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FAQ & Troubleshooting

Frequently Asked Questions​

Is this IEM actually good?​

The Project Resonator IEM is designed as a "Reference Template." It uses high-quality components (Knowles/Sonion drivers) and targets a widely accepted tuning standard (similar to the DUSK). However, as stated in the project intro, I have not personally mass-produced or verified every single unit. It is a starting point for you to refine.

Can I build this if I don't own a 3D printer?​

Yes. You do not need to own the equipment yourself.

  • PCBs: Can be ordered from JLCPCB or PCBWay.
  • Shells: Can be printed via 3D printing services (like PCBWay's SLA service or local 3D print shops).
  • Assembly: You will need a soldering iron and some steady hands. That part cannot be outsourced easily.

Can I change the tuning?​

Absolutely. That is the point of this project!

  • To change bass: Adjust the resistor values on the woofer circuit.
  • To change treble: Swap the dampers (filters) in the acoustic tubes or adjust the capacitor values on the tweeter branch.
  • Check the Crossover Tuning page to see how component changes affect the graph.

Troubleshooting Common Issues​

1. The drivers don't fit in the shell!​

  • Cause: 3D printing tolerances vary between machines. Resin also shrinks slightly when curing.
  • Solution: Do not force them! You will crack the shell. Use a small round file or sandpaper to gently widen the internal cavity. Next time, adjust the "Offset" tolerance in Fusion 360 (see the Shell Design guide) and reprint.

2. No sound from one side / One driver is silent.​

  • Cause: Usually a "cold solder joint" on the PCB or a burnt driver.
  • Solution:
    • Check your soldering connections under a magnifying glass. They should be shiny and smooth, not dull or balled up.
    • Warning: BA drivers are extremely sensitive to heat. If you held the soldering iron on the pad for more than 2-3 seconds, you might have fried the internal voice coil.

3. The IEM sounds "thin" or has no bass.​

  • Cause: A seal leak.
  • Solution:
    • Check if the shell is fully sealed (no holes in the faceplate glue up).
    • Check if the drivers are sealed into their acoustic tubes. If air escapes around the driver spout instead of going down the tube, you lose all bass pressure. Add a tiny amount of UV resin around the driver snout to seal it.

4. High-frequency harshness or "sibilance."​

  • Cause: Unfiltered peaks from the BA drivers.
  • Solution: You may need to add an acoustic damper (Knowles filter) to the end of the sound tube. These are tiny mesh screens that smooth out treble peaks. Try a "Green" or "White" damper.