We’re still finding some CES news. During the Las Vegas event, Panasonic introduced a new premium headphones made of Zirconia – model RP-HJE900. According to the Japanese electronics giant, these are the world’s first high fidelity in-ear headphones made out of such material, which is BTW used as a thermal barrier coating in jet turbine and diesel engines.
Zirconia is a white crystalline oxide of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) and it’s an extremely durable substance which can withstand extreme temperatures. Not sure why “extreme temperatures” are that important, but apparently thank to Zirconia, the RP-HJE900 has scratch-proof, ultra-tough construction and its sound chamber has less resonance than plastic or aluminum. As a result, ultra-clear sound reproduction with virtually no distortion is guaranteed.
In addition, Panasonic used Neodymium magnet for RP-HJE900 construction to deliver rich and powerful sound. They boast frequency response of 6Hz-26kHz for realistic sound with precision highs and rich low end. Additionally, the RP-HJE900 has a sound pressure sensitivity of 100dB, impedance of 26 Omega and 12.5 mm drivers. The cord also has a slider to prevent tangling.
If these numbers mean anything, you’re probably already interested. However, you’ll have to wait for May when Panasonic will start selling the RP-HJE900 in black and white for $229.99. That’s super expensive for in-ear headphones, but then again, they should last forever thanks to detachable cables, or at least we think so.