IK Multimedia ARC ON•EAR – Revolutionary Headphone Correction and Virtual Monitoring System

The IK Multimedia ARC ON•EAR represents a completely new way of listening and mixing on headphones. This portable, standalone DAC and headphone amplifier with built-in correction removes the limitations of traditional headphones, offering a precise, natural, and trustworthy sound – just like in a professional studio. With ARC ON•EAR, you can mix, master, and produce with total confidence – anywhere you go.

Key Features

• Integrated audiophile-grade DAC and headphone amplifier
• Instant correction of your headphones’ frequency response
• Accurate recreation of professional studio monitor acoustics
• Supports hundreds of popular headphone models
• Up to 5 user profiles storable
• Rechargeable battery with up to 4 hours of playback
• Digital USB-C and analog 3.5 mm inputs
• Durable, compact aluminum chassis

New standard of accuracy and realism

Even reference-class headphones are never perfectly linear. ARC ON•EAR solves this by applying precision-calibrated profiles based on measurements from hundreds of headphone models. The device corrects frequency response and stereo image, allowing you to hear your mix exactly as it would sound on professional studio monitors in a perfectly tuned room.

Professional sound anywhere

ARC ON•EAR operates completely standalone – no drivers, plug-ins, or DAW required. Simply connect via USB-C to your computer, tablet, or smartphone and select your headphone model in the ARC Control Software. With its built-in rechargeable battery, you can work anywhere – at home, in the studio, or on the go.

Precision audio architecture

At its heart lies a 32-bit ESS SABRE® DAC with ultra-low distortion and a wide dynamic range. The high-damping-factor amplifier ensures faithful sound reproduction, free from the coloration caused by conventional headphone outputs. ARC ON•EAR eliminates impedance-related inconsistencies, ensuring a consistent and reliable listening experience every time.

Virtual monitoring in any environment

With its growing library of virtual monitor profiles, ARC ON•EAR lets you instantly test your mix on various playback systems — from studio monitors and TVs to smartphones and Bluetooth speakers — all without removing your headphones. This saves hours of cross-referencing and guesswork.

Ergonomic, portable, and built to last

The compact, lightweight aluminum housing makes ARC ON•EAR the ideal tool for producers, engineers, and musicians on the move. Included accessories such as the protective carrying case and high-quality USB-C and TRS cables ensure maximum convenience and reliability. Weighing only 170 g, it fits easily into your pocket or backpack.

Applications

• Professional mixing and mastering with headphone accuracy
• Mobile production and monitoring
• Analytical mixing reference in neutral environments
• Tracking and recording sessions
• Audiophile-grade music playback

Technical Specifications

• Sample rates: 44.1 – 192 kHz
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 80 kHz (-1 dB)
• Dynamic range: up to 116.9 dB (300 Ω)
• Max output level: +19 dBu
• Latency: 1.35 ms (Phase Align OFF) / ~21 ms (Phase Align ON)
• Inputs: Analog 3.5 mm TRS, Digital USB-C
• Output: 6.3 mm TRS headphone jack
• Power: Built-in rechargeable battery (up to 4 hours) or USB
• Dimensions: 79 × 77 × 35 mm
• Weight: 170 g

Included in the box

• ARC ON•EAR processor
• Carrying case
• USB-C to USB-C cable (0.6 m)
• 3.5 mm TRS cable (0.6 m)
• 3.5 to 6.3 mm TRS adapter

Summary

The IK Multimedia ARC ON•EAR is a breakthrough in headphone monitoring. With precise calibration, realistic spatial simulation, and audiophile sound quality, it gives you full confidence that your mix will translate perfectly on any system. It’s the ultimate tool for engineers, producers, and musicians who demand reliable, reference-grade sound – anywhere and anytime.