Short Circuit
One of the most common issues with in-ear headphones is a short circuit in the acoustic design. Many budget models are manufactured without proper sealing between the speaker and the housing, leading to what’s known as an acoustic short circuit. This occurs when sound waves from both sides of the speaker diaphragm escape through the gap between the speaker and the earphone casing, causing interference. As a result, low-frequency sounds become distorted, losing their fullness and impact. The audio output tends to be overly focused on mid and high frequencies, making the overall listening experience feel flat, thin, and lacking in depth.
Moreover, this issue significantly reduces the sound pressure level, making it harder to hear at lower volumes. The smaller the speaker diameter, the more pronounced this problem becomes, especially in compact in-ear designs where space is limited.
2. Silence Effect
Another common issue is the “silence effect,†which happens when the design or manufacturing process of the earphones unintentionally dampens sound. For example, some models use foam rings to secure the speaker, which might seem like a good seal but actually absorbs sound waves instead. This can lead to a loss of clarity and detail, particularly in the low and high frequency ranges. In some cases, the sound tube itself may act as a passive silencer, reducing the dynamic range and making the audio feel dry and lifeless.
This effect is especially problematic for in-ear headphones that require precise sound reproduction. It can make the bass feel weak and the highs too sharp, creating an unbalanced listening experience. The smaller the driver size, the more likely this issue will occur.
3. Reverberation Interference and Inter-Frequency Distortion
Reverberation interference and inter-frequency modulation distortion are other critical problems that affect sound quality. While natural reverb can enhance the richness of sound, excessive reverb or distortion caused by the internal structure of the earphone can ruin the original sound. This often happens in the cavities formed by the back cover or sound tube, where smooth inner surfaces cause reflections that interfere with the sound waves.
These reflections can alter the waveform and frequency balance, leading to a muddled or unclear sound. Some users describe it as “not clean†or “not clear.†Unlike speakers, in-ear headphones have very small cavities, making it difficult to eliminate these effects without compromising sound quality. Adding sound-absorbing materials can help, but it often leads to further distortion in the high frequencies.
4. Acoustic Cavity Shape and Volume
In-ear headphones typically have two acoustic cavities: one in front of the speaker and one behind the back cover. Both play a crucial role in shaping the final sound. If the cavity walls are too smooth, they can create unwanted reverberations. Additionally, the volume and shape of these cavities directly influence how sound waves travel and resonate within the earpiece.
If the front cavity is too large or the sound tube is too narrow, it can cause delays in high and mid-range frequencies, making the audio feel distant and less immersive. On the other hand, if the tube is too thick or short, the bass may lack depth, and the treble could become harsh. A larger internal volume can also lead to a loss of clarity and a sense of distance in the sound.
The size and shape of the speaker itself also matter. Smaller drivers tend to be more affected by these issues, resulting in a less balanced and less dynamic listening experience.
This article was originally published on China Headphone Exchange.
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