Grado Prestige Series SR325is Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)I own the SR80s and wanted to see what you got for the extra money with the 325i. I liked my SR80s and still think they're very good headphones for the money, but the more I listen to the SR-325i's, I realize I'll have to sell my SR80s because I'll never listen to them again. The 325i's are that good!
The SR325i is a NOTICEABLE improvement on the SR80s. I have read reviews on the internet saying they are night-and-day better than the SR80. I didn't originally agree with that statement, but the more I listen to the SR325i's, I realized that they ARE night-and-day better than the SR80 on a good recording.
There is a a definite family resemblance in sound between the two, but the 325i has a lot more bass than the SR80, the midrange area is about as bright as the SR80, but I'd say that voices in the SR325i sound a bit further back in the mix - a little bit more distant than the SR80. I'd also say the SR80 is a little brighter overall than the SR325i. I'm thinking that this is related to the greater sense of space you get with the SR325i.
When I first listened to the SR325i, I was rather overwhelmed by the increased bass. By increased bass, I don't mean just around 20hz. The entire bass and mid-bass area is stronger and fuller than on the SR80. It seemed like the bass overwhelmed the rest of the sound.
After listening to them for a number of months now, the SR325i has a LOT more of a "3d sound" - what audiophiles call "soundstage", and I think that the bass is much more realistic than the SR80s. I never thought the SR80s lacked bass, and still don't, but I like the bigger, more solid bass of the 325i. The SR325i just sounds "bigger" to me. Maybe like a physically larger speaker compared to a smaller speaker? I just can't describe these headphones. They are incredible! They have tons of detail - you can hear everything that's going on in the music - instruments are well separated, you can hear the different tones of, say, the bass guitar, you can hear fingers sliding over the guitar strings, every single detail is revealed!
The midrange is smoother and more detailed than the SR80 midrange. The highs, like cymbals, are more defined too - not brighter, just better defined - you can more easily tell what the instrument is, rather than just a bright "crash" of cymbals. Bass is a lot better defined and more solid and prominent than on the SR80s. What surprised me is that the bass from these headphones has detail! You can hear exactly what the bass guitarist is doing! Bass guitar actually has tones, not just providing bass.
The biggest difference between the SR80 and the SR325i is the soundstage - the sense of space that makes it seem more real, more like you're really there "live" with the performers! The SR325i's really come alive with a good recording and that's when the difference between the 325i's and the 80's really becomes seriously noticeable. By comparison, the SR80's sound flat and uninvolving.
I wasn't sure whether I liked the bigger sound of the SR325i until I listened to Eric Johnson's "Tones" CD. On the SR80s, it sounded thin and not very listenable - kind of harsh - and pretty flat and dull. With the SR325i, this CD comes to life. There is some really solid bass, and more feeling of three-dimensionality in the music. Music sounds just a lot more real - much more like really being there!
I also listened to the song "Walking in Memphis" by Marc Cohn. The piano sounded more like a real piano. I was out at a store the other day where they had a nice Steinway(?) grand piano and a guy playing. I stopped to listen for awhile and thought (before I bought the SR325i), "this doesn't sound like piano on my SR80s". The real piano sounded fuller and stronger lower frequencies compared to my SR80s. So after listening to "Walking in Memphis" on the SR325is, I realized it sounded a lot more like the real piano I heard a few weeks back. I just listened to "Walking in Memphis" with my SR325i again today and then put on my trusty SR80s, and the difference was pretty significant! The SR80s sounded more harsh, thinner, and noticeably less three-dimensional. I couldn't hardly stand to listen to it with my SR80s after listening to it with the SR325i.
I put on some old 80's rock - Foghat "Energized" - expecting to hear greatly improved sound. Well, it sounded about the same overall. Voices sound a little smoother, the background vocals are little more clear and sound better, and there is more bass, but night-and-day different it isn't. The differences are pretty subtle here.
I listened to Tish Hinojosa's "Homeland" CD and felt like the 325i's sounded better than the SR80s. Her voice was smoother, the increased bass was nice, and the overall feel of space in the music seemed better to me.
I listened back and forth with the SR325i's and the SR80's to Ry Cooder's "Bop Till You Drop". After doing comparing back and forth on a couple of tracks I just put the SR80's back on the shelf. They just weren't "alive". They had good highs, nice mids, good bass, plenty of detail, but they just didn't sound "alive". They just couldn't compete with the SR325i's at all.
I just listened to Chris Rea's "The Road to Hell" earlier this evening. I've listened to it a number of times with SR80s and thought it sounded pretty good. I played it for the first time with my SR325i's and it was like I'd never heard this CD before! The entire CD sounded MUCH fuller and MUCH more spacious than with the SR80s. There was more bass but the bass was never boomy - always well controlled. Great highs, especially on the second track. I can tell what the radio announcer's voice is saying on the first track. I was just totally amazed!
These headphones never cease to amaze me after all this time I've had them! It makes listening to music fun and involving again!
It all depends on the recording. The better the recording, the better the SR325i will sound, but they're not going to make a crummy recording sound great. I've listened to some older recordings hoping that the 325i's would bring them to life, but not so. A crummy recording is a crummy recording and, from my listening tests with headphones and other amps and other CD players, no fancy mega-bucks audio gear is going to fix that (I've tried!).
Are the 325i's, as some people claim, "the best in the world"? In a word - NO. But neither are any of the competition - Sennheiser, AKG, etc. If that's what you're looking for, you're going to be looking for a long time. Are they "colored" as some people who don't like Grado headphones claim? Yes, but no more than any other brand of headphones or any other piece of audio equipment. EVERY headphone, EVERY speaker, and to a lesser extent, EVERY piece of electronic equipment makes its own contribution to the overall sound and therefore is "colored". Do you prefer the sound of Thiel speakers over Magneplanar speakers? Do you prefer the sound of Magneplanar speakers vs. the sound of Martin Logans? Tube vs. transistor amps? Guess what? There is NO "absolute sound" by which everything else is judged. The SR325is are no more colored than any other headphone. The ONLY question that's important is: do you like the way they sound or not?
I think they're GREAT headphones and I recommend them! BUT - don't buy based on my recommendation or anyone else's recommendation. Listen to different brands of headphones for yourself and decide what you like best. For me, the SR325i's are definitely worth the money and I love them!

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What does the i stand for in the new SR325is from Grado? Improved, that`s what! Yes, Grado has taken one of the world`s most acclaimed headphones and taken it a few steps further. The new SR325is has an upgraded driver design, and they have enlarged and improved the mass distribution in the metal housing. The way the SR325is new driver and metal housing move air and react to sound vibrations are now less affected by transient distortions. With the SR325is you will notice improved control of the upper and lower range of the frequency spectrum with both better supporting Grado`s world renowned midrange. And why the Gold color? The new SR325is is in honor of their 50th anniversary celebrated recently. The SR325is will produce a sound that is pure Grado, with warm harmonic color, rich full bodied vocals, excellent dynamics and an ultra smooth top end. Listen and Enjoy!

