World’s First Cartilage Conduction Earphones: Sound Ball(R)
CCH Sound has commercialized “Sound Ball(R)” wired earphones, which are the world’s first to apply “cartilage conduction,” often referred to as the “third auditory pathway.” This technology was discovered in 2004 by Professor Hiroshi Hosoi (current President) of Nara Medical University.
Unlike traditional bone conduction, cartilage conduction transmits sound by vibrating the ear’s cartilage without vibrating the skull. This method allows sound to reach the inner ear while keeping the ear canal open, providing a natural listening experience. The earphones are designed for various daily activities, including telework, language learning, and appreciating theater or art.
Sound Ball(R) Product Overview
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Model Numbers: CCH-K4M-W (with microphone), CCH-K4-W (without microphone)
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Price (Tax Included): 13,200 yen (with microphone) / 12,100 yen (without microphone)
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Release Date: November 21, 2025
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Manufacture and Sales: CCH Sound Inc.
Features of Sound Ball(R)
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Hygienic with no sound holes
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Comfortable as it doesn’t block the ear canal
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Clear and distinct sound
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Allows ambient sounds to be heard, ensuring safety
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Minimal sound leakage
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Reduces the risk of earphone-induced hearing loss
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High waterproof and dustproof performance due to its hole-free structure (earphone unit IPX9/IP5X, microphone unit IPX4)
Adoption at Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025
The “Sound Ball(R)” earphones were utilized in five pavilions at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo: Japan Pavilion, PASONA NATUREVERSE, Blue Ocean Dome, Osaka Healthcare Pavilion, and Kansai Pavilion. Visitors had the opportunity to experience the “future of hearing.”
What is Cartilage Conduction?
“Cartilage Conduction” is a novel auditory pathway where sound vibrations applied to the ear’s cartilage generate sound within the ear. It is recognized as the “third auditory pathway,” following the conventionally known air conduction pathway and the bone conduction pathway, which has been known for 500 years. Unlike bone conduction, it does not involve skull vibration, allowing for natural, stereo sound transmission. The technology is protected by over 100 patents registered in 7 countries and over 30 trademarks registered in 4 countries.
cheero Otocarti LINK: Neckband-Style Cartilage Conduction Hearing Aid
CCH Sound has also developed and launched the “cheero Otocarti LINK,” a neckband-style cartilage conduction hearing aid designed to reduce the need for repeated questions in workplaces and public facilities. It suppresses uncomfortable howling and delivers clear sound.
By simply placing it around the neck, the device immediately begins collecting sound, with simple volume adjustment controls. It offers up to 20 hours of continuous use, making it suitable for all-day wear at work or outdoors. It aims to make conversations in various settings, including with family, clearer and reduce listening stress.
cheero Otocarti LINK Product Overview
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Price (Tax Included): 29,800 yen
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Release Date: January 14, 2026
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Manufacture and Sales: TRA Co., Ltd.
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Sales Agent: CCH Sound Inc.
Features of cheero Otocarti LINK
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Easy operation
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Significantly suppresses howling
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Proprietary technology for loud and clear voices
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Comfortable fit that doesn’t cause pain or stuffiness even after long wear
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Neckband type prevents loss
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Easy to clean, always hygienic
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IP65 equivalent dustproof and waterproof performance
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Rechargeable and eco-friendly
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Quality and support from a Japanese manufacturer
Representative’s Comment
“Cartilage conduction is a new auditory pathway discovered in 2004. Through new technologies applying this, we aim to disseminate a new ‘auditory culture’ to the world, from supporting the hearing of the elderly to creating safe sound environments for children,” says Masanaga Nakagawa, Representative Director of CCH Sound Inc.
Sales and Inquiries
CCH Sound Inc.
4-28-8 Hikari-dai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-0237, Japan
TEL: 050-8880-1818
E-mail: info@cch-sound.co.jp
Web: https://cch-sound.co.jp/
Applications can be made via the QR code or by phone. Products are also available for purchase on Amazon.
