sensiBel, a Norwegian deep-tech company specializing in the development of next-generation MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) microphones, has announced a successful funding round of €7M led by Sennheiser. The round saw participation from existing investors, including TRUMPF Venture, Skagerak Capital, Investinor, SINTEF Venture, MP Pensjon, and Halden Kommunale Pensjonskasse.
Under the leadership of CEO Sverre Dale Moen, sensiBel has developed optical MEMS microphones that represent a significant leap in sound quality despite their small size. These microphones are designed to enhance user experience across various application areas, such as consumer electronics, automotive, conferencing solutions, and medical devices.
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A New Era of Sound Quality
sensiBel’s technology utilizes light waves to measure the movement of the microphone’s diaphragm. Unlike traditional MEMS microphones that measure an electric field, sensiBel’s optical system employs a laser to generate light beams projected onto the microphone membrane. These beams are reflected onto a photodetector, with the captured reflections processed digitally, enabling the microphone to detect very small movements and capture low noise levels, even in loud environments.
Superior Performance and Durability
The optical MEMS microphone technology offers significant advantages over previous solutions, including the ability to withstand high sound pressure levels, providing a large dynamic range to users. With specifications like 80 dBA SNR (14 dBA noise floor), 132 dB dynamic range, 24-bit digital output, and low power consumption, all in a compact form, sensiBel’s microphones deliver unparalleled sound quality.
A Shared Vision with Sennheiser
“SensiBel shares the same vision as Sennheiser, and we are proud to welcome Sennheiser as an investor,” stated Sverre Dale Moen. The investment from Sennheiser, a highly recognized audio company, underscores the potential of optical MEMS technology to shape the future of miniature microphones.
Looking Towards Sustainable Growth
“We want to grow sustainably as a company,” explained Co-CEO Daniel Sennheiser. Andreas Sennheiser added, “sensiBel’s innovative optical MEMS technology is clearly this type of promising emerging field. As investors, we look forward to actively driving forward this groundbreaking development.”
With this funding, sensiBel is set to continue its journey in revolutionizing the audio industry with its cutting-edge optical MEMS microphone technology, promising a new and improved experience for users across a wide range of applications.
