Monday, December 27, 2010

Skullcandy SCS-SCBP3.5 Skullcrushers Subwoofer Stereo Headphones (Black Pinstripe)

The Skullcandy Skullcrushers Subwoofer Stereo Headphones in Black Pinstripe will literally pump the music right into your head! These power packing headphones feature an adjustable in-line bass amplifier and speakers with industry first built-in vibrating subwoofers. You can adjust the amount of bass effect with the in-line control wheel. The Crushers are ideal for MP3 Players, portable DVD, bass heavy music, and are the ultimate for any gamer.
Let me start off this review by saying the Skullcrushers are honestly the best pair of headphones I've ever owned, even when compared to other headphones that cost over twice as much...
My last pair of headphones got destroyed, and I was looking for an affordable replacement that was circumaural (over-the-ear), offered strong bass, had a cool design, and ideally, sound-canceling. While these headphones don't offer active sound-canceling, most outside noises get noticeably reduced, especially when you're busy enjoying the incredible bass performance!
I spent a lot of time researching different headphone models before getting these, and read mixed reviews. I've come to realize, however, a lot of reviewers who shoot down quality headphones such as these tend to be audiophiles who focus on incredibly minute details that most listeners would never notice. Other times they say that one would be better off buying a more expensive pair of headphones...unfortunately, not everyone has the flexibility to choose between $60 Skullcrushers or a $300 pair of Bose Headphones!
I also own the SkullCandy Double Agent wireless headphones, and though I paid considerably more for those, I think these offer considerably better bass performance and overall sound quality. I have many different genres of music on my MP3 player, and love the handy bass-adjuster switch that allows me to toggle just how much bass is delivered.
If you're in the market for powerful headphones with great bass, and you don't want to spend too much, the Skullcrushers are for you!

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Plantronics Voyager 520 Bluetooth Headset [Retail Packaging]

In the car, at the airport, or on the job, the Plantronics Voyager 520 delivers business quality audio performance, while its versatile design provides a secure fit for all day wearing comfort wherever your meetings take you. The noise-canceling microphone filters distracting background noise so you can be easily heard while the innovative wind screen minimizes wind noise. This user-friendly headset offers convenient one-touch call controls and a desktop charging cradle. And if you use two Bluetooth phones, the integrated multipoint technology lets you easily switch between them with the same headset. The battery provides up to eight hours of talk time and 180 hours of standby when fully charged.
In my search for the perfect bluetooth headset, they ALL require compromises... it sounds great, but it's uncomfortable to wear for extended periods... it's lightweight, but the person on the other end can't always hear me... works great, but the batteries die in the middle of an average day or the volume can't be raised loud enough... you get the idea.

Well, Plantronics has come out with the Voyager 520, and it requires, for me, the minimum amount of compromise of any headset I've tried, and I've tried a LOT!

First, it utilizes a soft rubber ear bud which is cone shaped to fit in your ear canal, but is soft enough to not irritate your ears. The hook is made of firm plastic near the head set, then transitions into a soft, clear rubber for the portion of the hook that rests on your ear, so that the hook conforms to your ear, rather then forcing your ear to conform to it! The ear bud directs the sound of the person you're speaking with into your ear, providing sufficiently loud volume while blocking out external noise! You'll actually need to lower the volume on this headset, if you're using it in a quiet environment! Now that's a nice change.

First compromise... (yeah, there are still compromises, even on this head set!), it's larger then many other bt head sets. BUT... it's lightweight, and it's size allows for battery life that goes on and on and on. While I'd prefer a smaller size (think Samsung WEP 200, Nokia BH 800), I'll take the moderately larger form factor, if it delivers better sound quality in both directions, and longer battery life, and the 520 delivers on both counts (again, compromise...)

Second compromise... noise cancellation. Yes, the Voyager 520 DOES have noise cancellation, but frankly, it's not as strong as, or as good as the Aliph Jawbone, or the BlueAnt Z9, but it does work. Will it eliminate the thunder of a roaring 747, while you're standing on the runway at LAX? No. Will you look like you have a cheese grater stuck to the side of your face while using it? Again, NO!

