Top 5 Best iPhone Headphones and Earphones

The iPhone might be a beautiful merging of sculpted plastic and tech wizardry, but everyone knows the free earbuds suck. Being seen wearing white earbuds is no longer cool, but more likely to attract derision. Apple may be well known for its pioneering smartphones, but when it comes to their earbuds, they really have to learn. This may change following the big bucks purchase of Beats, but for now it’s wise to shop around for the best iPhone headphones so you can get the most enjoyment when listening to music,

As always, there are plenty of headphones and earphones to choose from. So we’ve tried to narrow the list to our top 5 best iPhone headphones and earphones based on price, comfort and performance.

 

1. Atomic Floyd PowerJax + Remote

The Atomic Floyd PowerJax are the most expensive in-ear headphones on this list, but with just one look  will probably be able to see why. These are by far the most ambitiously designed in-ear headphones, like something off a sci-fi movie. In fact, I bet Tony Stark would look good with these.

The sound the Atomic Floyd PowerJax earphones deliver is also very clear, and if you want more bass in your music you simply need to equalize first with your bass booster eq in your iPhone. These earphones also have a dual noise isolation feature, so you can mask unwanted noise disruptions.

Crafted in durable metal that will last a lifetime, the Atomic Floyd PowerJax earphones  have a built in in-line mic and a remote to take calls. If you like high end design to match the sound quality, the Atomic Floyd PowerJax earphones are fully deserving of their spot in this list of the top 5 best iPhone headphones.

 

 2. RHA MA750i earphones

The MA750i shows off what RHA is all about – quality and performance. Built with premium grade materials, its gold plated 3.5mm stereo headphone plug assures you of zero corrosion and minimal signal loss. It also offers a comfortable fit that can slot snuggle perfectly in your ear. Although, because they are made of steel, the RHA MA750i earphones weight of the earphones can be somewhat heavy and the ear tips are larger than normal, so might not be the best iPhone headphones if you have small earlobes.

If you are into relaxing music, these headphones offer a smooth, defined sound. And they wont strain you even if you listen to heavy bass songs. Clarity is good and detailed. Simply put, the RHA MA750i are outstanding earphones that sound excellent and are surprisingly inexpensive for their build quality.

3. SMS Street By 50 ANC

We love the design and how fashionable the SMS Street by 50 ANC look, especially the silver ones. The Street earphones definitely have that luxurious look that also comes with rich sound quality. Very comfortable and fit perfectly with all kinds of head shapes, the earpads are made from ultra soft memory foam cushions that would not weigh you down even after prolonged use.

Mids are cleaner and bass is tighter and has an excellent response. The lower mid range is a little bit recessed which tends to make voices sound like they are a bit further away and the upper mid range to lower treble is over emphasized. But the voices are clear and smooth. In fact, a lot of reviewers say that these are audibly better than Beats by Dre.

SMS Street by 50 ANC are highly recommended if you’re looking for quality headphones for your iPhone and don’t mind spending extra cash for comfort, build quality and quality performance. These are also good for commuters and for listening to relaxing music in peace, as the world rushes by around you.

4. SoundMagic E10

A very unique all metal earphone construction, the design of the SoundMagic E10s is very stylish and it’s a perfect substitute for your iPhone’s headphones. Because it is made with metal, this earphone is built to last. It also has a very comfortable fit, the earbuds are smaller than most earbuds and the tips are very soft, so you can sleep soundly without having to worry having sore ears when you wake up in the morning.

When it comes to its sound quality, you can easily compare how good the SoundMagic E10s sound compare to Apple’s free earbuds. The soundstage is present and excellent, highs are crisp and clear. The bass is well blended and goes deeper the more you listen to it. One of Magic E10 key features is noise Isolation, which makes it more enjoyable to use when you are at the subway or any public places where there are a lot of unnecessary external noise.

At a price of $ 31.99, I think these pair of ear buds are a bargain and definitely one of the best iPhone headphones. You can compare its build and sound quality to $100 dollar range of headphones and its sound quality isn’t far behind either. The only drawback is that the SoundMagic E10s dont have a button to answer calls. So if you take a lot of calls then you might want to look elsewhere for the best iPhone headphones that have a built in mic

5. SteelSeries Flux In Ear Pro

They may not look as striking as the SteelSeroundMagic E10, but you will be amazed how comfortable they feel. The SteelSeries Flux in Ear Pros are great for playing long sessions Candycrush or Clash of Clans as they fit snuggly and won’t fall out easily. Better yet, they also do a great job of isolating outside noise.

