Acoustically transparent earphones

Abstract

A portable, wearable personal audio system which includes an acoustic sample chamber (24) and an acoustically transparent ear insert member (20). A tubular member transmits the audio from the sample chamber and module to the ear canal. The ear insert stabilizes and secures the tubular member in the ear canal. One or more surfaces of the ear insert member can be coated with a perforated flexible material (32). An additional transducer (40 or 54), preferably made from a piezoelectric material, can be provided in the ear insert member or at the outer end of the tubular member. An electronics mechanisms (10, 13) is preferably supplied as part of a behind-the-ear module (100) or as part of the temple of a pair of eyeglasses (120). Stereo systems require separate systems for each ear.