Écoute Audio has introduced the Écoute TH2, a closed-back over-ear headphone built around an unusually elaborate internal audio chain. The second-generation design combines dedicated digital conversion, a Nutube preamplifier and separate amplification for each channel with contemporary features including Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC, hybrid active noise cancellation and app-based sound adjustment.

A complete audio chain inside the headphones

Rather than concentrating digital processing and amplification within a single highly integrated circuit, the Écoute TH2 divides the signal path into distinct functional stages. Its architecture includes a dual-core DAC, analog preamplification and discrete high-bias Class A/B power amplification in a dual-mono configuration.

The approach reflects the layout of a conventional component hi-fi system, scaled to fit within a portable headphone. Separate left- and right-channel amplifier sections are intended to maintain channel separation, while the dedicated conversion and preamplifier stages give Écoute Audio more control over each part of the signal path.

Unlike a purely digital emulation of characteristic tube sound characteristics, the écoute TH2 Headphone uses an actual tube circuit in the analog signal path.

The TH2 develops the concept introduced with the company’s original TH1. For this second generation, Écoute Audio has revised the acoustic construction, shielding around the tube circuit and the active noise-cancellation system.

Nutube preamplification and 40mm drivers

The defining element of the TH2 is its preamplifier, which uses a Nutube 6P1 dual triode. This component provides the headphone with a genuine tube-based stage before the signal reaches its two discrete power amplifiers, distinguishing the design from software-based tube effects or purely digital sound profiles.

Audio is delivered by 40mm dynamic drivers fitted with titanium-coated Mylar diaphragms. The drivers operate in closed-back earcups, a configuration suited to portable use where acoustic isolation and control of sound leakage are important.

The écoute TH2 headphones build upon the concept already pursued with the écoute TH1, but have been revised in crucial areas.

Écoute Audio houses the system in an aluminum structure with a modular construction. Three finishes are identified for the TH2: Gunmetal, Nickel and Charcoal.

Bluetooth 5.3 and high-resolution USB-C audio

Wireless connectivity is based on Bluetooth 5.3, with support for the SBC, AAC and LDAC codecs. LDAC provides the higher-bandwidth option for compatible source devices, while SBC and AAC offer broader interoperability across phones, tablets and computers.

For a wired digital connection, USB-C audio supports playback at resolutions up to 32-bit/384kHz. This route allows the TH2’s internal digital-to-analog conversion and amplification stages to handle a high-resolution signal directly from a compatible source.

The combination of Bluetooth and USB-C positions the TH2 for both everyday wireless listening and direct digital playback from devices that support high-resolution output.

Inside the headphones is a complete signal chain with a dedicated digital-to-analog converter, analog preamplification, and downstream power amplifiers.

Hybrid ANC and personalized tuning

The TH2 includes hybrid active noise cancellation as well as a transparency mode. Hybrid ANC generally draws on microphones positioned both inside and outside the earcups; Écoute Audio identifies the implementation as an updated part of the second-generation design.

Sound settings can be adjusted through the Écoute Tuning App. Its main tuning tool is a parametric eight-band equalizer, giving users control over selected frequency bands rather than limiting adjustment to fixed presets.

Battery life is rated at up to 20 hours at maximum volume. Actual operating time can vary according to connection type, noise-cancellation use and other settings, but the stated figure indicates that the tube and dual-amplifier architecture has been designed with extended portable operation in mind.

The most unusual component of the écoute TH2 Headphone is undoubtedly its integrated tube preamplifier.

The company has confirmed Gunmetal, Nickel and Charcoal versions. Numerical pricing and detailed market availability have not been specified in the supplied product information.

The Écoute TH2 takes a distinctive route to portable audio by placing a Nutube preamplifier and discrete dual-mono amplification alongside modern wireless, USB-C and noise-canceling features. It is a technically ambitious second-generation design for listeners interested in a headphone that operates more like a self-contained hi-fi system.