Build quality mostly exceeds that of other headsets in this top 5 list of best iPhone headphones. The cable is long so you can put your iPhones in a bag or your short’s pocket, with the flexible cable much stronger than your average earphone wire, which often break in a matter of months.

The soundstage is wide, perhaps much wider than your average headphones. The sound quality is actually pretty outstanding, and you can expect a crisp and clear sound performance, with the ability to pick out every detail of the song. Bass response is just as remarkable, which contributes to why the the Steel Series Flux Pro earphones are considered among the best mid-range IEMs in the market, which is surprising coming from a gaming company.

To summarise, the SteelSeries Flux in Ear Pros offer the right amount of sound, build, comfort quality and value for money. And with its 3 button mic for volume control, you can answer calls too. So if you’re into gaming and chatting with friends at the same time, the SteelSeries Flux Pro may be the best iPhone headphones for you.

Originally posted 2014-10-21 13:49:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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The Best Headphones Under 100 Dollars in 2014 in Every Category

We’d all love to have hundreds to slap down on a pair of Ultrasone Edition 8s or Denon AH-D7100 Music Maniacs. But when your bank balance is looking bleak, you need to downgrade your aural ambitions. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a king’s ransom to pick up a quality pair of cans. There are some decent headphones to be had for a mere double digit price tag. So to make sure you spend your modest budget well, here’s a roundup of the best headphones under 100 dollars in each category.

Best wireless headphones under 100 – Sennheiser RS120 

These wireless cans are perfect for TV watching or listening to the hifi around the home. I say around the home because the cradle has a range of up to 328ft and the signal will even punch its way through ceilings and walls. When not in use, simply perch them back on the cradle and by the magic of modern technology they will recharge.

As you’d expect of headphones bearing the Sennheiser name, the sound quality is excellent, with great bass response, a balanced transparent sound and hi-fidelity audio reproduction. Lightweight and comfy, the Sennheiser RS120’s are a steal at just shy of 100 dollars.

Alternately, if you’re happy to spend some money, I also recommend checking out Sennheiser’s RS180s for home listening audio bliss or the cans which made my list of the best bluetooth headphones money can buy.

 Best in ear headphones under 100 dollars – Bose IE2 Audio Headphones

While the brand of choice for frequent flyers with the quintessentially Bose Quiet Comfort 15s, Bose isn’t so highly ranked when listing the best in ear headphones. This could soon change (in the sub 100 dollars market anyway) with the launch of the Bose IE2 Audio Headphones. These reverse engineered (whatever that means) earbuds offer  a surprisingly smooth and natural sound thanks to Bose’s patented TriPort acoustic headphones technology. Taking advantage of its expertise in the area, these earbuds also feature sound reduction technology, ideal for commuters and exercise enthusiasts.

For the best in ear headphones under 100 dollars, look no further than the Bose IE2 audio headphones. Or check out the other earbuds that made my list of the best in ear headphones.

Best headphones under 100 dollars for runners and joggers – Plantronics BackBeat Go 2  

Ok, so you did look further. In that case you have a tough decision when looking for the best in ear headphones under 100 dollars because (at the time of writing) the popular Plantronics BackBeat Go 2 earbuds also fall within the double digit price range.

Featuring sweat proof materials (military grade, no less), these elegantly shaped earbuds also feature Bluetooth technology with a generous 14.5 hours battery life. Plenty of time for a few laps of the track, an entire day’s bike ride or to keep the music pumping for even the most committed gym bunny. In line controls also allow the wearer to take calls and skip tracks with the lightest of button presses.

So if you’re looking for quality earbuds free from the entanglement of wires, I recommend the Plantronics BackBeat Go 2 as the best headphones for runners and joggers under 100 dollars. Alternately, check out the other cans for active people in my breakdown of the best running headphones and best Bluetooth headsets.

Best headphones under 100 for making a fashion statement – SOUL by Ludacris 

Celebrities have been queing up to endorse their own eponymously named pair of cans ever since the Dr Dre Beats phenomenom kicked off. The 50 Cent SYNCs and Quincy Jones AKG Q701s are two notable examples I’ve reviewed previously. Well, not wishing to miss the party, rapper/actor Ludacris launched his own pair of chunky over ear cans just over a year ago.

While I’d personally would rather pickup some headphones by Sennheiser, AKG or Grado over celebrity endorsed cans, the SOUL by Ludacris headphones have their fans. Featuring advanced driver and circuitry, you can look forward to some heavy bass sounds, whether you’re audio tipple of choice is rap, electronic or country.

