Gadgets | Digital Accessories | Digital Reviews | Electronic Gadget » Earphones

Shure SE115 Sound Isolating Earphones

admin — Fri, 01 May 2009 08:08:20 +0000

In case you haven’t decided yet what to give your father and mother for the coming Father’s Day and Mother’s Day, here’s a great device you can consider buying. The Shure SE115 Sound Isolating Earphones will be a perfect gift for them since all of us know that our parents look at listening pleasure and privacy these days. Get yourself one, too.

Mixing striking aesthetics and superb sound quality at a very affordable price tag, the Shure SE115 comes in four dazzling colors: black, blue, pink, and red. But it’s not all about the colors. Promoting Shure’s legacy of giving premium sound, style, and durability, these modular earphones offer a convenient modular cable design to complement your on-the-go lifestyle.

You’ll surely love the Shure SE115 as it provides better bass handling compared to its predecessor, the Shure SE110. These earphones have Second Generation Dynamic MicroSpeakers, delivering detailed, warm, and rich sound. They have sound isolating sleeves that prevent outside noise from hampering your audio experience. You can enjoy all the details of your favorite music in almost all environments. The sound isolating sleeves are flexible, soft, and offered in different shapes and sizes, thus providing a comfortable and secure fit.

The Shure SE115 was recognized at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show as a Consumer Electronics Association Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Award honoree. The price: $119.99.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Tunewear launches TuneSonic Crystal earphones

admin — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 03:08:24 +0000

Tunewear has launched its first earphone product for portable music players, the TuneSonic Crystal. The earphone delivers a high-resolution 9mm neodymium magnet driver that the company says produces clearer sound with input as strong as 5mW. It comes in three different colors, “black onyx” (black with rhinestone), “chrome silver” (silver with clear crystal), and “crystal pink” (pink with clear crystal). Also included is a 24k gold-plated 3.5mm stereo cable.

Each earphone comes complete with 4 different sized silicone ear pads to help fit with most ear sizes. TuneSonic Crystal is already available for purchase from Tunewear and priced at $50.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Razer Moray Earbud Headphones for Gamers

admin — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:02:44 +0000

For serious gamers, sound quality is a big part of the gaming experience. And with the Razer Moray earbud headphones, this can be maintained. For earbud headphones, sound quality may not usually come at a level that most gamers would look forward to. But with the Razer Moray earbuds, the experience might be a little different.

The Razer Moray earbud headphones was designed specifically for gamers who look for exceptional sound quality whenever they play their favorite games on their portable gaming systems. This pair of bass driven earbuds also provides great stereo sounds in mid to high range clarity.

For better fit and comfort, the Razer Moray also comes with interchangeable earbud sizes that gamers can choose from. This helps reduce distracting ambient noise to give gamers full and clear sound quality whenever they play with their mobile gaming device. The Razer Moray is available at Razerzone for US$40.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

New Elecom Power Graphixx stylish earphones

admin — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:27:37 +0000

Now every music lover can express themselves with a fresh, stylish choice of a earphones to match your personal style. With the new look, our funky earphones will deliver crystal clear sound. Comfortable inner-ear system, the series Power Graphixx also high sound quality and blocks most unwanted noise. The Elecom Power Grapixx feature has 9 mm of driver diameter, 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz frequency response, maximum power input 10 mW, 92 dB/mW at 1 kHz sensitivity and 16 Ohms of impedance.

This Gadgets Accessories ideal for MP3 and DAP players. You can choose from almost every April in Japan, or here online GeekStuff4U

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

iLuv Launches iEP505 Earphones for iPod shuffle

admin — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:36:03 +0000

That new iPod shuffle has a weird set of headphones. The controls are all on it and it will take you a while to master them. On top of that, you won’t be able to add any new headphones unless you also get the necessary control dongle.

In case the default Apple phones aren’t the thing for you, you can always get the new iEP505 earphones announced by iLuv. The phones come with the in-line needed controls so you won’t need any kind of adapter to make them work. The iEP505 earphones will cost $50 and they will come in black, white, pink, red and blue.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Wrap 920AV: Latest Eyewear From Vusix

admin — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:03:12 +0000

Gadget Inspector review the latest Eyewear from Vusix. Vuzix keep on to amplify their personal video wear lineup with the new Wrap 920AV. They’re semi-transparent they act like conventional sunglasses so you are able to wear them as you stumble walk around in the real world.

Vuzix are selling them as “Augmented reality” devices (they’re at least 5 years too soon for that to really work) but since they’re actually pretty comfortable to wear and have a very good picture I can see them being bought as straightforward personal video screens.

