Overview

The miniDSP EARS (Earphone Audio Response System) is a USB-powered headphone measurement fixture that brings basic measurement capability to the consumer market at 179 USD. Based on the same technology as miniDSP’s UMIK-1 calibrated measurement microphone, it features dual microphone capsules mounted in a minimal dummy head with individual calibration files. While offering unprecedented accessibility for headphone measurement, it employs significant geometric compromises compared to professional standards, using straight cylindrical tubes rather than anatomically correct ear canal simulation.

Scientific Validity

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The EARS achieves 20Hz-20kHz ±1dB frequency response with calibration loaded, meeting the transparent level criteria range between ±0.5dB (ideal) and ±3dB (problematic). Based on UMIK-1 technology specifications, it provides 133dB SPL maximum output at 1% THD and -74dB FS output noise level, meeting basic measurement microphone requirements. However, critical limitations significantly impact scientific validity. Third-party testing against professional equipment like the GRAS 43AG revealed substantial deviations: +8dB peak at 4.5kHz, 1-2dB higher average treble output, and 4-8dB elevated bass response [1]. The device does not conform to IEC 60268-7 international standard for headphone measurements, and professional reviewers concluded it is “not comparable to a true headphone test fixture” due to its straight cylindrical ear canal geometry affecting frequency response validity [2]. While offering reasonable measurement capability for the price point, these deviations from professional standards limit scientific accuracy.

Technology Level

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The EARS represents practical application of existing measurement microphone technology rather than innovation. It employs the same electret condenser microphone technology as the UMIK-1, with USB-powered plug-and-play design and individual calibration files for each unit. The implementation uses inexpensive electret condenser microphone capsules in a minimal dummy head configuration with straight tubes molded into pinnae, lacking simulated ear canals or adjustable microphone positioning [3]. No proprietary patent technology or significant technical advancement is evident, with design compromises made for cost reduction rather than performance optimization. The inability to angle microphones to mimic human head positioning and absence of industry-standard calibrator attachment points represent limitations in technical sophistication compared to professional alternatives.

Cost-Performance

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No cheaper equivalent-or-better products exist in the market. Professional alternatives like the GRAS 43AG cost 7,500 USD (42× more expensive) while providing IEC-compliant measurements, but the price difference is prohibitive for most users [4]. DIY solutions using UMIK-1 (120 USD) plus custom fixtures lack dual-channel measurement capability, headphone-specific calibration, and plug-and-play operation. Chinese alternatives on platforms like Aliexpress offer non-calibrated solutions with inconsistent quality and limited software support. The EARS uniquely provides dual calibrated microphones, individual unit calibration files, USB plug-and-play operation, and compatibility with professional measurement software like Room EQ Wizard at its price point.

Reliability & Support

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miniDSP provides a 1-year warranty on materials and workmanship, below the industry-standard 2-year period. The company maintains a strict no-return policy with all sales being final, requiring return authorization for warranty claims and customer-paid shipping for returns [5]. Mixed customer experiences are reported in forums regarding warranty service quality. The simple electret microphone design with USB power reduces potential failure points, and calibration files remain downloadable from the website. Support infrastructure is primarily dealer-based rather than direct manufacturer support, with adequate but not exceptional service levels.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The design philosophy demonstrates highly rational scientific approach by democratizing headphone measurement through affordability while maintaining core measurement integrity. miniDSP’s 12+ year partnership with Dirac Research and Room EQ Wizard reflects a measurement-focused approach to audio optimization [6]. The company honestly acknowledges the device’s limitations compared to professional equipment rather than making exaggerated claims, achieving significant cost reduction through practical compromises without eliminating essential measurement features. The scientific approach emphasizes individual calibration for each unit and enables evidence-based headphone optimization rather than subjective assessment. Functional integration is highly advanced and specifically suited for headphone measurement applications, with costs directly contributing to core measurement functionality rather than marketing-driven features. This represents innovative democratization of measurement technology previously available only to professional laboratories.

Advice

The miniDSP EARS is recommended for audio enthusiasts, DIY users, and small manufacturers seeking basic headphone measurement capability at an accessible price point. It serves as an excellent entry point into scientific headphone evaluation, particularly for relative comparisons and basic frequency response analysis. Professional audio engineers or manufacturers requiring IEC-compliant measurements should invest in professional fixtures like the GRAS 43AG. Users should understand the geometric limitations and interpret absolute measurements with caution while utilizing the device’s strengths in repeatability and relative comparison. The device pairs excellently with Room EQ Wizard software for comprehensive analysis and provides significant value for users transitioning from subjective to measurement-based headphone evaluation.

References

[1] Audio Science Review Forum, “MiniDSP EARS: First Measurements,” https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/minidsp-ears-first-measurements.27929/, accessed 2025-09-08, testing against Model 43AG professional equipment

[2] audioXpress, “Fresh From The Bench: Examining the miniDSP EARS Headphone Test Fixture,” https://audioxpress.com/article/fresh-from-the-bench-examining-the-minidsp-ears-headphone-test-fixture, March 2019 edition, Stuart Yaniger review

[3] miniDSP, “EARS - USB Headphone Test Fixture,” https://www.minidsp.com/products/acoustic-measurement/ears-headphone-jig, official product specifications, accessed 2025-09-08

[4] SoundStage! Solo, “Is the miniDSP EARS the Death of Headphone Measurement? Or its Savior?,” https://www.soundstagesolo.com/index.php/features/152-is-minidsp-ears-the-death-of-headphone-measurement-or-its-savior, cost comparison analysis

[5] miniDSP Support Portal, “What is the warranty on miniDSP products?,” https://support.minidsp.com/support/solutions/articles/47000681533-what-is-the-warranty-on-minidsp-products-, warranty and return policy information

[6] miniDSP Community Forum, “About Dirac for audiophiles,” https://www.minidsp.com/forum/dirac-series-support/19776-about-dirac-for-audiophiles, company partnership and measurement philosophy

(2025.9.8)