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Ultrasone HFI-780 S-Logic Surround Sound Professional Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)Firstly, I just want to say that I love these headphones and they are indeed 'different' from other headphones in similar price range. The HFI's come with the Ultrasone's demo CD and OMG!!! You will immediately appreciate what S-Logic can do to 'mimic' natural surround sound in a pair of headphones...you can hear musician's gasping for air, breathing, and other nuances that your 'normal' speakers don't pick up.
Okay, here are some headphones that I own or have tried in no particular order: Audio-Technica ath-m50s, Beyerdynamic dt770, Audio-Technica ath-a700, and others...anyhow, the point is, I would like to say that I know my headphones!!!
Some 'high marks' on these headphones are particularly the Highs and Lows. Highs are crisp and clear, drummers may love this aspect of the headphones as the sounds are very bright...
Low frequencies are somewhat boomy!! These are like mini-subwoofers for your ears...so bass lovers may want to try the HFI-780s cause they do deliver!!
IMHO, the midrange is the headphones 'weakpoint.' I mean, they do not sound all that bad, but unlike traditional headphones, the S-Logic tends to make the midrange, especially, vocals, sound very 'forwarding.' You also may not pick up certain sounds as 'clearly' as 'normal headphones' because of the S-logic feature...it's kinda hard to explain, but if you have an extra pair of headphones without s-logic to compare, you will notice that the s-logic does hinder certain sounds in the mix...
Comfort: 2/5...these are dead-right uncomfortable!! Give it about 30 minutes and the headphones will consume your ears as well as your skull! Really I should've rate these phones 4/5. I really wanted to like these headphones, but after long listening sessions, my ears are not only sweating, but also got very sore!Besides comfort issues, these are very 'bright sounding' headphones...I've heard some pro-musicians mixing with them, but I can see how S-logic may throw off your senses when mixing down. That said, these may have some 'coloring' in your sounds, but like everything else, you just gotta learn your equipments to see what works and what does not.
If you desire a different kinda headphone with great sound, then these are great and worth the money!
P.S. I prefer the sounds of my Audio-Technica-ath m50s over the HFI-780s...I feel like I've found the perfect under $200 headphones (M50s)...
but, I decided to keep the HFI's because they really do compliment my M50s and I like the S-Logic for certain things like movies, drums, etc...
the bass on the HFI-780's is just a tad bit 'better' than the m50s...and the highs on the 780's are also slightly brighter than the m50s....take your pick!

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The exclusive design of the closed-back Ultrasone HFI-780 is accentuated by the polar-silver color. The HFI-780 contains all Ultrasone technologies such as S-Logic Plus, ULE and safer hearing. The HFI-780 is developed from the studio sector and is distinguished by a frequency response that is specifically tuned for DVD and gaming. Sophisticated home theater and music enthusiasts are overwhelmed by the impressive sound that makes it appear as though you are listening to speakers placed meters away. Gamers are impressed by the exact sound reproduction, making the gaming world come alive. The low frequency ranges are raised in order to reach the highest possible synergies with DSP-Systems like Dolby Headphone and Yamaha Silent Cinema. Through S-Logic Natural Surround, the sound moves out of your head and into the room around you. Direction and distance are more easily perceived, giving the illusion of being at a live concert. With just a pair of Ultrasones and your favorite audio device, you can have genuine 3-dimensional aural enjoyment. The HFI-780 is equipped with thicker ear and headphone pads, and comes with a new velvet carrying bag.

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Shure SE530PTH Sound Isolating Earphones with Push-To-Hear Control Review

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(More customer reviews)If you've already done your research and only want to know why I am qualifying my recommendation, skip down to near the bottom of my review. Otherwise, read on...
As most everyone says, these earphones are an absolute dream. The sound quality is amazing, better than the average home stereo and better than any headphones or earphones I've ever heard. Each side has two woofers and a tweeter.
It takes a little while to get used to properly inserting the phones and getting them situated just so, for optimal sound quality and noise isolation. But you get the hang of it before long, and then it's pretty easy.
The sound isolation works pretty well (if you have the phones situated properly in your ears). You get a good seal, which greatly reduces the amount of outside sound that can get in. I've found it works very, very well on airplanes and at the gym (the two noisiest environments I'm typically in).
In contrast, "noise-cancelling" headphones do not block outside noise, rather they add an electronically generated noise designed to cancel the frequencies of the outside noise. They require batteries, and I don't like that they are adding noise to what you're hearing. Some work better than others, but none that I've tried (including the famous and expensive Bose QC2s) work as well as the Shure line of sound-isolating earphones (the SE530 is the second pair I've owned in this line).
With earphones that sit inside the ear canal, comfort is extremely important. I find the SE530s comfortable for long periods of time. I often listen to my ipod in bed at night to help relax; if I fall asleep with the earphones in, my ears don't hurt when I wake up later (unlike all other earphones and headphones I've tried). Shure thoughtfully includes 9 different pairs of interchangable tips in varying sizes, so it is very likely most users will find at least one pair that is comfortable for them.
The modular aspect of the cabling is clever and very useful. The phones themselves have a very short cord. But Shure includes a variety of extension cords of different lengths, which allows you to have the right length cable in different situations.
One of these modular cables has a built-in volume control, handy for when your device doesn't have a volume control (or it's not accessible for whatever reason).
If you order the SE530PTH, you also get the push-to-hear module, which has a little mic and volume control. If you turn it on, it transmits sound from the mic into the headphones, allowing you to have a conversation with someone without removing the earphones. (Removing the earphones is easy, but putting them back in and getting a good seal takes a minute or so, especially for newbies.) I find the PTH to be a neat accessory. However, my wife pointed out that I can simply pause my ipod and then carry on a conversation just fine, w/o removing the earphones (the earphones still block outside noise, but not so much that you can't hear someone talking directly to you). So I don't think the PTH is particularly necessary. Amazon sells the SE530s with and without the PTH option. If you get it without PTH, you can always buy it separately, though it's cheaper to get them together.
The build quality is exceptional. The cords are thicker than any other headphones/earphones I've seen, and where they attach to the earphones or accessories is very well reinforced.
I also have a much cheaper pair of Shure noise isolating earphones, the E2c's. A week or two before the 2-year warranty was to expire, a short developed in the cable going to one side, so that if the cable jiggled at all, the sound would intermittently go out for a second or two. This was my fault - I had been using and abusing these things pretty hard - never using the included case, throwing them around, etc. But I sent them to Shure with a copy of my receipt for warranty service, and they sent me a brand new pair, no questions asked! (and quick turnaround!) The SE530s (and all Shure earphones) carry the same 2-year warranty.
In summary, I love the SE530's amazing sound quality, terrific build quality, and generous bundle of thoughtful accessories.
But now here is my qualification:
To know whether they're really worth the money, you'd really need to compare them to the SE420's (the next cheaper model in this line, about a hundred less than the 530s). Most of us who rave about the SE530s have only ever compared them to MUCH cheaper earphones. In my case, the Shure E2c's (about a hundred bucks) and a pair of Sennheiser cans (about half the price as the SE530's). Of course the 530s will blow away phones that are half the price or less.
But, what we should really know before spending our hard-earned dollars is whether the human ear can distinguish between the SE530's and SE420's. If not, we would be wasting an extra hundred bucks by purchasing the 530s.
Before buying, I searched for a good, objective review comparing the 420s and 530s. I could not find one from a reputable, objective source. So I had to make a choice between two risks: the risk of spending too much (buying the 530s when the 420s sound just as good) vs. the risk of not getting the best possible sound quality (buying the 420s to save money when the 530s are really better).
I decided that avoiding the second risk was more important to me than avoiding the first risk, so I picked the 530s. I was in the very fortunate position to be able to afford them. In my current situation (newly married, still paying for the engagement ring & honeymoon - though very happy!), I'm not sure I would still pick the 530s (though I would still want them badly).
So there you have it. Good luck with your purchase decision, and enjoy whatever earphones you end up getting!