Their price slash shouldn’t denigrate the quality build and audio performance of these cans, with these now rolling in at the same price as Beats Solo HDs while offering an arguably superior sound, making SOUL by Ludacris the best headphones under 100 for fashionistas that want make a statement with their choice of headphones as much as the music they play on them.

 Best headphones under 100 for gamers – Logitech Wireless Gaming Headset 

When you found yourself fighting off hordes of incoming Halo enemies, about to score a screamer in Fifa or in the middle of a bank job in Grand Theft Auto, you need to ensure your headphones offer the lag free performance you can depend on. Marketing clichés aside, the Logitech Wireless Gaming headsets are a reassuringly chunky pair of cans, with a bold looking and rotatable boom mic and charging rack.

What’s more, their size isn’t all for appearances, with them offering lag free performance (in other words, there’s no delay between other gamers hearing what you say) and immersive (is there any other kind?) 7.1 surround sound. They also pack in three programmable buttons for quickly activating options in your chat client, such as turning on your favourite music morphing your voice.

With gamers as competitive over their screen’s inches as their PC’s RAM, you can plug in their USB radio and sit up to 40 feet away if you’re lucky enough to be playing on a cinema sized screen. With their solid build and reliable audio performance, I recommend the Logitech Wireless Gaming Headset as the best headphones under 100 for online warriors.

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones under 100 dollars – JVC Hanc250

If buying a pair of Bose Quiet Comfort 15s is going to make your credit card cry, take a look at the JVC Hanc250s instead. Available for less than half the price, these noise cancelling headphones offer up to 85 percent noise reduction. This is achieved through the headphones’ external mics which monitor the external noise and then adjust the frequency you hear to block it out.

With a battery life of 50 hours, you needn’t worry about them dying on you in the middle of a flight, and they feature natural sound insulating qualities should you forget to recharge them in the previous month.

Weighing a mere 5.3 ounces, the JVC Hanc250 are exceptionally light for a pair of noise cancelling headphones. What’s more, they fold flat for snugly stowing away in a travel bag or backpack. This is yet another reason why these are the best noise cancelling headphones under 100 dollars.

Along with the Quiet Comfort 15s, check out my roundup of the best noise cancelling headphones.

Best Headphones under 100 for Bass Heads – Skullcandy Aviator 2.0

Beats by Dre aren’t the only big dog in the yard when it comes to pumping out bass. Skullcandy has been quietly chomping up a large slice of the market for bass heavy cans. Following a recent price drop, its standout headphones, the Aviators, can now be picked up for a few cents less than one hundred bucks.

The Skullcandy Aviator 2.0 headphones were born from a pairing between the popular headphones brand and Jay Z’s Roc Nation.  As you’d expect, they offer the rather aggressive sounding ‘Attacking Bass’, deemed to be punchy and powerful, with warm, smooth vocals to boot.

Sophisticated and stylish, these will add to the street swagger of anyone wearing them (according to Skullcandy, anyway). So I’m happy to deem these as the best headphones under 100 for bass heads.

Best DJ Headphones under 100 – Audio Technica ATH-M40fs Pro

The Audio Technica ATH-M40fs Pros are arguably the best sounding headphones under 100 dollars on this list. Younger brother to the Audio Technica ATH-M50s, these headphones offer extended flat response and precision sound for monitor mixing. This coupled with the ability to swivel the earpads 180 degrees and replace its cables, drivers and pads makes it a popular pair of DJ headphones.

Audiophiles will also be sated by the Audio Technica ATH-M40fs’ 40mm diameter drivers, neodymium magnets and CCAW voice coils. What all this tech wizardy amounts to is a premium pair of headphones suitable for professional use, whether sound checking in the studio or beat matching in the clubs.

Audio Technica has been manufacturing headphones since 1962, making them as deserving of the headphones buyers’ respect as Sennheiser, Grado and AKG. And now you can get hold of a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M40fs Pros without breaking the bank, making them worthy of the title of best DJ headphones under 100 dollars.

If these don’t float your boat, and you’re willing to spend the extra cash, check out my rundown of the best DJ headphones to choose from.

So that’s my rundown of the best headphones under 100 dollars in 2014 in every category. Agree or disagree? Let me know in the comments.

