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Skullcandy unveils Navigator on-ear headphones, we take a first listen to the Aviator's petite 'sibling'
Believe it or not, what you're looking at above is a set of headphones -- let's explain. It's no secret that Skullcandy has been working to improve its tattered repertoire with headphone junkies for the past two years. Nowadays, it's not uncommon to hear generally favorable opinions about its Jay-Z-endorsed Roc Nation Aviators ($150), and the company has apparently taken notice. Aiming to build on the success it's had blending sunglasses with headphones, it's now ready to let loose a "smaller sibling" into the lineup -- and we've been able to get an exclusive first look and listen. Without further ado, say hello to the Navigator. Priced at $99, it features a similar aviator-esque style to Jay-Z's model, albeit in a petite on-ear package -- we'd say the design direction this time is even better looking, too. The cans have collapsible earcups with flat earpads and metal construction (just like you'd find on sunglasses), with a faux leather-wrapped headband and a flat tangle-resistant cable (detachable) which houses an iDevice-compatible three-button remote and microphone. Skullcandy is being light on technical details at the moment, but we do know that the headphones will come in a choice of black or black with blue lenses earcups. Interests piqued? The Navigator will officially land at Apple stores tomorrow, where they'll be an exclusive offering until the end of the month -- in the meantime, join us past the break for our initial impressions.
Klipsch revamps Image One series headphones, intros first Bluetooth variant (update: ears-on)
As if updating and expanding its in-ear headphone lineup wasn't enough, Klipsch has gone ahead and unveiled its revamped Image One on-ear set here at Irving Plaza in NYC. As we're told, the new Image One is acoustically similar to its predecessor, but now it has a more stylish and robust design that should hold up better over time. Notably, the headphones only have a single cable leading into the left earcup (rather than splitting into both cups like the original), and it's also of the flat variety to prevent tangling. The earcups can still fold flat, but now they can fold into the headband as well, making a smaller footprint for storage in a stuffed bag. In terms of comfort, the leather earpads are now a totally flat to provide an improved seal and better comfort. Beyond that, an Apple-certified inline remote / mic will help you control your music and calls on the go. An airliner converter, a 1/4-inch adapter and soft-shell carrying case are naturally included, and best of all, its price will remain set at 150 bones. Rather than just tweaking the original, however, Klipsch has decided to finally enter the wireless headphone game by offering a $250 Bluetooth-equipped variant for those who hate cords. This version looks nearly identical, with the subtle tweak of having the playback and volume controls positioned as buttons on the outside of the right earcup. The Image One Bluetooth also sports a built-in rechargeable battery, yet the set only gains 10 grams of weight (180 grams total) on top of its wired sibling -- should the battery die, a detachable cable allows for passive functionality. What's more, audiophiles will pleased to know that aptX and A2DP are both baked-in for high-quality lossless audio streaming. If your ears are already tingling with excitement, the new Image One and Image One Bluetooth are set to hit shelves by the end of the month. We're already putting both sets of cans through their paces here at the event, so check back soon as we'll be updating this post with our initial impressions. Update: You'll find images of the headphones below and our brief ears-on after the break. %Gallery-162134%
Koss revamps Porta Pro headphones with iPhone remote, intros 'interlocking' earbuds
We're baffled that we missed this gem of news during the bustle of CES, but it turns out that Koss has recently announced a new version of its iconic Porta Pro headphones. The Porta Pro KTC (Koss Touch Control), as it's dubbed, is essentially the same piece of retro kit that's been delighting ears and keeping wallets chubby for nearly three decades. The KTC bit in its name refers to the inclusion of an iDevice-certified inline remote / mic, aimed at keeping on-the-go users in sync with their playlists and phone calls. If you prefer earbuds, but hate tangled cords, then the company's interlocking intra-aurals might be to your liking. This lineup features in-ears which snap into each other for easier storage. You'll have a choice between the IL-100 and 200, the latter of which distinguishes itself with the mere addition of an inline remote for iPhones. While there's no word on pricing just yet for any of the aforementioned units, Koss aims to begin shipping the new audio-wares once spring is in full bloom. For now, you'll find the press releases and a render of the 'buds after the break.
