SMB-01L Pro Monitoring Headphones VGP Award Winner 2 Years Running

1. 🎧 Pro Monitoring Headphones SMB-01L - Two-time VGP award winner with Japanese craftsmanship and innovative tech 2. 🔊 High-Resolution Flat Sound - Features FOSTER Electric 50mm driver and bio-cellulose diaphragm 3. 💸 Exclusive Early Bird Discount - Up to 30% off with various set options on crowdfunding platform

SMB-01L Pro Monitoring Headphones VGP Award Winner 2 Years Running 주식회사 에이티브이코리아

1. 🎧 Pro Monitoring Headphones SMB-01L - Two-time VGP award winner with Japanese craftsmanship and innovative tech 2. 🔊 High-Resolution Flat Sound - Features FOSTER Electric 50mm driver and bio-cellulose diaphragm 3. 💸 Exclusive Early Bird Discount - Up to 30% off with various set options on crowdfunding platform

SMB-01L Pro Monitoring Headphones VGP Award Winner 2 Years Running
US 7
700000 KRW

The dedication of a Japanese mastering engineer master
With a pro engineerMade for audiophiles
Pro monitoring headphones

"With large speakers in the studio
The sound you monitor
Is reproduced through headphones"

For pro engineers who want to break free from compromised and distorted sound, we deliver the 'sound' exactly as the artist intended, and for audiophiles, the 'experience' of being truly moved by the essence of music.

STORY

Mr. Isao Kumano, one of Japan's top mastering engineers, created the 'SMB-01L' with the intention of making a product for professional audio engineers and audiophiles.His goal was to 'reproduce the sound of monitoring with large speaker systems in the studio through headphones.'

Born with professional audio engineers and true audiophiles in mind, the SMB-01L is the embodiment of that dream. This is not just a product development, but the result of a journey filled with his philosophy and dedication to sound.

The Perfect Headphone - Improved

In 2011, PHONON introduced the signature model SMB-02, which was highly praised by many professionals. Kumano himself thought the SMB-02 was nearly perfect, and for eight years, there were no plans for additional models. However, everything changed upon encountering FOSTER Electric's innovative 50mm driver unit MT050A.   

The Φ50mm driver unit, larger than the previous model, has taken PHONON's renowned bass monitoring capability to the next level. The 'Bio-Dyna diaphragm' made of bio-cellulose material and the 'Free Edge' structure dramatically improve original sound reproduction, delivering vividness and a wide, high-resolution dynamic range as if you were on site.   

During development, PHONON conducted extensive reference tests to find the best acoustic balance for all genres of music.

The SMB-01L will become your new reference headphones.

The Revolutionary 50mm driver

FOSTER Electric's state-of-the-art MT050A driver achieves a wide playback range while minimizing distortion through a powerful magnetic circuit. It especially delivers ultimate flatness in the mid and low frequency ranges.

Generally, as the driver diameter increases, bass improves but there are limitations in treble reproduction. However, PHONON's unique tuning expertise has achieved an amazing acoustic balance even with this large 50mm driver.A sound experience as if you have a large high-end audio system right next to you—this is the value that the SMB-01L pursues.

Next Level "Flat" Sound 

The most important thing for an audio engineer is to accurately perceive a flat sound without frequency distortion. PHONON aims to deliver the original high-resolution "flat" sound directly to your ears.   

The SMB-01L redefines the standard for headphone sound.Going beyond mere flatness, it embodies PHONON's philosophy of conveying the true joy and emotion of music—the "imagination of music"—with precision. Experience pure sound realized through cutting-edge technology.   

Two way player 

One of the features of the SMB-01L is its interchangeable ear plates. Using the included dedicated driver, you can easily swap the plates and freely choose between closed-back and semi-open sound modes according to your environment and preference.   

With a single pair of headphones, you can enjoy both precise studio work and comfortable listening at home, providing unique value.

(Note: The SMB-02G in the reward configuration does not include interchangeable plates, but they are compatible with the SMB-01L. The 4400 model does not support interchangeable plates.)

Designed for professionals

Artists Supporting PHONON 

PHONON's SMB-02 has been passionately loved by top artists such as Grammy-winning sound engineer Tom Lord-Alge, Dixon, DJ Harvey, and Daito Manabe of Rhizomatik, and was used in the recording of the Academy Award-winning short film "God of Love".Depeche Mode's music video, techno artistJeff Mills It has been used in several notable projects, including concerts at the Louvre Museum directed by renowned directors.