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The Shure SE530PTH Sound Isolating Earphones with Push-To-Hear Control marks the bridge from the classic E Series line, to the new line of Sound Isolating Earphones from Shure. Evolved from personal monitor technology road-tested by professional musicians, and fine-tuned by Shure engineers, the SE530PTH earphones deliver an unparalleled acoustic accuracy rivaled only by live performances.
The Shure SE530PTH utilize three balanced armature drivers, one dedicated tweeter, and dual woofers, to bring you a listening experience that has been optimized for high-quality recordings and lossless formats. And with integrated passive crossovers that ensure high and low frequencies remain distinct and defined, you get an incredibly wide and detailed sound stage, distinguished by precision highs and robust bass. What's more, the SE530PTH includes sound isolating sleeves that block over 90-percent of ambient noise and provide a customized fit. Combined with a low-profile ergonomic design and modular cable options, this helps ensure interruptions from the outside world are minimized so you can focus on your musical passion. Not only are these earphones comfortable and audibly engaging, but the innovative triple driver configuration is a first in class for universal fit, sound isolating earphones.
For occasions when you must tear yourself away from the music, the SE530PTH includes an innovative Push-To-Hear control. A first for sound isolating earphones, the detachable Push-To-Hear control allows you to activate the VoicePort microphone and adjust levels of external sound for clarity. Similar to the microphones used in Shure QuietSpot cellular headsets, the VoicePort microphone is tuned to pick up the human voice, ensuring maximum intelligibility. Ideal for brief conversations without removing your earphones, the Push-to-Hear switch allows you to quickly and conveniently alternate between your music and your connection to the outside world.
Shure's SE530PTH comes with a premium fit kit that includes everything you need to get the most out of your new earphones. Because every ear is different, this kit includes three sizes: small, medium and large of both the flex and the black foam sleeves, as well as a pair of universal-fit triple-flange sleeves. These allow you to experiment with the size and style that creates the best fit for your ears, in order to provide a good seal for optimized sound isolation and bass response, as well as maximum comfort during extended wear. These earphones also come with a detachable cable solution that has been designed based on extensive user feedback to enable unmatched personal customization. The two included modular cables provided give you the option between a three-foot and a nine-foot option, so you can tailor your experience depending on your activity and application.
The SE530PTH earphones feature a sensitivity of 119 dB SPL/mW, an impedance of 36 ohms, and a frequency range of 18 Hz to 19 kHz. These earphones include a 0.25-inch adapter that allows you to use them with home stereos and other devices with 0.25-inch jacks instead of 3.5-millimeter jacks. The SE530PTH package also includes a carrying case as a convenient, tangle-free storage solution, and a level attenuator that allows for comfortable listening from any high-output audio source. What's more, they even include an airline adapter that optimizes compatibility with European airplane armrests for overseas travel. The Shure SE530PTH earphones come with a cable length of 18 inches, and a manufacturer's limited two-year warranty.
What's in the Box Shure SE530PTH earphones with Push-to-Hear control, sound-isolating sleeves, 1 x 3-foot modular cable, 1 x 9-foot modular cable, 0.25-inch adapter, carrying case, level attenuator, airline adapter, user's guide and warranty information.

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Sennheiser HD650 Open-Air Audiophile Headphone with HP4 Amp and Adapter Cable Review

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(More customer reviews)I just got these headphone today and I can already hear the difference from the one I was using for the last 5 years(Bayerdynamic DT990). From what I read from other reviewers that these cans will open up after breaking them in for about a month or so. I am very excited about this and cannot wait till the day it happens. For audiophiles like me the only thing that is missing is the Cardas aftermarket cable ($220 for 10ft) with the package. Personally, the Cardas cable will make a significant mid and high frequency output difference than the stock cable and you should invest the money on purchasing this together or immediately after purchasing this headphone. As for my fortune my co-worker has the same headphones for his studio and I was given the chance to listen with it before purchasing it. Otherwise, there is not much to say than what has already been posted by other reviewers.

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This Sonic Sense package includes the HD650 headphones, A PreSonus HP4 Pro Quality headphone amplifier for superior sound through your HD650 headphones, and an adapter cable to connect between your HP4 Headphone Amplifier and a computer, ipod, or other music player output. The Sennheiser HD 650 open-air dynamic headphone is a music lover's dream: easy to wear and downright intoxicating to listen to. Sennheiser is, hands-down, the number-one name in high-quality headphones, and for good reason. From the issue of its legendary HD 580 headphone in mid-'90s, the German company has cornered the market on ultimate over-ear sound coupled with ultimate comfort, an unbeatable combination.With no need to reinvent the wheel year in and year out, 2004's titanium/silver-colored HD 650 is only the third top-of-the-line incarnation since the HD 580, following the classy HD 600 (and not counting Sennheiser's made-to-order $15,000 Orpheus electrostatic headphone). Is each issue better than the last? Fundamentally, yes, though they're also simply "different." Taking as a starting point that each is truly excellent, the 580 might be said to focus on glorious midrange; the 600 makes a point of delivering extended, exceptionally airy high frequencies; and the 650, fittingly enough, tackles the most difficult area of sound for small drivers to handle: deep bass.The 650 offers appreciable bass well below 40 Hz, the region responsible for the deepest frequencies generated by kick drums, timpani, double bass, electric bass guitar, and all manner of electronic sounds. Further, the 650 reproduces its low frequencies with only minimal emphasis in the upper-bass region, between the areas we commonly call "bass" and "midrange", in which undue emphasis can destroy clarity both above and below.

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Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Earphones (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)The SRH840 is a new monitoring headphone from Shure, the company that is prevalent in professional circles for mics, in-ear monitors and other tools used by the sound engineers.
First a disclaimer. I'm NOT a fan of their in-ear monitors, finding them to have a sound that is too treble recessed. Only their top models like the SE530 are any good to my ears, and in my opinion, there are better for the price.
When they announced their line of full sized headphones, I thought they would be overpriced, but surprise....these are $200 which is a lot cheaper than a lot of other high end headphones.
These are clearly meant to be used as tools. They have that studio-use look, no cutting edge style and no exotic materials to give that high end bling. A detachable cable that plugs into and locks into place. It folds easily and neatly into a compact bundle. The cable is a coiled affair, which is kind of annoying for general use as you always feel tethered, but it makes sense for pro use since you usually plug them into your mixing/sound interface at arms reach on your console or desk. All the materials look durable, and you even get an extra set of earpads, and a little carrying bag with drawstring. Of course, a screw in 1/4 adapter is supplied. Top marks for all the things you get, you don't need to buy anything else.
The headband is very flexible design, and you can bend it any way and it springs back. The padding is a soft knitted material, and the headband slider has soft detents. On my big head, the clamping force is slightly tight but I suspect most people will find it quite comfortable. The earpads just go around the ears and I still have a bit of room to spare. The noise isolation is decent, my computer's noise is no longer noticeable. These are good companions for the office.
Sound:
These are definitely monitoring headphones. They have a middle-of-the-road sound presentation in their sound signature. Bass extension is quite deep, and there is still good bass presence below 40Hz. Treble is not overly-sparkly as you would find in other headphones like Denons or Grados but it has just enough treble sparkle that you don't feel like there are cottonballs in your ears (unlike some other Shure In-Ear monitors that I disliked). I would say the treble is just a wee bit shy of neutral. I'd think if you have a treble control, adding a decibel or two would make it just right. Mids are good, there is a tad bit of upper midrange graininess, and is well balanced. Sibilance is well controlled. Detail is above average for their price. While they don't extract the most minute details like some AKGs and Grados, I think they are just being honest. While those other headphones let you hear specific characteristics of certain instruments very well down to the texture of each violin bow stroke, these Shures don't have that deliberate magnifying effect anywhere in its presentation, which is good because you don't really want to hear exaggerated view of any one thing for a studio monitor. These aren't the last word in bass tightness, but the bass is presented with warmth and musicality, you feel and can clearly follow rythymn. This headphone doesn't sound thin nor too thick.
Soundstage is a downfall of closed type headphones, and these are no exception, but they are about average if you compare them to other closed models like the Sennheiser HD280. Don't buy these if you want to experience the grand 3D scale of The Philharmonic. What I like about these headphones is that they basically don't try to niche themselves, they don't go out of their way to call attention to the sound in any way, which is what a good monitoring headphone should be. I find them superior to the inexpensive reference monitor Sony MDR-V6 in overall sweetness and fluidity to the sound, these are just much more preferable for general music listening.
I like these a lot, and I think they don't have any obvious flaws. They are like the goldilocks of headphones, a neutral impartial tool that just presents the sound with no frills. While there are other headphones that will surpass these for certain types of music, and even many others that get your feet tapping more, these Shures seem to take the stance "meh, go ahead with those other headphones, I'm just doing my job"
My previous recommendation the Denon D2000 still stands as the headphone I like for a lively fun listen that gets me involved in the music, but I am finding these Shure quite compelling in that they are honest sounding..they are a good reference for what the sound signature would be like hearing the music that the mastering engineer heard in the studio.
These will be my new go-to recommendation for closed, neutral headphones from now on.

