Steve – Page 5 – Best Headphones Reviews

The 5 Best AKG Headphones

AKG is one of the top brands when it comes to headphones. This American-owned, Austria-based manufacturer of audio electronics produces high specification headphones and is notable for introducing the world’s first supra-aural open-back headphones in 1959 called the K50. There are several professional recording studios that use AKG headphones for sound monitoring and playback. One of the company’s headphones, the K240 Monitor, prominently figured in the 1985 music video for “Party All the Time” by Eddie Murphy.

If you are looking for the best headphones manufactured by AKG, consider the following list as your guide. They are ranked based on their respective overall package, taking into account their quality, sound output, and value.

5. AKG Q350

The AKG Q350 line of earphones features an attractive lime-based color scheme. To some, they may seem gaudy buy they certainly are easily noticeable and striking. These earphones have notable beefy base and soundstage although some may complain about the unnatural treble sound. Also, the color and build quality seem to make the headphones feel cheap. The combination of some rubber and glossy plastic finish leave much to be desired. This nearly $80 unit seems to feel like a mere $20 device. Nevertheless, this “cheapness” is limited to the perception, though. The wires appear to be strong enough. It also helps that the AKG Q350 has the great Quincy Jones as its endorser; in the same manner other headphones have been associated with popular musicians like Dre for Beats by Dr. Dre.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’AKG Q350′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. AKG Q460

The AKG Q460 is another lime colored pair of headphones from AKG. What makes this unit stand out, aside from the color, is its good build quality and the richness of its bass levels. It features 40mm drivers, swiveling ear cups, a foldable design, and dual detachable cables. This is also a Quincy Jones endorsed series of AKG headphones. The AKG Q460 is marketed as a direct competitor to the likes of Fanny Wang on Ears, Monster Beats Solo, and Bose Triport headphones. It costs more than $150 and comes bundled with a 6.3mm headphone jack adaptor and long and short detachable cables also lime in color.

The AKG Q460 headphones exert quite a strong pressure on the ears, even slightly stronger than that of the Fanny Wang on Ear set. However, using it is surprisingly comfortable mainly due to the ample amount and well-designed padding used on the ear cups. When it comes to sound quality, these headphones deliver something that can be described as aggressive. The mid-range tones sound like they’re very close to the ears. The bass levels are deep and powerful. Overall, the sound output does not sound so natural and is arguably uncharacteristic of something being endorsed by a Quincy Jones. It’s not a bad sound, though.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’AKG Q460′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. AKG K550

This unpretentious looking set of headphones from AKG offers a large soundstage. It features 50mm drivers with a 12-28,000 Hz frequency range. These are closed-back headphones that are relatively massive. The headband is massive and flat. The ear cups could even be larger than many people’s palms. It weighs 305 grams, around twice the weight of typical smartphones. If you’re using this, you are unlikely to be confident going around the city or riding on public transport with the funky looking headphones almost looking like an unusual hat on your head. Also, the cable is not removable and is somewhat too long to be used on the go.

However, what you get for all the bulk and weight is a solid build and huge soundstage. The AKG K550 is also surprisingly comfortable to wear. The padding on the ear cups is great. Passive noise cancellation is also great. Additionally, sound quality can be described as spacious, making for an engaging listening experience. The price is also worth noting. At around $388.00, the AKG K550 offers good bang for the buck. It is ideal for those who are looking for headphones that offer spacious and dimensional sound comparable to what open back headphones offer.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’AKG K550′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. AKG Q701

What you get with the AKG Q701 is a pair of headphones with excellent build quality, outstanding sound, and a comfortable fit. However, you will have to shell out some $420 to avail of this quite expensive unit. The AKG Q701 features a flat-wire voice coil technology and come with a leather headband. It is a stylish looking unit despite being made of plastic. It feels solidly built and has a build quality that is comparable to polycarbonate cans. The manufacturer claims that the unit’s arches are unbreakable. Also, the headband is self-adjusting and the ear cups are flexibly suspended. These make the Q701 really comfortable to wear, even after hours and hours of usage. Two removable cables come with the package and they are in lime and black colors, in 3-meter and 6-meter lengths respectively.