The SMB-02 was praised by The New York Times as “The holy grail of headphones (,” and this acclaim was echoed by Germany’s top music magazine Groove, while France’s classical music magazine Pianiste selected it as one of the six best headphones for music lovers.

PHONON’s high-end headphones support sound professionals and DJs worldwide, helping them take their skills to the next level with outstanding bass monitoring capabilities.

The new innovative SMB-01L uses a larger diameter driver unit to further enhance PHONON’s signature bass monitoring feature. FOSTER Electric’s state-of-the-art MT050A, a high-end 50mm unit, offers a dramatic improvement in reproducing original sound and presence with its powerful magnetic circuit and “free edge” structure. During development, a wide range of reference materials were extensively tested to ensure the best acoustic balance for all genres of music.

Grammy-winning engineer Tom Lord-Alge (Famous for working with Steve Winwood, Carlos Santana, U2, The Rolling Stones, P!nk, Peter Gabriel, Dave Matthews Band, blink-182, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Avril Lavigne, Oasis, Marilyn Manson, ONE OK ROCK, SCANDAL) has used PHONON headphones:

For years, I relied on Sony MDR-7506 headphones—until I was introduced to the PHONON SMB-02.PHONON headphones helped me realistically capture audio that I missed with my Sony MDR-7506. The SMB-02 faithfully reproduces rich and deep bass, while also delivering a sufficient amount of treble. I also like the fit and connection method. PHONON is my new reference headphone! I really love it!

Mr. Seiki Kitano said that PHONON headphones are trustworthy as a mixing engineer.

The reason I couldn’t use headphones for monitoring was because there was a gap compared to monitoring with speakers. However, this SMB-01L was different and trustworthy.

Honestly, it was the best encounter in my engineering career.


Reinhard Vanbergen uses PHONON headphones for his work with Charlotte & Reinhard, Rheinzand, Music for Dreams, and more.

I used these headphones to mix my last two albums, and they are similar to NS10 speakers, but even better. They reproduce bass very clearly and accurately. The mastering engineer for the last album commented, “There was almost nothing to adjust.”
In the end, I couldn’t help but buy all three PHONON headphones. Now, my entire studio runs on PHONON headphones. They are all very different, but conversely, they maintain the same quality and volume, complementing each other. I have nicknamed these headphones the Worker (SMB-03), the Surgeon (SMB-02), and the King (SMB-01L).
The last product feels like watching a full surround movie theater in your head, and the sound is so impressive that it’s addictive. After mixing with all these products, they fit together very well so far. You can easily check the low end, stereo field, and roughness, and in general, they are great for listening to music.

Frank Wiedemann is a music producer who actively uses PHONON headphones.

I use the SMB-01L as my master headphones in the studio.

Stephen Shirk is an audio engineer at SHIRK Studios. He mixes using both the SMB-01L and SMB-02G together.

The SMB-01L is the best way to listen to a finished mix again. It's similar to listening to a completed mix on the main control room speakers, but it's an even more enjoyable experience.
Both the SMB-01L and SMB-02G are smooth and highly extendable. I connect the SMB-02G to the Little Labs monitor next to the console, and I keep the SMB-01L at home so I can check mixes outside the studio.

Damien Plisson, the head of the famous audio program Audirvana, also uses the SMB-01L.

When I heard that Mr. Kumano was participating in the creation of the new flagship model SMB-01L with professional audio engineers in mind, I was very excited. Mr. Kumano's reputation is so well-known in the audio industry that it would not be an exaggeration to say that everyone knows him. If there is anyone as particular about audio quality as I am, it would be Mr. Kumano.

The moment I first listened to the SMB-01L, I was convinced that the technology inside was a small gem that perfectly harmonizes with Audirvana. It did not betray my expectations at all.I was truly amazed by the overwhelming acoustic performance delivered by the SMB-01L. It was so impressive that I thought, "This is truly a high-end audio system." Everything sounds extremely clear. Every element that makes up the music was heard with perfect transparency. What impressed me most was how realistic the musical performance felt. It was as if I were actually there. It felt like I was in the studio.It reproduced a perfect and natural balance and the sound of instruments faithfully, without any falsehood, artificiality, or embellishment. I think that is a remarkable ability.

Hideo Kobayashi, who works as a producer and engineer in Japan, gave the following praise.

