Vision Ears EXT MKII LE Gold Limited Edition Universal In-Ear Monitors 2024

EXT MK II Limited Edition

A stunning, shimmering golden faceplate and a matching CNC-milled golden case are included with our limited edition EXT MK II. It is the final era of the renowned EXT before it enters its well-earned retirement, and it is strictly limited to 200 units.A stunning, shimmering golden faceplate and a matching CNC-milled golden case are included with our limited edition EXT MK II. It is the final era of the renowned EXT before it enters its well-earned retirement, and it is strictly limited to 200 units.

The EXT, which is well-known for its powerful electrostatic drivers, has earned multiple accolades and been highly praised by leading reviewers across the globe. We’ve gone one step further with the EXT MK II, improving the clarity of the mids and fine-tuning the low-frequency response for increased precision and detail. The EXT MK II now offers unparalleled depth and balance across all frequencies, making for an even more immersive and natural listening experience. Listen to your music with precision and resonance like never before.

Key Features at a Glance

• Limited to 200 pieces, the exclusive design includes a CNC-milled golden case and a glittering golden faceplate.
• Improved Effect Audio Cable (4.4mm): a specially made cable with a blend of copper, silver, and gold alloy for a more open-back headphone-like soundstage and increased high-frequency presence.
• Improved Low-Frequency Response: A redesigned 9.2mm dynamic driver produces bass that is deeper and more powerful.
• HALC and STC Tuning for Mids: For accurate and organic midrange performance, use the second-generation HALC and Side Tuning Chamber (STC).
• High-Precision Electrostatic Tweeters: Four EST drivers produce clear, detailed, and airy highs that make for a realistic listening experience.
• Premium Materials: N52 Neodymium magnets in dynamic drivers for reduced distortion and higher SPL, and Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) surrounds.

• Machined Aluminum Case: A carefully designed case that protects the monitors with a leather pocket and rubber interior.
• Technical Aesthetics: “X” faceplate and aluminum acoustic mesh in an open-back headphone-inspired design.
• Advanced Cable Materials: EA Ultra FlexiTM insulation for maximum flexibility and durability, combined with a proprietary multi-size core bundle Litz blend.
• Unmatched Sound Precision: Provides rich, well-balanced sound at all frequencies by combining electrostatic, dynamic, and tuning technologies.

Upgrade cable by Effect Audio (4.4mm)

We created a unique, gold-detailed black cable with our excellent colleagues at Effect Audio especially for our ideal EXT MK II. Stronger presence in the high frequencies and greater separation in the upper mids are made possible by the carefully balanced combination of copper, silver, and gold alloys. This creates the impression of open-back headphones and sets the setting for an even more expansive sound. The bass seems to appear out of nowhere, giving a tighter, more powerful punch, the instruments blend in flawlessly, and the vocals become more urgent and realistic.

Technical idea

We wanted to see what we could do, based on the ELYSIUM’s concept of producing a warm, enveloping sound that is both detailed and energetic. We were hoping for more. Additional low points that give you a sense of rumble. More mids that embrace you intensely. Add additional highs to create a lighthearted and joyful experience. It is difficult to replicate the sensation of an electrostatic headphone with a tiny earphone. It will be proven incorrect by the EXT MK II. This work exudes a sense of effortless lightness, with silky, airy notes enveloping your mind and unidentified musical regions revealing themselves before your closed eyes. It’s an absolutely thrilling experience.

The sound

You may get closer to the real core of your song with the EXT MK II. It offers you an enthralling auditory experience that transports you to all the hidden gems your music has to offer. With the largest high frequencies we’ve ever constructed, the four EST drivers produce an expansive, open landscape with rich detail that is never overdone.

Together with a 6 mm driver for the mids and a dramatic 9.2 mm driver with lots of sub-bass power that we redesigned for the EXT MK II, we were able to bring out the unwavering beauty and amazing power of your music. All things considered, the EXT MK II is a musical genius that can reproduce nearly any genre with skill.
showcasing the Vision Ears HALC (High Precision Leveling Chamber) 2nd generation only. maximizing the precision of our dynamic mids driver’s sound tuning.

