Novus: The Ultimate Audiophile Earphones

For audiophiles who spare no expense in their quest for perfect sound reproduction, the Novus earphones by Astell&Kern and Empire Ears represent the zenith of high-end audio technology. Astell&Kern, renowned for crafting some of the most exclusive and expensive Digital Audio Players (DAPs), has partnered with Empire Ears to produce a second series of In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) designed to harmonize with their premium devices. Following the success of their first collaboration, the Odyssey, which earned acclaim for its ability to fully exploit the flagship SP3000 DAP, the Novus IEMs set a new benchmark in audio excellence.

The Novus IEMs are meticulously engineered to complement Astell&Kern’s SP3000T, a deluxe DAP that marries the warmth of analog vacuum tubes with ultra-high-resolution digital audio. Each Novus earpiece houses a staggering 13 individual drivers, organized in a Multi-Driver Quadbrid System. This system includes two W9+ dynamic drivers, five balanced armature drivers, a Sonion driver, four proprietary NOVA drivers from Knowles Corporation, four electrostatic drivers from Sonion, and two bone conductors, also from Sonion. This intricate assembly ensures that every detail of the audio signal is captured and delivered with unparalleled precision.

The craftsmanship of the Novus is evident in its construction. Each earpiece features 24K gold-plated faceplates and sapphire glass encased in a 6061-T6 aluminum shell, which is finished with a Diamond-Like Carbon coating. The combination of materials not only contributes to the IEMs’ stunning aesthetic but also enhances their durability and acoustic performance. The Novus also comes with a selection of silicone ear tips in various sizes, though foam tips are not included. The silicone options, however, provide an excellent seal and comfort.

The included detachable cable is equally impressive. Made from a hybrid of copper, gold, and silver Litz wires, the cable consists of two twisted pairs and features a balanced 4.4mm jack plug—ideal for high-fidelity listening. For versatility, the package includes a 4.4mm to 2.5mm balanced adapter, accommodating older DAP models. Despite their substantial size, which is necessary to accommodate the numerous drivers, the Novus IEMs are comfortable to wear. They utilize a plastic-covered hook that fits over the ear, effectively minimizing microphonic vibrations from the cable. The cable itself is wrapped in a braided fabric covering, ensuring quiet operation.

In my evaluation of the Novus, I tested them with various DACs and DAPs. While I did not have access to the Astell&Kern SP3000 for this review, it’s anticipated that pairing the Novus with this device would yield an even more extraordinary listening experience. The Novus delivers a remarkably balanced and complete sound, though its high price point reflects its premium nature.

The Novus excels in delivering powerful and impactful bass that extends down to 5Hz. Whether reproducing the deep rumble of an acoustic bass or the sharp punch of a kick drum, the Novus offers an impressive bass response with clear separation from the mid-range frequencies. This separation prevents any blurring or drifting, allowing the bass to occupy its own distinct space in the sound spectrum.

The mid-range frequencies benefit from the strong bass foundation, with vocals positioned almost perfectly. The Novus IEMs are capable of revealing any imperfections in the source material or recording mix, but when the sound is well-engineered, the Novus enhances it to extraordinary levels.

The high frequencies of the Novus are clear and refined, avoiding harshness or splashiness. The treble, extending up to an audible 100kHz, adds direction and focus to the soundstage. While the soundstage may not be the widest, each instrument and vocal is afforded ample space, resulting in a well-defined and coherent overall sound.

Testing the Novus with tracks such as “If The World Was A House” by The Secret Sisters showcased its ability to render multitracked vocals and intricate acoustic details with stunning realism. Similarly, “Count The Wicked” by Mama’s Broke highlighted the Novus’s precision in articulating delicate instrumental nuances and vocal harmonies.

Despite their impressive performance, the Novus IEMs are not without potential drawbacks. The complexity of their 26 drivers introduces a higher likelihood of component failure. Balanced armatures, while excellent for audio fidelity, are not the most durable and require careful handling. Nonetheless, with proper care, the Novus is expected to provide exceptional performance and longevity.

In summary, the Astell&Kern X Empire Ears Novus IEMs are a testament to the pinnacle of audio engineering. They deliver a sound experience that justifies their premium price, making them an ideal choice for those with the most discerning tastes and high-quality audio setups. Their closest competitors in terms of multi-driver innovation are Campfire Audio’s offerings, though the Novus sets a high bar in audio excellence. For those with the means, the Novus represents a worthwhile investment in unparalleled audio quality.

Pricing & Availability: The Astell&Kern X Empire Ears Novus IEMs are priced at $4,999 / £4,999 / €4,999 and are available for purchase now.

Tech Specs:

• Drivers: 13 Driver Quadbrid System (2x W9+ Dynamic Drivers, 5x Balanced Armature Drivers, 1x Sonion Driver, 4x Proprietary NOVA Drivers by Knowles, 4x Electrostatic Drivers by Sonion, 2x Bone Conductors by Sonion)
• Connector Type: 4-Wire Hybrid Copper, Gold & Silver – 23.7AWG Litz Type 4S Cable
• Structure: Reinforced black macro-molecular fiber
• Housing Material: 6061-T6 aluminum with Diamond-Like Carbon finish
• Logo Grid: Diamond-Like Carbon
• Faceplates: 24K pure gold
• Frequency Response: 5Hz – 100kHz
• SPL: 108.1dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
• Impedance: 2Ω @ 1kHz