earphones
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RHA announces two new premium iOS-compatible earphones
RHA, the Glasgow-based makers of high-quality earphones and over-ear headphones, has added two new, premium earphone models to their in-ear line-up, the MA600i and MA750i (pictured above). TUAW's reviewed RHA's MA150 and MA450 earphones and the SA950i on-ear headphones in the past, and the results were very impressive, especially considering the price points. The two new models RHA has announced promise even better sound quality, design and value for money. The MA600i (US$85.95) are constructed from "aircraft-grade aluminum," and combine RHA's unique aerophonic shape with custom 320.1 dynamic drivers "for highly accurate, balanced sound reproduction." The MA750i ($129.95), RHA's first to utilize 303F stainless steel, feature "handmade 560.1 dynamic drivers for precise balanced and articulate audio reproduction with an open soundstage." The MA750i offer over-ear cable support for more active users who desire a secure fit. Both earphone sets come with a three-year warranty, and are supplied with dual-density, double-flange and memory foam ear tips, ensuring effective noise isolation and a comfortable fit. Each set also comes with a carry case as well as an intriguing stainless steel ear tip holder. A three-button remote and built-in microphone allow for hands-free use with iOS devices. Versions of the earphones without the remote will be available later this year. If you live in Europe, both earphones are available from Apple Retail Stores now, and should be available in US Apple Retail Stores on August 28th. We're looking forward to trying these out, and we'll be sure to put reviews up just as soon as we can.
Westone debuts Adventure Series Alpha earphones: water-resistant, audiophile grade, $200
Some would say that a good set of earphones are a dime a dozen nowadays, but that's not stopping outfits like Westone from trying to give you more (and, perhaps, even better) options to choose from. Enter the Adventure Series Alpha. These newly introduced in-ear headphones are, as the company puts it, tailored to bring "exceptional audio performance, fit, and design for the active user." How so, you ask? Well, the ADV earphones boast an array of notable features, such as IPX-3 attributes for water resistance and in-line controls for iOS devices. Most importantly, however, is the 6.5mm micro driver found inside the Adventure Series Alpha, which Westone's suited with an audio tech dubbed Precision Fine Tuning that "delivers sonic accuracy with extended bass." If all that sounds good, then you best be ready to pony up $200, as that's the price to pay before you can call 'em your own.
KEF M500 and M200 headphones launched in Hong Kong, we go ears-on
It's been almost a month since KEF announced its first headphone series, and yesterday we finally got the chance to try out its M500 cans and M200 in-ears at the company's Hong Kong launch event. In fact, it's worth noting that while KEF originated from the UK 52 years ago, it's been part of Hong Kong's Gold Peak Group since 1992. That said, much of KEF's R&D is still done back in an English county called Kent, where the engineers attempted to port their company's sonic signature over to its M series headphones. The result? Let's just say we prefer one to the other. %Gallery-188390% %Gallery-188389%
Jays to launch a-JAYS Five earbuds with dedicated iOS, Windows and Android versions
Does your Android sound different from your iOS or WP? Perhaps a little, but each has their own quirks when it comes to audio output and hands-free kits. To that end, Jays will launch the a-JAYS Five earphones this summer with a separate version for each. The new buds will draw from the company's experience with the a-JAYS Four, bringing its Swedish design flair along with revised ergonomics, refined sound, an updated version of its flat, tangle free cables, a new cable clip and a premium MEMS microphone. It'll carry a three-button control setup similar to the last model, but will be optimized work differently depending on whether you have the iOS, Windows Phone or Android version -- a concept the company calls "iWA." We're not sure if that'll simmer down any flame wars, but you'll be able to grab one for €90 (or $100) in black or white sometime this summer.