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Featuring 40 mm neodymium dynamic drivers precisely tailored to deliver rich bass, clear mid-range and extended highs needed for critical listening and studio monitoring. The SRH840 also provides an ergonomic fit and collapsible design for total comfort and portability. The SRH840 also provides a collapsible design for total comfort and portability, a second set of ear cushions, a carrying pouch and a threaded ¼-Inch adapter.

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Etymotic Research ER6i Isolator In-Ear Earphones (White) Review

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(More customer reviews)The white wires suggest Etymotic Research wants a bigger piece of the iPod upgrade market. But rather than simply giving the black-wired ER-6 a cosmetic makeover, they designed the ER-6i from the ground up to work around portables' puny output. Thus, they offer higher sensitivity (more sound for a given volume setting) and boosted bass response.
But despite their light weight and sporty appearance, these phones are optimized for home listening, commuting, and plane trips; applications where sound isolation is a benefit, not a hazard. Compare them, therefore, to active noise-canceling headphones, not conventional earbuds.
FIT & COMFORT
Because these phones go in your ear canal and require an airtight seal, proper fit is essential. Without it, you will get no bass at all. None. I prefer the disposable foam ear tips to the 3-flange ones (both kinds are included). Your results may vary.
Here's the trick: After you compress the foam and insert them in your ears, it takes several seconds for the foam to expand. Focus on available background noise. When the sound drops suddenly over a second or two, you know a seal has been formed. Conversely, with music playing, you should notice the sound suddenly fill out, first in one ear and then the next.
The foam ear tips may feel uncomfortable for 2-3 minutes, but you quickly get used to them. This naturally depends on ear geometry and other factors, but be aware that you wouldn't buy these phones on comfort alone.
SOUND DAMPING
Properly inserted, the foam ear tips provide 34-36 dB noise reduction (the triple flanged ear tips are a few decibels less effective). To put this in perspective, this is even better than the 29-31 dB NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) provided by better-quality shooting ear muffs. They also quiet more than active noise canceling headphones (which feature feedback circuitry that noticeably degrades the sound).
With this level of damping, you may be aware that a TV is on in the same room, but just barely. You will also save your hearing because you won't feel the need to turn up the volume to drown out environmental noise.
The downside of this isolation is that you will miss doorbells, telephones, etc. Common sense argues strongly against using these jogging, bicycling, or even walking around city streets. You're giving up a sense entirely. The "look out, you idiot" you don't hear could be the "look out, you idiot" you absolutely, positively needed to hear.
SOUND QUALITY
Putting these phones through their paces with music I'm familiar with, the first thing that stood out was their neutral-to-bright balance. These are slightly more "forward" sounding than the more "laid back" or "polite" German headphones you might think of.
The second thing I noticed was that they get the midrange right. Without the response peaks, valleys or ripples that so often mar the critical 1,000 Hz. region, you will hear singers sound more "present" than with the vast majority of headphones (and most audiophile speakers for that matter).
If you are a bass junkie, you will find the bass lean. This is difficult to say, but it's not the headphones. It's you. You are addicted to heavy one-note bass (it's an epidemic - note how rental cars always have the bass at +10). Go cold turkey and listen with these for a week, however, and you will discover that there are actually, ahem, different bass notes.
As for treble, there are conventional open headphones (usually more expensive) with more "air" at the top end, but the ER-6i's treble extension is as good as sound-isolating headphones go - certainly better than the Bose. There's a minor response notch at 7 kHz, but nothing I really noticed.
BTW, don't be alarmed by their funny-looking frequency response curve. Remember, because they're in your ear, they are voiced to compensate for the missing frequency shaping ordinarily provided by your outer ear.
The sound damping has another beneficial effect: You will hear things in familiar recordings you have never heard before, even with high quality open headphones. Not just fingers over guitar strings, but sounds way, way down in the mix.
DESIGN & BUILD
These fingernail-sized phones are white with transparent side panels that reveal wires and the metal flanks of their balanced armature transducers. There is a small port topside, presumably for audio tuning, but perhaps also to reduce negative pressure caused by yanking the phones out (not a good idea - always remove them slowly). The front-facing side has the model number with a red dot separating the ER and 6i. The backs feature an oversized L and R, just like your first pair of sneakers.
The wires are lightweight, which is a more important factor on canal phones than with ear buds that allow the outer ear to bear the weight. The cord is a bit longer than some joggers might like, but then again, you shouldn't be using these jogging. The 1/8" headphone jack termination is gold-plated for long-term corrosion-resistance.
The removable shirt clip (included) should be used when practicable to avoid the sudden pressure on your eardrums that might result from yanking them out.
CONCLUSION
The ER-6i offers exceptionally involving, neutral sound for the money, with accurate bass and a commendably smooth midrange. I am also not aware of any headphones that provide better isolation from environmental noise. Recommended.


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Etymotic Research ER6I-B Isolator Earphone ER6I-B Headphones & Earphones

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WESTONE UM2 TRUE FIT DUAL DRIVER EARPHONES UM 2 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As anyone considering shelling out $300 for a set of ear phones I read as many reviews as I could find and from as many sources. Almost universally the UM2 was very well rated and boasting of strong tight bass sold me. Another thing I found is that Westone has a stronghold on there venders pricing. $299 across the net as far as the eye could see. Always looking for a deal though I found a place with free shipping, and felt in my own small way "I'm stickin it to the man".
Now I can't claim to be audio engineer, or even an audiophile, but what I can say with all confidence is that I've heard and, or owned over 12 different pares of ear phones ranging in price from $10 to $500. With all this background research under my belt I think I've earned the right to an informed opinion and so that is what I offer.
Unfortunately I found the hard way the adage "you get what you pay for" dose apply the ear phone too. There was a time when I told myself I will not spend more than $50 on ear phones, then it was $100 until here I am hundreds of dollar out of pocket, but with a smile on my face. At the $50 level you get a flat loud sound that gives the impression that an ipod is not quite a match for a CD player. At the $100 (single driver) level you get one of two things. On one side you get what is call three dimensional sound-stage were it seems there is more than just a left & right speaker like with the UM1s. You hear subtle things like a singer shifting their feet during a song. On the other side you get big brain massaging bass and an energetic sound aka "fun to listen to".
In my way of thinking if you take both sides of the $100 level sound-stage and bass then combine them into one it should cost $200 right? No it's $300 and I must say I had a very hard time justifying that kind of money when I paid only $150 for my ipod. Well one fateful day the cord to my UM1s strayed too close to the stove burner and in a puff of plastic smoke I had my justification. Oh, I have been to the mountain top brother and sisters, and that mountain is UM2. I kick myself for holding out so long. I am constantly amazed at the quality and efficiency these ear phones. It's unreal how much bigger and real a song seems with these. The best part is they sounded great right out of the box, but with any speaker, or earphone they sound better as the break in. I can't put these thing down, it seems every time I hear them I like them more. I listen to everything classical, hip-hop, rock, jazz, electronic and I feel like I'm hearing most of it for the first time. To say it was worth the $300 is an understatement.
Ron M.

