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Ultrasone intros audiophile-grade Edition 8 headphones
Ultrasone has never been one to pop out low-end cans, but its latest model is decidedly luxurious. The Edition 8 headphones employ the company's S-Logic Plus technology for an "impartial acoustic feeling that allows the listener even more of a spacious tonal perception." These were created with the "audio connoisseur" in mind, with the interior ear cups covered in fine Ethiopian sheepskin (something that Sir Dave Chappelle would argue does not help sound quality) and the outer ear cups doused in Ruthenium. Each set is individually stamped and arrives in a leather case for storage, but you'll be asked to hand over a whopping $1,499 before you indulge. The full release is after the break.
Astro Gaming's Headset Hanger needs little explanation
Astro Gaming may not produce the most invigorating products out there, but you'd never know it by its marketing approach. In fact, we dare any HP Blackbird owner to give the read link a look and not have even the slightest desire to pick this here gizmo up. The Headset Hanger, contrary to popular belief, actually isn't a makeshift racing wheel; rather, it's designed to be the first (and only, probably) accessory to bolt directly onto the Blackbird's built-in VESA-compliant hardpoint. The purpose? To hold your gaming headphones, which would obviously be the A40s if Astro had any say in the matter. You could spend $19.95 on this just to satisfy your curiosity, but we'd recommend just glancing through the gallery a time or two until you're over it.%Gallery-43181%
SRS TruMedia brings "5.1" surround sound to your cellphone... again
Ah, nothing like preying on the forgetfulness of the human brain. Nearly a full year after SRS Labs outed its SRS CS Headphone technology -- which supposedly takes 2-channel audio and creates the effect of surround sound -- the company is introducing a solution that sounds mighty similar, just with more channels. TruMedia, as it's so affectionately dubbed, is expected to make mobile phones, PMPs, Bluetooth headphones and "gaming consoles" (saywha?) emit "engaging, theater-like 5.1 surround sound" when multichannel video content is viewed. Kind of sounds like drawing blood from a stone to us, but who knows, maybe six bona fide channels of audio really can flow from a single set of earbuds.
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.
Psyko Audio's 5.1 surround sound headphones actually look psycho
We're still not sold on the merits of "5.1" sets of cans, but Psyko Audio Labs is looking to push doubters over the edge with its incredibly heinous 5.1 Directional Audio Headphones. Supposedly, the company uses a special alignment technology that delivers accurate surround sound to each ear "in a natural 3D sound field." In case you weren't skeptical enough, there's also a "subwoofer" in each ear cup, which sounds like a feat you'd truly have to hear to believe. Yeah, we guess the built-in amplifier -- which lets gamers "customize volume and bass levels" -- is pretty nifty, but for $299.99, they'd have to knock our equilibrium clean out of balance. Full release is after the break.
Denon's luxurious AH-D7000 headphones are nearly too pretty to use
You think we're kidding, but after spending around £800 ($1,164) on Denon's absolutely stunning AH-D7000 over-ear headphones, are you really about to squeeze your sweaty noggin in there without feeling the slightest bit guilty? The cans, which vaguely remind us of Audio Technica's ATH-ESW9, tout wooden ear cups made from natural mahogany, microfiber diaphragms, Acoustic Optimizer technology, a cloth-wrapped cable, gold-plated connector, magnesium frame / duralumin slider and leather ear pads. You'll also get a fanciful box to house 'em in when you're not enjoying the sweet sounds of twin 2-inch drivers, but sadly, a set of handcuffs aren't included for wearing them while waltzing through the occasionally dodgy streets of London. Two more looks are after the break.[Via TechDigest]
Beyerdynamic brings trio of "5.1" headphones to America
Beyerdynamic's "head tracking" Headzone Home (pictured) system has been available across the pond for quite some time, but the outfit has just announced that it, along with the Headzone Home HT and Headzone Game, are now headed stateside. The headzone tech promises a "virtual 5.1 experience," which links together the processor, headphone and Head tracking receiver, and while we don't doubt that this rig would sound pretty darn good, we're a bit scared by the omission of US price tag. You know, given that the Home setup ran well over $3,000 when it launched overseas.
Nokia's 5800 XpressMusic bundled with Shure SE210 earphones in Hong Kong
As you can probably tell from the naming convention used on Nokia's 5800 XpressMusic, this here phone was designed with music playback in mind. Shocking, we know. That being the case, we're not surprised to see this here Nokia / Shure bundle surface in Hong Kong, and honestly, we're a little surprised it took this long. The special edition kit will come packaged with one handset and one set of Shure SE210 earphones, and it's expected to go on sale today for around $620. Too bad you'll have to jet to Hong Kong and drop by the currency conversion joint to actually snag one.[Via The Nokia 5800 Blog]
Ask Engadget: Best noise-canceling headphones?