 

Originally posted 2013-12-18 14:19:46. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Top 5 Best Bluetooth Headsets of 2014

Wireless Bluetooth headsets have really taken off this year in popularity. This has been driven by the number of quality yet miniature sized Bluetooth headsets on the market that will sync with your phone or tablet. This frees you to take calls on the go quickly and have your hands free when walking around or performing other tasks.

In this rundown of the top 5 best Bluetooth headsets in 2014 we look at their sound quality, performance, comfort and ease of use:

 1. Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset

If you are a fan of Voyager Pro+ and Voyager Pro HD’s then you will surely love the new Plantronics Voyager Legend. These offer the same superior sound quality of most Bluetooth headsets but a much improved smart sensor technology and upgraded Bluetooth 3.0. This translates to less sound loss, which can be a problem with wireless headsets, and improved sound quality when listening to music or taking calls.

The Legend is smaller than the previous Pantronics Voyager headset, which makes it lighter and more comfortable to wear. It has an excellent pairing sensor that lets you automatically get connected to your iPhone the moment you power up the Voyager Legend. You can hear the other line very clearly and the transmissions on the microphone is very lucid.

I think the best feature of the Plantronics Voyager Legend is the mute button which allows you to shut off the background noise when someone else is talking quickly with a click of the button on the headset instead of struggling to find the mute option on your phone. It also charges only with a magnetic charging connector which is a downside for some people who likes the mini usb port types. But overall it’s the best Bluetooth headset in 2014 in terms of sound quality, voice controls and comfort.

2. Jawbone Era Bluetooth Headset

Jawbone has manufactured a range of great headphones in the past but, in my opinion, they always fall slightly behind Plantronics headsets in terms of comfort and sound quality. But the introduction of the new Jawbone Era has got a lot of people excited. This is because the Jawbone Era is the only Bluetooth headset equipped with military-grade NoiseAssassin 3.0, the latest version of Jawbone’s first noise and wind cancelling technology.

Jawbone Era is probably the smallest Bluetooth headset in the market today that can offer such  outstanding call quality. The Bluetooth headset is very light and fits perfectly and comfortably with the Jabra ear gel inserts. You can control it by tapping on a multifunction command button, which allow you to answer/end a call, switch calls, redial and kick-start your music player.

I like how the tiny Jawbone Era is designed, that you can conceal it under your hair or your beanie which makes it less awkward to wear on the street or any public places. A fun feature of the Jawbone Era Bluetooth Headset is that you can configure it to speak to you in a range of custom voices, such as Bombshell, gruff Mobster, Ace and Arcade. Definitely a good choice for people whose constant line of communication is through their Bluetooth headset.

3. Jabra Supreme UC MS

With the Jabra Supreme UC Bluetooth headset you will never have an excuse for missing a Skye call again. With its Nano Bluetooth USB adapter you can easily connect it to your PC or laptop for internet calls. You can simultaneously connect any 2 devices of your choice or any Bluetooth devices.

Jabra Supreme UC is the first Bluetooth mono headset that offers great sound quality paired with Active Noise Cancellation technology. It also has a voice control app that allows the user to answer or ignore calls by simply using voice commands. You also get vocal updates on caller ID, battery level and connection status.

The Jabra Supreme comes with a zip up case that you can carry them in your pocket or snugly in your backpack. So if you’re looking for an all around communication Bluetooth headset that can be an excellent pair with your mobile device as well as a subtle headset for your Skype calls on your laptop then the Jabra Supreme UCs may be the best Bluetooth headsets in 2014 for you.

 4. BlueAnt Q2 Smart Bluetooth Headset

If you are looking for a slim and slender looking Bluetooth headset with a cutting edge noise cancellation technology then BlueAnt Q2 Smart Bluetooth Headset are worth a look. Now, you must be wondering what makes it Smart? It doesn’t literally mean boosting your IQ level but they are smart enough in responding to voice commands.

You can operate the BlueAnt Q2 Bluetooth headset entirely hands-free via voice commands, making it a good option if you are frequently taking calls while in your car. What makes it more ideal for in-car use is that it perfectly works well with Vingo SafeReader app where you let your BlackBerry and Android phones receive and hear emails and also text messages via TTS. You can also pair it up with 2 devices at the same time.

With amazingly good voice quality and superior performance, the BlueAnt Q2 are one of the best Bluetooth Headsets out there in 2014.

5. Jawbone Icon HD + The Nerd (Denim)

 Jawbone Icon HD + The Nerd aims to become one headset for everything. Through ICON HD it allows you to connect to a variety of devices. If you also wants to talk hands-free and/ privately steam audio from your smartphone or tablet this may be the perfect match for you. The NERD offers a simple plug and play solution to wireless audio to any Bluetooth or USB-equipped device.