The new model that’s not on the website yet is the VR1440. An upgrade to the already popular VR920, it’s display is 800×600 native resolution and will take a PC resolution of up to 1600×1200. Combining 3D display and headtracking it would make a compelling accessory for flight simulator fans.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Klipsch Reveals New Headphones for New iPod Shuffle

admin — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:32:05 +0000

We all know that the new third generation iPod Shuffle was released yesterday and apparently Klipsch has wasted no time developing complementary accessories like this neat breakthrough headphones. These new headphones are integrated with controls on the earphone cord for the new third generation iPod shuffle with Apple’s new VoiceOver feature.

These new headphones will give users the ability to play, pause, adjust volume, switch playlists and hear the name of the song and artist with just the press of a button.

The new third generation iPod shuffle with the VoiceOver feature can speak song titles, artists and playlist names. When you want to know the name of the song or artist playing, simply press a button on the conveniently located headphone controls and iPod shuffle tells you the song and artist name. iPod shuffle can even announce status information, such as battery life.

The Klipsch headphones are expected to be available this summer for $99.99.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Are You Looking For Pretty Bluetooth Headsets?

admin — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 09:15:31 +0000

Bluetooth headsets are not exactly a fashion accessory meant to be worn with a cocktail dress. We tend to like them because they free our hands while keeping us in contact with our friends and family. The concept Bluetooth headset in the picture here was designed by Ilshat Garipove and it’s inspired in the formation of a water drop. It has a single button whose only function is to receive and end calls and that’s about it. The design is made for ladies and we have no idea if it will be ever manufactured. As for us men, we’re not that into fashion, are we?

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Video Goggles

admin — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:04:24 +0000

Video Goggles

The new generation of video iPods have proven extremely popular. Allowing users to watch video podcasts, hit TV shows, and movies. The disadvantage of these devices is the screen size, they are fine for watching dowloaded YouTube videos that have a relatively short length, but watching an entire movie could be very tiring.Now there is a solution, video goggles that project a virtual 24inch screen.

The goggles plug directly into your iPod, drawing power from it, so no need for additional batteries, they draw so little power that they will happily run from between 2 and 4 hours depending on the size iPod you have them connected to. Of course keep safety in mind when using these, not recommended for when you are our jogging, riding your bike or driving a car!

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Cosonic SJ-029 Earphones

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:16:45 +0000

iPod,Satellite Radio and MP3 earphone
SJ-029

Selling Points：
1. Ear insert design makes the sound more concentrated.
2. Well matched silver and yellow, bright and nice.
3. Soft silicon gum makes it more comfortable for wear.
4. Adopt TPE OFC of high flexibility, ensure transmitting pure and natural audio-signals.

Specifications：

Driver Unit: Φ10mm
Speaker Impedance: 16ohm±15%
Speaker Sensitivity: 92dB±3dB at 1KHz
Speaker Frequency Response: 20-20,000Hz
Maximum Power Input: 20mw
Cord Length: 1.2-2.2 meters

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Cosonic CD-522 Earphones

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 06:54:12 +0000

Cosonic CD-522 Earphones, Max power inpute: 10mw, Speaker sensitivity: 86dB 3dB, Wire length: 1.5 metres, 15mm Driver unit, Speaker Impedance: 16ohm+/-15%, Speaker frequency response: 20-20,000Hz

Box Dimensions: 13cm x 5cm x 21cm
Box Weight: 0.34kg
Warranty: 12-month Manufacturer
Stock: >5

Max. power: 10mw
Speaker sensitivity: 86dB±3dB
Wire length: 1.5 meters.
15mm Driver unit
Speaker Impedance: 16ohm+/-15%
Speaker frequency response: 20-20,000Hz

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Cosonic CD-311

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 06:38:31 +0000

Cosonic CD-311 Earphones, Max. Power: 20mw, 15mm Driver Unit, Speaker sensitivity: 83dB+/-3dB, Cord Length: 1.2m, Speaker frequency response: 20-20,000Hz, Speaker Impedance: 32ohm+/-15%

Box Dimensions: 2cm x 11cm x 20.5cm
Box Weight: 0.11kg
Warranty: 12-month Manufacturer
Stock: >5

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Cosonic CD 2117MS Headphone

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 06:35:13 +0000

Product Model: CD-2117MS

Cosonic CD-2117MS Headphone and Mic, 15mm Driver Unit, Speaker sensitivity: 82dB & Microphone: -58dB+/-2dB, Cord Length: 2.2m, Speaker frequency response: 20-20,000Hz, Speaker Impedance: 32ohm+/-15%

