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Multi-Coated Precious Metal Cavity
Kinera has always been a highly mature headphone brand in terms of design aesthetics, cavity manufacturing, and shell processing. It not only possesses a large-scale production workshop, equipment, and standardized processes, but also assigns different design teams to different product lines.
The THORKING, the brand's first all-metal flagship model, leverages years of rich design experience and profound mythological imagery, combined with modern jewelry-making techniques, to create a work of art that blends modern craftsmanship with Nordic aesthetics, fully showcasing the brand's long-standing aesthetic value in high-end craftsmanship.
The shell uses a "multi-coated white copper cavity," utilizing the high rigidity and high density of white copper to deliver high-resolution, precise, and delicate high-frequency performance, while also providing more control and depth in the low frequencies.
The porous structure of the white copper surface significantly reduces unwanted distortion reflections and interference in the rear cavity through the "silencer effect," and absorbs some sound wave energy, adding a sense of diffusion and warmth to the mid-range, while softening the sharpness of the high frequencies.
This results in a slightly warmer overall sound, mitigating the excessive coldness that can result from high rigidity and high density.
Craftsmanship Aesthetics
The panels of THORKING feature a core imagery inspired by the epic final battle between Thor, the Norse god of thunder, and the colossal serpent Jormungand from the saga "Twilight of the Gods." The white copper is transformed to resemble the cold, frosty mists of the northern frozen lands with its bright, silvery appearance.
The nickel alloy electroplated panels are manually engraved with storm-like radial patterns, symbolizing the thunderous pulses unleashed as Thor swings his hammer, Mjölnir.
In terms of panel craftsmanship, a time-consuming and complex "nickel alloy electroplating technique" was chosen. After meticulous processes including 3D modeling, hand engraving, molding, polishing, sandblasting, and more, the panels exhibit a unique texture of light and shadow at different angles.
The refraction of light further highlights the unique silvery luster of the white copper, making it a splendid treasure that merges myth with art. This intricate finish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a mythological depth to the THORKING, reflecting its inspiration and craftsmanship in every detail.
11 Drivers + Quad-Crossover Scheme
The THORKING features an eleven-unit layout with a triple-hybrid design of dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers, employing a four-way crossover design. A 10mm high-polymer composite diaphragm dynamic driver specifically handles the low-frequency range. For the mid to high frequencies, Kinera uses a '2+4' combination of Knowles balanced armature units.
Two of the Knowles units are dedicated to mid-low frequencies, enhancing the energy of the low frequencies through a dual acoustic crossover structure, ensuring a smooth transition to the highs.
The other four Knowles units are designated for handling the high frequencies, more effectively distributing the sound space through a newly developed 'Gemini structure sound coupling tube'.
For the ultra-high frequencies, four specialized super-tweeter electrostatic units are used, refining the overtones and significantly enhancing the airiness of wind instruments, resulting in a clearer, cleaner, and more stable sound background, while creating an expansive and extended soundstage.
Rigorously Selected Accessories
The cable used for THORKING featuring a 26AWG quad-twisted 7N single-crystal copper core. This type of wire boasts an excellent crystal structure, where its continuity and singularity ensure high efficiency and low loss in signal transmission. Additionally, this high-purity copper core provides a clearer and more delicate sound performance, effectively reducing any roughness in the sound, allowing for not only faster sound transmission but also a more refined and rich audio experience.
Sound Profile
With the hybrid configuration of balanced armature and electrostatic units, THORKING exhibits a balanced, clean, and neat tuning style, adopting a slight V-shaped tuning curve that presents a broad and natural oval-shaped soundstage. It also features rapid dynamic and transient responses, bringing a strong sense of linearity and high-density imaging. The background is layered with excellent separation, especially in the high frequencies where THORKING demonstrates unprecedented penetration and cohesion. The details are clear without being piercing, avoiding an overly aggressive compressive feel, and allowing each note to be full of vitality.
Enhanced by the white copper material and innovative driver technology, the low-frequency performance is equally impressive. The excellent elasticity and detail in the bass are standout features, with midrange vocals carrying a subtly sweet undertone and a slightly slow decay rate that creates a more engaging listening experience.
The overall bass response is direct yet deep, capable of delivering powerful and cohesive bass impacts when needed, satisfying a diverse range of musical tastes. Whether it's the rhythmic feel of pop music, the grandeur of classical symphonies, or the delicate performance of chamber music, THORKING accurately restores every detail in the music, offering a richly layered and intense sound experience.