The best features that I love with The Icon HD is its fabulous call/voice quality, it is very user friendly, very stylish design, a voice announcement will tell you how much battery life is left and who is calling. I think this is very essential for professionals that are always on the go. You can take your call from your ipad/laptop anywhere without any hassle. These are also very stylish in design, so if making a fashion statement is important for you, then these may be the best Bluetooth headset in 2014 for you.

Originally posted 2014-09-11 19:05:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Top 8 Best Bluetooth Wireless Headphones in 2014 Reviewed and Rated

Far from a novelty, Bluetooth wireless technology is becoming a must have feature when shopping for high range headphones. All the top brands now have a flagship pair of Bluetooth headphones for connecting devices (sometimes more than one) without getting tangled up in wires. But which to choose? Here’s my roundup of the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014.

Sony MDR1RBT Wireless Bluetooth Prestige headphones

Sony hasn’t managed to gain a sense of dominance in the audio market since the release of the Walkman in the 80s. Not to be perturbed, Sony has entered the Bluetooth headphones market with big ambitions, feeling confident enough to name its entry into the wireless headphones market ‘Prestige’. They certainly standout aesthetically, with an iconic red ring around each seamless metal ear cup and excellent build quality.

Their confidence isn’t completely misplaced. The Sony MDR1RBT Wireless Bluetooth Prestige headphones harness the latest NFC pairing technology and feature specially engineered ultra wideband HD drivers to offer precise mids and highs and powerful bass. Endorsed by Katy B and Magnetic Man, these wireless Bluetooth headphones also feature noise cancelling technology and excellent build quality.

With excellent sound quality, modern looking metal design and classy packaging, Sony can be commended for their efforts to regain some respect in the audio market, with the Sony Prestige worthy for being considered among  be the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014.

SMS Audio Sync Bluetooth Wireless Headphones by 50 Cent

Ever since Dr Dre and Monster joined forces to release the eponymous Beats by Dre headphones, people’s perceptions of over ear cans have changed. No longer are big chunky headphones the size of earmuffs for audiophiles and serious music lovers only. They are now a fashion statement, with in ear headphones relegated to being the low class alternative. However, based on some of the online reviews of Beats by Dre headphones, you can find that the reality hasn’t quite matched up to the marketing. Wishing to mirror his friend Dr Dre’s success but not the criticism, 50 Cent took his time to listen to what the market wanted before releasing headphones of his own.

The SMS Audio Sync Bluetooth Wireless Headphones by 50 Cent feature all the elaborate styling of a celebrity endorsed pair of cans, whilst managing not to disappoint when it comes to performance. These Bluetooth headphones use Kleer technology to provide lossless audio and great sound quality from a paired Bluetooth device. As the name suggests, you can also ‘sync’ up to four of these headphones to one device should you wish to share in the listening experience with friends.

The headband is made from hardened ‘shatterproof’ plastic which should be tough enough to survive the assault course nature of public transport. But the drawback for commuters is that the SMS Audio Sync Bluetooth Wireless Headphones by 50 Cent only feature passive noise cancellation, in other words none at all other than that provided by the over the ear design. This coupled with their bulky size means they might not be best for regular travel.

However, if you want to take your sounds on the street and look good doing it then these are one pair of wireless celebrity endorsed cans which offer the sound performance that lives up to the marketing.

Parrot Zik by Philippe Starck – Best Bluetooth headphones for gadget fans

Brewed from the combined creative talents of product designer Philippe Starck and Parrot’s Henri Seydoux, the Parrot Zik by Philippe Starck Bluetooth wireless headphones took four years to develop. Where these standout, in this list of the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014, is in their range of technological features.

The rubberised texture earpads feature ultra responsive touch panels for controlling the music or answering calls with the merest swipe of the fingers. Rather than pressing down, actions are performed by swiping in different directions, providing a sophisticated control method for these high end wireless headphones.

What also sets the Parrot Zik by Philippe Starck wireless headphones apart is their benchmark noise cancellation technology. After doing the sums, Starck and Seydoux gave these cans four mics instead of the usual two. This enables them to block out 98 percent of ambient background noise for enjoying your music in peace. In addition, these wireless headphones use DSP (Digital Sound Processor) technology which performs the magical feat of making music sound as though it is coming from a stage in front of you, imaginatively referred to as the ‘Parrot Concert Hall’ effect.

