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Klipsch Image S4 impressions
Klipsch has never really been a company to cater to the low-end, but there's likely never been a time in the outfit's history to better introduce a lower-end pair of earbuds than right now. The Image headphone line, which started in August of 2007 when the X10s launched at $349, has grown a few members since. Today, we're talking a look -- er, a listen, actually -- at the $79 Image S4 in-ear headphones, and while these are far from "cheap," they're definitely in the realm of feasibility for anyone considering a set of 'buds that are marginally more awesome than the stock ones bundled with PMPs these days. Head on past the break for a few impressions.%Gallery-51558%
Ultimate Ears adds in MetroFi 170 / 220 headphones
Ultimate Ears (by Logitech, we'll have you know) has introduced two new MetroFi earbuds here in Las Vegas, and both of 'em promise 16 decibels of noise isolation and offer up a single-driver, in-ear design. The 220 ups the ante with a swank titanium-coated speaker for more detail in the highs, though both sets are pushing a red-colored right earphone (so you don't get confused, or something) and three sizes of silicon ear cushions. We're also told that both sets will eventually be available in vi models ($10 extra) that boast an integrated microphone, but those uninterested in that can snag the vanilla versions for $50 (170) / $80 (220) next month.[Via iLounge]
S1 Audio debuts litany of earbuds / mobile headphones at CES
S1 Audio has shown up in Las Vegas with a plethora of new items to share, so share we will. Right out of the gate, we've got the neck-friendly NxSET Music 1 and NxSET Music 2 models, which are joined by the similar Mobile 1 and Mobile 2 models add Bluetooth for handsfree calling and the like. Moving on, we've got the SuperBudz 1 and Hypnos 1, both of which take the more traditional in-ear approach and include in-line volume controls and a completely stellar Turbo Boost for instant volume increases. Lastly, S1's wrapping things up with its dual purpose BudBud line, which is comprised of the Solo (a mono communications headset that converts to stereo earbuds), the MP3 (morphs from a single pair of 'buds to two complete pairs via the piggy-back design) and the Mobile, which includes a microphone for yelling at that guy who just yesterday was considered your best friend.
Ask Engadget: What are the best sounding headphones with in-line mic?
So you've got an awesome set of earbuds, but you're looking for a pair just as astounding with an in-line microphone for chatting it up. Thanks to the growing popularity of such a request, there are a few options on the market. Question is, which is supreme? "I have this new music phone (it's a flush-jacked iPhone 3G) and I'm thinking about getting a new set of phones. I've used some high quality headphones before, but I'm currently using Apple's included headset because of the mic / remote. I've been looking at the Shure MPA kits, but what do you readers recommended?" Thanks for the inquiry, dandaman. Let's hear what you've got, readers! Afterwards, feel free to send in a puzzler of your own to ask at engadget dawt com.
Acoustic Research doles out ARNC01 noise-canceling earbuds
Audiovox's extravaganza is closing up with the introduction of the Acoustic Research ARNC01 ($59.99) earbuds, which promise to use whiz-bang active processing to reduce noise for airline addicts and those with a crib full of rambunctious youngsters. The circuitry is housed in an in-line module with an On / Off button and a compartment for a single AAAA (yes, AAAA) battery, which should last you around 50 hours. You know, plenty of time to head off to Akihabara and back for a few new Japanese exclusives.
NewerTech unleashes iPhone accessory storm
Well, if you're gonna launch a new product line, why not fill it up, right? NewerTech will debut six lovely products for iPhone at Macworld on the 15th January, though all save the dock are available immediately. The product list features the speaker dock with handsfree mic that includes a couple 2-watt speakers and an "improved" microphone that doubles as charger when your iPhone is in the dock, throw in a couple call handling buttons and all that can be your for a mere $35. Next up is the $20 handsfree mic and earbud which features a 39 inch cable and shirt clip, a $15 mic extender is also on the table featuring a 27 inch cable to give you iPhone handsfree fun with your own earbuds, and of course an $8 headphone adapter to overcome the iPhone's crazy recessed jack. NewerTech rounds out its iPhone collection with a $20 set of buds with passive noise reduction -- said to reduce noise by 42 decibels -- and a $13 car charger for those on the go. We've not tested any of this kit, but the prices seem right and that's at least a good start.
JVC's Air Cushion headphones for you mister tender cakes
The thing we hate most about in-ear headphone designs is their tendency to fall out during our fits of high-impact irritability and coffee-fueled snark. That, and the ache from wearing so-called "sport" ear buds which can be a bit too unforgiving to our sensitive side-mounted, man-holes (aka, ears). Enter JVC's HA-FX66 Air Cushion headphones which incorporate a soft silicone rubber air cushion into the earpiece body and your choice of three different sized, silicon rubber and memory foam earpieces for that snug, comfy fit we all aspire to. Just $30 beans for US Americans.
JAYS unveils miniscule q-JAYS earbuds
It's been far too long since our ears could listen to a new pair of JAYS, but the company is finally introducing a brand new set dubbed q-JAYS. Deemed the "smallest earphones on the market," these diminutive buds boast dual micro armatures, the bass-enhancing AirBooster, silicon sleeves in a variety of sizes, and a flexible cable setup to boot. Additionally, the q-JAYS arrive with a white leather case, two extension cords, a flight / stereo adapter, and seven total pairs of sleeves. The price? Just $180 -- and those in the UK can look forward to a probable release in the not-too-distant future. Click on for a couple closeups.[Thanks, Adam]
DIY iPhone earbud replacement
One of our gripes with the iPhone are those ill fitting earbuds shipped in the box. Unfortunately, you don't have many options at the moment unless you're willing to live without the convenience of the mic / music toggle built into Apple's headphone cable. Even then, there's a good chance that your third party audio-only headphones won't fit the non-standard, standard jack. No worries, assuming you're not afraid of a wee bit (promise!) of soldering, you can fit the Apple cable with another set of buds of your choosing. Really, it doesn't look too difficult and James Papadopoulos even worked up a video tutorial which you can peep after the break.
