Astell&Kern and 64 Audio Unveil XIO: A New Benchmark in High-End In-Ear Monitors
07.16.2025
Astell&Kern, the global leader in premium high-resolution audio devices, and 64 Audio, renowned innovators in in-ear monitor technology, proudly announce their first collaborative creation: XIO. First teased in May 2025 at the High End Show Munich, the X10 will be available at authorized Astell&Kern dealers worldwide in August 2025 for $3,000.
More than just an IEM, XIO represents the culmination of Astell&Kern and 64 Audio’s shared philosophy on design and sound—blending precision engineering with artistic sensibility. XIO transcends the role of simply playing music; it sculpts sound into a tangible, immersive experience, offering value that surpasses expectations.
“XIO boldly opens a new chapter in the evolution of high-end in-ear monitors. It goes beyond simply reproducing sound—it embodies our philosophy of sculpting sound itself. By combining mechanical perfection with musical sensibility, XIO creates value that exceeds expectations,” said Vitaliy Belonozhko, Founder and CEO of 64 Audio.
“Since our founding, Astell&Kern has embraced partnerships with several headphone and IEM manufacturers who share our music philosophy and vision to provide music playback as accurate as possible. These collaborations provide perfect synergy with our digital audio players. We are excited about our first collaboration with 64 Audio and cannot wait for our DAP owners to experience the sound of the X10,” said Yeo, CEO of Astell&Kern.
Designed as a singular object, XIO sets a new standard for high-end in-ear monitors through its uncompromising approach to both aesthetics and acoustics. Its robust shell, sophisticated internal structure, and exquisite sound reproduction redefine what’s possible in personal audio.
Meticulous Engineering: Inside and Out
-
10-Driver Hybrid System
- XIO features an advanced hybrid system with ten meticulously tuned drivers and a 4-way passive crossover, delivering flawless frequency harmony. The result is a vivid sense of depth and a spacious, realistic soundstage.
- tiaⓇ Waveguide: A direct-radiating high-frequency driver eliminates the traditional sound tube, minimizing distortion and enhancing delicate highs with airy, detailed resolution.
- Balanced Armature Manifold: Six mid and one upper-mid balanced armature drivers ensure smooth transitions and rich textures, bringing vocals and instruments to life with warm, clear harmonic detail.
- TRUE ISOBARIC Dual-Dynamic Bass: This innovative structure synchronizes two dynamic drivers in an acoustically neutral coupling chamber, achieving bass with exceptional depth, density, and impactful presence—well beyond typical IEM capabilities.
-
64 Audio Patented Technology
The X10 features several patented technologies developed by 64 Audio including:
- tia® - Tubeless In-Ear Audio (tia) is a patented IEM design that minimizes resonance and distortion, delivering clear and vivid sound. The tia system consists of the tia driver, single-bore design, and acoustic chamber. XIO adopts the tia driver and single-bore structure to capture the pure essence of sound.
- apex® - apex (Air Pressure Exchange) is a patented venting system that naturally releases pressure from the sealed ear canal while maintaining excellent noise isolation. This technology reduces listening fatigue during extended sessions and provides a much wider, more realistic soundstage. The m15 module, standard with XIO, is specially redesigned for XIO with DLC coating on 904L stainless steel, making it a unique apex solution exclusive to this model.
- LID® - Linear Impedance Design (LID) is a patented circuit that compensates for nonlinear resistance between drivers, ensuring consistent sound quality regardless of changes in the output impedance of the source device.
- This technology provides a stable sound signature and accurate frequency response at all times.
-
Artistry in Every Detail
The XIO’s housing is crafted from precision-milled 904L stainless steel, a material notably tougher and more challenging to machine than conventional stainless steel. Its luxurious black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating delivers a striking premium texture. The faceplate, echoing Astell&Kern’s design heritage, showcases a three-dimensional presence through intricate reflections and deep shading—truly an “audio art piece” that satisfies both visual and tactile senses.
Completing the masterpiece is a dedicated silver-plated UP-OCC copper Litz cable, specially designed to harmonize aesthetically with XIO. The four-core cross-braided cable ensures excellent noise shielding, transparent signal transmission, and with an ultra-low impedance of just 0.29Ω, maximizes electrical efficiency.
-
Handcrafted in the USA
XIO reflects 64 Audio’s commitment to craftsmanship. Each unit uses carefully selected components sourced globally, then designed, assembled, and meticulously quality-checked by expert engineers in the United States.
-
What’s in the Box
- XIO Universal In-Ear Monitors
- 64 Audio Premium Leather Case
- TrueFidelity Foam Ear Tips (S, M, L)
- SpinFit Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
- Standard Silicone Ear Tips (S, M, L)
- Cleaning Tool & Cloth
- Cable Clip
- 4.4mm Silver-Plated UP-OCC Copper Litz Cable
- Apex Modules: m20 (Silver), Special m15 (904L Stainless Steel with DLC Coating), m12 (Gold), mX (Black)
Astell&Kern is a global leader in portable high-resolution audio players and accessories, dedicated to delivering the most authentic sound reproduction possible. Each product reflects the brand’s relentless pursuit of audio perfection.
64 Audio, founded by Vitaliy Belonozhko, is at the forefront of in-ear monitor innovation. Known for their proprietary technologies and expert craftsmanship, 64 Audio continually pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in personal audio.