Dark Matter Audio Labs Unveils New Custom IEMs For Audiophiles

If you take a look at the personal audio scene these days, you’ll find it filled with true wireless earbuds. There’s no denying the convenience of true wireless earbuds, from their form factor to their wireless connectivity. But more often than not, the sound from these earbuds leaves us wanting more. Suppose you’re looking for something that takes you into audiophile territory. In that case, you might be interested in a new company called Dark Matter Audio Labs (DMA Labs), which is kicking in the door to the market with four IEMs under its belt.

Four models to choose from

DMA Labs is wasting no time at launch. The company has announced four models that will be part of its initial offerings. This includes the entry-level DM2H IEMs. These pair of IEMs feature a hybrid dual-driver design consisting of a single dynamic driver and one balanced armature (BA) driver.

If you prefer IEMs with pure BA drivers, then the DMA3 is a good start. It has three BA drivers in each earpiece. It goes even higher after that with the DMA6 and DMA8, which, as their names suggest, will feature 6 and 8 BA drivers, respectively.

For those unfamiliar, the majority of commercially-ready headphones and earbuds feature the use of dynamic drivers. There’s nothing wrong with dynamic drivers, especially if you favor more bassy sounds. But for audiophiles or listeners who want to enjoy the subtleties and nuances of their music, that’s where BA drivers come in.

BA drivers are known for producing more precise and detailed sound. Their size also allows manufacturers to combine multiple drivers into a single earpiece and tune each to specific sound profiles.

In addition to using BA drivers, DMA Labs have also designed the IEMs to be durable, from the drivers, housing, and cables. They also come with protective carrying cases.

Drawing from experience

It helps if a company is founded by people who have experience and are passionate about their products. DMA Lab has no shortage of that. Tal Kocen and Dave Friesema founded the company. Both founders have decades of experience under their belts in the audio industry.

Kocen has worked as a front-of-house and monitor engineer for touring artists. His experience working with musicians gave him invaluable insight into what music professionals genuinely need regarding IEMs. Friesama has 20 years of experience working in acoustic engineering. He has helped develop various audio technologies for both custom and universal IEMs.

Combined, both Kocen and Friesema have a solid foundation and understanding of audio technology, which should hopefully translate into some exceptional-sounding IEMs.

Pricing & availability

So, if you’re keen on picking up and trying any of DMA Labs’ custom IEMs, the DM2H model is priced at $599. The DMA3 will retail for more at $899. If you have some extra money, the DMA6 could be for you at $1,499. The top-of-the-line model DMA8 will retail for $1,699. All of the company’s IEMs will be available from its website starting 21st January 2025.