The AKG Q701 features an open back design so it offers great sound dimensions and realism. Expect great sound quality from this pair of headphones. It delivers distortion-free audio and produces an impressive amount of sound details. The accuracy of produced sounds is also topnotch. This is one of the best headphones around that can adequately compete with those of other leading companies.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’AKG Q701′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. AKG K451

The AKG K451 tops this list because of its great combination of price, sound quality, and comfort. At around $83, this pair of headphones offers powerful bass, excellent sound, a removable cable, as well as a good set of bundled accessories. The on-ear headphone design and 11-29,500 Hz frequency response range makes for a great listening experience. Moreover, wearing the AKG K451 wouldn’t be embarrassing. It comes with great design with the black body and silver accents. It veers away from the lime accents of other Quincy Jones endorsed headphones from AKG.

The AKG K451 tightly presses into the ears without being uncomfortable, thanks for the good amount of headband tension and the adequate padding on the ear cups and headband. This means a user will likely enjoy good amount of noise isolation. Additionally, the bouncy bass sound it produces makes everything sound more vibrant and easily drowns away ambient noise. This unit is far from perfect but given the price and the quality of sound it produces, it is something that can be easily recommended to those who are getting their first great quality headphones.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’AKG K451′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

The 5 Best Wireless Headphones for TV and Game Consoles

Home life is now getting more and more complicated, despite how relatively easy daily tasks are getting. Even though you have some of the best entertainment systems out there, there is always a way to make that experience even better. This is why there have been so many companies that have stuck their claim for dominance in the wireless headphones market. The aim has always been to make a device so that it can support all possible formats. This includes you television, PC, tablet, and even your gaming consoles. Of course, like most other high tier equipment, some of the gear on offer can be a little pricey, so here are some of the best headphones you should look into when it comes to price to performance ratio.

5. Razer Kraken Pro

This is probably one of the best deals you can get in terms of gaming headphones. You see, the Razer company has built quite a reputation among gamers as a provider of high tier accessories. Of course, this violates the title a bit because this pair only allows wired connections, but at the same, the sacrifice is perfectly justified. The pair features great sound output and covers almost all ranges. From bass to treble, you can expect these headphones to perform awesomely regardless of what you put it through. At the same time, the microphone cuts clear and concisely, so your message you send will always be sent out with very little distortion. In terms of features, don’t expect much, but performance wise, the $80 price tag is completely justified.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Razer Kraken Pro’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. Bose AE2w

Bose is another company that hasn’t been given enough love when it comes to sound quality and well designed headsets. The AE2w is one of the wireless headsets that demands a little more money that the usual fare, but at the same time $250 for this set is completely justified. The best feature the Bose boasts is the incredible comfort you get out of them. The headband is nicely padded so that it fits right on top of your head with no problem. It’s also adjustable, so it can almost fit all head sizes and each pad is made of foam, so your ears don’t suffer. The output rivals some of the top Sennheisser models out there, and the performance never changes as long as you stay within the designated distance.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Bose AE2w’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Sony Pulse Wireless Headset Elite Edition

Okay, the first warning you’re going to need is that this pair works best for Sony products. If you’re a huge Sony fan, then you should definitely have these headphones in your accessory library. The Pulse series has always been aimed at the people who love high quality sound without sacrificing function. It’s sort of unfortunate that this set works better with a certain line, because they outperform some of the more expensive sound devices out there. At the same time, these titans are very comfy and cover your head quite snugly without feeling too heavy. As expected of Sony, the sound is awesome, and performs admirably within the price bracket this device is located in. The Elite Edition also comes with a small mic, which is hidden but picks up sound very well. Again, Sony fanatics will surely get a kick of these headphones and they are priced at exactly $150.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sony Pulse Wireless Headset Elite Edition’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. Parrot Zik

There’s only one reason this pair isn’t taking the top slot on this list, and it’s mostly because it costs $370. If money isn’t an issue, then you should definitely pick up this pair because it provides top tier quality across all platforms. Featuring a huge and booming bass, along with beautifully done surround sound. These headphones were created for the listener with massive expectations out of their sound systems, and the Zik does not fail in any respect whatsoever. There’s also a lot of comfort to be had with these things as the padded cups are perfectly symmetrical with the rest of the headpiece. Lastly, it feels sturdy as a rock, but the price is what draws the line in the sand.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Parrot Zik’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. Creative Sound Blaster Tactic3D Wrath