Klipsch Mode M40 noise-cancelling headphones review
Around these parts, we've generally had favorable opinions of Klipsch's audio products. Whether it's been something as small as its S4 line of smartphone oriented in-ears or grand speaker systems like its AirPlay-enabled G-17 Air, we've usually ended up awarding the brand our highest praise. If you'll recall, it was little over a year ago that Klipsch introduced its $150 Image One on-ear headphones -- the company's first set ever that weren't of the intra-aural variety, and a favorite of our own James Trew. Fast forward to the present, and the company's unleashed its second proper over-the-head headphone, the Klipsch Mode M40 with active noise-cancellation. In recent years, headphones have exploded in popularity -- many companies have been furiously trying to blend good sound with fashion-forward looks. It's safe to say that's Klipsch's end game here, and is asking that you part ways with 350 bones to get in on the action. Put simply, these aren't a follow-up to the Image Ones, but rather, a luxury pair that takes cues from the company's reference series headphones. Of course, as we've come to expect from Klipsch, the M40s do have some notable tricks up their yokes aside from their debatably fashionable looks -- the company promises they'll cancel noise for a massively long 45 hours on a single AAA battery, and both earcups feature an interesting dual-driver array with a 15mm tweeter and a 40mm woofer. So, have the M40s made us smitten with Klipsch all over again? Or not? Maybe something a bit more complicated? Click on past the break to find out!
Sennheiser unveils $1k HD 700 reference headphones, HD 25-based Amperior for mobile audiophiles
Here at CES, Sennheiser's just unveiled its latest duo of headphones set to please audiophiles at home and on the go. First up is the company's HD 700, which at a glance, appears to be a suave hybrid of its esteemed HD 800 and 650 reference cans. If you've lusted after the HD 800, but couldn't stomach the $1,500 price, you'll be happy to know that the HD 700 can be yours for a cool (albeit still wallet-thinning) 1,000 smackers. Notably, these 150-Ohm, open-backed headphones are loaded with 40mm Duofol dynamic drivers, and are capable of an impressive 10Hz to 42kHz frequency response. Next up, its Amperior supra-aural headphones take the already portable HD 25 DJ 'phones, and spices 'em up with an iDevice-compatible inline remote / mic, updated specs and aluminum, closed-back earcups. While there's no word on pricing just yet for the We're told that the Amperior will sell for $350, and it'll hit shelves along with the HD700 this March. HiFi audio lovers will find a detailed rundown of each unit's ear-tingling specs in the press releases after the break.
Turtle Beach unleashes M-series mobile headphones, updates Ear Force gaming headset lineup
Last year, at CES Turtle Beach wowed us with its Ear Force PX5 wireless gaming headset, featuring customizable surround sound presets -- this year, the New York-based company is unveiling its first foray into "lifestyle" headsets with its new M-series, as well as updating some of its staple Ear Force gaming headsets. To start, fans of the X31 and X41 wireless Xbox 360 headsets will be pleased to learn about its new X32 and X42, respectively priced at about $100 and $160. The duo build atop their older siblings' 2.4 Ghz RF radio signals, operating over dual-band 2.4 / 5 Ghz WiFi using an included transmitter. While both of these native stereo headsets feature a similar design with 50mm drivers, the X42 notably comes equipped with Dolby 7.1 virtual surround sound. Moving onto the PC front, TB is introducing an option for gamers on a budget with its $40 Z11. Much like the company's on-ear Z1, it's a bare-bones stereo headset, but notably, the Z11 opts for an over-ear design with 50mm drivers. Lastly, Turtle's trio of M-series headsets are perfect for those looking to talk trash on Call of Duty and command their favorite music playlists on their smartphone between frag sessions. The lineup consists of the in-ear M1s, on-ear M3s (seen above, and vaguely similar Nox Audio's now-defunct Specialist) and the over-ear (and PX5-like) M5s. Each headset features an Android and iPhone-compatible inline remote / mic, and they're set to sell from $40 to $60 when they hit shelves. While availability for all the goods has yet to be announced, Turtle Beach apparently has another "surprise" announcement planned for CES, and we'll be sure to let you know as soon as when do while we're there. For now, check out the gallery below to see all the goods in the flesh, and the press release after the break for more details.
Wicked Audio's Solus headphones let you listen like a DJ at the flick of a switch
For what it's worth, Wicked Audio has a habit of producing egregiously loud headphones -- looks-wise, that is. Hence our surprise, when we glanced at its latest red and black offering in our Gmail inbox. The Solus, "Latin for be yourself" as we're told, doesn't look like much more than a basic set of cans, but the inline volume control on its braided cable serves a unique function for all you budding record-spinners out there. With a flick of this puppy's "DJ switch," you'll be able to rattle both of your ears in stereo, or have an easier time listening with just one of 'em when it comes time to crossfade into your next track. No word on specs (not that we'd expect any), but letting go of a Benjamin will snag you the Solus when it officially releases at CES. Wicked. Update: A representative for the company has sent over some specs for cans: 40mm "high performance" drivers 106 dB SPL 20-20,000 Hz 32 ohms 4 ft cord gold plated plug
Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: headphones
Welcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! We're well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties surrounding the seasonal shopping experience, so we're here to help you sort out this year's tech treasures. Below is today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season. We imagine many a PMP or smartphone will be changing hands this holiday season -- iPhone 4S or Galaxy Nexus, anyone? And what better way to accessorize your brand new mobile gadget than with a set of headphones? Fret not audio lovers -- we've rounded up nine of our top picks that we think you'll really enjoy while on the move. We're talking headphones that'll let you control your playlists and chat with friends, all without exposing those precious new gizmos to the harsh winter elements. It's all just past the break, so what are you still doing here? Click on through to the other side!