Other standout features of these stylish wireless Bluetooth headphones is that they feature a Jawbone sensor which analyses jaw vibrations for more accurate relaying of speech. What’s more, this technology is used to automatically stop playing the music whenever you take the headphones off. If you’re a gadget fan that loves playing around with the latest technology, the Parrot Zik by Philippe Starck are among the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014 to consider buying.

Jabra Revo Wireless Headphones – Best mid priced Bluetooth headphones

The only drawback of buying Bluetooth headphones is that they can be on the pricey side. Not surprising, really, when you consider the advanced sound processing technology that’s needed to replicate music with minimal sound loss. Thankfully, Jabra Revo Wireless Headphones enable you to enjoy the practical pleasures of wireless listening without having to break the bank.

These mid priced wireless headphones feature Dolby Digital Plus technology for rich, full spectrum sound. They are strikingly similar to Beats by Dre in terms of design, with the same hinged collapsible headband design, made from reassuringly durable aluminium. Turntable touch controls on the earpads let you change tracks and adjust the volume with a simple flick of the finger.

While the Jabra Revo Wireless Headphones can’t compete with the other cans in this list in terms of sound performance, if cost is an issue then you wont be disappointed in picking up a pair of these cans which are deserving of the title of best mid-priced Bluetooth headphones in 2014.

Harmon Kardon BT Over-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

These Bluetooth headphones are for the design conscious, who prefer understated sophistication over the comparative brashness of a celebrity endorsed cans. The Harmon Kardon BT Over-Ear Wireless Bluetooth headphones are certainly eye catching, offering a smart blend of acoustic performance and aesthetic appeal.

These wirelesss headphones use AAC and apt-X coding for the streaming of audio from a smartphone or other Bluetooth enabled device. A built in mic enables you to take calls, while controls on the ear cups allow you to change tracks and adjust the volume. Perhaps the unique selling feature, along with their high end looks, is that they will still work if you connect a cable after the 12 hour battery has died a death.

The Harmon Kardon BT Over-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Headphones have decent sound performance, with a clear yet slightly heavy bass. In some reviews there have also been complaints of the audio dropping out. So it might be worth shelling that little bit extra if you really want one of the best Bluetooths headphones in 2014 that offer the modern looks and sound performance to match.

Bose AE2w Bluetooth Wireless headphones

Since it was founded in 1964, Bose has grown to be a brand beloved by travellers with its Bose Quiet Comfort sound cancelling headphones a common sight on planes, trains and picked up by audiophiles as their ‘second pair’ at home. Recently Bose stepped into the rapidly expanding Bluetooth headphones market with its AE2w cans.

As you’d expect of headphones made by a company with a 50 year history, these feature some great technical features. Firstly, they harness Bose’s patented TriPort technology for delivering wide ranging sound. The battery life is a bit on the light side, as you can only expect to get 7 hours out of these before looking for the recharge cable. As with most Bluetooth headphones, the controls for changing the track and volume are mounted on the earpads, which includes switching on the built-in microphone for taking calls.

The Bose AE2w wireless bluetooth headphones are certain to be popular with Bose’s existing loyal fan base. However, some reviewers have complained of their slightly weak bass. If classical or easy listening is your audio tipple of choice then these might be worth a look. But if you’re into your rock, hip-hop or electronica, you might want to look elsewhere for the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014 for pumping out rumbling bass lines.

Logitech UE 9000 Wireless headphones

The brand name might not be as trendy as others on this list, but these wireless headphones deliver exceptional sound performance and build quality to feel quietly smug about.

Logitech’s patented UE Sound Signature delivers pure, undiluted, rich and clear music. Its powerful sound performance is complimented by great build quality. Its metal alloy hinges and durable materials throughout gives you the reassurance that the Logitech UE 9000 Wireless headphones can survive the rough and tumble of the daily commute unscathed.

Logitech’s wireless headphones also feature active noise cancelling technology for filtering out the ambient noise of other people for a more immersive listening experience on the way home. A built in microphone also lets you take calls on the go.

The only drawback with these cans is that they can have compatibility problems with Android devices and the bass can be a bit on the heavy side for some aural palettes. So if you’re not an Apple fan and you listen to classical or easy listening music, you might want to check out some other cans in this list of the best Bluetooth wireless headphones in 2014.

