Tuning
• Dual Woofer System
• Sonion and Knowles BA Drivers
• CNC-machined Aluminum Housing
• High-Quality Modular Cable
• 3.5mm and 4.4mm Connectors

Objective Neutrality

The CrinEar Reference is a specially developed in-ear monitor designed for the highest sonic precision. The Reference was developed based on state-of-the-art acoustic research and is designed to be the world’s flattest IEM on the market*, with a focus on transparency, linearity, and repeatable accuracy.

*Based on compliance with the population-averaged diffuse-field response (JM-1) with a slope of -1 dB/octave, measured using standard equipment in accordance with ITU-T P.57 Type 4.3

Perceived linearity

While the Reference is designed to achieve objective neutrality on paper, its tuning has been further refined to deliver true perceived linearity. Recognizing the inherent differences between in-ear listening and far-field speaker systems, a subtle boost of approximately 2 dB is applied to the low frequencies to restore the sense of physicality often associated with high-end studio monitors in acoustically treated rooms.

This careful adjustment bridges the gap between measurement accuracy and the real listening experience, ensuring that the Reference not only measures flat but also sounds naturally balanced and lifelike in practice.

Tuned for the studio – Built for the stage

The CrinEar Reference was developed as a true monitoring tool and delivers realistic, faithful reproduction for critical listening and mix evaluation.

With reliable sound balance, precise clarity in the midrange, and controlled low-frequency response, the Reference is designed to be your portable studio monitor, ensuring mixes can be implemented confidently across any room.

HODWS Architecture

The bass frequencies are handled by a specially developed system featuring two 10-mm dynamic drivers arranged in a horizontally opposed configuration. This Horizontally-Opposed Dual Woofer System (HODWS) allows the two woofers to share their mechanical load, resulting in the following benefits:

-Reduced stress on individual diaphragms

-Improved bass linearity and control

-Improved energy efficiency

-More powerful and precise bass reproduction

Ultimately, this ensures realistic bass reproduction with a flat frequency response. Because “flat bass” should not mean “no bass.”

Sonion and Knowles drivers

Mid and high frequencies are reproduced by a carefully engineered arrangement of two Sonion midrange drivers and a single Knowles super tweeter. Each driver is hand-selected to meet our strict tuning targets and then equipped with the most efficient crossover network.

CNC-milled aluminum housing

All of the Reference’s drivers are housed in a solid aluminum enclosure precision-machined using a 5-axis CNC process. The contoured, virtually custom-tailored geometry offers:

-High structural rigidity to suppress enclosure resonance

-Durability that withstands professional use

-A secure, comfortable fit, optimized for extended listening sessions

High-quality modular cable

The package includes a high-quality, detachable cable with a replaceable connector system:

3.5 mm single-ended for universal compatibility

4.4 mm balanced for reduced crosstalk and improved channel separation

Enjoy flexibility with portable and stationary sources, in both consumer and professional settings, without compromising signal quality.

Technical Specifications

Driver configuration: 2 x 10 mm DD (HODWS) + 3BA

Impedance: 16 Ω at 1 kHz

Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW at 1 kHz

Frequency range: 2 Hz to 44,000 Hz

Opening width: 6.0 mm (lip)

Cable material: silver-plated copper

Included in delivery

S/M/L silicone ear tips (Standard bore)

S/M/L silicone ear tips (Small bore)

XS/S/M/L silicone ear tips (Wide bore)

M foam ear tips

Faux leather case with zipper

SPC cable with interchangeable 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced plugs