Compromise.

The 520 also brings with it a desk charging cradle (cheap plastic), offers the user to connect to two bt devices, displays battery level each time you turn it on, etc. etc. Go to Plantronics site, if you really need/want all of the minutia.

Bottom line... If you don't mind it's conservative looks and slightly larger size, and you want EXCELLENT sound quality, great comfort and long battery life from your Bluetooth head set, check this one out.

You just may find it's worth the compromise!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Sennheiser PMX 680 Sports Earbud Headphone with Volume control & Neckband

Combining the sporting knowledge of Adidas with Sennheiser's top-of-the-line audio expertise, the Sennheiser PMX 680 stereo earphones provide top-quality sound, excellent wearing comfort, and resistance to external influences such as water, sweat, and cold.
Worth it!! I've been waiting for this item to come out on the market. I've gone through about 5-6 pairs of different headsets. Earbuds would ALWAYS fall out after the first 2 steps of running. I think I may have a small ear canal? I then tried ones that wrap around your ear. That was okay but then after long runs they would start to get uncomfortable and hurt also the cord would snag if I turned my head.
This headset was a Very well thought out design. It uses 1 cord not 2 like alot of headphones out there. The cord is short maybe 18 inches long. This is nice because you don't have to worry about a cable flopping around when you run. It also comes with an extension cable that connects to make it longer if you want and has a volume adjuster attached if you need to change the volume on the fly. It fits very well and is very comfortable. I don't feel it when I run. The sound quality is a huge bonus. I'm happy with this purchase and I know there are alot of runners out there that have the same problem I had. I hope this review helps.

Monday, December 20, 2010

JBuds J4 Rugged Metal In-Ear Earbuds Style Headphones with Travel Case (Obsidian Black)

JLab seeks to up the game with every new generation of the best-selling JBuds line, and the J4 Rugged Metal Earbuds Style Headphones are no exception. Building on the sleek style, premium sound, and maximum comfort of the bestselling JBuds J3 earbuds, we gave the new JBuds J4's a flexible exoskeleton armor over all components for extreme durability and a hot new rugged look. These cans are built to last!The J4 ear buds also feature a rock solid, heavy duty aluminum housing, tangle-free flat cables with kevlar reinforcement, eye candy 3D logo details, and an extra tough EVA carrying case with room for your J4's and an iPod nano or shuffle. The J4's also include 7 pairs of custom molded earbuds cushions, in both single flange (XS, S, M, L) and double flange (XS/S, S/M, L/XL). The J4's are arguably the most rugged and durable earphones ever made. They're the perfect solution for those seeking an extra tough, heavy duty pair of ear buds with the legendary JLab sound: balanced wide range response, tight bass, and crisp clarity. The J4 is available with and without a mic in a range of bold, stylish color combos. Compatible with all iPods, iPhone 3G, 4G, HTC, Blackberry, Kindle, iPad, laptops, and any device with a standard 3.5mm jack. For those seeking ultra lightweight, slightly slimmer earbuds, you can't beat the JBuds J3, for iPhone 1 and 2 owners, we recommend the J3M.

When I buy earbuds, the most important thing for me is the sound quality, followed by how comfortable they are in my ears. The J4 delivered on both of these. I was really impressed by the clarity of the sound and the attention to details in the design. I have had to toss other earbuds because of a flimsy jack or cheap connectors. With the J4s, it is pretty clear that they put some thought into trying to build a product that could take a beating. I have owned other JLab products and have always been impressed with their products and customer service. I highly recommend these to anyone looking for an affordable high quality set of earbuds.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Sony MDR-V150 Monitor Series Headphones with Reversible Earcups

The MDR-V150 Studio Monitor Series headphones are built for your ears, with a supra-aural design for listening comfort during long sessions. The 30mm diameter drivers provide deep bass, and reversible earcups offer convenient single-sided monitoring.
Sony's MDRV150 Studio Monitor Series Headphones feature Supra-Aural Design for excellent listening comfort. Also included are the 30mm diameter drivers for deep bass, high-energy ferrite magnets, reversible earcups for single-sided monitoring, a wide molded headband for long-lasting comfort, and a Stereo UniMatch Plug. Indulge yourself in amazing sound. Sony will show you how.

