Dan Clark Audio (DCA) has unveiled the Aeon Core, a new sub-£1000 closed-back benchmark designed to redefine reference-grade sound on a budget. Distributed in the UK by Electromod, the Aeon Core succeeds the acclaimed Aeon 2, bringing profound advancements in driver efficiency, physical design, and tuning science.
Openness
Closed-back headphones are traditionally prized for isolation but critiqued for a “hemmed-in” soundstage. DCA has long defied this limitation, and the Aeon Core is no exception. Engineered to deliver an exceptionally spacious, articulate performance, they completely avoid the typical muddy bass hump of closed designs. This makes them equally suited for tracking in a studio, critical mixing, or everyday office listening.
Efficiency
Historically, planar magnetic designs demand heavy amplification. The Aeon Core flips the script as the most efficient headphone DCA has ever produced. Featuring an entirely new planar magnetic driver stack with patented V-Planar technology, distortion is minimised while sensitivity hits an impressive 97dB/mW.
With a power requirement of just 125 mW into 16 ohms, these can easily be driven by portable dongles and desktop DACs/amps alike. You no longer need a monolithic amplifier stack to get the best out of a planar driver.
The Redefined Harman Curve
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Aeon Core is its role as a pioneer in measurement science. Founder Dan Clark collaborated with Dr. Sean Olive to modernise the industry-standard Harman Curve. Because modern GRAS measurement gear differs from the original 2012 test hardware, standard implementations of the curve have suffered from translation errors. The result, claims Dan Clark, is a cleaner, faster upper bass; a gently lifted lower midrange for added acoustic instrument body; and a smoother upper midrange that pushes vocals forward without introducing fatigue or hardness.
Comfort
Weighing in at a relatively svelte 440g, the headphones retain DCA’s signature teardrop earpads, a lightweight titanium headband, and a self-adjusting vegan leather suspension strap. Visually, they pivot to a striking new aesthetic featuring aluminium and dark wood accents.
Price and Availability
The Dan Clark Audio Aeon Core is hand-built in San Diego and includes a detachable cable with your choice of 4.4mm, 4-pin XLR, or 3.5/6.35mm termination.
UK stock is arriving at selected retailers in early July at an RRP of £920 inc. VAT, backed by a two-year warranty via Electromod.
About Dan Clark
Dan Clark Audio is an independent headphone manufacturer based in San Diego, California, designing and building planar magnetic and electrostatic headphones for audiophile and professional use. Founded by Dan Clark, the company is known for its engineering-first approach, close engagement with psychoacoustic research, and a product line that spans from the Aeon series to the flagship Stealth and Corina. All DCA headphones are designed and made in the USA. danclarkaudio.com
About Electromod
Founded by Mark Dolbear, Electromod is a leading UK distributor specialising in head-fi gear, from DACs to amps to headphones and associated accessories. The company focuses on product excellence and a personal approach to customer support, operating as an official distributor for class-leading brands such as Dan Clark Audio, Dekoni Audio, Écoute, Grell, Topping, and Violectric. Mark has an engineering background and has worked in the audio industry since 1995, servicing products from the likes of Mark Levinson, Goldmund, Ayre Acoustics and Stax before forming Electromod. electromod.co.uk
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