Creative launches NFC wireless speakers, colorful Hitz headsets
Creative may hope to rival Jawbone's Jambox with its new colorfully geometric Bluetooth speakers, the Airwave and Airwave HD. NFC-enabled Bluetooth speakers aren't exactly news, so Creative is playing catch-up with its NFC-capable Airwave series. Users can pair NFC-equipped devices to the Airwave by simply tapping the phone against the speaker, while an integrated microphone allows for use as a speakerphone -- devices not packing NFC can connect via Bluetooth manually. The Airwave HD can support two NFC-connected devices but it sacrifices about five hours of playback compared to the less powerful Airwave, which can go 12 hours between charges. Creative is taking a fresh approach with its styling by offering the Airwave line in a variety of colors including pink, blue, green, and red. This new design theme is echoed in Creative's Hitz headsets, which will feature an in-line microphone housing playback and volume controls. Though there's no word yet on a stateside release, the Airwave and Airwave HD will be available in Singapore in June for SG$129 (US$103) and SG$199 (US$160) respectively and the Hitz line will launch in July, with prices ranging from SG$49 (US$39) to SG$89 (US$72). For more information, see the full press release after the break.
KEF introduces M Series headphones bred from HiFi speaker know-how (updated)
Mostly known for its extravagant speaker systems, KEF is finally taking a whack at ear gear. Today, the company announced two new types of HiFi headphones, known as the M Series, which include a pair of on-ear cups (M500) and a set of in-ear buds (M200). Priced at $300, the M500 sports a full aluminum frame and sweat resistant padding, along with a 10mm driver for lows and a 5.5mm driver for mids and highs full-range 40mm neodymium driver in each earcup. If enclosed head gear isn't your thing, the $200 M200 offers an aluminum housing and a pair of silicone ear tips with an adjustable arm for improved comfort. Like their pricier sibling These earphones feature a 'DDD' dual dynamic driver system with a 10mm driver for lows and a 5.5mm driver for mids and highs. While we've yet to spend time with the M500 or M200, their press pictures and specs aren't too shabby. Call it a hunch, but we doubt they'll need any celebrity endorsements. For more info on KEF's new headphone line, hit the presser after the break.
Ultimate Ears intros Vocal Reference Monitors to save singers from strain
Believe it or not, few musicians' in-ear reference monitors are tuned to emphasize voice; singers might have to compete for attention with wailing guitars and drums inside their own heads. Rather than risk artists shouting themselves hoarse, Ultimate Ears has launched its Vocal Reference Monitors. Separate versions for men and women focus on their typical vocal ranges and narrow the frequency range to between 90Hz and 8kHz, cutting out the more extreme sounds of instruments in the mix. The $999 price rules out the Vocal line for most garage bands -- it might, however, be perfect for pros whose screaming isn't part of the act.
Sennheiser's Momentum headphones are back in black at CES
Taking the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach, German audio equipment maker Sennheiser is reintroducing its Momentum headphones in black. Aside from its Batmanesque color scheme, these are the same sleek set of cans that we got up close and personal with at last year's IFA. A lightweight marriage of stainless steel and buttery smooth sheepskin leather, the Momentum Black features a flexible 3.5mm audio jack -- with sexy red accents on the cups, cable and headband stitching -- simple inline audio controls and a built-in microphone for taking phone calls. If you're into expensive toys and are working with Bruce Wayne's budget, these black beauties can be yours this month for $350. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
Polk Audio quietly unveils headphones made 'just for Android'
If you're itching to show your love for Google's mobile OS, Polk Audio has you covered with a trio of headphones made "just for Android" that have been freshly listed on their website. Aside from sporting a black and green color scheme fit for Mountain View's OS, the gear appears to be a simple re-branding of the firm's sports-minded UltraFit line of in-ear and on-ear headphones, which already pack phone and audio controls. The hardware doesn't seem to be available just yet, but audiophiles yearning to flaunt their Android pride with the gear will eventually be set back between $70 and $100. Hit the neighboring source links for the breakdown on each model.