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Built to the highest professional standards, the dual balanced armature driver UM2 provides amazing low frequency response and rich articulate mids and highs. Using the same technology as custom ES2, the UM2 is the earpiece of choice for music lovers desiring high-end Westone sound quality at an affordable price. The comfortable Comply foam tips allow for extended use without fatigue. Providing up to 25 dB of ambient noise reduction, the UM2 is the perfect choice for on-stage performing or for personal listening. Equipped with a durable 50" stereo "Y" cord and a 3.5mm stereo jack, the UM2 is also perfect for personal audio devices such as MP3s, CD players, and laptop computers. The UM2 Universal Monitor is the most affordable dual driver earphone on the market.

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V-MODA XFLPR-PHCHROME Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones (Phantom Chrome) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I strongly urge anyone considering these headphones to go see them in person first.(like at the apple store)
I got these headphones in August after a coworker recommended them. He got his off Amazon and I got mine from the Apple store.
The speaker drivers themselves are great. Good balance of bass and treble across a wide range of music. The Crossfades seem well constructed and light. I use them only at work for about 4hrs a day and was happy for about a month. They stay on my desk when not in use and have never left the office
Unfortunately after a month I noticed the the inner plastic band where the metal adjustment bar that connects the phones to the padding the goes over your head had completely cracked on both sides of the headphones. If you look at the pictures Amazon provides, look at the 6th picture(for the gunmetal version - [...]). The cracks appeared right above the crossfade logo where the 2 screws secure the plastic housing on both sides of headphones(tops of the V). The plastic wasn't just cracked on one screw on each side, it was crack on all 4 screws. This leads me to believe that they had some over-tightening problem when putting in the screws during manufacturing. A day after I discovered the crack, one of the plastic cracked fragments actually fell off the headphones, making it impossible for the headphones to keep tension on the metal adjustment bar.
I was sad to see this issue, given I had just dropped $250 on these headphones a month earlier. So I went and had a look at my co-workers set. SAME exact problem, cracks along the plastic on both sides of the headphones in the same 4 places where the screw look to have been over-tightened. The plastic had not fallen off on his yet, but he was equally pissed off at the quality of manufacturing.
Seriously, the rest of the headphone is well constructed of metal and solid plastic.... but the one location that would get the most stress has the cheapest made component??!?!? I don't have a particularly wide head, and I've DJ'd for years and know how to take care of expensive headphones. What a shame that an otherwise great sounding set of headphones could be wrecked by a defective 50cent plastic part.
Thankfully the Apple store allowed me to return the headphones beyond the 14day regular policy. We went over to the iPod demo section in the store where they had 4 crossfades out for display to use with the iPod/iphones, and guess what!!! 3 of the 4 had the same exact issue.
I think these headphones are so new that this problem will start to become more prevalent in the next few months for folks who bought them early on. I don't think this is a hard issue to fix with a redesign of that particular part (using metal). However it's probably going to require folks to send them back to the manufacturer.


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Developed over the span of four years in collaboration with some of the world's top musicians, DJs and producers, the Crossfade LP delivers epic sound with a distinct design composed of luxurious fabrics and lightweight metals. Designed to be the ultimate versatile and multi-purpose headphone, Crossfade LP is made for people on the move, at the gym or on the stage.
Epic sound with a distinct design.

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HEAD-DIRECT RE0 In-ear Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)Much has been said on the sound quality of these phones. Yes, they sound phenomenal. They are extremely precise and extremely clear. You can't really fault them... unless sterile is not your preferred sound. They are analytical to a "fault"- while the bass can go way down, it may not be loud or boomy enough for some listeners. It's not that anything is missing, it's just that a lot of other IEMs deliver louder bass, though not necessarily with the clarity or range. Truth is, the range on these is superb for this price range. You just may not like the sound if you are too worried about booming bass (or too used to how emphasized it is in other, lower quality IEMs). I really don't mind, and totally would recommend them based on sound quality so long as you are looking for that particular signature (or lack thereof).
Having said that, I did run into a problem with with these phones: after six months, the left side stopped working. I'm not sure how prevalent this is, but an alarming number of other buyers here have had the problem, and a quick internet search shows even more. The product could still be worth it, but not from this seller: DBRoth, in an effort to keep their prices so low, will only replace a product within 7 days. HeadDirect's warranty does not extend to items bought through this seller. The price is the *exact* same on HeadDirect's site, so if you want to purchase these then I advise you to go through there instead.
The sound quality IS excellent, and had I found somebody willing to fix these I would still be able to recommend them, at least to those who like more a more analytical sound. However, there is no reason to buy them through this seller- they are no cheaper than the MSRP and price at HeadDirect's website, and are not covered by any warranty. Since there appears to be a very real possibility that these can fail, you should NOT buy them without the warranty.

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Head-Direct RE0 In-ear Headphones, with the nick name "Kylin", are one of the best In-ear headphones in the world. * In-ear Design, 15-20 dB isolation * The best dynamic drivers * Smooth and transparent middle range.**Current RE0 cable was made by PPE material, which is much more reliable than the old version fabric cable. The new L-shape miniplug is much better than previous plug, too.

