A high-end, multi-hundred-dollar custom in-ear monitor (CIEM) earphone isn’t created in a massive factory, but rather in a small, 6m² workshop belonging to a young Gen Z entrepreneur, Lưu Hữu Hải, from Hải Dương.
From Music Passion to Personalized Earphones
Lưu Hữu Hải’s passion for music ignited early on, fueled by his father’s music albums. These treasured gifts sparked his curiosity about the stylish and compact in-ear earphones of international artists. He discovered the unique and appealing world of custom in-ear monitors (CIEMs), earphones designed individually to perfectly fit each listener’s ear.
His journey demanded relentless learning. During his two years of university, he dedicated himself to mastering English and German in his field, alongside learning about plastic fabrication, audio design, and medical knowledge concerning ear anatomy.
From a Niche to Exquisite Craftsmanship
“From start to finish, crafting my first custom earphone took exactly two years. There was no one to guide me; I had to figure everything out myself,” Hải shared. His first product wasn’t for a celebrity, but for a close friend, yet the positive feedback opened wider opportunities. Now, his earphones are sought after by prominent artists like Hồng Nhung, Phương Linh, and Mr. Siro. Each piece is a unique design, meticulously tailored to the specific musical preferences of each customer.
The Precise and Exquisite Manufacturing Process
CIEMs are handcrafted for each individual order, requiring extreme precision. The process involves:
- Ear Molding: Using medical-grade silicone to create an accurate ear mold.
- Design and Fabrication: Discussing design, colors, patterns, and component configurations with clients based on their musical preferences.
- Component Assembly: Carefully assembling drivers, wires, and crossover circuits with meticulous accuracy.
- Audio Testing: Using specialized equipment to measure frequency response, ensuring balanced and high-quality audio.
- Surface Finishing: Polishing and finishing the earphone surface.
Beyond Luxury: A Social Mission
Beyond the high-end market, Lưu Hữu Hải is also passionate about providing hearing aids for children with hearing impairments. He aims to train technicians to produce affordable yet high-quality hearing aids, meeting the needs of this underserved population.
Conclusion
CIEMs are more than just listening tools; they are a statement of individuality, combining artistic expression with advanced technology. Gen Z entrepreneur Lưu Hữu Hải, through relentless passion and dedication, has created high-quality, socially conscious products from his small 6m² workshop.
