I cringed while reading your post!
Can you imagine wearing those 18-driver earphones after the procedure?
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Bragi Launches 'The Dash Pro' With Bigger Battery, Better Bluetooth, and Real-Time Translation
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I cringed while reading your post!
Can you imagine wearing those 18-driver earphones after the procedure?
Again, thank you for your explanations
It is my understanding that they should fit very similar if not better than the original Dash. If the original Dash didn't stick out, the tailored shouldn't either.
Unfortunately, while there are incoming reviews and even pictures, I haven't come across pictures of someone actually wearing the tailored Dash - I am wondering about this, too, after all.
If you end up getting them, please do let us know. I have small ears and I wouldn't have minded them (the original Dash) protruding if only they had fit securely to begin with.
I'm still so so so excited for those tailored Dash, and very hopeful, but I will wait until more reviews are in before I commit so much money. But I'm sooo willing to do so.
It is my understanding that they should fit very similar if not better than the original Dash. If the original Dash didn't stick out, the tailored shouldn't either.
Unfortunately, while there are incoming reviews and even pictures, I haven't come across pictures of someone actually wearing the tailored Dash - I am wondering about this, too, after all.
If you end up getting them, please do let us know. I have small ears and I wouldn't have minded them (the original Dash) protruding if only they had fit securely to begin with.
I'm still so so so excited for those tailored Dash, and very hopeful, but I will wait until more reviews are in before I commit so much money. But I'm sooo willing to do so.
I have small ears too. I had my impressions taken today.
The audiologist first used a camera device to look inside my ear canal. He shows me the live imaging on a screen. He said they check for any ear health issues before taking the impressions. He said my ears are healthy with a normal level of wax.
He then took the impressions. Exactly as Mister Tomlinson describes above. It felt uncomfortable but not painful. I have a low tolerance for this sort of thing, but it was okay.
He then left me for 15-20 minutes and then came back to remove the impressions. He showed them to me and said that the process has also helped remove some wax.
The whole session in their office was 30 mins from arrival to departure.
They did charge me a $200 deposit for the Bragi pro. They said it takes about a week.
I can't wait.
The audiologist first used a camera device to look inside my ear canal. He shows me the live imaging on a screen. He said they check for any ear health issues before taking the impressions. He said my ears are healthy with a normal level of wax.
He then took the impressions. Exactly as Mister Tomlinson describes above. It felt uncomfortable but not painful. I have a low tolerance for this sort of thing, but it was okay.
He then left me for 15-20 minutes and then came back to remove the impressions. He showed them to me and said that the process has also helped remove some wax.
The whole session in their office was 30 mins from arrival to departure.
They did charge me a $200 deposit for the Bragi pro. They said it takes about a week.
I can't wait.
I hope you'll tell us what you think of them and if it's not asking too much, pictures would be awesome!
To get back to this:
Helle Frederiksen, who's been somewhat of the official face of Bragi for quite some time, posted a picture of her wearing the tailored Dash. Below is a post of her wearing the original one and it does look very very similar in terms of how much it sticks out.
So I stick with my original assumption that if the original Dash didn't stick out, the tailored won't, either.
https://www.facebook.com/helletri/posts/1694236490616436
Helle Frederiksen, who's been somewhat of the official face of Bragi for quite some time, posted a picture of her wearing the tailored Dash. Below is a post of her wearing the original one and it does look very very similar in terms of how much it sticks out.
So I stick with my original assumption that if the original Dash didn't stick out, the tailored won't, either.
https://www.facebook.com/helletri/posts/1694236490616436
And more people are receiving their tailored Dash and share it with us.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVDkKVlBUbo/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVDkKVlBUbo/?hl=en
Well, I caved. I'm on vacation this week so I went ahead and scheduled the appointment with their authorized audiologist closest to me and drove the 40 minutes. So far, this process has been a complete headache.
The office they sent me to was in this desolate strip mall that clearly didn't get a lot of business. The guy running the place was not happy about the arrangement and voiced his opinion openly, though in his defense, he didn't mind making the impressions for me, but was only agitated at how Starkey was handling things. So, he was very polite to me, but listening to his heated conversation on the phone with various Starkey reps was a little uncomfortable.
I don't know how these things work, but apparently he's contractually obligated to provide certain services in exchange for offering Starkey products at his office. So out of the blue, he gets a call from a Starkey rep to set up the appointment and explain what he is to do. The percentage of the price he will receive for reimbursement is so small, he says after paying for materials and considering his time, he basically makes nothing.