Manufacturers Part Number: CD-2117MS

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Bose in-ear Headphones

admin — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 06:09:04 +0000

Many people’s first experience of ‘proper’ noise cancelling headphones will have come courtesy of a pair of Bose cans, supplied to cancel out the hum of aeroplane engines in business class. Bose has been involved in the technology for some years now and seems to have the airline business well and truly sewn up. I’ve also seen its earbuds bundled with some MP3 players: the Samsung T10 for instance has a decent pair of Bose phones included. But strangely it hasn’t yet gone for the biggest growing sector of the headphone market – in-ear headphones – in a particularly big way.

In fact it currently only has one pair of headphones in this sector – the Bose in-ear headphones – and these represent a pretty an odd way of dipping the corporate toe into these highly competitive waters. I say odd because, while virtually every other manufacturer has focused on noise canceling canal phones of late, Bose’s newest headphones are, in fact earbuds. Not in the traditional sense – they do have silicone rubber tips that extend inside your ear canal – but they don’t create an airtight seal. The main body of the silicone rubber tips actually sit outside the ear canal and the result is that, though slightly more effective than a standard pair of iPod-style earbuds, they don’t cut out external noise to any great degree.
This is clearly a pair of headphones designed to turn heads, though. Rather than plain black cables, they’re decked out with rather fetching stripy black-and-white wires. These cables are also thick and feel well up to being trapped in your jacket zip a few times, while the joints at each end are similarly well put together. Other nice touches include a 3.5mm jack skinny enough to fit the iPhone’s headphone port directly, and a decent range of accessories. In the box is a rectangular soft case with enough room to stow headphones plus a small MP3 player, a clothing clip to keep the wires from tugging at your ears, and a lanyard that allows you to hang the phones around your neck when you’re not listening to music.

In fact the only disappointment here is that the cabling system isn’t modular. Headphones such as Sennheiser’s similarly-priced CX 95s have cables that can be split in two, which means if you have a mobile phone with a modular hands free extension, you can take calls without having to unplug your ears.

The principal benefit to the odd earbud-style design of these headphones is, however, comfort. The silicon tips – of which small, medium and large fittings are supplied with the phones – sit perfectly in your ears. There’s none of that burning, aching sensation that you can get through extended use of tight-fitting canalphones, and they also feel far lighter in your lugs than standard earbuds. Another plus is that there’s less of the cable-rub amplification that you get with completely sealed canal phones.

In theory, an earbud design such as this also allows much more room for drivers too, so it’s easier to achieve top level sound quality for less cash. Keen to test this theory out, I grabbed my current favourite headphones at this price – the aforementioned Sennheiser CX 95s – and settled down for an extended back-to-back listening session. I hooked each pair of headphones up to my Sqeezebox and portable headphone amp to ensure top quality at the source level.

Kicking things off with some laid back jazz – Pat Metheny’s atmostpheric album, Map of the World – and a difference was immediately apparent. The Bose phones didn’t appear to have the punch, detail and clarity of the Sennheisers. With the CX 95s you can hear the ‘deliberate’ hiss on the original recording and all the extra sounds around the edges, such as the buzz of Metheney’s guitar strings as he plucks them. In comparison, the Bose phones are far less involving, floating on top of the music rather than delving down deep into the guts of it.

Don’t get me wrong, they’re not bad at all – quite a pleasant listen, in fact – but they’re just not as involving as the best in class. Moving on, I picked a more challenging piece of classical music, Mozart’s Requiem, as the next test. The complex choral depths of this piece, as well as being one of the most powerful classical pieces you’re ever likely to hear, also have the useful side benefit of stretching audio components to their limits, and in the case of the Bose headphones, it was a stretch too far.

That sense of not being too involved with the music was accentuated here. With the CX 95s, the piece made the hairs on the back of my arms stand up; the Bose phones sounded good, but I didn’t care quite as much. They added a slight muffling veil to the music, which robbed it of power.

This was confirmed by shifting the source material dramatically to heavy metal and Metallica’s classic black album. Again I had few serious complaints – the sound was balanced and reasonably detailed – but plug in the CX 95s and you get a whole new world of bite, attack and aggression; just what you want when listening to metal or heavy rock.

Verdict

There’s no doubt that Bose’s in-ear headphones are a quality product. They’re well-built, come with a respectable selection of accessories, work with the iPhone out of the box, and are an extremely comfortable option for those who just don’t get on with canalphones.

