Knowles introduces the new RAF Series of balanced armature drive units with a new design for premium sound quality

     Knowles has officially launched its new RAF series of balanced armature drive units to help designers of listening devices and headsets create the next generation of high-end headsets. Developed specifically for wireless products, the receiver is small and efficient, making it an ideal component for a wide range of applications in high-end music headphones, listening devices, Bluetooth headsets, communication headsets and mini audio amplifiers.

     As consumers increasingly use their smartphones to play music, listen to podcasts and audio books, sound quality remains one of the most critical features of headphones. A recent industry survey * found that 90% of respondents want high-quality sound on their devices. The survey also found that 92 percent of respondents said they were disappointed when their headphones didn't connect to their player software. 84% of respondents are very concerned about existing connectivity stability. At a time when sound quality and connection stability are critical, the RAF series drive units will help the industry achieve high-end sound quality and great design flexibility.

     "Knowles will continue to advance the industry by providing our customers with leading listening devices and high-end headphone solutions." Christian Scherp, President of the High Performance Audio Division at Lou Electronics, said: "The market for wireless products has mushroomed, and the RAF series will meet consumers' desire for richer, high-quality sound; "The small size allows designers to install high-performance antennas, improve connection stability, and gain more battery space and extended operating time."

     With less space than the smallest moving-coil drive units, the RAF series meets the needs of higher audio quality and enables manufacturers to improve connection performance. RAF also creatively shifted the port from the tail of the component to the side. It seems like a simple step, but behind it there is a very high technical difficulty. This innovative design maintains Lou Electronics' usual level of high-end sound quality, while "freeing up" more space for large batteries and high-performance antennas. This new design gives designers greater flexibility to better meet the needs of consumers.

     The compact RAF series is a revolutionary product following the successful release of the RAB series of receivers. Both series enable manufacturers to provide consumers with comfortable, complete devices and a more enjoyable listening experience. Low power consumption of the receiver helps to extend battery life and usage time.

     In order to meet the needs of the expanding market for sports headsets, the RAF and RAB series have adopted the IPx7 waterproof rating. The IPx7 waterproof rating is becoming an important feature of headphones, wearables and smartphones, and the drive unit with the IPx7 waterproof rating can work for up to 30 minutes under water at a depth of one meter. The water-resistant drive unit meets the needs of sporty listening devices without the need for additional protective film that can degrade sound quality.