(January 17, 2025) Let's stray from our home theater and 2-channel stereo focus for a moment and take a look at a new player in the custom in-ear monitor (IEM) market. Armed with a wicked name and stunning visual flare, Illinois-based Dark Matter Labs (DMA Labs) was founded by a team of professionals with extensive experience in acoustics and audio engineering. Its focus is to provide high-performance audio solutions designed to meet the needs of world-class musicians.
Among its founders is Tal Kocen, a front-of-house and monitor engineer with years of experience working with artists on tour. His background provides practical insight into the performance requirements of IEMs. Another co-founder, Dave Friesema, has over 20 years of experience in acoustic engineering and has contributed to the development of both custom and universal IEMs.
The initial product lineup, available on January 21st, includes the following four models:
- DM2H Hybrid Dual-Driver Custom IEM – $599: Combines a dynamic driver and a balanced armature driver.
- DMA3 Triple-Driver Custom IEM – $899: Features three balanced armature drivers for detailed audio reproduction.
- DMA6 Six-Driver Custom IEM – $1499: Contains six balanced armature drivers for a layered sound experience.
- DMA8 Eight-Driver Custom IEM – $1699: Equipped with eight balanced armature drivers for precise audio performance.
The custom-fitting process involves silicone ear impressions, which are digitized through 3D scanning. This ensures an accurate fit and minimizes the occlusion effect. Each resulting IEM is tailored to the user’s ear anatomy for optimal comfort and performance, and it also stands as a work of art. Initial images of product samples show delicious swirls of color and edgy presentations that are sure to stand out.
Speaking about the launch, Tal Kocen said: “Dark Matter’s IEMs are more than just tools; they’re an extension of the artist’s craft. We’ve created them to enhance every aspect of performance, from clarity during live shows to comfort during long rehearsals.”
In addition to its product offerings, Dark Matter Labs is dedicated to musician causes. Supporting charitable organizations, providing mental health and housing assistance, joining grassroots organizations fighting for fairness in copyright royalties, and working to keep AI out of songwriting are just a few of the arenas we can expect them to support.
DMA Labs is set to launch next Tuesday, January 21st. That's the first day customers can purchase from the collection directly through the official website - darkmatteraudiolabs.com. The company will also present its products at NAMM 2025, Booth 10933, where visitors can see the IEMs and have ear impressions taken by Tal Kocen.
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