Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

Shure have just released a variant of the world class KSE1500 Electrostatic Earphone System.
  • It is essentially an identical earphone as the KSE1500 with a more compact amplifier, the KSA1200.
  • The KSA1200 amplifier has a battery life of 12 hours as apposed the the KSA1500 AMP/DAC which has around 7 to 10 hours battery life.
  • It is also more compact due to the DAC and EQ sections being removed.
  • From a pricing perspective the KSE1200 is around $1000 dollars cheaper than the KSE1500 package.
The team at earphonia.com place the original KSE1500 as one of the best sounding earphones ever made.
Now with the smaller amplifier component and lower price point,  this makes the KSE1200 package look extremely attractive.
Earphonia.com hope to do a comprehensive review of the KSE1200 once we are able to obtain a unit.
earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

Shure announced the introduction of the KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System, a premium, portable audio-amplification solution for consumers of high-resolution audio. Built for those who want to experience the best possible sound without sacrificing mobility, the KSE1200 is designed for seamless integration with portable media players common in today’s high-quality audio market. The new model is based on the KSE1500—the world’s-first Sound Isolating™ electrostatic earphone system previously released by Shure—and continues the Company’s commitment to innovation in today’s ever-changing portable listening market.

Audiophiles everywhere have enjoyed the incomparable listening experience of the KSE1500 since its introduction three years ago. The KSE1200 system leverages the unmatched performance and technology of the KSE1500, but bypasses the DSP and digital inputs already built into many of today’s high-quality players. The result is an even more compact, efficient and affordable solution achieved by the circuitry in the electrostatic portion the amplifier. Providing the most transparent listening experience available from today’s portable players, the KSE1200 offers high-fidelity listening where portability is a requirement (e.g., critical listening, business travel, and within streaming environments via a computer, smartphone or tablet).

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

“We understand what it takes to design, develop, and manufacture audio products of the highest caliber. With over 20 years of experience in the earphone business we can confidently say that our electrostatic earphones are the pinnacle of our achievements,” said Matt Engstrom, Senior Category Director, Product Management at Shure. “The new KSE1200 system was developed for those who prefer the electrostatic sound signature using their own DAC. Like the KSE1500, the KSE1200 system produces the absolute highest level of detail and isolation available in a portable design and we are thrilled to now offer electrostatic sound at a more affordable price.”The KSE1200 is the result of Shure’s decades of research and design experience in Sound Isolating Earphone development. The benefits of technological excellence and sound quality are enhanced with comfort, and the new earphone system boasts the same sleek and incredibly comfortable fit that Shure customers have come to expect from its SE Earphone line. A fit kit, including a selection of earphone sleeves, is included for secure and comfortable listening.

Product Views

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

Size compared to the KSE1500

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

User Guide

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

Overview

The KSE1200 Analog Electrostatic Earphone System is a premium Sound Isolating electrostatic earphone system for use in-line with portable media players.
Featuring a pair of single-driver electrostatic Sound Isolating™ earphones and matched, high voltage amplifier. The input stage of the System is designed for
seamless integration with premium audio players common in today’s high quality portable audio market.
Providing an unrivalled level clarity and detail, the KSE1200 system brings the award winning performance of Shure’s electrostatic technology into a more compact,
efficient, and affordable solution.

Features

  • Electrostatic technology for Sound Isolating Earphones featuring a single MicroDriver design
  • Extremely high correlation to the source audio provides the fastest, most accurate transient response on the market.
  • Custom-designed earphone cable specifically isolates each conductor
  • Integrated USB rechargeable battery can conveniently charge from standard USB wall charger or computer
  • Lightweight, ergonomic earphone shape minimizes ear fatigue while comfortable Sound Isolating sleeves block up to 37 dB of ambient noise.
  • Premium Shure fit and finish and construction featuring an elegantly machined black aluminum housing, manufactured to exacting Shure quality standards

Specifications

Bias Voltage
200 V DC
Output Voltage
 ±200 V, max.
Output Current
 ≤37 dB
Noise Attenuation
 ≤37 dB

Earphone Specifications

Transducer Type
Electrostatic
Connector Type
LEMO Connector
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 50 kHz
Maximum SPL
1 kHz at 3% THD
 113 dB SPL
Net Weight
 44.0 g (1.55 oz.)

Amplifier Specifications

Signal-to-Noise Ratio
 up to 107 dB A-weighted
Adjustable Gain Range
 -40 dB to +60 dB
USB Input
USB Micro-B Receptacle, DC Input
Line-In
Line-In Input 3.5 mm (1/8″)
Housing
Black Anodized Aluminum
Net Weight
 155.0 g (5.47 oz.)
Dimensions
 93 × 53 × 21 mm H × W × D

Battery Specifications

Battery Type
Rechargeable Li-Ion
Nominal Voltage
3.6 V DC
Battery Life
 Up to 12 hours
Charging Requirements
USB-powered: 5 V/0.5 A to 1 A
Charging Time
Up to 3 hours to full charge with 1A charger

Accessories

EA2AMPBANDS
(2) Rubber Security Bands
EA3.5MM6
1/8″ (3.5mm) Cable, 6″/15.2 cm
EA3.5MM36
1/8″ (3.5mm) Cable, 36″/92 cm

The KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System retails for $1999 (minimum advertised price), and will be available for purchase in May 2018.

earphonia.com Shure KSE1200 Electrostatic Earphone System

 Great work Shure for continuing to push the boundaries of our audio experiences, the team at earphonia.com are very excited.