The Dan Clark Audio Expanse headphones are equipped with a planar-magnetic driver 20% larger than loaded in the Ether 2 and utilise the company's v-Planar technology to reduce THD to a claimed sub 0.03% while improving low-frequency extension. Furthermore, we're told that diaphragm tension is set on a proprietary system that creates a more uniform and consistent tension across the entire driver surface. This is said to minimise distortion and improve driver matching to better than 0.25dB weighted across the spectrum for incredible imaging and balance.

Dan Clark has introduced its patent-pending Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS), an inline device between the transducer and ear to mitigate upper-frequency standing waves. AMTS integrates waveguides, diffusion control, quarter-wave, and Helmholtz resonators into one compact structure to eliminate standing waves, dramatically improving system performance, says the brand.

Apparently, the design uses diffusion elements to reduce standing wave formation. At the same time, resonators act as precision and broadband filters to smooth and shape the frequency response from the midrange through the highest frequencies. The result is said to be that “high frequencies are rendered with a refreshingly smooth, accurate, and detailed delivery across all genres.”

Dan Clark, Founder and CEO, told StereoNET:

We set out to make Expanse a real design statement. Expanse design takes its cues from our Stealth headphones but adds an exciting and unique grill based on mathematical functions derived from the principles of generative design for a truly unique and stylish look.

Designed and built by hand in San Diego, California, Expanse is one of the lightest super-premium headphones on the market, weighing in at just 418g. This is thanks to its use of aluminium and titanium to maximise strength while minimising weight.

Adding to the comfort and ease of use, the DCA Expanse sports “a stable yet comfortable self-adjusting suspension system” that seats the headphone just right. This is complemented by a top-grade black leather headband featuring fine blue stitching to create a quilted head strap that's not only eye-catching but also functional and comfortable. Finally, new vegan 'suede' and 'leather' ear pads further add to enable you to “vanish into your music.”

It is also great to see that the Expanse gets the AEON 2's elegant folding gimbal structure allowing it to conveniently pack into a compact custom case that's small and easy to stow.

The Dan Clark Audio Expanse headphones are available now, priced at US$3,999.

Visit Dan Clark Audio for more information