Update: If you're looking for impressive sound
performance, a comfy fit and impressive value in a set of earphones,
you'll like the newest additions to our guide, theSony XBA-H1 and the Beyerdynamic iDX 160 iE.
As
much as we love the sound and bass performance of big, hulking over-ear
headphones, there are some situations where they simply tend to cause
more problems than they're worth.
Whether you're at the gym,
traveling, or just hanging out, sometimes you just want something a
little more compact, something that won't weigh you down, or maybe even a
pair of headphones that's sweat-proof. For these specialties, you're
speaking precisely of what in ear headphones have to offer.
We're
on a mission to provide you with the best in ear headphones around. As
such, we've corralled our top rated reviews so that you can do all your
research and make a purchase in one place.
But don't think we're
done updating this guide once it's been published. As we review better
headphones, the product with the lowest mark will get the ol' boot.
Shure SE215
There are earbuds, then there are earphones. The name may not be very different, but pretty much everything about them is.
If excellent noise isolation, comfort and stellar sound performance are of interest to you, consider the Shure SE215.
The
headphones come in a cool translucent, space grey color and among its
many good traits, the best of all is that you can snag the Shure SE215
for a hundred bucks.
This
next set of earbuds is extraordinary in more ways than one. Our own
James Rivington described his first experience with the ACS T1 as being
thrown into "a lake of narcotic syrup. It flows down your ear holes and
intoxicates your brain." If that isn't a recommendation for a product,
what is?
Differing a bit from standard earbuds, the ACS T1 are
high-quality in-ear monitors packed into an earbud-sized silicon mold
that rests in your ear. And they fit just right, only because you have
to go in for a custom molding of your own inner-ear for ACS to build
your set.
If that doesn't scare you off, let's get the price out
of the way. They're $999 (£649) and that doesn't include the kitchen
sink. This may turn you away, but if it doesn't, the ACS T1 might be
just for you. They are, indeed, true enthusiast earbuds meant for
audiophiles.
Get these if money is of no concern when picking out tech, and if you want unrivaled sound performance and comfort.
While
Bose isn't typically known for flamboyance, the FreeStyle earbuds are a
fun departure from the brand's executive tone. Of course, they do this
while holding onto what makes Bose products renowned, sound quality.
Specifically
targeted to gym-goers, the $129 (about £104, AU$156) FreeStyle
headphones are stocked with helpful features to help you get the most
out of your music during a workout (when you need it the most). It
offers a comfy and stable fit and better yet, it's moisture-resistant
design means the FreeStyle can kick it with you through your whole
workout, inside or out. The only major downside is that the inline
controls are only compatible with iOS.
Get these if you're in the
market for flashy earbuds that sound fantastic, won't fall out
mid-workout, and if money is of little concern.
In-ear
headphones hone in on portability and convenience as main draws.
Unfortunately, that sharp focus can result in features like sound
performance and design taking a back seat in several in-ear options in
the market.
The Beyerdynamic iDX 160 iE buck that trend by providing a stunning balance in its sound quality, feature set and design.
The
flat cables, swappable ear tips and inline remote are sweet additions
that work to make the iDX 160 iE an even more attractive value for the
$135 price tag.
If
you're in the market for a set of in-ear headphones with pizzazz, the
Sony XBA-H1 will be right up your alley. Whether your preference leans
toward a more sporty look, or one that is simple, both audiences are
served well here.
The hybrid driver unit packs in balanced
armature and dynamic designs into one unit, bringing the very best that
both have to offer to your ears. This results in booming bass, highs
that shine and response that makes your music sound more punchy than
ever.
Despite the lack of inline controls, the sound performance and confident design ID make the XBA-H1 worth the $150 price.