But the sound quality, while balanced and reasonably detailed, isn’t quite up there with the best in class. If you have this much cash to spend on a headphone upgrade, I’d advise choosing a pair of the superlative Sennheiser CX 95s. They’re more involving to listen to, and the noise isolation design means you can enjoy that quality without having to turn the volume up too loud.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK9

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:52:47 +0000

ATH-CK9 WH (Audio Technica)

Audio-Technica’s ATH-CK9 QuietPoint™ passive noise-reducing earphones deliver outstanding isolation from distracting background noise. These in-ear models are equipped with an ultra high-quality balanced armature driver that offers crisply detailed high-fidelity audio, reproducing the subtlest of sounds. Without the use of active noise-cancelling electronics, ATH-CK9 QuietPoint™ earphones achieve significant attenuation of outside sound, allowing for increased fidelity and acoustic impact at lower volume levels. Ideal for use with all audio sources, including MP3 and other portable players, they are supplied with interchangeable ear pieces for a comfortable, custom fit.

Features:

In-ear design forms an acoustic seal that achieves outstanding sound isolation, blocking background noise, preventing sound leakage and allowing for increased fidelity at lower volume levels

Ultra high-quality balanced armature driver offers crisply detailed high-fidelity audio, reproducing the subtlest of sounds
Ideal for use with all audio sources, including MP3 and other portable players
Reversible design allows earphone to be worn with the cord extending either down or up over the ear
Interchangeable ear pieces (small, medium, large) are included for a comfortable, custom fit
Includes protective pouch
Gold-plated mini-plug provides exceptional corrosion resistance, superb conductivity, low noise
1.2 m Y cable includes an adjustable sleeve for secure fit

Specifications:

Type Dynamic
Driver Diameter Balanced armature
Maximum Input Power 3 mW
Sensitivity 104 dB/mW
Impedance 30 ohms
Cable 1.2 m, Y-type
Connector 1/8″ (3.5 mm) mini stereo, gold-plated
Accessories Included Protective pouch, interchangeable earpieces (small, medium, large)

Other Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK7 In-Ear Headphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:48:57 +0000

The standard pair of headphones that most company’s bundle with their players are at best average and if your looking to make the most of your podcasts and music then the best mp3 player and highest bit rates wont count for much if the device your using to actually reproduce the sound are not up to the job.

Here we have a look at a pair of headphones from Audio-Technica, a little heard of yet major company in the world of audio reproduction, the ATH-CK7 with titanium housing and 11 mm driver with Neodymium magnet.

For those that don’t know what use a titanium housing and Neodymium driver is to you then basically it means the whole thing is stiff and as such means more of the energy used to create the sound is retained and doesn’t dissipate through the housing meaning in theory better sound, as for the Neodymium bit that’s just a very light and expensive material that allows the part that produces the sound to move faster allowing faster changes in frequency’s i.e. from bass to treble. This becomes even more important if you only have one speaker producing all the sound as is the case with in-ear ‘phones’.

What makes the ATH-CK7 standout from the crowd are that they come with 11mm drivers (or speakers for us laymen types) and still manage to pump out a frequency range of 12 – 24,000Hz. Until now all in-ear headphones come with a 9mm driver, which is all well and good until you realise that the bigger the speaker the better the bass, treble is easy to reproduce in such a small speaker, but when it comes to bass and lower mids size is everything and the whole extra 2mm that your getting makes all the difference.

The ATH-CK7 are not cheap, you can pick up a pair from Audiocubes or Semsons & Co for around $120 but after running these very attractive transducers in for about 12hrs you’ll have no doubt that this is money well spent. Spin some high quality podsafe music above 128kbps and immediately you get a sense of involvement normally reserved for hifi speakers. The bass is there but it is a tuneful bass not some in your face boom that pretends to be bass. Mids and treble are dealt with equally well without a hint of sibilance, meaning it doesn’t scream at you. Move on up to a wav file and if you’re an audiophile looking to satisfy your audio fix then the Audio-Technica’s wo’t disappoint.

To top it all off the ATH-CK7 are very comfortable to wear and come with three different sized sleeves to cater for all ear canals. If you are looking to upgrade your ‘buds then these are definitely worth checking out.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK6

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:44:00 +0000

The Audio Technica ATH-CK6 is an in-ear headphone that comes equipped with interchangeable loop support pieces to ensure a custom, secure fit for any user. The Audio Technica ATH-CK6 includes two sub-models: ATH-CK6A and ATH-CK6W. Both models feature a miniaturized, advanced-technology 10.7 mm rare-Earth driver for detailed-quality audio, as well as a pouch, S/M/L earpieces, and a 3 loop support option. Whereas the ATH-CK6A is only available in either black or silver, the ATH-CK6W can be purchased in either blue, pink, green, or silver. The Audio Technica ATH-CK6 is priced at $49.95 and is described as delivering an immersive listening experience during jogging, exercising, and various other physical activities.