So what pair of headphones remain solidly affordable while providing a high quality listening experience? Well, Creative has been around for such a long time and has given the PC crowd so much in terms of sound devices, but now they have another gift to gamers. The Tactics3D Wrath provides almost the same sound quality as the Zik, but at the same time, it also offers a much better experience for cinema. The output sounds exactly like theater quality work and at the same time, the switch between devices is almost seamless. At the same time, the setup is pretty simple and very appealing to those that like that style. It has a USB receiver and an old school mic sticking out of the headset. The best part about the Tactics3D Wrath is that they are priced at around $150, so you won’t have to break the back just to get a pair.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Creative Sound Blaster Tactic3D Wrath’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

The 5 Best Wireless Headphones

While there are a lot of headphones out there that feature awesome and crisp sound, in this digital age, there are a lot of different devices that you’d rather be out and about with. These devices are often the ones that provide you with the most entertainment like a huge screen nestled a bit farther than usual, or a PC that you need to sit a distance away to enjoy. This has always been a point of compromise between high quality and comfort. Since wireless was invented, the line began widening and started making it harder to keep quality and performance in balance. Of course, you can’t expect to buy just any set and find the best experience possible. You have to find the set that will really cater to your needs, so in this respect, here are some of the best headphones money can buy.

5. Logitech UE 9000

Logitech always straddles the line between great gear, and sub-par stuff that you really wouldn’t to use. Of course, as of late, they’ve getting better at making different parts for different things. The UE 9000 is a huge step forward for the company, and it features a lot of awesome aspects that make using the behemoth pretty fun. You can expect a high quality of sound output from these monsters, albeit, not as high quality as its wired and dedicated compatriots. Of course, there is also the option sticking the wire back into the thing. Overall though, the $500 price tag might make you want to rethink your decision of buying this pair. Think about it before you throw your hard earned cash into this set.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Logitech UE 9000′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. Plantronics BackBeat Go 2

If you’re into really mobile and compact headphones or earbuds, there are a lot of different devices you can turn to. However, they don’t offer some of the features that the BackBeat Go 2 offers by default. First off, this pair is obviously designed for runners, as it is virtually sweat proof and is really light on the pocket. The sound output you get might not be on par with higher class earbuds, but at the same time, they aren’t anywhere near bad. The inclusion of the charging case is also a plus as you can keep these bad boys charged up anywhere. The price might seem a little like this is a deal which is too good to be true, to keep note that the battery only lasts around 5 hours.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Plantronics BackBeat Go 2′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Sennheiser MM100

Leave it to Sennheiser to jump into new niches within sound gear. If you’ve never heard about the brand, then you’ve been missing out on some of the best, but most expensive, audio devices ever. The MM100 is one of the company’s budgeted forays into wireless headphones, and it does a respectable job. The quality of sound you get out of these little wonders is great, and often rivals its wireless compatriots. It fits snugly around your ears, and never feels like it’ll annoy you. Of course, since this is a Bluetooth device, you can expect that there can be issues with transmitting the sound. At the same time, the battery will probably only last you 6 hours at full blast. Quite a steal for $150 considering the company creates some of the priciest gear out there.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser MM100′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. Denon AH-W150 Exercise Freak

This is another model for people who need to be on the go at all times. It looks big, clunky, but at the same time, provides some pretty awesome quality for long distance runners. First off, the battery lasts a little longer than most other Bluetooth headsets and it’s sweat proof. The trade off is that the size of the device truly wasn’t made with the “one size fits all” philosophy. You might find that these things don’t fit you as well as other brands. However the sound is good enough to make up for any issues that it already has, and you can expect a sturdy pair of running earphones, which is well worth the $130 you’re going to spend on it.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Denon AH-W150 Exercise Freak’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. Harman/Kardon BT

If you’re in the market for pricey headgear, but you’re not really feeling Sennheiser, then there are quite a few alternatives that you can turn. However, none of those alternatives match up to the Harman/Kardon BT headset. You see, most wireless devices often have to sacrifice sound quality, but only Sennheisers and this model have managed to breach that border. Featuring a unique and boxy design that folds into a neat little package, the BTs has a lot to offer the wireless crowd. It outputs incredible sound, can be used against multiple platforms, and lasts a very long time in terms of battery life. While the basic package doesn’t include a case for easy movement, it folds so compactly that it will probably fit into an extra large pocket quite easily. So far, the $250 tag is well justified with this unique pair of headphones, and you should really buy it if you have cash to spare.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Harman/Kardon BT’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