Baby squirrel goes nuts for Apple earphones
Apple's new EarPods are great, but what are we supposed to do with our old, "standard" Apple earphones? Feed them to a squirrel, apparently! As spotted by Tastefully Offensive, YouTube user Shimi777 not only appears to have an adorable baby squirrel running around his/her office, but also a spare pair of earphones for the little fella to nibble on. While we can't in good conscience advise that you let your own furry friends use a piece of electronics as a chew toy, the video is pretty adorable. [Via: Tastefully Offensive]
Marshall Major 50 FX 50th anniversary headphones now available for $170
Practically synonymous with Rock 'n' Roll, premium audio equipment maker Marshall is celebrating 50 years of sound with the release of its Major 50 FX headphones. Priced at $170, these celebratory cans take their cues from the limited run Hanwell anniversary edition amp, featuring gold accents and a commemorative headband with the inscription "London, England, 1962" to mark when it all began, along with inner ear caps engraved with the words "50 years." Vintage in appearance, these golden-year shrugs also include an Apple-certified microphone and volume control, so you can pretend that you're slappin' da bass while taking a phone call.
RHA MA450i noise isolating earphones a great alternative to new EarPods
To be sure, I'm not an audiophile, but I am discerning enough to know what headphones sound better than the ones I'm used to. I'm not a big fan of the new EarPods Apple released last month. While they are an improvement over the old earbuds, I've recently found a pair of earphones I like a lot better: RHA's MA450i noise isolating earphones. I've been trying out the RHA MA450i earphones for a few weeks now and I'm happy to say they're the first earphones I've found that sound good, stay in my ears and are reasonably priced. The earphones are machined from aircraft-grade aluminum and come in black or white. Each pair also comes with a set of seven silicon ear-tips so you can choose the size that is right for your ear. And as is a must for any earphones used with the iPhone, the RHA MA450i has an in-line remote and mic so you can operate your iPhone without taking it our of your pocket. But what I really like about these earphones is that they have a fabric-braided cable -- meaning it's not cheap plastic -- so it doesn't get all tangled and it lasts a lot longer than normal earphone cables. RHA is relatively new to the audio scene. It's a Glasgow, UK, company that was founded in 2008, but spent three years in research and development before launching its first products. Based on my usage, I think we'll see plenty of great audio products from RHA in the future. The RHA MA450i earphones are available in Apple stores and online at RHA's website for US$49.95.
Razer BlackShark gaming headset hands-on (video)
At the end of August, Razer outed a black and green-cloaked version of its BlackShark gaming headset. The original unit first broke from cover just ahead of E3, but on that particular show floor, the aviator-inspired set of cans was sporting the blue and orange hues consistent with its Battlefield 3 branding. Here at TGS, we were able to take a closer look at the version that lacks a game-specific allegiance. The hardware is identical with the lone exception being the new paint scheme. If you're unfamiliar with the BlackShark, the headset does a stellar job of recalling classic pilot units complete with detachable boom mic for use with your PMP of choice. The $120 peripheral also features quite comfy heavily-padded, leather-esque earcups and the same material wraps the headband with a dash of bright green stitching -- all held over from the BF3 model. We weren't able to test the audio quality on the show floor, so until our review unit arrives, consult the gallery below and the video that just past the break for a closer look. %Gallery-166225%
Apple's EarPods get the iFixit teardown treatment, found to basically be earbuds
As we briefly mentioned in our EarPods review, iFixit was able to teardown Apple's latest generation of earbuds, which are currently shipping with the iPhone 5. While we weren't quite sure what was going on with their insides, the site has confirmed some of our suspicions and detailed a few other fun facts. As it turns out, the internal layout of each earpiece is essentially that of an average 'bud with a forward-facing driver. The new top section, with its side-facing audio port, is apparently a good chunk of what affects the sound in unison with those strategically placed vents. The improved bass and low-mid response we noted in our review falls in line with iFixit's confirmation that the new driver in each Pod is made with a paper speaker cone -- in contrast to the plastic used on the older model. As the site notes, those driver diaphragms should be less likely to blow-out, and the basket behind 'em have also been updated with a cleaner fit and finish. Aside from that, you'll be pleased to know that the inline remote appears to have an improved seal for protection from the elements, and it'll hold up better to cable snags. As you might imagine, the $29 headphones have been deemed as disposable rather than repairable. Don't take our word for it however -- you can read the teardown for yourself at the source link below.
Apple EarPods review: A $29 revolution in earbuds or another set for the recycling bin?
