Generic calibration software often aims for a sound accuracy within approximately 3dB of their target curve, frequently referencing the Harman curve or similar standards. OLLO headphones, conversely, are engineered to be acoustically flat, achieving a tighter tolerance of about 2dB relative to our studio headphone benchmark, and this is accomplished without any software calibration.
This crucial distinction means OLLO headphones inherently align more closely with our intended sound profile, even before any software adjustments are applied. This outperformance is evident when compared to using general-purpose plugins that attempt to “correct” headphone sound.
The limitation of generic calibration lies in its methodology. It relies on averaging the response from a limited number of headphone units and applying these averaged settings across all units. To illustrate the flaw, consider room acoustics: you would never apply EQ settings measured in a few generic rooms to your specific listening space. The same principle applies to headphones.
This averaging approach inherently restricts generic calibration software to approximately ~3dB tolerance accuracy. It simply cannot attain the precision offered by the USC (Unit Specific Calibration) we provide.
So, how do we achieve this superior level of accuracy?
USC effectively eliminates manufacturing variations and enhances the frequency response beyond typical acoustic-only capabilities, and it does this for each individual headphone unit.
This precision is possible because we rigorously test every single OLLO headphone during our quality control process. This meticulous testing allows us to create a calibration profile that is uniquely tailored to each specific unit.
Many generic calibration software providers advertise “individual calibration services.” However, these services typically require you to send in your headphones and incur a significant extra cost. For example, Sonarworks charges around €149 for their individual calibration service, plus shipping fees, and an additional €99 for the Sound ID license, potentially reaching a total cost of nearly €300.
With OLLO USC, individual calibration and the USC license are included with your purchase of OLLO headphones. It’s also available as an affordable €49 upgrade for owners of older OLLO headphone models!
For those interested in the technical details:
In our official reports, a tolerance of approximately ~0.5dB is generally considered acceptable. It’s important to note that this measurement excludes HRTF – KB500 by GRAS resonances, as we avoid correcting any issues with a Q factor exceeding 1.2. This constraint is due to the current limitations of ear simulators available, which can introduce sound quality issues if there’s a mismatch between the simulator’s HRTF and the end user’s HRTF. We utilize a diverse array of systems, ear simulators, sources, and targets. We are committed to transparency, and we always clearly specify the tools and methodologies employed in conjunction with any claims, charts, or datasets we present. For example, we provide details on smoothing steps, source signals, and compensations applied. When referencing claims made by competitors, we rely on their officially published materials or data obtained through well-defined and disclosed scientific methods and tools in laboratory settings. Any mention of competitor brands or product names is strictly for comparative purposes and constitutes fair use. It is important to acknowledge that they produce excellent products as well.
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