LTB's Q-Bean creates wireless headphone / microphone link
LTB Audio Systems has been doing this wireless headphone gig for quite some time, and while its products don't exactly appear as the most prestigious in the world, all's fair if it gets the job done. The firm's latest contraption, dubbed the Q-Bean, consists of a wired transceiver that plugs into your computer via USB and a wireless key fob-sized device that pumps out tunes to the connected headphones or earbuds sans wires. The system operates on the 2.4GHz band and LTB promises that the stream is completely uncompressed, and if the idea of cordless headphones weren't enough to sell you on it, it also includes a built-in microphone for Windows Live communication or other VoIP duties. Reportedly, users of Windows, OS X, and Linux won't be bothered to install any fancy drivers for this here apparatus to function as advertised, but it still seems a bit lackluster considering the $119.95 asking price.
Drowse Prevention Alarm startles drivers, prevents accidents
If you're a driver prone to nodding off and awakening to oncoming traffic, Revex's Drowse Prevention Alarm would be well worth the (non-wallet-crushing) ¥1,200 (about $10.30) investment. Dare to tilt your head 10 degrees and an alarm sounds off, reducing the chances of accidents and collisions. The battery-operated, in-ear device has an off, low, and high setting -- potentially dangerous if you fail to choose wisely. Obviously if it's turned off, your chance of barreling off a bridge greatly increases. Try out the low setting, and if you still fall asleep and live through it, you'll know to use the high setting on your next excursion. And if that doesn't work, we suggest you take the bus.[Via Plastic Bamboo]
Girls, watch out! Pink headphones don't work
The Pink PSP is all the rage (everywhere but America). But, the Pink PSP headphones are not as nice. At least, according to PSP GadgetZ. The man that buys everything PSP-related was surprised to see that although his new black headphones worked fine, these pink official earbuds do nothing at all. Is it just a one-time defect, or is the entire line-up of pink headphones from Sony busted up? I'd like to think the former, but just in case, you may want to avoid this import.[Via PSP-Vault]
Sleek Audio's SA6 earbuds with adjustable acoustics
Possibly setting the record for most interchangeable pieces in a set of earbuds, the SA6 from Sleek Audio packs a number of features unique in the high-end headphone market. Using "treble tips" and "bass ports" that can be swapped out, Sleek claims that the single-driver SA6 rivals the performance of two- and three- driver models from competing manufacturers by offering frequency response that can be tuned to the listener's preference. Also unique is the set's cord, which disconnects right at the bud -- allegedly for a potential upgrade to A2DP down the road. Look for the SA6 in March for $250 ($230 on preorder).
Today's lesson: don't mow the lawn while listening to your iPod during a lightning storm
The Denver Post is reporting that Bunch, a 17-year-old teenager in Castle Rock, CO, was struck by lightning while mowing the lawn and listening to his iPod. While scientists aren't laying any money down on how likely it is that lightning sought out the teenager's iPod, the boy and his mother suspect Apple's little white player acted as a sort of lightning rod in this most unfortunate of accidents. The strike traveled all the way down his earbuds, burning his ears and the side of his face, causing Bunch to lose some of his hearing.All things considered, Bunch and his mother are just happy that he is alive.[via iLounge]Thanks Gidge.
Pegaso's VIBONE EZ-80WP: for underwater, skull vibrating fun
Here's the tired buzzword, catch-all product for the day: Pegaso's waterproof, bone-conducting VIBONE EZ-80WP headset. Besides being yellow and dark gray to camouflage your ear-grub, these babies vibrate the skull, not the air, in order to bring the beat to your auditory nerve. It's that little trick which makes 'em ideal for use underwater, or in space for that matter, you decide chief. Available starting July 15 in Japan for ¥19,800 or a whopping $170 bills. Hmm, reminds us this little ditty: the skull-bone's connected to the, Vi-bone, the Vi-bone's connected to the, ass-hat...or something like that. [Via Impress]
RWC's ITN-VR10 vibrating headphones
Sure, it's nice to feel that rumble from the game controller, but wouldn't it be better if your ears were doing the ringing after a crushing EA Sports-induced blow to the head, instead of your hands? Why not try on a pair of these itan ITN-VR10 headphones from RWC then, which vibrate in your ear (like a mosquito?) in reaction to what they perceive to be a large, booming force. These buds feature a standard 3.5-millimeter mini-jack for connecting to your favorite handheld game console and will last about 15-hours off battery. Available in Japan starting June 26 for about ¥3,980 or $35.[Via Impress]
Hearing Aid manufacturer targets iPod owners
No, it's not because they think you're going deaf. Hearing aid manufacturer Starkey Laboratories has gotten into the business of creating custom-molded iPod earbud headphones out of either hard plastic or a special, long lasting foam. The company's aim is to not only create highly customized, durable and noise-reducing headphones for the iPod (they make them for bluetooth phones as well), but to also reduce the stigma that often accompanies in-ear hearing aids. I think it's an interesting idea. Starkey is still considering the marketing strategy, so keep your eyes peeled if you're interested in the ultimate in custom earbuds.[Via Your Tech Weblog]