Features

Driver Diameter: 10.7 mm
Frequency Response: 15 – 28,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power: 200 mW
Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW at 1 kHz
Impedance: 16 ohms
Weight: 3.5 g (0.12 oz) without cable
Cable: 1.2 m (4 ft), Y-type
Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8”) mini stereo, gold-plated, iPhone compatible
Accessories Included: Interchangeable earpieces (S, M, L); interchangeable loop supports (3 types); pouch

Sound quality:
Sound quality is very beautiful:nicely balanced highs,mids and lows and just the right amount of bass,better than Sony’s MDR-EX85.

Using this with a NWZ-A815, I found the EQ set to custom 1 and VPT off to be the best settings for the ATH-CX6.

With a S705 and ATRAC encoded music, it was supremely good with Rolling Stones tracks-nicely balanced and at the right volume (maxed but not so lid as to cause to hearing loss).

Listened to Michael Jackson and The Beatles-the sound reproduced was supreme in quality and clarity.

Overall:

I was extremely impressed by Audio Technica ATH-CK6 “9Styles” because these are well built in-ear headphones with 9 different ways of wearing them.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK52W

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:36:22 +0000

The Audio Technica ATH-CK52W is an in-ear headphone that offers top-notch sound quality in a small and convenient frame. The ATH-CK52W is essentially a duplicate of the ATH-CK52ABK, except that it is designed specifically for women. The ATH-CK52W includes the ATH-CK52ABK’s 10.7 mm diameter driver and 200mW maximum input power. The ATH-CK52W also features with cord wraps for tangle-free storage, s/m/l rubber earpieces for a comfortable/custom fit, and a loop support design for higher stability and improved sound quality. In addition, the ATH-CK52W is available in either black, pink, or white. The Audio Technica ATH-CK52W is priced at $49.95, the same price as the ATH-CK52ABK.

Features

Driver Diameter: 10.7 mm
Frequency Response: 14 – 24,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power: 200 mW
Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW at 1 kHz
Impedance: 16 ohms
Weight: 4 g (0.14 oz) without cable
Cable: 1.2 m (4 ft), Y-type
Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8”) mini stereo, gold-plated, iPhone compatible
Accessories Included: Interchangeable earpieces (S, M, L)

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK10

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:32:45 +0000

The Audio Technica ATH-CK10 is an in-ear headphone equipped with a dual balanced armature driver and compact design meant to fit perfect in the ears. Cited as one of top-quality in-ear headphones on the market, the ATH-CK10 may only offer a maximum input power of 3 mW, but its dual balanced armature drivers compensate with an extremely high 55 ohms impedance and 107 dB sensitivity. In addition, the ATH-CK10 features an acoustic seal for improved sound isolation, a cord that fits comfortably around the ear, and interchangeable small, medium, and large earpieces. The Audio Technica ATH-CK10 is priced at a whopping $349.95.

Features

Type: Dual balanced armature
Frequency Response: 20 – 15,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power: 3 mW
Sensitivity: 107 dB/mW at 1 kHz
Impedance: 55 ohms
Weight: 4 g (0.14 oz) without cable
Cable: 1.2 m (4 ft), Y-type
Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8”) mini stereo, gold-plated
Accessories Included: Interchangeable earpieces (S, M, L); hard case

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-CK1

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:28:17 +0000

Have you experienced discomfort using canal-type earphones? That’s probably because you’re using badly fitting earpieces or because the buds are simply too large for your ears. This is a problem especially common amongst women.

Specifications

TYPE Dynamic
DRIVER DIAMETER 8.8mm
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 18 – 22,000Hz
MAXIMUM INPUT POWER 40mW
OUTPUT SOUND LEVEL 101 dB/mW
IMPEDANCE 16 ohms
WEIGHT 2 g
CABLE 1.2m (Y type)
CONNECTOR 3.5mm mini stereo, gold plated
ACCESSORIES FURNISHED Ear-pads
COLOUR ATH-CK1 GR (Green or Clover)
ATH-CK1 OR (Orange or Hibiscus)
ATH-CK1 PK (Pink or Orchid)
ATH-CK1 PL (Purple or Pansy)
ATH-CK1 WH (White or Plumeria)
ATH-CK1 YL (Yellow or Sunflower)

But don’t give up! A solution is at hand. This petit earphone is designed for relatively small ear canals.Unlike traditional models that give you L/M/S size buds, ATH-CK1 comes with M/S/XS sizes.
A perfect fit for delicate ears!
But don’t be fooled by its size. The ATH-CK1 boasts a powerful bass undistinguishable from its larger siblings the ATH-CK31/32.
To be fair the CK31/32 models have superior treble response but the difference is not staggeringly noticeable and boils down to a matter of preference.
Match it with your iPod and listen in style.