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Beats Studio by Dr. Dre - Hi-Def Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'll start out by saying I collect mid-priced headphones(between $50 - $300). It may be an odd hobby, but it gives me a certain perspective that others may not have. I'm also an engineering major, and I found the general lack of objective, in-depth headphone reviews on Amazon to be disconcerting. So, here I am, taking a shot at reviewing some of the headphones I either own or have spent a lot of time listening to.
I've devised a simple six-song test and rating system, where 0 - 2 is abysmal, 2.1 - 4 is poor, 4.1 - 6 is mediocre, 6.1 - 8 is above average, and 8.1 - 10 is excellent.
The songs are very diverse; I was trying to represent a wide range of genres. They are "The Chain" by Fleetwood Mac(encoded in 256 kbps Ogg Vorbis), "Every Planet We've Reached is Dead" by Gorillaz(256 kbps .ogg), "Concerto Grosso #26 in D major" by Handel(256 kbps .ogg), "I Know You Are, But What Am I?" by Mogwai(500 kbps .ogg), "Afro Blue" by Triplexity(192 kbps .ogg), and "The Patient" by Tool(500 kbps .ogg).
I listened to everything on an iAudio 7 with the equalizer set to flat and all the sound effects turned off.
Sound Quality(6.8/10)
The Chain(6/10) - bass is nice and deep, slightly exaggerated, but still pleasant to listen to. Distortion is present, but very minimal. Mid tones and highs are somewhat underrepresented and bland, but otherwise sound decent. Instrument separation is a bit muddy. The main negative here is the sound stage, which is tiny.
Every Planet(8/10) - lows and highs both sound very smooth and rich in this song. Mid tones, as before, are underrepresented and bland. Instrument separation is good, but the sound stage is very underwhelming.
Concerto(6/10) - the bass in this song is deep and vibrant. Lows are nicely responsive. Mids and highs don't have quite the balanced presence they should have. Instrument separation is fairly muddy. Once again, the sound stage is lacking.
I Know You Are(7/10) - bass, as expected, is nice and vivid. Distortion was too high near the beginning of the song, but gradually leveled off. Highs were nice and crisp, but mid tones were lacking. Instrument separation, as was the case with most other songs, is a bit muddy, and the sound stage, while not as bad in this song, is still mediocre.
Afro Blue(8/10) - the lows in this song were pleasantly punchy, and the highs were fairly crisp and smooth. Mid tones were muddy, however, as was the overall instrument separation(no surprises here). The sound stage is similar to what it was in "I Know You Are, But What Am I?"; it is more present than in most songs, but doesn't have the fullness I would expect of circumaural headphones at this price.
The Patient(6/10) - right off the bat, the bass guitar in this song sounds great. Treble is decent, but underrepresented, as are the mid tones. The primary complaint I had in this song was actually not the sound stage(which isn't emphasized anyway), but the instrument separation, which I felt was greatly lacking in precision.
Overall Sound(6.8/10) - the bass from these cans is overall clean and pleasant. Somewhat exaggerated, but not greatly so. Distortion, while present at times, is also in small amounts. These aren't the subs-attached-to-your-head that some might expect before having listened to them. Treble sounds above average, but slightly underrepresented. The mid tones even more so - to the extent that they come across as bland. Instrument separation is also a bit muddy(although not too terrible). Another reviewer commented that these headphones were designed to sound slightly muddy, but I find this hard to believe, since the advertisement on Amazon claims "precise audio clarity". But as I've mentioned time and again, the biggest drawback to these cans is the sound stage, which just wasn't there. Overall, though, I would give these headphones an above average score in terms of sound quality.Design(9/10)
These are a closed-air, cirumaural design, and a very attractive one at that. I like the styling very much. Lines on these phones are aggressive, but clean and elegant at the same time. They are also very comfortable. They're lightweight and have plenty of padding. My only complaint here is the headband, which I felt was too rigid, and didn't conform to my head as much as I'd have liked. I also like how mobile these are - they fold up, and come with a nice case to carry them around in. Great for traveling.
They are also built pretty well. I would rather see more aluminum at this price, but the plastic they're composed of is nice and solid. They seem durable, and I doubt they would fall apart anytime soon.
Noise Isolation(7/10)
Noise isolation in these Monsters is accomplished via the closed circumaural design, which features plenty of thick padding, and active destruction of outside sound waves entering the headphone. I am a fan of the former; the latter, not so much. In my experience, active noise cancellation interferes with sound quality, not only because of the waves that must be emitted to interfere with incoming ambient noise, but also because an external headphone amplifier can't really be used with noise-canceling headphones due to their built-in amplifier, which is typically not of premium quality. It's difficult to judge on a case-by-case basis, because the built-in amp can't be removed, but going by the sound produced by the Monster Beats, I don't think they're an exception to this rule.
All of that aside, the Monsters were definitely designed to be noise-canceling, so I won't dock points for that. What I will take off points for is relative effectiveness, which I didn't feel was where it should be, all things considered. They do block quite a lot of noise, but plenty of noise still bleeds through. I've heard noise-canceling headphones that are considerably more effective. Then again, I've also heard much worse, and these, in my opinion, are above average.
Bottom Line(6/10)
Monster Beats by Dr. Dre are a good, above-average sounding and noise-isolating pair of headphones that feature a comfortable, highly stylish, and mobile design. This doesn't come close to justifying their high price, however. Sound quality should be significantly higher in this price range. But as always, different people perceive sound quality in different ways, and I highly encourage you to listen for yourself to a wide range of headphones before spending money. Those interested in good, deep bass at or under the price of the Monsters should also listen to various Beyerdynamic headphones, and the ATH-D40fs model by Audio Technica.

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Stay connected without missing a beat. Beats comes with an additional Monster iSoniTalk iPhone enable headphone cable with built-in answer button and microphone so you can easily stop rockin\' and start talkin\'.

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Sennheiser IE 8 Premium Audiophile In-Ear Noise Isolating Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)For years the Etymotic ER-4 series, e.g., Etymotic ER-4P Portable In-Ear Earphones represented the top of the line among in-ear monitor headphones. The Etys remain a good product (and an excellent buy), delivering crisp detail and excellent treble reproduction, but their weakness has been relatively modest bass performance.
Recently a whole group of challengers has emerged, including, for example, Shure SE530PTH Sound Isolating Earphones with Push-To-Hear Control, Ultimate Ears Triple.fi 10 Pro Earphones Gun Metal Blue and the long-delayed, soon-to-be-released Westone 3. Consumers seeking audiophile sound from small in-ear monitors now face a veritable embarrassment of riches.
In competition against these other products, the Sennheiser IE 8 acquits itself well. These earphones are small, comfortable, and beautifully crafted. They come with a variety of ear tip flanges for a custom fit, and include a feature unique among small IEM's, an adjustable bass setting (you use a small screwdriver-like tool that is included in the package).
The sound quality is clean and clear, without even a trace of murkiness. The output level is a bit lower than the Shure 530's, meaning that if used with a low-powered device like an iPod you will need to set the volume level relatively high. This output is on a par with the Etymotic ER-4P's, but with superior bass performance. Very fine detail reproduction is slightly better than the Shures, but is a bit lower than the Etymotics.
Truth be told, my teenage son doesn't really discern much difference between his stock white iPod earbuds and premium IEM's like these Sennheisers. For him, splurging on the IE 8's would seem foolish. But there are some of us who place great importance on what others might perceive as small differences in sound quality. For us audiophiles (or obsessive-compulsives, if you prefer), the Sennheiser IE 8's represent a fabulous purchase.
Expensive? Yes, definitely, But actually, if you consider how often you might use and enjoy these over a period of many years, the cost really might not seem that great.

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The Sennheiser IE 8's audio performance warrants a standing ovation. Rediscover your music collection and tailor it to your aural tastes with a tunable bass frequency response. The customized sonic signature is complemented by a unique fit thanks to the included ear adapters, ensuring perfect fit, guaranteed. This fit isolates the user from their environment, offering passive noise attenuation and the best sound experience. The compact design of the IE 8 works with any attire in any situation. The IE 8 stores quickly and safely in the included carrying case.

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Shure SE535-V Triple High-Definition MicroDriver Earphone with Detachable Cable (Metallic Bronze) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The 535 has been improved in several areas from the earlier 530 model, the latter of which I have two samples. The build quality has been discussed elsewhere. It is substantially solid and commendable. The replaceable cord is almost indestructible, but it being replaceable it is a non-issue.
More important is the sound quality which has been dramatically improved in a number of ways due to refinements to the shaping of the cavity within which the balanced armatures are fitted (I speak about the "speakers" inside which are more comparable to tuning forks than typical electo-magnetic speakers.) The crossover points between these armatures may also have been refined and adjusted for flatter response - meaning audibly flat, rather than just measurably flat. The external shape of the device was changed too, and it should fit more comfortably for many ears once one gets used to inserting them.
While a few listeners reported hearing "no difference" between the 535 and Shure's earlier 530 model, I strongly disagree. Or given that many people really can't hear even dramatic differences, it is merely true for them, but not true for those who can hear minute but significant changes between designs of audio equipment. The 535 is different from the 530 physically period. And sonically in a number of areas any sophisticated golden ear can hear. Among my audiophile acquaintances we could easily hear the improvements as follows:
1. Increased clarity and "transparency" throughout the frequency range resulting in better delineating of instruments, one from the other, and the textures and shapes within the sound. For example, the airy whoosh of a flute, the tinkles in the distance of a softy struck triangle at the back of the stage, the rosiny draw of the bow of a string instrument, the brassy rasp of a trombone, and the shimmer and afterglow of a brushed cymbal.
2. Higher resolution of the soundspace, such that the leading edges of percussion instruments penetrate with greater force, impact and speed. The fading tails of sound decaying away are easily distinguishable and followed to its silence.
3. The sound images locked-in-the-head feeling has been reduced significantly and the soundscape is now wider, many sounds seem to exist outside the head, even at a distance from one's ears.
4. More spatial clues and sound reflections are audible, such as naturally recorded hall ambiance and slap echo against a stage wall.
5. The bass is important to most listeners, it being the foundation for the rest and the rhythmic underpinning of music. The 535 excels in this area, even over Shure's 530 earlier model which provided deep bass surely, but not with the 535's impact, solidity and tightness, definition and textures. There are other brands with seemingly MORE bass or lower bass capability. This may be an illusion. For plumbing the deepest bass we have the requirement for very high definition. The 535 is, by a long shot, superior - you need to seal the earbud to your ear canal to hear it in all its glory.
6. One can continue describing sonic improvements over earlier designs, but there are space limits. Conclusion: I have not yet heard a more enjoyable, and most importantly, accurate portable device to date. The price, understandably, will be a factor for most people. However for the discerning listener who demands the quality of sound the 535 can furnish and will install CD Redbook standard or higher resolution audio files in their music players/iPods, the Shure 535 will be a stunning addition to their musical enjoyment on the go, in a plane, while exercising, or at home.