I'm not a connoisseur of headphones, and quite honestly I don't think I've even paid much more than $20 for a pair of headphones. And maybe because of this, I've never owned a set of headphones that I was totally happy with until now. These are by far the best headphones I've even bought, and I was just floored by how good some of my favorites sound on these headphones. I just hear so much more.

I hesitated to buy these since so many people on Amazon complained about the feel of these headphones saying they pinched. Well, they are bigger than what I'm used to - a little bulky maybe - but I found them really pretty comfortable. Also, because they fit a little tighter, they seem to block out a lot more noise, which make them great for the gym or walking down a busy street.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Apple iPod nano 8 GB Graphite (6th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

iPod nano has been completely redesigned with Multi-Touch—the same technology that makes iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch so amazing. Now it's half the size and even easier to play. And everything you want to hear is just a tap or swipe away. In a sleek anondized aluminum and seven bright colors, iPod nano makes a huge statement that matches your style. The 1.5" color display with 240 x 240 pixel resolution stunningly shows off your album art, photos, and color-coordinated wallpaper. The new built-in clip makes it easy to move to the music. Just clip iPod nano to your sleeve, jacket, or bag. Wherever you go, your favorite tunes are right where you need them. In fact, with the built-in 30-pin connector, you can easily plug iPod nano into your car stereo system, your speakers at home, and many other products made for iPod. iPod nano is 46 percent smaller, 42 percent lighter, and 100 percent made for music with Multi-Touch.
The iPod Nano update on September 1, 2010 is arguably the most dramatic since the iPod Nano moniker was introduced by Apple five years ago.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Bose® IE2 audio headphones

Bose IE2 audio headphones set a new standard for sound reproduction that conventional earbuds can't match. Re-engineered from the inside out, they feature an enhanced acoustic design that helps music sound smoother and more natural. And our new construction provides a more secure fit and improved durability. IE2 headphones reproduce music with more range and realism than most typical earbuds. A modified port design, in concert with our proprietary TriPort acoustic headphone structure, results in a richer audio performance, with more detail in music's high frequencies. More clarity, even at louder volume levels-an overall presence you'd expect from much larger headphones. Proprietary StayHear silicone tips offer greater in-ear stability during exercise and other active sports.
Bose is well known in the music industry, mainly because they spend so much money on advertising and self promotion. This is why many non audiophiles purchase Bose. The price is a little higher and everyone kind of assumes "Bose is the best" so they save up their money and get whatever new product they have to offer, thinking it is the best, when many times you can get the same or better quality from other products for much less money. I'm sure some reading this will disagree with me, but this is my opinion and the opinion of many others in the audiophile community.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Sony MDR-XD200 Stereo Headphones

Everything sounds better when you use Sony MDR-XD200 Studio Monitor Series Headphones from digital media to discs to games. Designed for use at home, these over-the-ear headphones deliver robust, wide-range sound from 40mm drivers. Sony's Studio Monitor Series encompasses engineering technologies to deliver faithful audio performance from a wide variety of sources. The result is better sound with virtually no compromise on comfort. So, while earplugs may be great when you're running or riding outdoors, the Sony MDR-XD200 is the perfect fit at home Experience the comfortable fit of the MDR-XD200 Studio Monitor Series headphones. Dynamically tuned to provide movie quality sounds, these headphones will provide you with deep bass audio for a great listening experience. Tailor the headband to fit you comfortably. Features include high-energy neodymium magnets, a 2.5m extension cord and a convenient sound mode switch to match the sound source. Listen in style and comfort with the MDR-XD200 Studio Monitor Series headphones. Frequency Response - 10Hz - 22,000Hz Impedance - 70 ohms Sensitivity (db) - 102dB/mW Headband - Adjustable, Single, Music/Movie Sound Mode Switch 3.3 Feet (1m) Cord - Oxygen-Free Copper Lutz Accessories Supplied - Unimatch(R) plug adapter plug in type (gold); Sony Warranty card

These headphones are an awesome deal, excellent sound for only $20! Some reviewers complained about cheap materials, but come on, you're paying $20, if I spent $400 and got fake leather ear pads, then I'd be upset. It's like buying a sofa for $100 and whining about it not being made of Italian Silk, just absurd. Solid quality, extremely comfortable, $20, you can't go wrong!

