The roots of MYSPHERE 3 go back to the legendary flagship headphone K1000 of AKG, introduced to the market in 1989. Two outstanding acoustic engineers are associated with the history of the K1000: Helmut Ryback, who developed the AKG K 240 DF, at that time reference headphone for many radio stations, and Heinz Renner, leading in concept and development of the K 1000, together with Helmut Ryback.
After extensive evaluation of all available transducer principles, including electrostatic and orthodynamic drivers, the developers decided to adopt the dynamic driver method for the K 1000, mainly because it is far superior for accelerating the air molecules at low frequencies. A novel radial magnet array was designed to minimize the influence of mechanical parts in the sound field. In order to avoid nonlinearities of the membrane movement, the idea of the quadrangular shape was born. Overall, the open construction in all directions gave the same impression to the listener as sitting in an ideal room with optimal speakers. So the K 1000 became a legend.
The times are a-changing... The K1000 was discontinued, unfortunately, but there are many of them still around and in use. In the meantime, many things have changed in the industry: new advanced materials, improved computer simulations, revolutionary measurement methods like psychoacoustics, Kunstkopf (head and torso simulation), laser Doppler vibrometer measurement techniques and others opened new possibilities for the construction of acoustic devices. So the masterminds behind the K1000, Ryback and Renner, decided to apply their wide experiences to the development of the ultimate headphone – the MYSPHERE 3. The main principles of the K1000 have been carried over, though enhanced by the new materials and measurement technologies: The fully open construction principle, the radial magnet system, the quadrangular membrane. But many details are new and allow for major improvements. Some of them have been registered as international patents. The membrane comes nearer to the ear entrance to assure better sensitivity and higher bass levels. The frequency response reaches far into the ultrasound range. All surface materials are extremely durable and water resistant. A revolutionary headband concept admits a perfect fit nearly without pressure on the ear.
