Guys, I wanted some opinions on this.
Many budget IEMs (KZ, TRN, etc) have BA treble drivers installed right in the nozzle, directly under the nozzle/earwax screen, with
no tubes or dampers at all.
While I don't need to be reminded that this is NOT the 'right way' to build IEMs, it remains a fact that a large number of budget manufacturers practice this behavior whether it is the 'right way' or not. That doesn't mean something can't be done to improve the situation.
As you know, undampened BAs have undesirable treble peaks, as the driver manufacturer intends them to be dampened. Therefore, I had an idea for a possible mod that would allow an improvement to these budget IEMs (as well as DIY IEMs).
Due to the space constraints in the nozzle, the only possible way to add a damper to the driver (and still be able to fit under the nozzle/earwax screen) is as follows:
1. Obtain 1.37mm
plastic Knowles dampers. Why the 1.37mm plastic dampers? Because that size fits perfectly on the BA nozzle. Since I intend to use this on treble drivers (30095 as an example), I went with the often-recommended green dampers (BF-3039 Green 1500ohm).
2. Cut a small ‘slice’ of BA tubing (1.0mm ID/2.0mm OD), similar to a rubber band.
Note how incredibly small these parts are! Yes, I know I didn't cut the piece of tubing perfectly straight, but it doesn't need to be. As long as the bottom cut is as square as possible, it will fit fully on the BA nozzle.
3. Now place the plastic damper on the treble BA nozzle (this is not easy, but it is doable).
Note, I am using a bare BA assembly as a model only. This allows us to visualize what’s going on with the mod much easier.
4. Now slip the piece of BA tubing over the damper (this is not easy, as it’s a tight fit, but it is doable). Secure/seal the bottom of the tube with epoxy if needed.
5. Done. Notice that from the side, the damper is basically even with the nozzle. That means it will still fit under the nozzle/earwax screen of these budget IEMs.
Now,
I am aware that Knowles designs their dampers to be placed a certain distance away from the driver nozzle (I think they recommend 8-10mm). They do, however, indicate that the dampers CAN work at a closer distance; they will just have a slightly
lower effective resistance. I still need to do FR measurements and testing with various damper resistances, but I think I can compensate for the lower resistance by simply installing a higher resistance damper. In other words, perhaps a red damper installed right @ the nozzle might be 'equal' to a green damper installed in the tube.
So as far as budget IEMs, this mod can be performed externally, requiring only the removal of the nozzle/earwax screen. Then, after the dampers are installed, the nozzle/earwax screen can be replaced.
Comments? Thoughts? Has anyone ever tried this?