Flare E-Prototype Review

iem-flare-e-prototype-headfonia-review-11

Specifications 

For the nitpickers and nerdy ones here, I’m giving the specs and technical sheets. For all the others, you can just go to the next page to see how the Flare E-Prototype performs.

Dynamic driver + USQ Technology

So, what’s the fuss around the USQ Technology? I had the chance to get a Zoom call with Roberts, the guy behind, who explained to me what’s this all about.

“Our natural internal shell-like ear shape distorts sound by as much as 20% which means that all traditional earphones and headphones have failed to deliver true high definition sound to the listener in the natural form of the ear, the sound delivered by an IEM naturally gets distorted. We simply took this distortion out of the equation, thanks to our technology.”

iem-flare-e-prototype-headfonia-review-4

A very different approach than your usual IEM, as most makers usually focus on which driver(s) to use, before designing the shell. In fact, Flare told me that for the e-prototype, the driver choice was only semi-relevant, giving them a lot more room for experimentation.

That said, for the E-Prototype, Flare chose a classic 10mm dynamic driver: no fancy DLC coated diaphragm, silver-plated coil, or next-generation filter, just a plain old driver. Numbers? Unknown too, but they are very easy to drive, so impedance must be quite low. The only info we have is who built our model (thank you Greg-C) with which robot (Warm Pheasant) – and yes I find that pretty cool.

Bundle

Inside the box

The E-Prototype Bundle is simply dire. In the box, you get:

  • the Flare E-Prototype
  • a carry case
  • three sets of silicon tips

A poor bundle, so let’s hope the final version will at least enjoy a better set of tips, to suit every ear.

iem-flare-e-prototype-headfonia-review-6

Additional accessories

Since the Flare E-Prototype comes with a non-replaceable cable, the only thing that you could add would be a good DAC or DAP. Personally, I chose the iBasso DX240 as my main source and the EarMen Sparrow + ddHifi TC28i on the go, but it’s up to you. Also, no balanced output!

And if you want to go full stealth, the iFi Audio Go Blu would be my top choice! 

Sensitivity / Hiss

Impedance is low and sensitivity is relatively high so yes, you can drive those IEM’s with almost anything, but when hooked to a good DAC or DAP, the end result is really better!

Full specs are below but the article continues on Page Four, after the click here.

iem-flare-e-prototype-headfonia-review-9

Full specs

  • Type: IEM
  • Style: dynamic driver
  • Drivers: 10mm dynamic 
  • Cable: stress tested – OFC cable – non-replaceable
  • Shell: 3D printed resin with the latest laser printer technology
  • USQ technology to minimize the distortion created by our ears
  • Sound Isolation (up to): 20dB
  • Cable length: 120cm
  • Price: $349

The review continues on Page Four, after the click HERE or by using the jump below.

Page 1: Flare overview

Page 2: Design & Build Quality, comfort, Isolation

Page 3: Specifications, Bundle

Page 4: Sound & Conclusion

4.5/5 - (25 votes)
Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedin

A nerdy guy with a passion for audio and gadgets, he likes to combine his DAC and his swiss knife. Even after more than 10 years of experience, Nanotechnos still collects all gear he gets, even his first MPMAN MP3 player. He likes spreadsheets, technical specs and all this amazing(ly boring) numbers. But most of all, he loves music: electro, classical, dubstep, Debussy : the daily playlist.

1 Comment

  • Reply March 8, 2023

    Dana

    Hi, can you report on the calmer pro vs calmer night experience? That’s exactly what I am wondering.. Online there’s plenty about calmer vs calmer night, as well as calmer vs calmer pro, but I can’t find any comparison of pro vs night. Would be great to hear your (wife’s) feedback. TIA

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.