The 5 Best Sennheiser Headphones

Sennheiser is considered one of the premier sound device producers to ever grace the earth, but at the same time, they are probably going to rip your budget up to shreds. Of course, there are a lot of people, both on the professional side and the mainstream crowd that don’t like the way the company prices their gear. However, there is a reason why Sennheiser garners a lot of respect from both sides of the fence, and usually, that reason comes with comfort, awesome bass and balanced sound quality. If you’re in the market for a pair, but you’re still considering that price to performance ratio, then maybe you should be considering a list of the best items from their catalog. Here are some of the top performing headphones that the big company has on offer.

5. Sennheiser HD 700

The first thing you’ll notice with the HD 700 is that they are huge, sound blocking monsters that will really make your head spin. The first reason for that is because they have a massive range of sound, which has almost no weaknesses. In fact, if you’re one of the people that likes to tweak their sound through an equalizer, you might be disappointed because there’s no point when you grab these headphones. While this pair performs admirably on many different devices, it benefits best from a computer equipped with an HD audio output, or something along the same lines. The second reason your head will spin is because these things cost nigh on $1,000.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser HD 700′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. Sennheiser HD 800

This pair of huge headphones is basically an upgrade on the HD 700, and at the same time, it is also in a league of its own. If you enjoy listening to titanic .flac audio files, lossless formats, or tracks that are around 320kbps sound rate, these are definitely the pair for you. They provide an accurate and highly clear sound, which allows you to hear tones and instruments you may never had picked up on your different tracks. Your viewing experience, both while playing games or watching movies, is also inevitably enhanced through the use of a quality surround sound support. However, these upgraded headphones also come with an upgraded price tag. You’ll have to top your previous budget by $500 just to afford these monsters.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser HD 800′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Sennheiser HD 598

The HD 598 is a bit of a backtrack because it is one of the older models Sennheiser has on offer. At the same time, it has stood the test of time and is actually sort of superior to the first two entries on this list. First off, this pair is much lighter than that of the HD 700 and 800 models, which means it’ll be easier to move around in them. At the same time, the sleek design and look is complemented by unparalleled comfort. It features a nice padding all around the upper ring of the pair, and the buds fit snugly and safely around your head. The sound quality still rivals some of the newer models in many respects. It features a well balanced sound, and never needs to choose or sacrifice between treble and bass. These features make the HD 598 a powerhouse in the Sennheiser line. At the same time, they are massively cheaper than most new headphones on the market today. They come in at around $250, so your wallet won’t be as stretched out.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser HD 598′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. Sennheiser Amperior

While a lot of the Sennheiser share a common physical quality (They are all most huge), there are some that stick out because of a unique look. The Amperiors are pretty sweet looking, in that they are made for traveling, but at the same time, still support the high quality jacks professionals have come to respect. These are a pair of headphones that you can take around town, but will also provide unrivaled sound output. At the same time, they also have a few unique physical qualities like a foamed up headset and pads that boast the same. At the relatively cheaper price of $300-$350, the Amperior is definitely one pair you should consider when you shop.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser Amperior’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. Sennheiser Momentum

Much like the Amperior model, this pair doesn’t follow along with the standard Sennheiser look. They’re a lot smaller, and look like they belong to a mobile user. At the same time, the Momentum also gives a lot of attention to look and finish. Boasting an almost all leather surface, with sleek and dark coloring, and coupled with a start silver metal headband, you’re definitely going to get noticed with this pair on. The range is what you would come to expect from this company, but at the same time, the Momentum gets the top slot because it sacrifices neither look nor sound. The pair is priced at around $300, so you should definitely pick this pair up if you’re constantly on the move.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sennheiser Momentum’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

The 5 Best Earbuds Headphones

There are many different kinds of earphones out there, and at the same time, many different companies that create quality sound gear. Of course, in all the ruckus and chaos, sometimes it’s really hard to cut through the stuff you don’t want just to find the gear you really need. However, sometimes you might confuse some of the gear you need in favor of much flashier products, so when that happens, you might end up on the bad end of a deal. This goes double for bud type earphones because if you pick the wrong one, you’ll be stuck with an uncomfortable experience. Buds go right in your ear, so it is very important that you get a quality pair that will fit you, or at least provide a snug and good feeling experience.