Although it’s primarily designed for women the ATH-CK1 also has a good following among men.
Perfect for anybody that doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort for quality.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:19:50 +0000

The latest export from Audio-Technica are the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones. They are a noise-canceling headphone set with comfortable earpads and a detachable cable. Although they suffer from a few sound issues and can’t really be used without the noise-cancellation feature, these headphones are a reasonable choice for frequent-fliers looking for new cans in the $100 to $200 range.

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones aren’t what you might consider the most portable headphones on the block, with earcups that measure roughly 3.7 inches by 3 inches. However, these do fold flat for storage, and you get a hard shell case to transport them in. The package also includes an airplane adapter, which adds to their travel-friendliness. Although Audio-Technica asserts that the ATH-ANC7s are closed-back headphones, we find that a fair amount of sound leaks through thanks to a small pass-through speaker on the back of each earcup. This is worth noting if you have concerns about disturbing your neighbor, or (ahem) would rather outsiders not be part of your listening experience.

One of the benefits of around-the-ear headphones is that they have relatively large earcups, which generally are more comfortable than those that rest on the cartilage of your ears. This is certainly true of the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones, which are lined with a cushy padding that rests comfortably against the sides of the head. The top of the headband is padded, while the plastic edges are designed to curve out and away from the head. The headband is also fully adjustable, and the included, detachable cable is plenty long at 63 inches.

As the name suggests, the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones offer an active noise-cancellation feature. The feature draws its power from a single AAA battery (included), inserted into the left earpiece. A switch on this same side allows you to control the power of this feature (the headphones work whether it is on or off). Audio-Technica reports that these headphones reduce background noise by up to 85 percent (or 20dB, for the technical people out there). Although we have no way to accurately measure this amount, we found that these headphones succeed at blocking a significant amount of low-end rumblings. A nearby server was completely canceled out, and our cubemate’s voice lost its bass tones. Still, don’t expect sharper noises to be noticeably diminished.

Coming around to sound quality, we have a few minor quibbles with the ATH-ANC7 QuietPoint headphones. With the noise-cancellation feature turned off, sound definitely has a muffled quality, with vocals and high-end details giving the impression that you’re listening underwater. Yet, with the noise canceling turned on, the treble seems slightly brittle for the most part, and straight-up harsh in certain cases. Industrial metal such as Orgy and some party hip-hop tracks with a lot of high-end sound effects suffer. That being said, most genres come through fine, and the mids are certainly warm and encompassing. Bass response is also tight and plenty impressive–though not as thumping as some competitors. The little pass-through speakers mentioned earlier do a nice job of opening up the sound and keeping it outside of your head.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC3 QuietPoint earphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:15:22 +0000

Ultraportable earphones with active noise cancellation aren’t terribly prolific; you’re much more likely to find larger, over-the-ear models with this feature. But considering the fact that these ‘phones are best suited to drown out the sounds associated with commuting and other travel, it follows that a compact design makes good sense here–the more portable, the better. Audio-Technica seems to want to capitalize on this idea with its latest QuietPoint headphones, the ATH-ANC3. These toteable earbuds feature a super compact design, a built-in noise-cancellation module, and useful travel accessories. The $170 price tag may be hard for some potential buyers to swallow, though, considering the earphones’ cheap-feeling plastic build and failure to serve up truly stellar sound.

The ATH-ANC3’s earbuds might be hard plastic, but they are impressively small, which makes for a nice, low-profile design when worn. We also noticed no discomfort after wearing them for more than an hour, so we give points for that. However, keep in mind that your comfort level will depend on the size and shape of your ear. A Y-cable measuring approximately 13 inches long descends from the earpieces. It joins and continues for another 16 inches or so to the plastic noise-cancellation module. Here, you will find several attributes of note.

First, on the rear, there is a compartment for the single AAA battery (included) as well as a built-in clip for attaching the unit onto yourself. It doesn’t seem to be the most durable clip we’ve come across, but it gets the job done. On the front of the module, there is a switch for controlling the power of the noise cancellation feature and an indicator light that glows red when it’s activated. There’s also a monitor button, which lets you quickly mute your music and the noise-canceling circuitry to hear what’s going on around you. It’s handy, but take note that the module must be switched on for the mute function to work.