I also brought a pair of existing custom monitors for him to send into Starkey along with a reference number so they can scan the monitors instead of the ear impressions. He refused to accept them because he didn't want to be responsible if they were lost in the process which he believed was very likely. So, now I'm going to have to make a phone call and HOPE I'm talking to the right person to help me send these in myself. Something tells me they will insist on using the impressions alone. Which brings me to another issue:
The audiologist didn't use a bite block. He said that in his experience, it wasn't necessary to use them. In my experience, it is CRUCIAL! Generally, they have you put a 1" bite block in your mouth to expand your ear canals even more. This will ensure your monitors maintain a tight seal when chewing, laughing, yawning, etc. Considering I will be using these while lifting (at work, while working out), I would expect these to lose their seal often. If I have to rely on the impressions, I know I'll be sending them back to be remade (they have a 30 day fit guarantee).
Also, he told me the rep he spoke to told him they were behind so he could expect them in about a month.
He was also nice enough to ask if he could have them shipped directly to me to save me the drive. They agreed, but something tells me they'll be sending them to him. Which would be pretty ridiculous considering they instructed him not to open the box or attempt to make any fit adjustments to them. Basically, he's to hand me the box and send me on my way.
I don't think I'm out of the woods yet.
The office they sent me to was in this desolate strip mall that clearly didn't get a lot of business. The guy running the place was not happy about the arrangement and voiced his opinion openly, though in his defense, he didn't mind making the impressions for me, but was only agitated at how Starkey was handling things. So, he was very polite to me, but listening to his heated conversation on the phone with various Starkey reps was a little uncomfortable.
I don't know how these things work, but apparently he's contractually obligated to provide certain services in exchange for offering Starkey products at his office. So out of the blue, he gets a call from a Starkey rep to set up the appointment and explain what he is to do. The percentage of the price he will receive for reimbursement is so small, he says after paying for materials and considering his time, he basically makes nothing.
I also brought a pair of existing custom monitors for him to send into Starkey along with a reference number so they can scan the monitors instead of the ear impressions. He refused to accept them because he didn't want to be responsible if they were lost in the process which he believed was very likely. So, now I'm going to have to make a phone call and HOPE I'm talking to the right person to help me send these in myself. Something tells me they will insist on using the impressions alone. Which brings me to another issue:
The audiologist didn't use a bite block. He said that in his experience, it wasn't necessary to use them. In my experience, it is CRUCIAL! Generally, they have you put a 1" bite block in your mouth to expand your ear canals even more. This will ensure your monitors maintain a tight seal when chewing, laughing, yawning, etc. Considering I will be using these while lifting (at work, while working out), I would expect these to lose their seal often. If I have to rely on the impressions, I know I'll be sending them back to be remade (they have a 30 day fit guarantee).
Also, he told me the rep he spoke to told him they were behind so he could expect them in about a month.
He was also nice enough to ask if he could have them shipped directly to me to save me the drive. They agreed, but something tells me they'll be sending them to him. Which would be pretty ridiculous considering they instructed him not to open the box or attempt to make any fit adjustments to them. Basically, he's to hand me the box and send me on my way.
I don't think I'm out of the woods yet.
I have been waiting 19 days since I had the impressions made I still don't have them. The promised 1-2 weeks has proven to be a broken promise.
I'm also concerned about the comment you made above on the bite block. He didn't use a bite block on my impressions either.
I'm also concerned about the comment you made above on the bite block. He didn't use a bite block on my impressions either.
@mistertomlinson I was going to wait until I got mine to post sort of a full recount of how things went for me. But your update has prompted me to chime in.
Good to read you decided to do it.
Sadly, I am not surprised you are meeting a fair amount of resistance because of your requirement to use your existing impressions.
The audiologist I went to didn't use a bite block either and before taking the impressions I asked about it (since I knew about it from this thread, thank you!). He explained that not all morphologies require one and having checked my ear canals, I didn't need one.
I have no idea whether this is correct.
Impressions/ audiologist appointment: June 5th.
Still haven't received a call to go pick up my Dash Pro.
This part surprises me because the very early adopters got them really quickly; one got his in 9 days, including a weekend. Either their volume spiked or they ran into issues.
I sure do hope they don't open/ touch the box once they receive it. I have instructed them not to.
The unboxing experience is very important to me for all the toys I get.
oh and I decided not to engrave them (looks a little tacky to me).
I'll update as soon as I can.
@batman75 How was the trip to Australia?
Good to read you decided to do it.
Sadly, I am not surprised you are meeting a fair amount of resistance because of your requirement to use your existing impressions.
The audiologist I went to didn't use a bite block either and before taking the impressions I asked about it (since I knew about it from this thread, thank you!). He explained that not all morphologies require one and having checked my ear canals, I didn't need one.
I have no idea whether this is correct.
Impressions/ audiologist appointment: June 5th.
Still haven't received a call to go pick up my Dash Pro.
This part surprises me because the very early adopters got them really quickly; one got his in 9 days, including a weekend. Either their volume spiked or they ran into issues.
I sure do hope they don't open/ touch the box once they receive it. I have instructed them not to.
