IK Multimedia’s recently introduced ARC On-Ear system brings the power of their monitoring-correction system to headphone users, and the latest update extends its reach to an additional 12 models as well as improving the underlying technology.
What’s New?
Expanded Headphone Support
12 new calibration profiles have been added, including:
- Apple AirPods Max
- Audeze S20
- HEDD Audio HEDDphone D1
ARC On-Ear now supports hundreds of headphone models, all of which have been precisely measured by IK themselves and matched to the hardware's built-in amplifier circuitry.
Faster Workflow
The update delivers a number of usability improvements designed to streamline daily operation, including:
- Navigation arrows for quick headphone or virtual speaker switching.
- Smart search in the Headphone Browser.
- Always-visible headphone name for easier identification.
- Double-click selection in the browser.
- Presets can now be copied, pasted, moved and restored to default.
Enhanced Monitoring
The virtual monitoring engine has also been improved, and now features a better ambience algorithm that promises to create more natural depth and spatial realism. Other updates include an enhanced frequency-response graph with toggleable curves and quicker User Trim controls.
Pricing & Availability
The ARC On-Ear version 1.3 firmware and software update is available now via the IK Product Manager, and is free to registered users. The system is currently (13 March 2026) being offered at an introductory price of $€249.99, reduced from its full cost of $€299.99.