Coming out of the other end of the ATH-ANC3’s noise-canceling module is about an additional 8 inches of cable that terminates in a 3.5mm straight gold-plated plug. All these wires amount to a fair amount of tangling, but Audio-Technica includes a nice, zippered hard-shell case for storing the earphones and managing the cords. The case has a variety of built-in compartments for the other extras that are included in the package. There’s an extension cable, which can add about 18 more inches of give to the setup. You also get an airplane plug adapter and a set of three (small, medium, large) silicone eartips.

The ATH-ANC3 QuietPoint earphones are reasonable little performers. The noise-cancellation feature works very well, sufficiently quieting the hum of our over-active air conditioner. If you’re able to get a good seal with your ear with the provided silicone fittings, you’ll be rewarded with some passive noise blocking as well. This same seal is infinitely important if you want to experience the bass that the earphones have to offer, which is not super thumping, but still quite present. High-end detail was also well-represented, and the mids came through warm and clear. Overall, while music did not sound quite stellar in our tests, audio quality was definitely solid.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-AD900 Open Air Dynamic Headphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:11:09 +0000

Audio-Technica’s new 2004 ATH-AD900 Air Dynamic headphones that gives you high quality sounds with deep balanced bass. With unique self-adjusting bearing armband (world’s first) with newly developed 3D “wing support” which allows comfortable and enjoyable listening experience. Features a large 53mm aperture driver made with bobbin winding CCAW voice coil for superior sound reproduction. Designed with light weight aluminum honeycomb casing with a total comfort around your ears.

Features

Specifications

Type: Open-Air Dynamic
Driver Unit: 53mm, CCAW voice coil
Magnet: Neodymium
Frequency response: 5-35,000 Hz
Impedance: 35Î©
Max. Input Power: 700mW
Output overpressure value: 100dB/mW (JEITA)
Plug: Mini/Standard Gold plated 2 Way
Cord length: Elastomer/OFC/3.0m
Net weight (without cord): 250g

Accessories

Detachable phone plug

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio Technica ATH-AD700 Open-air Dynamic Headphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:06:43 +0000

Many people underestimate the differences between closed and open headphones, pegging both models in a certain series as having a similar sound. Audio Technica produces a both a closed and open variant of each model (the A900 and AD900), and whilst they definitely have a trademark sound across the range, often other elements couldn’t sound more different.

Take the AD700 for example. Many people would simply look at the model number and slot it somewhere between the A500 and A900 in terms of sound quality – big mistake! The AD700 has a noticeably lighter sound that really lends it a different sonic signature altogether.

We would describe the AD700 as the perfect classical headphone in this price bracket, but it is also wonderful for jazz, acoustic guitar and piano pieces. It is an open model, which means bass tends not to be as booming and powerful, (on a closed model there is room for echo) so on heavy metal and dance tracks, bass fanatics will probably miss the extra punch. That said, the bass is incredibly quick and tight on this model – a case of quality over quantity – so it really depends how you like your music to sound.

The upper mid tones and highs are the real strengths of this model. The AD700 has some of the most exquisite detail and separation you will hear without spending several hundred dollars more. Instruments flow from one to the other with a beautiful layering effect that brings out the full sound of a large performance (eg: Orchestra). Some people will find the highs a little too bright for their tastes, but we absolutely adored the sound.

The mid range was rich and slightly warm, with a lovely, smooth texture. Our acoustic guitar rock, songs such as Patience by Guns and Roses sounded simply amazing.

The other real strength of this model is the soundstage. To put it simply, we haven’t heard anything as immersive as the AD700. The power and positioning of the individual instruments is mind boggling, surpassing pretty much everything we have seen in this price range (including the A900). Soundstage is paramount to a proper listening experience. If you can close your eyes and visualise the sound in the appropriate place it goes a long way towards creating that spine tingling feeling we strive for when listening to our favourite tunes. The massive soundstage is also perfect for positional audio. We’d venture that in terms of un-amplified headphones, it doesn’t get much better for games than the AD700s.

The AD700 sports the classical Audio Technica Design that has served them so well with this series. Large cups padded with velour and supported by two padded wings that rest on the top of the head. Stretching over that are two thin strips of plastic which appear quite flimsy but feel strong to touch. All of Audio Technica’s headphones are incredibly comfortable, and this model is no exception. As an open headphone, the AD700’s cups merely rest against the ear, rather than enclosing it, which made it easy to listen to even during sessions of up to six hours. They are however rather large, so wearing them around the streets will earn you the odd confused stare.