The unboxing experience is very important to me for all the toys I get.
oh and I decided not to engrave them (looks a little tacky to me).
I'll update as soon as I can.
@batman75 How was the trip to Australia?
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When writing that post, I worried I might cause unnecessary concern from people who might not have used a bite block (because I was aware that some audiologists don't use them) and had considered including reassurance that it isn't always necessary. It depends on the wearer.
If you didn't use a bite block, I wouldn't worry yet. Wait until you get them and try them out. Chances are pretty good, you'll be happy with the fit. Especially considering Starkey uses a 3D scanner to make a digital model of your impression that can easily be manipulated by computer. This is the first monitor company I've purchased from that has this technology. Every company I've purchased from in the past has always done it the old fashioned way which is very reliant on handwork and more prone to human error. Here's a video that shows both processes (I skipped 2:50 in to save you time). As you'll see, they do a lot of impression shaping by hand in the old method. They actually REMOVE silicon from the impression and then dip it in wax to both smooth and increase the size for a tighter fit (the first video I linked to doesn't show the old method in as much detail as this video), but this is still prone to error and can result in a poor fit. So using a bite block helps to reduce the chances of a poor fit.
The newer method is much more accurate. The first video I linked to says they've reduced refits by 50%. I wouldn't be surprised if using a bite block was much less important than it once was. So don't panic.
However, there are a couple of reasons I feel it's crucial for me: First, my ears are NOT sensitive to a tight fitting monitor. I believe I'm in the minority here. You have to remember, these things go deep into your ear canal. For someone who hasn't worn a pair of these before, if the canal portion is too big, it can cause significant irritation and even pain. I've been wearing monitors (custom and universal) for so long that I could listen to carrots without experiencing irritation. Most people would probably be more comfortable with a monitor that didn't fit as tight, especially if it's your first custom. So for me, it's better to be safe than sorry and go with a tighter fit.
Secondly, I use my monitors at work and when weight training. When doing strenuous activity when your ears are likely to change shape from straining, your seal can work itself a little loose. NOT so much that the monitor would fall out. But enough to change the sound signature. So, for that reason, I like a tighter fit.
If you're gonna spend a lot of time sedentary or even doing cardio, I wouldn't expect a bite block to be crucial for a sufficient fit. If you're doing a lot of lifting, it could be an issue, BUT considering the newer manufacturing process, this may not be worth worrying over.
If it makes you feel any better, I've NEVER had a pair of custom monitors that I didn't have to wait a month for. When I read the expected wait for these was 1-2 weeks, I knew there was no way they'd be able to maintain that production speed. That's too ambitious. The AVERAGE wait time for most companies is around a month. So, I wouldn't get too upset about that. The first video I linked to even mentions custom monitor makers notoriously take a while to complete an order.
Yeah, the audiologist was going over my order form and asked if I wanted my name on them and I thought the same thing. Definitely tacky. I believe they'll still put the Starkey or Bragi logos on them (the side of the shells that face the inside of your ears), which I like. Hopefully he wasn't talking about the case. I very much want my name on the case.
If you didn't use a bite block, I wouldn't worry yet. Wait until you get them and try them out. Chances are pretty good, you'll be happy with the fit. Especially considering Starkey uses a 3D scanner to make a digital model of your impression that can easily be manipulated by computer. This is the first monitor company I've purchased from that has this technology. Every company I've purchased from in the past has always done it the old fashioned way which is very reliant on handwork and more prone to human error. Here's a video that shows both processes (I skipped 2:50 in to save you time). As you'll see, they do a lot of impression shaping by hand in the old method. They actually REMOVE silicon from the impression and then dip it in wax to both smooth and increase the size for a tighter fit (the first video I linked to doesn't show the old method in as much detail as this video), but this is still prone to error and can result in a poor fit. So using a bite block helps to reduce the chances of a poor fit.
The newer method is much more accurate. The first video I linked to says they've reduced refits by 50%. I wouldn't be surprised if using a bite block was much less important than it once was. So don't panic.
However, there are a couple of reasons I feel it's crucial for me: First, my ears are NOT sensitive to a tight fitting monitor. I believe I'm in the minority here. You have to remember, these things go deep into your ear canal. For someone who hasn't worn a pair of these before, if the canal portion is too big, it can cause significant irritation and even pain. I've been wearing monitors (custom and universal) for so long that I could listen to carrots without experiencing irritation. Most people would probably be more comfortable with a monitor that didn't fit as tight, especially if it's your first custom. So for me, it's better to be safe than sorry and go with a tighter fit.
Secondly, I use my monitors at work and when weight training. When doing strenuous activity when your ears are likely to change shape from straining, your seal can work itself a little loose. NOT so much that the monitor would fall out. But enough to change the sound signature. So, for that reason, I like a tighter fit.
If you're gonna spend a lot of time sedentary or even doing cardio, I wouldn't expect a bite block to be crucial for a sufficient fit. If you're doing a lot of lifting, it could be an issue, BUT considering the newer manufacturing process, this may not be worth worrying over.
If it makes you feel any better, I've NEVER had a pair of custom monitors that I didn't have to wait a month for. When I read the expected wait for these was 1-2 weeks, I knew there was no way they'd be able to maintain that production speed. That's too ambitious. The AVERAGE wait time for most companies is around a month. So, I wouldn't get too upset about that. The first video I linked to even mentions custom monitor makers notoriously take a while to complete an order.
Yeah, the audiologist was going over my order form and asked if I wanted my name on them and I thought the same thing. Definitely tacky. I believe they'll still put the Starkey or Bragi logos on them (the side of the shells that face the inside of your ears), which I like. Hopefully he wasn't talking about the case. I very much want my name on the case.
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Impressions/ audiologist appointment: June 5th.
Still haven't received a call to go pick up my Dash Pro.
This part surprises me because the very early adopters got them really quickly; one got his in 9 days, including a weekend. Either their volume spiked or they ran into issues.
@batman75 How was the trip to Australia?
I had my appointment June 2nd and I got a call yesterday that said my dash pro will arrive at the audiologist on June 22nd. Unfortunately I can't pick them up till next Wednesday since I get back from Australia on the 23rd but too late to pick them up, and I am also out of town on Monday/Tuesday.
So based on this yours should arrive early next week. I found that by emailing the reservation specialist at Bragi I was able to get a quick update on the status.
Australia has been alright. Always love being down here. But it was a business trip. Looking forward to returning home. I'm in Perth now. I've been to Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane too on this trip - so too much flight time and not enough rest!
Any updates?
I know, right?
I was finally able to send in my existing custom monitors for 3D scanning. I talked to someone over the phone that I had been emailing and arranged to send it to there corporate address, which I don't believe is where they make the Dashes, so I'm expecting there to be a delay in getting my order started. Hopefully, whoever receives them gets them to the right place this week. In the meantime, my order is on hold until they receive them.
FYI, the rep also told me there was such a demand for these that they weren't going to be able to meet their initial estimate of 1-2 weeks.
She also had me get another set of OPEN-mouth impressions (with a bite block) for some reason. She wants to use the existing monitors I'm sending in, closed-mouth impressions AND open-mouth impressions. I really don't understand why that's necessary. I can't figure it out. She said they would still need impressions to identify certain "landmarks" in my ear and they would also compare the impressions and existing monitors with their digital model during production. BUT THE PAIR OF MONITORS I SENT IN FIT PERFECTLY AND ARE EXACTLY WHAT THEY ARE MAKING. All they have to do is duplicate them. Step 1: Scan monitors. Step 2: Print monitor shells. I don't get it.
Yes!
Update: Mine just arrived today and I drove over to pick them up.
Haven't even opened them yet. I relish the unboxing experience for my toys so I will do that when I can do it with free time and with no distractions.
But here is a quick shot.
And that's true, production/ delivery time slipped from 1-2 to 4 weeks on account of high demand.
Update: Mine just arrived today and I drove over to pick them up.
Haven't even opened them yet. I relish the unboxing experience for my toys so I will do that when I can do it with free time and with no distractions.
But here is a quick shot.
And that's true, production/ delivery time slipped from 1-2 to 4 weeks on account of high demand.
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The cynic in me tells me that they will make your earpieces with the closed mouth impressions. The scan and the open mouth impressions are to keep you happy and make you think they listened to you!
OMMMGGGGGGGG, OPEN THEM! And pleeeeease actually share some photos of the actual shells, if it isn't asking too much. Few reviews actually have any photos of their monitors.
Buttttttt, scanning the monitors instead of using the impressions actually makes it EASIER for them. Secondly, this is something that monitor companies actually do. This isn't something I came up with. The rep I had been emailing, and subsequently spoke to, said they had done this before when making hearing aids. Perhaps she doesn't realize exactly what I mean when I say "monitors" and once they actually receive them, they'll realize there's no need for impressions.
Just opened them
No natural light at this time so will take high res pics tomorrow.
Quick comments: they didn't respect my instructions to not engrave the case or the earphones. The audiologist passed them on and at pick up time they confirmed that they were not engraved, or so they thought...
There are areas on the molding that make them look like these were hand made. Not happy with the finish at all.
Fit: great/ custom. They feel wonderful, like a well cut shirt or suit. Put them on and off you go, no fidgeting trying to get the right seal, which you are then worried about losing if you have to take them off.
They don't go into the ear canal much more than the non-tailored version.
Sound: plenty of bass and they get loud enough to be uncomfortable but the soundstage is tiny with the few songs I played.
Will sleep on it and take pics tomorrow for you guys but I am sending these back.
If they fail me a second time. I'll ask for a refund.
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Thanks for the updates!
Maybe I missed it, but what is the reason for you to return them?
Maybe I missed it, but what is the reason for you to return them?
I'm most curious about this. They should have buffed and polished the shells to remove flaws. Hopefully you're not talking about the seem where the faceplate meets the shell. Flaws there would be unacceptable.
Hey guys,
I tried them again after waking up this AM rested and showered. Wore them for close to two hours.
I have more precise observations to share and I'll address the two questions I see above:
@Ankaa: because they engraved them when I sent instructions to Starkey no to and the finish surrounding the data/ power contact points and sensors is sloppy.
@mistertomlinson: yep, the rest seems fine and I could not find any other cosmetic issues all around.
Happy to answer any other questions. I'll comment on the corrective process as well in the future as I attempt to get another pair.
Production status:
My serial number is > 7,400. Assuming it is sequential, Bragi/ Starkey have produced and sold at least that many.
Current production time is 3-4 weeks (I was quoted 1-2 originally).
The packaging is signed by the Starkey employee whom made the Dash and the Serial # is hand written.
They ship these with Bragi OS 3 preinstalled.
Details:
The Audiologist receives the Dash Tailored sealed with a flyer instructing them to NOT open and let the customer do that.
The packaging is narrower and shorter than my iPhone 7 Plus and thus smaller than the original Dash.
it is not up to same quality feel but it's neat and efficient.
An iTranslate flyer is included with a unique code to redeem a free 1 month of iTranslate Pro at itranslate.com/bragi
I couldn't care less for this. I am not going to hand one of my earphones to a stranger for them to put on so we can communicate. I am sorry I won't be covering the use of this feature.
My battery case came scratched near the reset pin hole and near the microUSB port.
Fit or is it worth getting the Tailored version?
Despite my right ear canal being smaller than my left, they fit two white openings for the driver on the right and only one on the left! That surprised me.
It is clear now that I would have liked a slightly tighter fit in both ears.
I took them off and put them back on several times. They fit but they don't fill-up my ear canals to my satisfaction.
It's a small margin but I can feel it.
I can't tell for sure whether the ear impressions were not good to begin with or if it was just Starkey being conservative.
Remember my audiologist stated I didn't need the open-mouth impressions when I brought that up.
Opening the mouth tightens the ear canal it feels or it affects its shape and the impressions would have been even narrower in the ear canal!
Consequently, in a noisy environment, while they are off but inserted, I still hear the ambient noise for sure.
Perhaps the dimensions of the ear canals change with body temp. blood vessels flow and other variables which affect human morphology/ physiology in that area.
Which brings me to my next thought about probably finding the foam tips on the Dash better for sound isolation/ reduction! I had the Truly Wireless Comply Foam Tips on my Dash and there were better at isolating noise.
However, these have the advantage of not braking up like foam tips would tend to rip plus you can simply run them under the water to clean them up (which I haven't tried).
Lastly, note that body heat will generate moisture/ condensation in the ear canal during prolonged usage. Here it is worse since the custom fit allows minimal air flow.
Is it worth getting the tailored version?
The custom fit is awesome and I can see why there is no going back to "regular" monitors if you nail it.
But recommending them depends largely on how good the ear impressions taken by the audiologist are and the quality of the job done by Starkey in this case.
If getting the tailored version is too much of a process, the uncertainty in the outcome and the hassle of dealing with this and waiting negate the benefits IMO.
You may be better off just getting the Dash Pro with foam tips at Best Buy now that I see it is available.
Otherwise, work with your audiologist and Starkey until you get what you want. Be prepared, it won't be quick or easy
Bluetooth:
Last night, I left my iPhone 7 Plus on the kitchen counter and went downstairs.
The music playback skipped a beat twice while I was going down the stairs but it was fine otherwise.
I can tell the connection is much better. This is a result of Bragi OS 3 (which had already improved things on my Dash) and the redesigned PCB on the Dash Pro (they reused the same radio).
I was directly below the kitchen and I paused and resumed playback, walked around and the playback was fine.
This was great and it made me smile!
Will test outdoors later today and will update this section to comment on that.
Will also test for calls in different environment and comment.
Music reproduction quality:
Short version: soundstage is small and not clear at all volume levels, sounds best at max volume.
Details:
This was the #1 reason why I wanted to try the tailored version.
A proper seal makes a huge difference: without it, great monitors sound mediocre.
I had very high expectations.
Not only because the custom fit was supposed to enhance bass but also because Bragi touts an improved sound reproduction at all volume levels.
They use Knowles armatures which I think cornered this market and supplies to everyone.
This morning I tried a few things to understand why I wasn't getting the great sound I am looking for.
I pressed on the Dash with different angles to see if I could get a better sound.
If I press opposite of the tap sensor area I get better highs.
No matter what I do, the bass and small musical details are not clean enough IMO.
If I just put them on and use them, the sound is not muffled (yes the monitors are clean) but while it is loud enough, the soundstage is small. Is that the right way of putting it?
Also, the sound quality is not equally good at all volume levels and is best at max volume (not good for prolonged listening).
Music I know well and that I played to test:
Flume - Hyperreal feat. Kučka
Late Night Alumni - Drummer
Tullio Piancaldini - Lately
Wagner: Das Rheingold / Stewart · Karajan · Berliner Philharmoniker
Other:
The 4D Menu works and I like it.
Not sure how often I'll remember to use it. It's one of those features that require behavioral change. 3D Touch in iOS is similar, I don't think of using it.
Transparency Mode with Bragi OS 3 is wonderful, like really amazing.
I can't help with sports.
The heart rate monitor seems accurate and benefits greatly from the custom fit which should yield more reliable readings.
I tried them again after waking up this AM rested and showered. Wore them for close to two hours.
I have more precise observations to share and I'll address the two questions I see above:
@Ankaa: because they engraved them when I sent instructions to Starkey no to and the finish surrounding the data/ power contact points and sensors is sloppy.
@mistertomlinson: yep, the rest seems fine and I could not find any other cosmetic issues all around.
Happy to answer any other questions. I'll comment on the corrective process as well in the future as I attempt to get another pair.
Production status:
My serial number is > 7,400. Assuming it is sequential, Bragi/ Starkey have produced and sold at least that many.
Current production time is 3-4 weeks (I was quoted 1-2 originally).
The packaging is signed by the Starkey employee whom made the Dash and the Serial # is hand written.
They ship these with Bragi OS 3 preinstalled.
Details:
The Audiologist receives the Dash Tailored sealed with a flyer instructing them to NOT open and let the customer do that.
The packaging is narrower and shorter than my iPhone 7 Plus and thus smaller than the original Dash.
it is not up to same quality feel but it's neat and efficient.
An iTranslate flyer is included with a unique code to redeem a free 1 month of iTranslate Pro at itranslate.com/bragi
I couldn't care less for this. I am not going to hand one of my earphones to a stranger for them to put on so we can communicate. I am sorry I won't be covering the use of this feature.
My battery case came scratched near the reset pin hole and near the microUSB port.
Fit or is it worth getting the Tailored version?
Despite my right ear canal being smaller than my left, they fit two white openings for the driver on the right and only one on the left! That surprised me.
It is clear now that I would have liked a slightly tighter fit in both ears.
I took them off and put them back on several times. They fit but they don't fill-up my ear canals to my satisfaction.
It's a small margin but I can feel it.
I can't tell for sure whether the ear impressions were not good to begin with or if it was just Starkey being conservative.
Remember my audiologist stated I didn't need the open-mouth impressions when I brought that up.
Opening the mouth tightens the ear canal it feels or it affects its shape and the impressions would have been even narrower in the ear canal!
Consequently, in a noisy environment, while they are off but inserted, I still hear the ambient noise for sure.
Perhaps the dimensions of the ear canals change with body temp. blood vessels flow and other variables which affect human morphology/ physiology in that area.
Which brings me to my next thought about probably finding the foam tips on the Dash better for sound isolation/ reduction! I had the Truly Wireless Comply Foam Tips on my Dash and there were better at isolating noise.
However, these have the advantage of not braking up like foam tips would tend to rip plus you can simply run them under the water to clean them up (which I haven't tried).
Lastly, note that body heat will generate moisture/ condensation in the ear canal during prolonged usage. Here it is worse since the custom fit allows minimal air flow.
Is it worth getting the tailored version?
The custom fit is awesome and I can see why there is no going back to "regular" monitors if you nail it.
But recommending them depends largely on how good the ear impressions taken by the audiologist are and the quality of the job done by Starkey in this case.
If getting the tailored version is too much of a process, the uncertainty in the outcome and the hassle of dealing with this and waiting negate the benefits IMO.
You may be better off just getting the Dash Pro with foam tips at Best Buy now that I see it is available.
Otherwise, work with your audiologist and Starkey until you get what you want. Be prepared, it won't be quick or easy
Bluetooth:
Last night, I left my iPhone 7 Plus on the kitchen counter and went downstairs.
The music playback skipped a beat twice while I was going down the stairs but it was fine otherwise.
I can tell the connection is much better. This is a result of Bragi OS 3 (which had already improved things on my Dash) and the redesigned PCB on the Dash Pro (they reused the same radio).
I was directly below the kitchen and I paused and resumed playback, walked around and the playback was fine.
This was great and it made me smile!
Will test outdoors later today and will update this section to comment on that.
Will also test for calls in different environment and comment.
Music reproduction quality:
Short version: soundstage is small and not clear at all volume levels, sounds best at max volume.
Details:
This was the #1 reason why I wanted to try the tailored version.
A proper seal makes a huge difference: without it, great monitors sound mediocre.
I had very high expectations.
Not only because the custom fit was supposed to enhance bass but also because Bragi touts an improved sound reproduction at all volume levels.
They use Knowles armatures which I think cornered this market and supplies to everyone.
This morning I tried a few things to understand why I wasn't getting the great sound I am looking for.
I pressed on the Dash with different angles to see if I could get a better sound.
If I press opposite of the tap sensor area I get better highs.
No matter what I do, the bass and small musical details are not clean enough IMO.
If I just put them on and use them, the sound is not muffled (yes the monitors are clean) but while it is loud enough, the soundstage is small. Is that the right way of putting it?
Also, the sound quality is not equally good at all volume levels and is best at max volume (not good for prolonged listening).
Music I know well and that I played to test:
Flume - Hyperreal feat. Kučka
Late Night Alumni - Drummer
Tullio Piancaldini - Lately
Wagner: Das Rheingold / Stewart · Karajan · Berliner Philharmoniker
Other:
The 4D Menu works and I like it.
Not sure how often I'll remember to use it. It's one of those features that require behavioral change. 3D Touch in iOS is similar, I don't think of using it.
Transparency Mode with Bragi OS 3 is wonderful, like really amazing.
I can't help with sports.
The heart rate monitor seems accurate and benefits greatly from the custom fit which should yield more reliable readings.
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@RichardF
Thank you SO MUCH! You are an absolute asset to this thread.
Have you tried listening to music directly from the internal storage? I'm wondering how much of the small soundstage might be attributable to Bluetooth (though an online chat rep told me they are looking into releasing an update that supports the AptX Bluetooth codec, so the hardware is already capable).
Is the charging case also tailored to your custom monitors? It looks like an exact fit in your images. This is a nice touch and I had wondered how they would design the cases considering every tailored pair will sit differently.
I'm guessing the second soundtube in your right ear is for the bone mic (you probably already know you can tap your cheek ,if your ears are covered, to control certain functions). Seeing as how these are single-driver monitors (which I was disappointed to just recently find out), they wouldn't use 2 soundtubes. So, the second one is attached to something else, which is why it's only in the right monitor. Apparently, the hardware for it is always in the right shell and they can't change that.
Regarding your fit and isolation, there is no doubt in my mind that a proper fitting custom will seal as good, if not better, than a universal fit monitor. You definitely need a refit (that's why there's a 30 day fit guarantee). And I agree that getting a pair built perfectly can be frustrating, but for me, the end result is worth it. I'd say out of all the monitors I've bought, there was a 50% first time success rate. This is not most people's experience from what I've read, however. Just mine. That's why it was so imperative that I send in my existing monitors instead of impressions. I was hoping to avoid a refit, but I'll do it if I have to.
I really want to urge you to get another set of impressions WITH a bite block. I know this may be uncomfortable considering you'll effectively be telling the audiologist you don't agree with him, but I'm sure you can think of a nice way to put it... or even lie to him. Tell him you talked to someone on the phone who suggested it.
The two biggest players in the custom monitor industry are Ultimate Ears and JH Audio. Both have instruction sheets to give your audiologist that suggest open-mouth impressions. I've put links below. I also found a couple small companies that have the same requirement. (InEarz even says "To achieve a better seal in the final product we require an OPEN MOUTH impression using a 1”-2” bite block, which will help reduce jaw movement during the curing process")
JH Audio audiologist instructions
Ultimate Ears audiologist instructions
Alien Ears audiologist instructions
InEarz audiologist instructions
When you open your mouth, your ear canals actually expand. So if your impressions are taken with an open mouth, when you close your mouth, the monitors will fit even tighter. You can actually feel this when you get open-mouth impressions. Once the material hardens in your ears and you're able to close your mouth, you'll feel how tight the silicon suddenly gets in your ears just from closing your mouth. This also ensures when you do open your mouth for whatever reason, your monitors won't work your seal loose.
As uncomfortable as suggesting the audiologist allow you to open your mouth for the next set of impressions might be, I urge you to do so. It sounds like your audiologist doesn't use bite blocks at all, so I would either recommend bringing something between 1-2" (1.5" is my sweet spot) or just familiarize yourself with how it feels to hold your mouth open that distance.
Hopefully you can get these reshelled to fit perfectly. I know the feeling that they may never get it right, but just be patient. It's worth it when you get that perfect fit. Custom monitors are the only way to wear headphones.
Thank you SO MUCH! You are an absolute asset to this thread.
Have you tried listening to music directly from the internal storage? I'm wondering how much of the small soundstage might be attributable to Bluetooth (though an online chat rep told me they are looking into releasing an update that supports the AptX Bluetooth codec, so the hardware is already capable).