5. Panasonic ErgoFit RP

Panasonic is very well known for making some quality gear. Their DVD players and other electronics are often considered of a very good quality regardless of their inexpensive nature. This is the same with how they make their earbuds, because this model is cheap and very effective. Clocking in at around $10 for each pair, you will be surprised at the level of quality you get out of these headphones. The sound is clear enough, and if you like to play around with your equalizer, you can enhance or play down any sound you might want to hear out of these little marvels.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Panasonic ErgoFit RP’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. iLuv City Lights

While this pair of earbuds isn’t really going to impress in terms of good looks, it does provide something in line with the first entry. This pair is great for those that like quality sound, a secure and comfortable feel, and ultimately, are affordable. At around $7, this pair beats out a lot of other buds on the simple principle that they are relatively cheap while providing some good sound quality. However, beyond that, you shouldn’t expect much more out of this pair because they don’t support a mic feature and is a really basic pair of buds.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’iLuv City Lights’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Klipsch S4i Rugged

There are a lot of times when you find yourself annoyed at your earphones because they keep slipping out while you’re taking a run. Since this is a bit of a niche that companies try to target, there have been many attempts at making answering that need with a great pair of buds. The S4i Rugged is one of the Klipsh’s attempts at catering to the exercise crowd, and it’s a good one. Providing gorgeous sound along with Apple supporting mic and remote, this pair is indeed a runner’s delight. While it does have to sacrifice some of the bass power, the buds are great for general everyday use and for the anyone wanting to do some vigorous exercise. Be warned though, these things cost around $85 dollars in most online merchant sites.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Klipsch S4i Rugged’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. Klipsch Image S4a Android

While diverse OSs are always a welcome feature in many different devices, they do pose one annoying problem. In this case, the Klipsch company has gone to great lengths to cater to different phone users. The S4a android, however, is a great example of how dedicated the company is to catering to many different users. The pair provides beautiful output in the form of fully fleshed sound . It balances between bass and treble very well, but at the same time, it plays acoustic sets with more intimate sounds fantastically. The downside here is that it costs around $60, is a bit rare, and doesn’t really work with older android machines, so be warned.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Klipsch Image S4a Android’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. JVC Gumy Plus

The last entry in this list of budget buds, the Gumy Plus is another surprising little powerhouse that offers a lot of sound quality without you having to spend too much. At around $3 in current online prices, this pair offers clear thumping base along with some strong levels of volume. However, since budget buds have to sacrifice sound in one way or the other, this pair has to give up a bit of treble. So if you’re into huge rock tracks that need that screeching guitar sounds, you might want to look around somewhere else.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’JVC Gumy Plus’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

Honorable Mention: Sony XBA 4

There’s a reason why the XBA 4 isn’t mentioned on this list. Actually, there are around 250 reasons why this pair doesn’t grab a top slot. However, if you have a lot of money to blow, and really enjoy a crisp listening experience without any sacrifice on any level, this is probably going to be the best pair you’ll ever find. However, be forewarned that most earphones can be a little flimsy in terms of design, and can often fray faster than headphones. So make sure to look at all your possible options before making an investments in some of these monsters.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Sony XBA 4′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

5 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise cancellation is a feature many headphones integrate to minimize or get rid of undesirable ambient sounds. This could be an active or passive form of noise cancellation. Headphone users seek this feature to prevent external noises from drowning the audio produced by the headphones and to avoid having to crank up volumes to their maximum levels. Generally, the best noise cancelling headphones are those that feature closed-back designs and those that are used in-ear. The list below features the 5 best noise cancelling headphones available in the market. They are ranked solely according to their noise suppression effectiveness and overall sound quality, disregarding other factors such as price, type, and design.

5. Soul by Ludacris SL300

This pair of headphones features advanced driver and circuitry design to produce precision audio balance, excellent bass, and clarity in the midrange and high-range sounds. It claims to offer superior over-ear fit through its specially designed ear cups. However, all the effort of delivering better audio performance can be offset by unwanted ambient noise—something that the SL300 tries to address with its excellent active noise cancelling technology. The manufacturer’s claims of excellent audio quality could be arguable but the noise cancellation result offered by this pair of headphones is definitely great, especially as it incorporates boosted sound equalization. For an average price of $108, the Soul by Ludacris SL300 is a good buy for those who are looking for headphones with good design and an effective active noise cancellation mechanism.