Engadget's back to school guide 2011: headphones
Welcome to Engadget's Back to School guide! We know that this time of year can be pretty annoying and stressful for everyone, so we're here to help out with the heartbreaking process of gadget buying for the school-aged crowd. Today, we're giving your ears some love with a plethora of headphones that will keep you rocking around campus -- and you can head to the Back to School hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the month. Be sure to keep checking back -- at the end of the month we'll be giving away a ton of the gear featured in our guides -- and hit up the hub page right here! Whether you're dubstepping, duck walking or just plain sprinting to and from classes, you may want to add a soundtrack to your campus travels with some slick new headphones. Although, with so many choices and styles it can be a bit overwhelming to find a set that's right for you. Luckily, we're here to help! Don't forget to enter our giveaway as well if you want a shot at winning your own set B&W's brand spankin' new C5 in-ears -- not to mention more than $3,000 worth of gadgets that are sure to induce an extreme case of Gadget Acquisition Syndrome!You'll find some of our own recommendations just past the break, and another chance to enter our back to school giveaway. Simply leave a comment below to be entered to win, and click on over to our giveaway page for all the details.
Harman AKG teams up with Quincy Jones on Signature Line of headphones
Gone is the day when headphones could be respectable without some kind of corporate tie-in or Lady Gaga endorsement. Alas, even Harman's revered AKG division has roped in the venerable Quincy Jones for its new (wait for it) Quincy Jones Signature Line. We're talking three models here, ready for launch in October and ranging from the Q 701 "reference class" over-the-ear cans (pictured), the Q 460 lightweight headphones, and Q 350 buds. The Q 701 features ergonomically-shaped cushions of velvet, an "unbeatable" linear frequency response covering 10Hz to 39.8kHz, a 45-mm high excursion driver, and detachable 99-percent oxygen-free cables. The portable $229.99 Q 460 on-ear headphones feature a 3D-axis folding system and an iPhone compatible in-line remote with microphone and play, pause, and skip functions. The in-ear Q 350 also bring iPhone compatible and target the "audiophile on the go" with $149.99 to burn. Seems fitting for a man with 79 Grammy nominations (and 27 awards) to benefit from his name. And you can feel better about him selling out knowing that an undisclosed sum from every pair of headphones sold goes towards the Quincy Jones Musiq Consortium -- a foundation dediqated to eduqating Ameriqan kids about musiq. Ironic, because the Grammys might actually be relevant if American music corporations knew anything about good music.%Gallery-101028%
Found Footage: Bose headphones grafted onto Apple inline remote
Our buddies over at Engadget turned us on to this short video, in which modder Freddy Deeble created a sonic hybrid -- a pair of Bose headphones using an Apple inline remote. If you're handy with a pair of wire cutters, a small screwdriver, and a soldering iron, then you can mimic how Mr. Deeble achieved the best of both worlds with his little mod. Not only does he get better audio quality from the over-the-ear Bose 'phones than he would from a standard pair of Apple earbuds or in-ear headphones, but he also gets to keep that sweet little inline "squeezably soft" remote. TUAW, of course, takes no responsibility for any damage you may cause to your Bose headphones, your Apple earbuds with remote, or yourself if you do this. And your warranties? Consider 'em gone... Enjoy the video, and stay safe, kids.
Modder merges Bose headphones with inline Apple remote, shows you how (video)
Everybody knows that Apple's default headphones aren't the best, and while many would argue that those from Bose aren't exactly top-notch either, they're surely a step up. What if you want Cupertino's inline controls and some over-the-ear isolation from Framingham's most famous foreign-sounding speaker company? That's what Freddy Deeble wanted, and that's what he achieved. What seems like a challenging feat is actually a reasonably straightforward mod if you have some soldering skills -- and a general disregard for warranties. The whole process is described in a thoroughly helpful video after the break but, as always, don't call us if you wind up with a set of severed wires and a smoldering pile of rosin. [Thanks, Freddy]
