CUSTOM-BUILT HEADPHONES

Even H1 £199

While I’ve tried injection-moulded headphones that promise a ‘custom’ fit, this is the first time the sound of the headphones has been customised based on my hearing.

The manufacturer of the Even H1

(top, right) calls it an ‘earprint,’ a simple test that involves listening to eight short pieces of music in each ear. All you do is push the button on the in-line remote as soon as you hear the music. It then builds a sound profile for your hearing and adjusts the output accordingly.

It’s a fantastic idea, especially if you’re hard of hearing, as the volume can be levelled out between left and right, without just turning up the master volume. I’m not deaf (yet) but in practice – aside from creating a fuller, louder sound – the effect was pleasant but minimal.

I asked four other people to try the ‘earprint’ test and, except for a drummer friend (who claims he hasn’t damaged his hearing…), the response was tepid, with ‘extra bass and volume’ the main difference noticed.

Given the large 50mm Beryllium speakers and 20-20,000Hz frequency response, the H1’s sound – even without the ‘earprint’ function – was polished and enjoyable, and while I love new concepts I’d wait until the technology improves before investing. weareeven.com