Sennheiser MM 550-X Bluetooth Headphones

Bose is normally the brand of choice for frequent flyers, but their entry into the Bluetooth headphones market has fallen short of the dominance set by their Bose Quiet Comfort. If you’re looking for headphones for travel offering exceptional sound, active noise cancellation and wireless technology then the Sennheiser MM 550-X Bluetooth Headphones are worth a look.

For a long time Sennheiser has been regarded as a top brand by audiophiles and people in the know. These wireless headphones are no exception, featuring Wow HD technology, neodymium magnets and patented duofoil diaphragms. In layman’s terms all this technical wizardry means that they sound superb, with exceptional clarity and warm, thumping bass.

Business people on the go will appreciate the invisible microphone for calls, which they can activate at a press of a button on the earcup. In the sound cancelling department, the Sennheiser MM 550-X Bluetooth Headphones feature Noise Guard technology which cancels out up to 90% of the background noise. What’s more, these wireless cans also feature a TalkThrough button for speaking to flight attendants or fellow passengers without having to take them off.

This is Sennheiser’s third generation Bluetooth cans and arguably the best Bluetooth headphones in 2014. Their technical features and audio performance will delight frequent travellers and audiophiles alike, and maybe earn some new converts to the Sennheiser headphones brand.

 

Originally posted 2014-01-06 05:05:07. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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The Best In-ear Noise Cancelling Headphones – as Proven by 35,000 Miles of In-Flight Testing

There are a few good noise cancelling headphones out there, but a recent test by headphone measurement Guru and Wirecutter contributor Brent Butterworth discovered which were kings of the hill. Butterworth’s sound tests found that the Bose Quiet Comfort 20s could claim superiority over every other in-ear noise cancelling headphone out there.

The test was conducted using standard measurement equipment and subjective listening tests conducted with multiple testers over the course of 35,000 miles of in-flight testing. Bose QuietComfort20 emerged to be the best in terms of in-ear sound quality, with noise-cancelling features that simply crushed the competition.

A lot of people would thought that all in-ear headphones have “noise cancelling” features. But while an in-ear headphone might have “noise isolation” that’s not the same as “noise cancellation”. These two terms are often used interchangeably, which is wrong. Although both of these features can reduce noise the way tthey do it affects how effective they are at doing it.

Bose QuietComfort 20 has exceptionally effective noise cancellation features and takes noise-cancellation a step further in terms of turning down the ambient noise.

“The QC-20’s noise cancelling function works so much better than any other manufacturer’s that the QC-20 almost belongs in its own product class. In the lower frequencies, where the noise from jet engines resides the result is best I can remember measuring, as good as -45 dB at 160Hz.” says Brent.

So the Bose QuietComfort 20s are clearly the best, but they arent exactly cheap. So if budget is an issue, what are the alternatives?

In-ear Noise Cancelling Headphones Budget Option #1 – Sony MDR-NC13

If you think $300 is too much dough to spend on a pair of headphones, another good option is the $45 Sony MDR-NC13. Sony is a well established brand known for its high quality and durable products, plus they are very affordable and sounded really great, says Geoffrey Morrison former Technical Editor of Home Theater magazine.

Good:  Not as expensive like Bose QC-20 but, a great pick for a good all-around noise-cancelling headphones.  It is bassier, decent sound, good treble detail (which is preferred by most people).

Bad: Mids are a little unclear. The included adapter does not meet the standard airplane adapters, which is double mono plugs and the MDR-NC13 has two stereo plugs which can cause some problems for some.

In-ear Noise Cancelling Headphones Budget Option #2 – Digital Silence DS-101A

The noise-cancelling ability of these in-ear headphones is not far from Sony MDR-NC13. The Digital Silence DS-101A landed on the top spot from the “Best Headphones Under $30” lists on thewirecutter.com, due to their amazingly good sound with excellent noise-cancelling feature, but they are limited and a rarity to find now days.

Good: A good buy for the price. The noise cancellation is very clean, sounded really great and the battery can last for a long time.

Bad: Need to improve more on the Customer Service department. But overall it is a great pair of in-ear noise cancelation headphones.

 

Originally posted 2014-11-19 15:52:25. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Review Fanny Wang 3001 Noise-Cancelling Headphones – For Fashionistas that take a Lot of Flights

The massive success of Dr Dre Beats headphones has been a revelation. It’s shown that people will happily pay a premium for design when it comes to choosing the best pair of headphones. Now hot on its heels is the Fanny Wang brand, inspired by Dr Dre Beats for its headphones’ looks and genital organs for its name.

If the name doesn’t put you off and you want headphones that can close you off from the world, Fanny Wang’s 3001 Noise- Cancelling heaphones might be worth a look.