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The choice for discriminating professionals and audiophiles, the SE535 utilizes Triple High-Definition MicroDrivers for incredibly spacious sound with rich bass. Evolved from personal monitor technology road-tested by pro musicians and fine-tuned by Shure engineers, SE535 earphones deliver an unparalleled listening experience allowing you to hear the details of your music like never before.Featuring Triple High-Definition MicroDrivers, the SE535 utilizes dedicated tweeter and dual woofers to deliver spacious sound with rich bass. A detachable cable with wire-form fit enables easy replacement, both extending the life of your investment and providing a secure, comfortable fit. Sound Isolating sleeves in multiple sizes provide up to 37 dB of isolation, and a wide assortment of accessories offer premium customization.

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Philips HP550 Full Size Foldable Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)These headphones deliver some serious quality. The bass and treble are great, with exceptional sound. They work well from heavy metal to Stravinsky. They are well designed and are so light you barely know that you're wearing them. The hinges are durable, and the blue pegs are for winding the cord around. They are very convenient and portable, they fold right up into themselves. I definatly recommend these to anyone that wants an awesome pair of headphones, but doesn't want to shell out major mula.

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Etymotic Research HF2 Hands-Free Earphone Headset with Microphone (Cobalt Blue, iPhone Compatible) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)You've seen those people with earphone-mic combos for those phones - you know, *those* people who walk around, holding the mic up to their mouth, who might as well pull out the earphone and just hold the phone up to their ear. Are they uncomfortable, thinking that the mic won't pick up their voice, or are they compensating for a lackluster microphone? If the latter, that will not be necessary with the Etymotic HF2 earphone headset, whose mic is every bit as strong as the one built into most phones, if not better.
I tested this set with an Iphone 3G, and those on the other end were not able to guess that I was on a headset microphone rather than the Iphone's admittedly high-quality mic - that's a great compliment right there. The mic, which hangs about three inches below the right earphone, seems to be able to filter out background noises, as well. As for controls, it's simple - there's one button on rectangular microphone unit. Press once to answer or hang up a call, twice to send a call to voicemail.
As for sound quality of the headphones, they're fantastic, and that's no surprise given the pedigree associated with the Etymotic name. I'm an Ety fan - I have a pair of Ety ER6i as well as their "big brother" the ER4P, and the sound quality of the HF2 ranks right around the ER6i, which should be excellent for most people. Those not familiar with the "Etymotic sound," it is extremely clean, and many may find it lacking in bass, but it is very true to the recorded sound, unlike many other cheaper (and sometimes similarly priced) earphones. What you hear with Etymotics is a very accurate, if sometimes stark, representation of the sound that the artists captured. They are not good headphones for those looking for huge bass response. Those who enjoy jazz and great detail in their music might just love the Etymotic sound - they truly are an audiophile company. And when it comes to calls, there's also a small thrill to be had that first time you talk to someone and hear them in stereo through these earphones if you've never experienced it before. The world is blocked out due to the earphones' superior sound-dampening abilities, and the caller on the other end is extremely clear.
A note about fit and sound quality: these in-ear 'phone are meant to seat deep in your ear, sealed with your ear canal. When seated properly, they will deliver incredible sound quality and beautiful, solid bass - but not the deep, head-rattling bass you may be accustomed to from other head-and ear-phones. If they aren't seated properly, wet the tip just slightly, insert, and then turn just a bit to get them "snug down." The fit shouldn't hurt, but may feel odd at first. I found it took some getting used to and, yes, you will likely notice some earwax - you are, afterall, closing up your ears, so they will get warm. Clean the triple-flange tips from time to time and make sure your ears are as clean as possible. It sounds like a ritual, but it really is worth it for the extrmely high sound quality these earphones are capable of creating.
Other small details: where the two wires for the earphones connect to join into one is a slider to sinch up the wires . . . I assume if you want them close to your neck? Included on the wire is a clip that I found more annoying and cumbersome than useful. Thoughtful, yes, but not easy to remove, and I feared damaging the wire sleeve in doing so, so it stayed put. It simply made winding the wires up to put into the handy zipped leather pouch a job a little more clumsy than necessary. Also included are foam tips and smaller triple-flange tips for the earphones, replacement filters, and a filter replacement tool.
For owners of the first generation Iphone, the headphone jack is sized to fit into the recessed jack - no need for an awkward adapter.
So why only four stars if I enjoy these so much? (It would really be 4.5 stars if Amazon would let me offer it.) I balk a little at paying almost the price of the 8gb Iphone for a mic/earphone headset, even as high-quality as this one is. Another thing, and this is true of any headset, and so I don't mark this one down for it, your speaking voice does not come through the earphones. Normally that's not such an issue, but when you are listening to the other party in stereo, and you can only hear yourself as if through plugged ears, it's a little disorienting, and I found myself fighting the urge to speak louder. It would be nice if there were some way for your voice to be able to feedback into the earphones.
Overall, however, these are fantastic - miles above most typical headsets, but the price reflects that, too. If you spend a significant amount of time both listening to music and talking on your phone, and you truly treasure sound quality, these may make perfect sense.

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The hf2 is a high-fidelity, hands-free noise-isolating headset and earphones combination. But it's really much, much more than that. The hf2 provides a near-perfect music experience. Made by Etymotic Research, the people who created in-ear earphones, the hf2 delivers Etymotic's world-renowned sound quality in a comfortable, convenient wireless phone headset, so you'll never miss a call! Headset includes a high-sensitivity microphone and a Music/Call button that allows you to quickly answer calls while contolling your music. You'll be able to hear and be heard, clearly, even in a noisy environment. The hf2 includes the in-ear headset and earphones, assorted eartips so you can find the ones that fit you best, carry pouch and filter changing tool with filters. Works with iPhone, including 3Gs and other music phones that operate with a 3.5 mm/4-contact phone + stereo plug. Compatible with most music players (e.g., iPod, mp3, CD) that accept a 3.5 mm stereo plug. hf2 headset + earphones can be worn with the cables in front or in back of the head. The cable slider can be adjusted by moving it up or down for a snug fit.