Other features of the Soul by Ludacris SL300 are its replaceable flat tangle-free audio cable, folding design, dynamic drivers that use neodymium magnets, a gold-plated 3.5mm connector, and compatibility with most smartphones and multimedia devices.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Soul by Ludacris SL300′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

4. Bose QuietComfort 3

The Bose QuietComfort 3 pair of headphones is a successor to the QuietComfort 2 that comes in a smaller and more compact body. Although more expensive (around $310), this unit remarkably delivers great audio quality while maintaining the impressive noise cancelling results associated with its predecessor. Its package comes with 2 audio cables and a travel case.

This high-performing pair of headphones from Bose offers rich and detailed audio highlights made more enjoyable by its effective noise reduction technology and excellent ear cup design. The ear cups provide great passive noise reduction without compromising comfort. Other headphones have the tendency to exert excessive pressure on the ears to maintain adequate passive noise reduction. With the QuietComfort 3, the soft leather pads used do a great job without becoming uncomfortable although some heating in the ears can be eventually observed over long periods of use. In terms of active noise cancelling, the QuietComfort 3 features a proprietary noise cancelling circuitry built into the headphones, not something attached to the cord. Overall, this pair of headphones delivers what it promises to deliver, albeit at a quite off-putting price.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Bose QuietComfort 3′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Bose QuietComfort 15

Listing another pair of Bose headphones on this list is not a matter of favoritism but an acknowledgment of performance. The Bose QuietComfort 15 acoustic noise cancelling headphones definitely deserves a spot here for a number of reasons. First, it is less expensive than the Bose QuietComfort 3. Second, its noise cancelling results are even better than that of the more expensive QuietComfort 3. Even with just passive noise cancellation, the QuietComfort 15 already does a great job eliminating ambient noise. Things get better with the active noise cancellation mechanisms engaged. The QuietComfort 15 makes use of noise-cancelling microphones located inside and outside of the ear cups, for enhanced effectiveness.

This pair of headphones definitely excels in delivering noise-free music listening. However, some may find the active noise reduction method too aggressive. It is possible to sense the pressure exerted by the headphones on the eardrums. With the QuietComfort 15’s active noise cancellation kicking in, some users may not find using this pair of headphones that comfortable anymore. The noise-cancelling sound frequencies emitted by the headphones can be distracting to some users with very sensitive ears. Nevertheless, it certainly delivers the kind of noise isolation it claims to offer.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Bose QuietComfort 15′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. PSB M4U 2

The PSB M4U 2 is a rather pricey pair of noise-cancelling headphones. It is a closed-back type with an adjustable headband that may be a little thick for some users. This product features an in-line push-to-hear monitor control that can temporarily stop the active noise-cancelling feature so a user can determine whether it helps using noise cancellation or the listening situation does not necessitate it. The PSB M4U 2 comes with a tri-mode operation: active listening, passive listening, and active listening with noise cancellation. The active listening mode uses a built-in amplifier to produce more powerful and precise sounds. The passive listening mode does not make use of the amplifier and solely relies on the signals delivered by the audio source. The active listening with noise cancellation mode, on the other hand, engages the noise cancelling circuitry without using the integrated amplifier and batteries of the headphones.

The results of the noise-cancelling circuitry of the PSB M4U 2 are excellent. Together with the passive noise reduction offered by the design of the ear cups, this pair of headphones effectively gets rid of air conditioner noises, loud traffic sounds, and occasional thumps and roars in the environment, among various other ambient noises. Of course, the PSB M4U 2 cannot completely mute away louder noises but it can effectively tone them down to tolerable levels.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’PSB M4U 2′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

1. Harman Kardon NC

Although quite pricey, this quirky-looking pair of headphones delivers one of the best noise cancellation results. It offers a slightly better audio performance compared to the Bose QuietComfort 15. It comes with a long-lasting built-in rechargeable battery that supplies the power needed to run the noise-cancellation circuitry. The Harman Kardon NC uses the proprietary Harman closed-loop active digital noise cancellation technology particularly designed for acoustic installations in luxury cars. This pair of headphones delivers active noise cancelling that does not sound like active noise cancelling. Most users are unlikely to detect loss of clarity in the music or audio played. It is quite common for noise-cancelling headphones to have issues with sound clarity as active noise cancellation sets to work. With the Harman Kardon NC, though, listening to music can really feel enjoyable as the noise-cancelling frequencies released by the headphones seem to be precisely configured.