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Monster Turbine High-Performance In-Ear Speakers

The Head Monster These days, we spend a lot of time listening to music with headphones. Every minute you spend enjoying your music should be the best it can be, but ordinary headphones can't deliver the rich dynamics, full range, and emotional impact of your favorite music.
Color, dynamics, nuance – these are just some of the characteristics that define and distinguish music and musical performances. At Monster, we love music and the passion it creates inside of all of us, the passion that helps drive our lives. It is this passion that fuels Monster to constantly develop cutting-edge technologies in search of perfect sound reproduction. With Monster Turbines, we've redefined the performance of in-ear headphones. Turbines represent state-of-the-art engineering, designed to deliver your favorite music with incredible accuracy and natural sound. Music and the passion it creates is driven by energy that you can feel, energy that cannot be explained by a number within a specification. While others may list scientific numbers or the amount of drivers for their products, at Monster we understand that these numbers do not convey the emotion of the music. True emotion and passion require specifications of a different kind.

i have had lots of different ear buds from cheap to expensive. The turbines are by far some of the greatest ear buds ive tried. The bass is not over bearing its very precise and clear, the low can be very low where some other ear buds cant even achieve these low basses.The mids have excellent definition and crispness as far as treble is not over powering where it hurts its almost perfect..over all these are very good ear buds in terms of sound quality.when your using these ear buds the source where you have it connected to makes the world of a difference. also make sure you have the right size ear tip so that you have a good seal everything should sound very muffled when you have your ear buds on with no music.finally before you read a jacked up reviews about these ear buds make sure you know the people that reviewed it had a good audio source and mp3 have to be 192kbps at least, preferably 320kbps.
Now for the gripe that i have. Being a Monster product i thought they would be more durable.The construction feels almost flimsy. The ear buds are to heavy for the thin wires they feel as if the wires are gonna rip out the ear buds and the 3.5mm connector doesn't feel very durable either. finally they could be a bit longer because in tall.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Panasonic RP-HT21 Lightweight Headphones with XBS Port

Take your music on the run with Panasonic's lightweight, low-cost RP-HT21 over-ear headphones.Their large, 30 mm diaphragms feature Neodymium magnets, offering full-bodied sound free of the discomfort that can sometimes accompany earbud-style earphones. The foam-cushioned phones also feature a wide headband, for added listening comfort.

This small headset has bass reflex that no earbuds can match. Anyone that uses a MP3 player, or DVD player will be more than pleased with the sound quality
These earphones are being used in a kindergarten class. We needed 6 pair, and the price was right. The sound quality is good, and the headphones are sturdy enough for the children to handle themselves. They have been in use for three and a half months, and so far are holding up very well. The cords are long enough to plug into the back of the computer and reach the child's seat. We store them hanging on the monitor. So far, we are very pleased with them.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Sennheiser HD201 Lightweight Over-Ear Binaural Headphones

The Sennheiser HD201 Stereo Headphones prove to be a low priced alternative to high-end studio headphones.Clarity and Power, the Sennheiser HD201 headphones are the ideal entry into the world of powerful stereo sound. These excellent headphones also boast great attenuation of ambient noise and outstanding comfort at an affordable price.Sennheiser HD201 FeaturesPowerful stereo soundRich, crisp bass responseLightweight and comfortable to wearGood attenuation of ambient noiseExtremely ruggedHigh-quality leatherette ear pads1/4 inch (6.3 mm) gold-plated adaptor2-year warranty

Basically, I needed a new pair of headphones after I got tired of the Sony MDR-V150s that my roommate lent me. I did not like the idea of having the "cups" right ON my ear, and honestly, they did not sound all that great so I decided to do some searching. I looked at Koss(I did not like any of their models) AKG( I love them, but, for $100, I did not get involved with them.) So, I decided to search some more..

best cheap headphones