[Deezel177]

As the number of sound bores are increased, logically, the bores have to become smaller to all fit within the ear canal.
Dr. Mead Killion (fellow audiologist and founder of ER) has done a lot of research on ear mold acoustics, and the photo shows that the smaller the tubing acts as a high frequency filter.

https://www.etymotic.com/media/publications/erl-0048-2003.pdf


When I built the TDR 20 Driver, I used a tubeless design to get around the tube issues (more info on that build can be found at Post #137 https://www.head-fi.org/threads/som...he-wizard-aka-the-grand-master.568365/page-10 )


some other good reads on ear mold acoustics and different ear mold materials (silicone/acrylic etc)


http://www.hearingreview.com/2009/0...tions-to-improve-performance-in-hearing-aids/

http://www.audiologyonline.com/articles/earmolds-and-more-maximizing-patient-850

Great info! I did read on the Home-Made IEMs thread that smaller tubing would attenuate high frequencies (either in terms of volume or extension; I can't remember) and the only way to get around it, acoustically, is a horn design. Do you think this is why many have called the SE5U dark and lacking treble sparkle? Do you guys at Noble have any plans for implementing tubeless designs in the future?

 

[FullCircle]

Great info! I did read on the Home-Made IEMs thread that smaller tubing would attenuate high frequencies (either in terms of volume or extension; I can't remember) and the only way to get around it, acoustically, is a horn design. Do you think this is why many have called the SE5U dark and lacking treble sparkle? Do you guys at Noble have any plans for implementing tubeless designs in the future?

I couldn't comment on the sq of the SE5U

A) never heard it before
B) forum rules would prevent me from discussing the specifics of another mfg product

As for future designs, we don't openly talk about what our plans are etc.

 

[ranfan]

Thanks John, for the informative post.

 

[piotrus-g]

Just use a dryer every few moment and keep em in a pelican.

Well this is number one most important thing to maintain silicone IEM

 

[piotrus-g]

So does the silicone shell produce a different sound than acrylic?

Some info I posted not long ago here: https://www.head-fi.org/threads/iem-hard-acrylic-shell-cavity-benefits.813266/

 

[tranhieu]

Great info! I did read on the Home-Made IEMs thread that smaller tubing would attenuate high frequencies (either in terms of volume or extension; I can't remember) and the only way to get around it, acoustically, is a horn design. Do you think this is why many have called the SE5U dark and lacking treble sparkle? Do you guys at Noble have any plans for implementing tubeless designs in the future?

An acoustic horn wouldn't do much in this case given the fact that the ear canal's cross section area is limited, and you would need a pretty big mouth to get some decent amplification in the upper end.

An acoustic horn would work better as an acoustic impedance adaptor. As for better treble, you'd need other techniques

 

[Ike1985]

Oh you do? Tell us more

LOL

 

[flinkenick]

I considered contributing to the discussion with a very interesting link to an article about the different effects of sound tubes in silicone and acrylic materials, but I think most people have had enough of Rick Astley for now.

 

[seamon]

I considered contributing to the discussion with a very interesting link to an article about the different effects of sound tubes in silicone and acrylic materials, but I think most people have had enough of Rick Astley for now.

I am genuinely curious. Please share the video you have about sound tubes in silicone and acrylic materials.

 

[flinkenick]

I am genuinely curious. Please share the video you have about sound tubes in silicone and acrylic materials.

Well, it basically says that despite all the different and complex matters when it comes to building a ciem, the most important thing to do is never give up. I found it quite helpful.

 

[Deezel177]

I'll venture a guess and say Emil is ready to answer back at your #16 ranking @flinkenick...

 

[ranfan]

Well, it basically says that despite all the different and complex matters when it comes to building a ciem, the most important thing to do is never give up. I found it quite helpful.

Could you please share the link Nic, as I truly am utmost interested with your very informative, exceptional beyond brilliance link towards a video on youtube of a ginger troll who'd never give anyone up, no matter how harsh the condition, the rules, no matter how attractive the other guy, how unfair the game, no matter how hurtful the heartache. How he'd never let me down, make me cry, say goodbye, lie, hurt, run around, and desert me. Ooh, please Nic share us the link, I can't wait to listen to this genius romantic poet-dancer's soft and gentle beautiful voice whispering into my ears again for the third beloved time. It's very helpful.

 

[flinkenick]

I'll venture a guess and say Emil is ready to answer back at your #16 ranking @flinkenick...

I'll venture a guess and say he'll send it to every reviewer but me

 

[flinkenick]

But in all seriousness; it might not be as scientific as the articles from @FullCircle and @piotrus-g, but average_joe had posted why he generally preferred the sound of silicone iems. Although it might have been slightly biased towards the 5-Way specifically..

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/review-spiral-ear-se-5-way-reference-a-new-level-of-resolution-review-posted-5-15-12.549298/page-3#post-7503633

 

[piotrus-g]

Well, it basically says that despite all the different and complex matters when it comes to building a ciem, the most important thing to do is never give up. I found it quite helpful.

I ****** loled so hard.

[EDIT] Well on the second thought though... there is some truth to that.