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Posted by DavidJanszen (M) on December 05, 2019 at 12:36:30

JansZen has developed the world's first completely self-contained electrostatic headphones. The transition from prototype to production is being funded by way of a Kickstarter campaign.

While other electrostatics tether the listener to a chair, the LOTUS needs no auxiliary equipment. It can be driven adequately by a portable player or even a phone. This will give music lovers the option of remaining active while enjoying the clarity that only an electrostatic can provide.

These are wired-only, yet include a battery.

The battery is to power the built-in bias supply that's necessary to polarize the electrostatic diaphragms. By providing much more voltage than a pre-polarized electret diaphragm can offer, an active bias supply offers a great advantage in terms of higher sensitivity and full output over a wider frequency range than electrets.

To get enough sensitivity without heavy transformers, these are two-way systems. A 50 mm woofer handles the octaves from about 250 Hz down into the subsonic.

The transition between electrostatic and woofer is imperceptible.

An unexpected advantage of using a woofer for bass is that the bass range has the warmth, depth, and palpability of the best dynamic headphones, which tends to be lacking in full range electrostatics.

The headband has a self-adjusting suspension. A spring loaded arch over the suspension carries the signals between sides.

The retail price after the campaign ends will be $1495/pair. The Kickstarter support pledge is $1195/pair. A few pairs were available at lower pledges to get things started,

Basic Specs
• Weight: 550g
• Sensitivity: 93dB/1V
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 30 kHz
• Impedance >20Ω (shooting for 32Ω)
• Self-adjusting fit, should accommodate anyone's head
• Wide headband pad and cushy ear pads for extended comfort
• Battery-powered electrostatic polarization supply
• Battery charge: 2 weeks minimum between recharges when left on (4 - 6 weeks at 4 hours/day)
• Warning light at 5 hours remaining charge
• Charge in a few hours with any USB charger
• 10 year minimum battery life; replaceable
• Wired, not wireless, for best sound quality

• Kickstarter Campaign   (Open in New Window)