The open design of course leads to the inevitable problem of sound leakage. The AD700s do not isolate well, but that is to be expected. If you plan on using these in an office, ensure you invest in some ear plugs for those around you.

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio Technica ATH-AD500 Full-Size Open-Air Dynamic Headphones

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:59:27 +0000

Designed for incredibly comfortable listening.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD500 Open-Air Headphones offer a lightweight honeycomb aluminum casing and magnesium frame structure. The dynamic ATH-AD500 headphones produce no sense of pressure on the ears, offering a completely natural listening experience. The self-adjusting wing support automatically conforms to your head size. A straight cord at the left earpiece terminates to a mini plug with included ?” adapter.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD500 Open-Air Dynamic Headphone Specifications:

Type Open-air Dynamic
Driver Diameter 53 mm
Magnet Neodymium
Voice Coil Copper-clad aluminum wire
Frequency Response 10 — 30,000 Hz
Maximum Input Power 500 mW
Sensitivity 99 dB/mW at 1 kHz
Impedance 66 ohms
Weight 260 g
Cable 3.0 m (Single) (OFC)
Connector 1/8″ (3.5 mm) mini stereo, gold-plated
Accessory Included Detachable 1/4″ (6.3 mm) adapter

Audio-Technica ATH-AD500 Open-Air Dynamic Headphone Features:

Remarkably natural sound, with deep, resonating bass and outstanding vocal projection
Open-air headphones produce no sense of pressure on the ears, resulting in a completely natural sensation
Lightweight honeycomb aluminum casing and magnesium frame structure
Large-aperture 53 mm drivers with neodymium magnet systems and CCAW voice coils for superior sound reproduction
Self-adjusting 3D Wing Support Housing provides comfortable support for a more enjoyable listening experience
Extremely comfortable velvet ear pads
OFC (oxygen-free copper) cable
Gold-plated stereo 1/8″ (3.5 mm) connector with 1/4″ (6.3 mm) adapter

Related Products

Bookmark and share this post:

Audio-Technica ATH-AD400

admin — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:54:29 +0000

I recently purchased a pair of Audio Technica ATH-AD400 open air headphones. I was extremely anxious to get them because I love the sound I’ve gotten from open air phones like my Koss Portapro and Grado SR60 headphones. They arrived in the mail the other day and I can happily share that I am not disappointed with them in the least.

The ATH-AD400s are a great pair of headphones. They are circumaural headphones, which means that the earpads do not sit on your ears, they actually surround them. The earpads are made of velvet and are very comfortable. They do make my ears a little hot after a long listening session though. I’ve been taking them off after 30 – 40 minutes of use and taking a short break. The phone also sport Audio Technica’s 3D wing supprt mechanism. This allows for a very unique way to form fit the phones to the shape of your head.

The sound quality is stellar so far. I mainly used recordings by jazz and female singers to try out these phones. I’ve listened to several MDs recorded at SP and Hi-SP. I’ve also listened to CDs on three different CD players including my Sony ES model. The sound quality across the entire audible spectrum is very nice. The highs are very detailed to me, I really enjoy the clear and precise sound when I listen to a female vocal. Mids are rich as well. The music I hear on recordings by artists like Jonatha Brooke are so enjoyable (despite the overuse of eletronic keyboards on her albums). The lows are very full as well. The kick drum on many tunes really thumps. I was able to listen at comfortable levels by raising the volume on my NH600D to only 12/30. I’m happily surprised by how easily these phones are driven by the weak amps in portable gear. I’m anxious to pair these phones up with a dedicated headphone amp so I can really see what they’re made of.

At this point I’m really enamored of these headphones. They’re easily my favorite pair of phomes for use when I’m stationary. These are by no means portable phones. Apart from their size my only other complaint would be the heat that they trap when worn, as I said earlier, give yourself a break from time to time when using these phones for extended listening sessions.

Specifications

Type: Open-Air Dynamic
Driver Unit: 40mm, CCAW voice coil
Magnet: Neodymium
Frequency response: 20-27,000 Hz
Max. Input Power: 500mW
Sensitivity: 96dB
Plug: Mini/Standard Gold plated 2 Way
Cord length: 3.0m (Single) (OFC)
Light weight high rigidity magnesium frame
Light weight aluminum honeycomb casing
Net weight (without cord): 230g

Other Products

Bookmark and share this post: