I am working on a prototype of a new earphone, a successor to the 8iTE.
I’m using stainless steel material, but next I’m testing to make the housing black.
The right side is plating coating by electrodeposition, and the left side is black staining using oxidation of stainless steel.
The electrodeposition coating is thicker than the machined stainless steel coating and changes the hardness and dimensions of the chassis, resulting in a change in sound compared to the machined stainless steel.
Also, it is difficult for the paint to adhere to the edges, and when it peels off, the paint peels off from there. This is a problem.
However, the black coating is very thin and strong, so the dimensions do not change and the sound is the same as that of machined stainless steel.
In addition, as the black-dyed stainless steel is used, the worn parts will gradually fade, giving it a denim-like appearance.
We believe that this is very much in line with the direction of 634EARS products, which is to enjoy the texture and uniqueness of things similar to the grain and grain of wood, or the coloring of brass or copper.
This black dyeing is a new technology that applies the black dyeing technology for iron that Japanese companies have cultivated for dozens of years and adds a decorative touch to it.
It is also very environmentally friendly as no prohibited ingredients are used in the processing solution (RoHS compliant).
Black stainless steel dyeing is very excellent.
Although paint produces a darker black finish, I loved this black staining.
Perhaps I will use this special black staining process for my next stainless steel housing earphones.