Despite the best of intentions from earplug manufacturers, they’re doing it all wrong. Instead of products that block sound in a way that’s still enjoyable, they usually muffle sounds. While this might help with a significant other’s snoring (and then, not even by much), absorption like thi will result in distorted sound in the high and mid frequencies, and little to no reduction in bass frequencies. This imbalance is stressful and tiring.
After its first successful Kickstarter last year, Flare Audio set their eyes on what they say as an outdated piece of design. By replacing the traditional materials used for most earplugs (plastics, silicones, and foams) with a piece of aluminum or titanium, the company created the Isolate. The micro earplugs are tipped with a proprietary foam material that adjusts to a person’s ear canal for a snug fit, its metal core reaching deep within the canal. This allows the Isolate to block noise from entering the ears and attenuate all frequencies, essentially turning off the ears to direct noise. The only sounds that can be heard are through bone conduction, which results in an enjoyable and balanced experience without sacrificing musical detail. About $30 will get interested backers an aluminum version of the Isolate earplugs, while the stronger and more robust titanium version is packaged in within other perks offering multiple Isolates. All are slated to ship in September of 2016 should the Flare Audio’s Kickstarter campaign raise about $33,000 by August 15th, 2016.
Better crowdfunded earplugs are usually based on noise-cancelling technology like the ProSounds X-Pro, the QuietOn, or the Plugfones Liberate. Isolate bucks the trend by not containing any technology at all. By the magic of pure design, these earplugs manage to do away with the idea of having yet another device to charge while still offering a high-level of noise safety. And its size makes it versatil enough for everything from concerts and clubs to travelling and work.