Bass

It is well known that dynamic drivers offer the lows a natural performance with a lot of depth and decay. To produce even deeper, more precise, and powerful lows with exceptional structure, naturalness, and impact, we redesigned the 9.2mm dynamic driver for the EXT MK II. This amazing sound composition has a strong foundation thanks to the wide, layered lows.

Mids

Our 2nd generation HALC, a highly acclaimed tuning concept that we first debuted with our ELYSIUM, continues to fine-tune the 6mm dynamic driver for the middle frequencies in the EXT MK II. We use a Side Tuning Chamber (STC) in addition to the HALC’s leveling chamber, which enables fine tuning of the midrange on the vocal range. A rich and silky presence to the middle frequencies is the end result. Rich and full-bodied, the vocals perform brilliantly with a natural and vibrant tone.

Highs

Four cutting-edge The highs are powered by electrostatic drivers, which reveal all the minute details with amazing ease. Vibrant, airy highs with amazing purity, accuracy, and richness are the end result. An experience that is uncompromising and makes you enjoy your music as if it were the first time.

The design

The goal was to combine the aesthetics of an open-back headphone with a sophisticated yet technological shell. The machined faceplate featuring the imposing and majestic X design is the most intriguing feature of the EXT MK II. For this project, the intricate CNC machining was tuned to achieve the design’s softly moving lines.

A vacuum metalized mesh sparkles gracefully beneath the X design’s open structure. While shielding the internal components from external influences, this unique aluminum acoustic mesh allows the dynamic drivers to breathe and unleash their rumbling power.
The shell had a semi-custom shape and was constructed from solid black acrylic. You can discreetly glance at the green HALC and the four electrostatic drivers through a black translucent section.
In addition to the already recognizable purple, we have added a lovely grey for the EXT MK II.

Redesigned Nozzle

Without sacrificing a single note of our distinctive sound, the newly redesigned, smaller nozzle provides an exceptionally snug and comfortable fit for even more ears.

The case

The precisely machined aluminum case is conspicuously covered by the EXT MK II design. An eye-catching and distinctive appearance that demonstrates the EXT MK II’s outstanding design. To ensure that the two components of the case fit together precisely, the machining was done with exceptional precision. To keep the earphone safe while you’re on the run, the internal walls are entirely covered with a rubber inlay. The earphones are held in place by a high-quality leather pocket, which keeps them from colliding while being transported.

Technical specialties

HALC

For the midrange driver, a better HALC tuning idea was created specifically. We use a Side Tuning Chamber (STC) in addition to the HALC’s leveling chamber, which enables the vocal range’s midrange to be precisely adjusted. We have additional tuning capabilities and ultimately a much higher degree of midrange realism because to this new generation.

EST

High-end audiophiles are familiar with electrostatic driver technology, but it was mostly found in high-end headphones. The enormous advantages of electrostatic drivers are now portable thanks to this technology, which has been gaining ground with IEMs worldwide in recent years. Because of a voltage transformer within the earphone shell, the electrostatic tweeters only require a powerful and high-quality amplifier within your DAP, rather than an external power source.

The second generation of Sonion EST drivers is the most advanced; the first generation was released into the market in 2019. We were able to raise and expand the output to a completely new level because of their larger output spl and the use of two EST dual drivers.

Dynamic drivers

Our redesigned 6mm dynamic drivers for the mids and 9.2mm for the lows have a Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) surround. The driver may operate with a very low THD (Total Hormonic Distortion) thanks to this surround creation technology. These drivers’ light yet sturdy Al-Mg alloy diaphragms allow for unexpectedly quick, deep, and accurate performance. With reduced distortion at any operating level, a Super Strong Rare Earth N52 Neodymium Magnet enables the driver to function better under more taxing conditions.

In order to further reduce the THD and raise the SPL without enlarging the driver, we have now incorporated a second N52 Neodymium Magnet to our 6mm driver.