Is the charging case also tailored to your custom monitors? It looks like an exact fit in your images. This is a nice touch and I had wondered how they would design the cases considering every tailored pair will sit differently.
I'm guessing the second soundtube in your right ear is for the bone mic (you probably already know you can tap your cheek ,if your ears are covered, to control certain functions). Seeing as how these are single-driver monitors (which I was disappointed to just recently find out), they wouldn't use 2 soundtubes. So, the second one is attached to something else, which is why it's only in the right monitor. Apparently, the hardware for it is always in the right shell and they can't change that.
Regarding your fit and isolation, there is no doubt in my mind that a proper fitting custom will seal as good, if not better, than a universal fit monitor. You definitely need a refit (that's why there's a 30 day fit guarantee). And I agree that getting a pair built perfectly can be frustrating, but for me, the end result is worth it. I'd say out of all the monitors I've bought, there was a 50% first time success rate. This is not most people's experience from what I've read, however. Just mine. That's why it was so imperative that I send in my existing monitors instead of impressions. I was hoping to avoid a refit, but I'll do it if I have to.
I really want to urge you to get another set of impressions WITH a bite block. I know this may be uncomfortable considering you'll effectively be telling the audiologist you don't agree with him, but I'm sure you can think of a nice way to put it... or even lie to him. Tell him you talked to someone on the phone who suggested it.
The two biggest players in the custom monitor industry are Ultimate Ears and JH Audio. Both have instruction sheets to give your audiologist that suggest open-mouth impressions. I've put links below. I also found a couple small companies that have the same requirement. (InEarz even says "To achieve a better seal in the final product we require an OPEN MOUTH impression using a 1”-2” bite block, which will help reduce jaw movement during the curing process")
JH Audio audiologist instructions
Ultimate Ears audiologist instructions
Alien Ears audiologist instructions
InEarz audiologist instructions
When you open your mouth, your ear canals actually expand. So if your impressions are taken with an open mouth, when you close your mouth, the monitors will fit even tighter. You can actually feel this when you get open-mouth impressions. Once the material hardens in your ears and you're able to close your mouth, you'll feel how tight the silicon suddenly gets in your ears just from closing your mouth. This also ensures when you do open your mouth for whatever reason, your monitors won't work your seal loose.
As uncomfortable as suggesting the audiologist allow you to open your mouth for the next set of impressions might be, I urge you to do so. It sounds like your audiologist doesn't use bite blocks at all, so I would either recommend bringing something between 1-2" (1.5" is my sweet spot) or just familiarize yourself with how it feels to hold your mouth open that distance.
Hopefully you can get these reshelled to fit perfectly. I know the feeling that they may never get it right, but just be patient. It's worth it when you get that perfect fit. Custom monitors are the only way to wear headphones.
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@mistertomlinson Thank you for taking the time to type that useful info.
I reached out to Starkey this AM about the accumulation of annoying things about this experience starting with the 2 weeks+ delay. They turn over these customer service complaints to Bragi so I am not holding my breath for a satisfactory resolution.
However, I will prob. refit. I have to clarify whether they start from scratch and make a brand new Dash Pro or simply work with mine, in which case I am not sure I would want it (the battery case being scratched to begin with).
Okay with the open mouth impression.
These don't go that deep in the ear canal so to me it feels like they have the same dimensions as the Dash and Dash Pro inside the battery case. I don't think Bragi made their OEM retool to accommodate different dimensions for the charging case. It's the same earphones, battery case and cover as the original Dash.
Excellent suggestion using the built-in player. I'll try the same music file on BT and internal and switch back and forth to test music quality.
Yes, these using a single driver (which I knew) doesn't help but still, I suspect if had the driver in ear without the shells, the sound would better. Can't prove this but I feel something is getting lost somewhere.
I reached out to Starkey this AM about the accumulation of annoying things about this experience starting with the 2 weeks+ delay. They turn over these customer service complaints to Bragi so I am not holding my breath for a satisfactory resolution.
However, I will prob. refit. I have to clarify whether they start from scratch and make a brand new Dash Pro or simply work with mine, in which case I am not sure I would want it (the battery case being scratched to begin with).
Okay with the open mouth impression.
These don't go that deep in the ear canal so to me it feels like they have the same dimensions as the Dash and Dash Pro inside the battery case. I don't think Bragi made their OEM retool to accommodate different dimensions for the charging case. It's the same earphones, battery case and cover as the original Dash.
Excellent suggestion using the built-in player. I'll try the same music file on BT and internal and switch back and forth to test music quality.
Yes, these using a single driver (which I knew) doesn't help but still, I suspect if had the driver in ear without the shells, the sound would better. Can't prove this but I feel something is getting lost somewhere.