Mr. Kumano has been a close friend and the engineer I trust most since the 1990s. He has mastered several of my albums, and I have long used PHONON products such as the SMB-01, 4400, and PHONON LIQUID (now PHONON CLEANER).Above all, the resolution and granularity of the sound are far superior to other brands, and these products can be used for everything from DJ performances to mobile production and mastering checks. They are also highly praised by musicians to whom I have introduced the products. As a PHONON evangelist and loyal user, I will continue to cherish and use these wonderful products. Thank you always, Mr. Kumano.

Seiji Motoyama, a renowned composer, music producer, and sound engineer, shared the following.

To share my impressions of the PHONON SMB-01L headphones that I have recently been using,The sound quality is very good, natural, with deep and solid bass, and comfortable to listen to! Even when monitoring at high volumes, it does not hurt my ears and the balance is excellent. It seems it will be very helpful for mixing work.

IZPON, a famous producer, percussionist, and DJ, uses most PHONON products and shared the following advantages of the SMB-01L.

For over 10 years, I have received great help from Mr. Kumano's mastering on various works. I have also consistently used PHONON products, starting with the SMB-02, followed by the ML-1 and SMB-01L. Every product has been essential at my workplace.

Due to its spatial characteristics, the SMB-01L is very useful for mixdowns using only headphones, as well as for checking balance and imaging in binaural and immersive audio, which has been increasing recently. Personally, as the importance of low frequencies in music has been increasing in today's music scene, I feel that PHONON's direction, which has long recognized club music as an important genre, aligns well with me. I look forward to your continued interest.

SAKi, the vocalist of The Factors, gave the following evaluation of the SMB-01L.

This work is truly extraordinary, the result of repeated experiments and research. It made me understand why Mr. Kumano is recognized worldwide.I also use the PHONON SMB-01L for recording. It is my strongest partner, eliminating the need for monitor speakers. The quality is top-notch in every aspect. Thank you for Mr. Kumano's passion.

Artist JUVENILE recommended the SMB-01L to acquaintances as follows.

For the past five years, I have been entrusting the mastering of my works to Mr. Kumano, who is both an engineer at PHONON and one of Japan's leading mastering engineers. The first time I used the SMB-01L headphones for studio checks sparked my interest, and after keeping an eye on them, I finally adopted them in 2022.The very idea of 'reproducing the sound of large studio monitors with headphones' is so typical of Mr. Kumano, who is both a craftsman and an 'artist.' All the friends I recommended to try them had the same reaction: 'The sound quality is unbelievably amazing.' It was on another level.

I use the plates in an open-back configuration, and even though the sound is only coming from inside my ears, I sometimes get the strange illusion that I need to take off the headphones to check if the sound is also coming from external speakers. This is truly the best equipment, providing an indescribable sense of happiness not only during music production but also when listening.

J.A.K.A.M., a famous Japanese DJ and producer, praised the spatial feel of the SMB-01L.

I have been using them continuously for DJing since the early SMB-02, and since I also do recording and editing while on tour, I think they are an excellent choice for accurate monitoring during production and for grasping club sound well.

The recently purchased SMB-01L, as a monitor, evokes the image of a large or massive sound system, and I found it fascinating that it allows you to feel such depth and spaciousness. It seems that this deep and spacious sound is created because the side walls are not completely closed. Acquiring these headphones has broadened my perspective. Thank you!

DJ PMX, a visiting professor at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music and an active HIPHOP producer, shared the following thoughts about the SMB-01L.

I started using PHONON headphones from the 4000 model, and for several years now, they have been active as monitors for mixing works and beat making for Japanese hip-hop artists.I had been looking forward to the SMB-01L for months because of its ability to reproduce large monitors. After actually using it, the sound contours are clear and excellent. The central position of the vocals, the left-right spread of each instrument, and the coverage of the KICK and 808 bass range during mixing are all well heard. I was surprised to discover sounds in the demo tracks that made me think, 'Did this song always have this sound?' These headphones will play a major role in beat making and mixing going forward.

Kenta Matsukuma, composer of the group SCRAMBLES and a famous producer, also did not forget to praise the SMB-01L.

As a composer and sound producer, I am always surrounded by sound, and I have been a devoted user of PHONON products since shortly after the release of the SMB-01.I still vividly remember the first time I used the SMB-01—the sound, especially the bass reproduction, was excellent and matched my music so well that I was truly impressed.


ZUNE, the drummer of Adios Audio and an audio engineer, uses the SMB-01L for recording and mixing.

