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Nov 3, 2016 | By Tess

Audio device manufacturing company V-Moda has just released its new Forza series of in-ear headphones. Not for the first time, the company is capitalizing on 3D printing technologies to not only make its products more luxurious, but also to make its products customizable for their clients. The new series consists of three different models: the Forza, Forza Metallo, and Forza Metallo Wireless.

Each of the new V-Moda Forza models features a brand new 5.8mm micro dynamic driver with Hi-Res Audio certified by the Japan Audio Society (JAS), useful sweat resistant technology, and sport fins for optimal sport performance (patent-pending). Perhaps most excitingly, the new collection of high-res headphones also offer the world’s first “jewel-grade” 3D printing customization for in-ear headphones.

In 2015, V-Moda was one of, if not the first company to introduce jewel-grade 3D printed custom caps to its headphones. After having used 3D printing to make custom plastic caps and shields for its audio devices for some time, the company made a move towards more luxurious embellishments by offering premium metal materials such as stainless steel, platinum, and 14K white gold. Now, with the release of its Forza series, V-Moda has adapted its 3D printed luxury custom caps for the much smaller in-ear headphones.

Val Kolton, CEO of V-Moda, explains: “Now we’re bringing additive manufacturing to in-ear headphones with our first collection of 3D printed custom caps. Not only can you remix your design, but you can optimize the design with an enhanced tailored fit.”

So far, V-Moda has released its first collection of 3D printed caps which include the V-Moda logo, Milanese designs Steam Punk, a Lion Head, and more. The 3D printed caps, called RemixRings, are also available in a number of different quality materials such as platinum, 14k gold, gold-plated metal, and a new HD Acrylic material.

If you are wondering how much a pair of the RemixRings will set you back, the answer varies. While the Forza custom caps are a bit cheaper than the company’s 3D printed headphone shields (which went up to $40,000 in price!), you will still have to dish out between $20 and $7,500 to get a pair of RemixRings. On the lower end of the cost spectrum are the HD Acrylic 3D caps (which go for $20-$40), and on the higher end are the platinum ones, which go up to $7,500. The headphones themselves, which will be available as of December, 2016, are retailing for between $130 and $170.

While aesthetically notable, the Forza in-ear headphone series is also commendable for its audio capabilities, which integrate the company’s new 5.8mm miniature dynamic driver. As Kolton explains, it took years to develop the tiny driver because of the challenge of maintaining the company’s reputation for sound quality. He says, “To make the Forza lineup perfect for the active audiophile, it was critical to balance amazing sound with the ultimate ergonomics, fit and stability.”

While it may still be a little bit early to think about, the Forza in-ear headphones with custom 3D printed caps could be the perfect Christmas gift for your audiophile friends and family.

 

 

Posted in 3D Printing Application

 

 

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