At a $300 price tag, the Harman Kardon NC is certainly not a cheap product. However, it is significantly cheaper than the equally performing PSB M4U 2. Those who are looking for excellent noise-cancelling headphones are bound to be impressed. The overall audio performance from this product is somewhat subdued but in exchange, it delivers consistent clarity and impressive noise isolation.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Harman Kardon NC’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

5 Best In Ear Headphones

In-ear headphones, which can be called simply as in-ears, earbuds or inter aurals, can be described as small earbuds that are commonly used as an accessory of mobile gadgets today. A nice pair of earbuds is able to take tunes to a higher level for a comparatively low spend. When you purchase any gadgets such as smartphones and tablets, these earbuds are usually bundled and issued as a freebie headphone. However there are higher-performance in ear headphones that can provide sonic performance capable of rivaling full-size line mates. The small earpieces of this accessory rest on the outer ear while some are used by inserting to the ear canal. These kinds of headphones are lightweight and ultra-compact and hence, they are the most portable type providing superb isolation from the noise externally especially if paired with well-fitted tip.

Almost all of the in-ear headphones features in-line remote for adjusting the volume, hands-free calling and even changing the music tracks. In addition, most of the headphones come with a choice of tips – enabling the users to know the right comfort level for them. It also provides great sound quality as well as noise isolation. Here are some of the best in ear headphones in the market today.

1. a-JAYS One+

One of the problems of people using headphones is tangling earphones. To address this problem, a Swedish design created the flat cables resulting to the birth of “a-JAYS One+”. This earphone comes in great value with hands-free options that can be used with most gadgets. This earphone comes with an L-shaped jack with 3.5 mm cable length with adjustable volume setting with button for answering the phone calls. The music or tunes are handled well above the sounding bass-heavy, price-point, well-rounded, noise isolation and detailed design. In terms of design, this earphone can spring back to the original shape and is easier to maneuver and of course, they provide comfort to the ears.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’a-JAYS One+’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

2. SoundMagic E10M

The SoundMagic E10M earphones provides great isolation and is one of the most balanced landscapes of sounds in its price range. When it comes to its design and style, it is rich in details. It has nuanced earphones with the powerful sound that is heavy with bass. The tip of this earphone can create great seal against the external noise although the utilization of the metallic drivers can have cold feel when you don it first thing in the morning. The packaging of this earphone consists of no less than six tips to choose from with storage in the form of posh drawstring bag. It features a splitter and in-line remote and works for most of the gadgets.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’SoundMagic E10M’ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]

3. Sennheiser MM 30i

This earphone from Sennheiser comes in the “shrunken” 3.5 mm jack and has super-slim kind of cable. Nevertheless, this design provides users with a sound larger than what you expect from it. This model is mainly low-frequency, making it a nice option for thrifty users. The in-line remote feature can serve to adjust the volume as well as the button for answering phone calls, but this last feature works with Apple products such as iPads and iPhones. In the package of this in ear headphones, there are three pairs of tips that users can interchange to get the comfort they are looking for while listening to their tunes.

[amzn_product_inline asin=’B004HD4L2E’]

4. Klipsch Image S5i Rugged

It is a fact that typical earphones will experience wear and tear with regular or everyday use. The Klipsch, the maker of this earphone, came up with model called the S5i Rugged. This is a well-built earphones created for daily use. One of the nice features of this model is that it is rain-proof. It provides excellent sound quality for both music and podcasts. It has an easy to use in-line remote with the right button symbols and hence, users do not have to look down in changing their tunes. In addition, comfort is also included in this earphone together with its ruggedness.

[amzn_product_inline asin=’B0043M9ATS’]

5. Etymotic Research HF5

This Etymotic Research HF5 in ear headphones are a hybrid of low and high end earphones being a mid-price-range model providing high sound quality with excellent noise isolation capability. However, these earphones lack the in-line remote or controls and the hands-free features, but the makers recompense that with its performance such as expansive sounds and cracking bass. It comes in well-built design and made with metallic design with comfortable tips giving excellent noise isolation capability for this model.

[amzn_multi_product_inline keyword=’Etymotic Research HF5′ count=’1′ page=” sort=” category=”]