In The Box

• EXT MKII LE In-Ear Monitors
• Machined Aluminium case
• Effect Audio Upgrade Cable (4.4mm)
• Eartips

Technical specifications

• 3-way crossover
• 1 × 9.2mm Dynamic Driver (re-designed)
• 1 × 6 mm Dynamic Driver
• 4 x EST, Electrostatic Tweeter
• Impedance: 10Ω @ 1KHz
• Sensitivity 1mW: 108.5 dB SPL @ 1KHz (100mV)
• Cable with 4.4mm balanced plug

Technical specifications EXT MK II – upgrade cable by Effect Audio (4.4mm)

• Material Blend A (4 Wires): Solid Core Design with Selected Premium UP-OCC Copper
• Material Blend B (2 Wires): Pure Copper, Silver-Plated Copper, and Selected Premium UP-OCC Silver-Copper Alloy
• Material Blend C (2 Wires): Exclusive Multi-size Core Bundle Litz Blend of Premium UP-OCC Gold-Plated Copper
• 26 AWG 8 Wires
• Gold-plated brass and EA Ultra FlexiTM Insulation Flat 2-Pin Connectors 4.4mm Plug

FAQ

• What distinguishes the EXT MK II Limited Edition from the standard model?
• Limited to 200 pieces, the EXT MK II Limited Edition boasts a unique, shimmering golden faceplate and a matching, CNC-milled golden casing. It also comes with a specially made cable by Effect Audio that combines copper, silver, and gold alloys for a wide soundstage and improved high-frequency presence.
• What enhancements have been made to the EXT MK II’s sound signature?
• A new 9.2mm dynamic driver for improved low-frequency response and deeper bass is part of the EXT MK II. For a smooth, organic presence, the mids are adjusted using second-generation HALC (High Precision Leveling Chamber) and STC (Side Tuning Chamber) technology, while four electrostatic tweeters precisely and clearly provide airy, detailed highs.

• In what ways does the Effect Audio cable improve sound quality?
• Specifically made for the EXT MK II Limited Edition, the Effect Audio cable boasts a distinctive combination of copper, silver, and gold alloy wires that provide more separation in the upper mids and a more noticeable high-frequency presence. By creating an expansive soundstage, this cable enhances the realism of vocalists and instruments and gives the impression of open-back headphones.
• The EXT MK II Limited Edition uses which drivers?
• With four electrostatic (EST) drivers for high frequencies, a revised 9.2mm dynamic driver for bass, and a 6mm dynamic driver for mids, the EXT MK II Limited Edition employs a hybrid driver arrangement. All frequencies may provide detailed, well-balanced sound thanks to this combination.

• How does the EXT MK II Limited Edition’s choice of certain materials improve performance?
• The EXT MK II Limited Edition has Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) surrounds for dynamic drivers, N52 Neodymium magnets for high SPL and low distortion, and aluminum/magnesium domes for stiffness and dampening. Effect Audio’s gold-plated wire guarantees maximum longevity and conductivity.
• What is the EXT MK II Limited Edition’s running-in period?
• To help the drivers work at their best and improve sound quality, a running-in time is advised. You can play recordings with a lot of low frequencies on the monitors for at least 24 hours at a moderate volume for quicker results.

• Does it use a particular kind of connector, and is the cable replaceable?
• Yes, a high-quality 4.4mm balanced plug is included, and the cable is replaceable. It has a gold-plated brass 4.4mm plug for the best sound quality and flat 2-pin connectors for a tight fit.
• Which accessories are included with the Limited Edition EXT MK II?
• The EXT MK II LE in-ear monitors, eartips, a quality Effect Audio upgrade cable (4.4mm), a CNC-milled aluminum shell with a rubber lining, and a comprehensive user manual are all included in the package.

• What are the EXT MK II Limited Edition’s impedance and sensitivity?
• With a sensitivity of 108.5 dB SPL @ 1kHz (100mV) and an impedance of 10Ω @ 1kHz, the EXT MK II Limited Edition is compatible with high-end amplifiers and DAPs (digital audio players).
• What are the advantages of the EXT MK II Limited Edition’s open-back design?
• By allowing the drivers to breathe, the open-back design reduces sound pressure inside the ear canal and creates a wide, natural soundstage. While shielding internal components, the acoustic mesh and unique “X” faceplate design add to the open-back look.

About Vision Ears

Situated in the center of Cologne, Germany, VISION EARS is a small, owner-driven business. In this lovely city on the Rhine, they are passionate about creating and manufacturing personalized in-ear monitors. You can find out more about the business and their craftsmanship on this page. Visitors are cordially encouraged to visit their Cologne showroom and lab, where they can meet the staff, try on the in-ears, and see how they’re made—all while sipping on a delicious glass of Kölsch or a cup of coffee.