As I continue to record drums, I believe it is important to prevent the sound from becoming muddy during the mixing stage, since drums cover the entire frequency range. In that regard, the SMB-01L is an excellent product that allows you to capture more detailed sound. Of course, there are much more expensive products from other companies, but I think the resolution of the SMB-01L is very suitable and ideal for recording and mixing.

I believe the SMB-01L is especially helpful for monitoring in spaces where the speaker room environment is not ideal. I have used it in various spaces, and I am confident that it is a product that maximizes the advantages of headphones. It delivers a very flat sound, making it easy to organize and work with detailed sounds. Especially after switching to the semi-open plate, I was able to organize the details in the mid and high ranges more precisely. If you felt something lacking with the standard closed type, I highly recommend using the replacement plate.


Mr. Seunghoon Han is an audio engineer active in various fields in Korea. He has used the SMB-01L for over a year and shared the following.

Currently, I mainly use it for documentary field recording and also for operating various performances. Due to the nature of monitoring, I need to hear everything from very quiet to very loud sounds without missing anything, and the SMB-01L is the perfect product for such monitoring.

I have used other brands in pursuit of a flat sound, but those often caused ear fatigue due to distorted sound, making it difficult to monitor at high volumes. In contrast, the SMB-01L was extremely comfortable to listen to even at very high volumes. Moreover, despite its size, it is very lightweight, and the ability to switch between semi-open and closed types is a huge advantage for me.

Awards

Press & Collaborations

PHONON products have been featured in various music, audio, fashion, and lifestyle media around the world. We have also collaborated with a variety of music labels and fashion brands. Check out reviews from artists and feature articles from influential publications.

MAGNETIC MAGAZINE on the PHONON 4400's

I've said it many times before, and I'll say it again. This is the best portable headphone on the market.
Absolutely the best. Incredibly lightweight, and the sound is simply incomparable.

DJ Lab DE

Personally, I think the models from Japanese manufacturer PHONON are always enjoyable, fun, and ideal reference headphones, created through deep research and development into sound.

TONE AUDIO

The SMB-02 is perfect in every way, and I can say it has no flaws. It reproduces tone perfectly and delivers the subtlety of acoustic instruments with precision.

Head-Fi

The PHONON SMB-02 is truly the best headphone. I can confidently say it is worth three times its price.

Review by SMB-02 customer

I am looking for another headphone to upgrade from this PHONON SMB-02, but after using the PHONON SMB-02, no other headphone could satisfy me. I'm completely ruined!

Magazines

Artist reviews

Record shops

Collaborations

SPECIFICATIONS

Conclusion

After years of extensive sound research and development, the SMB-01L has been released. Featuring unique sound tuning and cutting-edge hardware, the SMB-01L truly embodies PHONON's mission to 'accurately convey the imagination of music' by providing high-precision monitoring with outstanding spatial definition and low-frequency reproduction. It offers an irresistible listening experience.

We are excited to embark on a new musical adventure with the SMB-01L.

Thank you for your support!

[Support video for Korean Wadiz funding by Isao Kumano of manufacturer PHONON]

Risks and challenges

Shipping information

Exchange information

Reward A/S policy

In cases not related to reward defects

Maker

(Left) President Sayama Motoaki of Nice Company, the world distributor of PHONON
(Right) President and audio engineer Kumano Isao of PHONON Inc.

Hello, supporters. We are the ATV maker.

ATV is a Japanese brand specializing in electronic drums and broadcasting equipment. Based on this, we discover and introduce to the Korean market 'unique' products with outstanding technology and value that are not yet widely known domestically.

This time, we present PHONON is a hidden gem of a brand that has already gained high acclaim overseas but is known only to a few experts and enthusiasts in Korea. In particular, SMB-01L offers an amazing experience, as if you are listening to large monitoring speakers right next to your ears.

Developer Isao Kumano introduced this product by saying the following."If the SMB-02 and SMB-03 focused on 'enjoying' music, the SMB-01L is dedicated to 'listening' to music. As an engineer, after monitoring with headphones all day, I suddenly realized, 'If I keep getting this tired, I can't do this job for life. Let's make headphones that can be used for a lifetime.'"

As he said, the SMB-01L is so lightweight and well-balanced that you can wear it all day without your ears or head hurting. We can confidently assure you of its comfort.

Starting with this SMB-01L funding, we will do our best to earn your trust. Thank you.

Please participate in the following events/support signatures during the project period!

Pricing & Deals