What’s driver flex, and is it a cause for concern?

Driver flex is a phenomenon where the diaphragm of an in-ear monitor (IEM) or earphone flexes due to pressure changes when inserting the earpiece into the ear canal. It typically occurs in earphones with dynamic drivers and is characterized by a slight popping or crinkling sound. While driver flex itself does not usually indicate a defect or compromise the integrity of the earphone, excessive or persistent flexing could potentially lead to driver damage over time. As such, it’s advisable to avoid inserting earphones forcefully and to be mindful of any unusual sounds during use.