Whether you think they're infamous or merely a signature piece of Apple design, there's no doubt most of us have been exposed the company's iconic white earbuds. Along with the latest batch of iPods and the iPhone 5, Apple announced the replacement for those dreaded earphones, a pair of 'buds called the EarPods. Given that these are bundled with new iDevices (also sold as a standalone for $29), it's hard not to think that the folks at Cupertino are drinking some sort of spiked Kool-Aid, claiming these rival headphones that cost hundreds more. While reviewing the likes of the iPhone 5, we also gave the EarPods a listen to find out whether or not they're just an over-engineered set of 'buds. You'll find our detailed verdict after the break.
Sennheiser boasts anti-counterfeit efforts, unveils new authentication technologies
Sennheiser is using Tesa PrioSpot authenticity labels plus a "fool-proof" online look-up system as part of its anti-counterfeit efforts in China.
Ferrari, Logic3 team on headphones, may be closest we get to an Enzo's engine note
Ferrari likes to brand just about everything. That said, the two new lines of in-ear and over-ear headphones it's introducing with Logic3's help seem like more natural fits for the supercar brand than for other gadgets. The speed-loving elite will inevitably swing towards the Cavallino series' premium materials and universal microphone remote. Us plebeians have to consider the more plastic-laden Scuderia range, which still manages to pack in some Formula 1 styling along with the remote control. Prices are high at $150 to $315 for the Scuderias, or $201 to $352 for high rollers eying the Cavallinos -- but it's hard to dispute that either series is much more likely to turn up at our houses than a hybrid Enzo.
AIAIAI Capital headphones bring the beats, take abuse on the streets (video)
Denmark's AIAIAI has developed a reputation for targeting its headphones at specific listeners. This time, it's aiming at someone we know all too well: the urban dweller who goes through replacement headphones like so much meat through a grinder. The Capital over-ears' bolstered fiberglass shell is designed to be rain- and snow-resistant, not to mention take the casual knocks that might beat up other headphone pairs. The foldable set likewise gives us every excuse to keep it on our heads, both through a light and reputedly comfortable brace as well as an in-line mic and remote to take that iPhone call through the Capital's 40mm drivers. At $125, the pair isn't the lowest-cost entry into the headphone world, but if it spares us from having to dive for cover when the weather turns foul, it could well be a bargain. You can get a sense of AIAIAI's impetus for yourself in a video after the break.
Sony intros Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition, lets your non-PlayStation gear feel the bass (video)
Sony's PS3 Wireless Stereo Headset made a splash when it landed last year, but there were two inescapable quirks: a lack of bass and a lack of any wired fallback for your other devices. The brand-new Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset Elite Edition should solve both. Its earcups now carry a new trick, BassImpact, that reportedly delivers the headset's eponymous pulses and just that bit more punch at low frequencies. We also can't help but appreciate having a 3.5mm headphone jack (and cable) to plug in an Xperia S or, if you're daring, a device that goes without Sony's logo. The noise-cancelling microphones and the overall headset are considerably subtler as part of the remake, to boot. Gamers will have to go without the Pulse-upgraded headset until the fall -- not to mention pay a higher price, at $150 -- but they can get a video overview after the break to bide their time.
AIRbudz: A safer way to listen to your tunes
While the world seems to be beating a path to the door of manufacturers of noise-canceling earphones, inventor Tammy Erdel has a much better idea that could save some lives. AIRbudz replace the removable earbuds on your favorite set of earphones and allow the sound around you to mix with the tunes you're listening to. You probably don't want to use the AIRbudz in the comfort of your home, but they're designed to work when you're outside cycling, walking, skateboarding, or otherwise in a situation where you need to be aware of what's around you. I personally love this idea. I don't know how many times I've been cycling or walking and seen other people who are exercising with earbuds jammed into their ears. They're usually oblivious to anyone who is trying to get their attention, and more than once I've startled someone by passing them after I've tried unsuccessfully to warn them two or three times. Erdel is trying to raise $22,000 for her Kickstarter project, and has only raised $3,385 with 21 days to go. For a $10 pledge on Kickstarter, you can support the project and get yourself a set of 9 AIRbudz (3 sets of each size -- small, medium, and large) in your own choice of colors. I think the glow in the dark version is my personal favorite. Check out Erdel's pitch video below for the full story.