Appearance

They say imitation is the highest form of flattery (or the fastest route to patent infraction law suit), which was no doubt on people’s minds when coming up with these headphones. Put simply, these look nearly identical to Dre Beats. But, along with the bold brand name, there are enough aesthetic differences to justify fashionistas giving these a once over as an alternative to Beats by Dre.

As befits their price tag, the Fanny Wang 3001s are robustly built, with high quality hinges unlikely to break while being carried around in a bag. The faux leather ear pads are luxuriously plush, with a generous amount of memory foam helping the Fanny Wang 3001s achieve their noise cancelling credentials. They also have a rubbery matte feel compared to the metal of Dre Beats.

Performance

The Fanny Wang 3001s are fitted with a three way switch in the right headphone for toggling the noise cancelling or to give them a thumping bass boost. The sound cancelling can also be controlled via large easy to press buttons on the cable.

The headphones are fitted with large 50mm drivers and noise cancelling circuitry, which uses four mics to optimise the noise cancellation. Two mics are used to detect outside noise while two optimise what you hear.

For long flights, while sat on the train to work or for lounging around the pool, the noise cancelling technology in the Fanny Wang 3001s will be a revelation. You’ll literally be able to close yourself off from the world around you and to enjoy your favourite music and audiobooks without the normal interference of surrounding noise. Instead, you’ll be able to relax in your own audio world.

In reviews, the sound quality of the Fanny Wang 3001s also gets the nod. Female vocals over guitar with the noise cancelling switched on is expansive and absorbing. While you can switch on the bass boost to enjoy heavier hip hop, rock and dance tracks with as much rumbling bass as you’d expect from Dre Beats.

Summary

All in all, the Fanny Wang 3001s are a luxurious set of headphones. They are perfect for fashion conscious types that take a lot of flights due to the noise cancellation technology or anybody who likes the look of Dre Beats but wants to stand out as an individual.

They are, however, a bit on the bulky side. So for everyday portable sounds you might want to look at the Fanny Wang On-Ear headphones. Designed to compete with Monster Beats Solos, these have the same outer appearance yet the performance is decidedly superior, with a full and rich bass response that doesn’t drown the rest of the range.

Originally posted 2012-10-30 19:49:59. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Dr. Dre Sues Counterfeit Companies in China for $135 billion

Dr. Dre is coming after Chinese companies who sell fake beats products online. Chinese made products are everywhere and 99% of fake ones  come from china. According to the lawsuit that beats filed, a group of unnamed websites that is based in China are getting rich by selling cheap and counterfeit headphones bearing the letter “b” imprint which is similar to that of beats logo. The massive worldwide sales online of the fake beats headphones have generated over $135 billion in revenue, 135 times more of what beats by Dr. Dre’s make in a year. According to TMZ, Beats is suing to stop all sales of the forgeries and to take over all of the domain names used by the websites hawking the fakes.

At times I wonder if Chinese copycat manufacturers could really be apprehended. Judging from the past unsuccessful lawsuits of different companies, it seems like the Chinese fake industry is indestructible. Fake made in Chinese products have become a culture in china. They sell cheap alternative to the masses, a genuine headphone that originally cost $89.99 can only be bought at $3.99 for the fake ones.  Beats has to protect its trademark and interest. It is their intellectual property that is breached upon. I hope this time the Chinese counterfeit makers would learn their lesson.

As a consumer, the presence of fake products online is fine as long as you know what sets it apart from the original. But if you are looking for original products and was deceived thinking what you bought is genuine. Then it is a whole other issue, this is what happened to beats headphones.  A lot of consumers have been complaining at what they thought a genuine beats headphone. But eventually they will realize that they have been a victim of online deception.

How to Spot fake Beats Headphones

• The price is too good to be true: That’s because it is. Genuine Beats products are made with high-quality materials and designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind listening experience.
• The retailer offers low pricing if you buy more than one: Authorized Beats retailers will never double down on your purchase.
• The shrink-wrap on the exterior is loose or unprofessional looking: If you get Beats products in unprofessional packaging, they’re fake.
• No box, manual or warranty documentation: Auction sites offering products with no box, manual, or warranty documentation are counterfeit.
• Suspicious Packaging: Cheap, faded, damaged packaging or labeling, strange markings or misspelled words are all sure signs of counterfeits.

(safe buying tips from beatsbydre.com)

 

Originally posted 2014-07-22 12:01:55. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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