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Sennheiser HD 202 Dynamic Headphones Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I do not like small earphones that go into the ear. After a very short time I find them very uncomfortable. I also hate anything pressing on my head.
I was looking for a set of over the ear phones which were light weight, comfortable, had excellent sound fidelity, a longish cord so I can be comfortably away from my stereo, and effectively blocked outside sounds. My primary motivation for buying these phones was so that I could listen to opera and really hear the phrases. I wanted all this for under $30.00
These head phones delivered. As soon as they arrived, I tested them on a variety of music types at a variety of volumes. The phones are very comfortable and except for a bit of warming of my ears, which was rather pleasant, I barely noticed them. The cushion on the crosspiece is thick enough so that you don't really feel it.
Sound fidelity is excellent. I was actually able to hear parts of music and instruments that I had never noticed before. This was especially true with classical, opera and jazz. The balance between bass and treble was very good, although if you really like loud thumping base, you may be a bit dissappointed.
I was not able to get the volume up loud enough to notice any distortion before it was too much for me, so I can't really say that there will be no distortion if you like really loud music.
If you are looking for headphones that are a good bargain for the money and have a limited budget, these are it.

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The Sennheiser HD202 closed, dynamic hi-fi stereo headphones feature good insulation against ambient noise and a deep bass response. This makes them the ideal companion for DJs - or anyone who likes to listen to modern, powerful music without disturbing others. The high-efficiency drivers deliver maximum performance. 1/8 inch connector with 1/4 inch adapter. Impedance: 32 ohms. Frequency range: 18Hz - 18kHz.Sennheiser At A GlanceFor 60 years, the name Sennheiser has been synonymous with top-quality products and tailor-made complete solutions for every aspect of the recording, transmission and reproduction of sound. In 1945, Dr. Fritz Sennheiser together with seven engineers and technicians set out on the venture to found a new company. The research and development specialists converted their university institute, which had been moved during the war to the small village of Wennebostel, into what became known as 'Labor W', and it was there that they began to build measuring instruments. Less than a year later, microphones were added to their product range, and soon the resourceful team became extremely successful in numerous fields of audio technology.Those were the humble beginnings of Sennheiser electronic, now a worldwide group of companies with more than 1,600 employees and one of the world's leading manufacturers of complete audio solutions. Still a family-owned company, Sennheiser has made a name for itself above all in the development and manufacture of high-quality microphones, wireless RF technology and headphones. Conference and information technology, infrared systems, products for the hearing impaired and aviation headsets round off the comprehensive product portfolio. The Sennheiser Group also includes the studio microphone specialist Georg Neumann GmbH, Berlin, K+H Vertriebs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (loudspeakers and studio monitors) and the Denmark-based joint venture Sennheiser Communications, which develops h

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Sennheiser HD535DSP Over-Ear Headphones with DSP-360 Surround Processor Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The DSP360 decoder/virtualizer, while small and lacking the 'high quality' finish of equivalent products from other makers, is surprisingly good. Several headphone enthusiast websites actually rate the DSP360 very highly, and consider it a great bargain.
my only complaint is that the unit (DSP360) defaults to 'speaker' mode when first powered up. of course, you buy this item expecting to use it with headphones, so why default to speaker mode? (And as the editorial review hints, the speaker mode is not worth the trouble.) Am I nitpicking? No, I'm trying to conserve my hearing. When in speaker mode, the volume control is basically disabled, so if the material you're listening to is very loud, you get first a shock, then painful ears. And worse, you frantically try to lower the volume, to no avail. To switch to 'headphone' mode, you have to press a button and HOLD it. It's in the manual, of course, but a lot of trouble could have been avoided if the DSP started with 'headphone' mode in the first place.
Audio is quite good, especially for the money. Using 'bypass' or disabling the 3D gives you stereo, useful when listening to CD's and other material not coded in Dolby Surround/Digital. In this mode, music really acquires 'space' and sounds more natural. I know it's not really a headphone amplifier to rival the best in the business, but the best in the business will set you back hundreds, even thousands of dollars more.
The headphones themselves are OK. You get what you pay for, as they say, and if you want still better headphones than the 535, then get the 580's. I'm saving up for those.

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Innovation and know-how - those are the hallmarks of one of the world's leading companies in the area of electro-acoustics. From individual audio products to complete system solutions - Sennheiser Electronic has the knowledge and the experience to lead the way in the constantly developing audio market. The key factors in its extraordinary success are its customer orientation, the performance of its employees, and its worldwide market presence.PRODUCT FEATURES:High quality entertainment hi-fi stereo headphone;Functional, advanced design which takes account of ergonomics;Neodymium magnets for powerful dynamics and high sensitivity;Extremely light AlCu power coils for high transient fidelity;Fresh graphic equalization - powerful bass and finely tuned treble;Very sturdy, plug-in connection cable of Kevlar fiber-reinforced;OFC copper;Gold-plated connector plug, ensuring a connection with lasting reliability for all playback equipment;Optimal wearer comfort - adjusts to allow a perfect fit.

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Ultimate Ears TripleFi 10vi Noise Isolating Earphones w/ Microphone Review

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(More customer reviews)These Buds come with the full arsenal for a great listening experience. They come with four types of buds, one type a foam kind that fits to your ear perfectly, so they are what I use. And when you put them in, you can't hear anything outside or around you. Airplanes with crying babies are no match; the buds cancel ambient noise by design.
The main selling point for me was the iPhone compatibility, with the mic and play button. Works great, and the only complain from a realllly picky perspective would be that the button be right below the mic, instead of on the main chord, as the mic and button are separate on the chord. But it makes no difference.
Another thing I like is the wire that comes out of the bud end. There is a wire about 2 inches long inside the cord that you can bend so when you put them over your ear they stay in place, which is great when I run and move around. They are large, due to the three drivers in each bud, but are worth it. From low to high frequency, they play music back as accurately as possible.
I record my music in lossless formats on my computer, so playback comes at CD quality. After a couple weeks of listening, this is what I found: Bass is strong. Now I wouldn't use these phones for a DJ or anyone whose only concern is bass, but every low chord or beat comes out as if you were right there playing it yourself. But this is what got me. The best sound quality for these speakers comes in the mid-high to high frequencies. It doesn't matter how high the sound is, be it a trumpet blaring, guitar at high E with cymbal crashes, or a female soprano hitting the highs, the speakers won't crack or fuzz like cheap headphones, and when comparing them to the generic iPhone ones I regretfully was using before, the difference is extremely pleasant and refreshing. This is quite something, since the first thing I listen to is Bass quality, so for the crisp highs to take away my attention from Bass is saying something.
One last thing for the listening experience that is a great joy to listen to is their reproduction of the sound itself. Some speakers make you feel like you're in the studio, others make you feel like you're listening by the studio, and each headphone is different. This is called sound stage, and the UE's reproduce it very well. Unamped, they can put you there
The case is great (practical) and I use it all the time, as well as the extender when I need to. For Audiophiles such as me, pictures and specs are on their website at [...]. They show you how to wrap the cord around your ear like i explained earlier, which is nice.
I have many headphones, including AKG 701's, Sennheiser HD 650's, Sony MDR-F1's, Shure and those V-moda's, among mannnnyyy others. For an earbud, these rank among the top of the list, and I would reccommend them to anyone.

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The TRIPLE.Fi is a high-end consumer earphone with integrated voice functionality that is based on the same technology and sound signature used in our custom monitors. The TRIPLE.Fi 10vi features integrated voice functionality and is specifically designed for use with the iPhone. A miniature high performance microphone allows for hands free phone calls. An in-line multi-function button answers and ends calls and controls music/video on iPhone.Inside the TRIPLE.Fi 10vi are three individually proprietary armature speakers that produce a full spectrum audio experience. The proprietary armature speakers are tuned forfull and detailedbasswhile delivering crisp andcleanhighs. In addition, the noise isolating design reduces ambient interference and sound quality.The armatureis embedded inan anodizedaluminum housing that isboth small and lightweight and is an aesthetic complement to the iPhone.

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