Over at the Engadget household today, we staffers have gathered around a cornucopia of good eats, good gadgets, and most importantly, good times. When it came time to list all the things we were thankful for, our readers were undoubtedly the top choice. And with Ask Engadget questions like this one, can you really blame us? "I've been listening to your podcast since the day you reintroduced it and I really like it, but I have a hard time understanding what you're saying when I'm in the subway. So I'd like to know what are the best noise-suppressing headphones I could get for around $150. Either that, or you could just ask Nilay to speak louder... thanks a lot!"We'll be sure to pass the word to Nilay (he's a bit busy with the pumpkin pie at the moment), but for all of you overstuffed individuals out there, how's about giving Gabriel an answer he'll appreciate? Afterwards, send in a question of your own to ask at engadget dawt com.
T-Mobile G1s now shipping with 3.5mm headphone adapters included
It's not going to somehow magically conjure a jack where there's currently nothing more than a sad-looking ExtUSB port, but new G1 buyers can take some solace in the knowledge that they'll be able to plug in, turn it up, and tune out right out of the box. We've received official word from HTC that 3.5mm headphone adapters for the ExtUSB port are now being bundled with the phone, meaning you won't be stuck with that janky (no, seriously, it's insanely terrible) headset with the special connector that you get free of charge; after all, when we're blasting the Jonas Brothers at full tilt, we need the kind of fidelity that only high-end earbuds can provide. What, you got a problem with that?[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
ITAMI FiTrainer headset: it's like a coach on your head
Remember that Body Trainer headset unveiled by Sega Toys earlier this year? If not, there's hardly a better time to refresh your memory given that it's coming to US soil via ITAMI. The rebadged FiTrainer comes equipped with a heart sensor and built-in one-liners to keep you going when your muscles are just dying to return to the couch. ITAMI also has the nerve to claim that "Wii Fit is history, while the FiTrainer is the future." At any rate, the headset packs a trio of exercise modes -- walking, jogging and aerobics -- and by utilizing proprietary algorithms and subliminal encouragement from a variety of Pokémons, it tells you exactly how to exercise in order to "achieve maximum results." We're only told that the device is "coming soon," but you can certainly procrastinate signing up to hear more so that you completely avoid ever bringing this nuisance / assistant into your life.[Via I4U News, thanks Chris]
Onkyo introduces wireless MHP-UW2 headphones, iPod adapter
Onkyo's latest aren't the most stylish headphones we've ever seen -- far from it, actually -- but those more concerned with audio fidelity and iPod compatibility may be able to overlook the pedestrian design. The wireless MHP-UW2 headphones transmit tunes over the 2.4GHz frequency and come bundled with a handy-dandy iPod adapter that should work with practically any dock-connecting unit out there. We're told it can last around 8 hours before needing a recharge via USB (or AC adapter, should you choose), though it's hard to say when it'll ever ship to any market outside of Japan. Nevertheless, those in and around Tokyo can find the kit next month for ?20,000 ($201).[Via UberGizmo]
KLEER wireless attachment comes to Sleek Audio's SA6 canalphones
Sleek Audio's SA6 canalphones generated quite a bit of buzz due to those adjustable acoustics, and if you've been wishing on your lucky stars for a wireless interpretation of said headphones, something is clearly going right for you. The outfit has just revealed that a new partnership with KLEER (yes, KLEER) has led to a wireless application for the SA6 and Sleek Customs, which, according to Sleek, is the first wireless technology that could do these drivers justice. The new adornment attaches right to the SA6 earphones to provide "CD quality sound from a wireless platform," and better still, the SA6's detachable cable ensures that you can keep on listening with a tether should your battery die in the midst of cordless jamming. The KLEER accessory should be up for pre-order shortly at $120, while a KLEER / SA6 bundle will sell for $299.99. Full release after the break.
Ask Engadget: What are the best waterproof headphones?
It's true -- hunting down a waterproof MP3 player is a cinch, but finding a decent pair of waterproof headphones to accompany said player can prove challenging. Have a look at Melinda's question, and after you're done providing your best advice, send over an inquiry of your own to ask at engadget dawt com. "I am an almost-daily lap swimmer, but lately I have been suffering from "lap boredom." I've been looking into the latest ways to take my MP3 player into the pool with me, and I need a set of waterproof headphones in order to do so. I've found waterproof earphones like H2O Audio and Aquatunes priced between $30 and $100, but I've also read many negative reviews. Before I spend this much money on waterproof 'phones, I want to know what I am getting. What brand / model do you recommend?" Climb on out of the kiddie pool and toss in your advice, swimmers. What 'buds do you use to listen to music while submerged?
Skullcandy and Metallica team up on Death Magnetic headphones
Now isn't this tie-up worthy of all the "awws" you can muster? The poster child for anti-Napster propaganda has teamed up with Skullcandy to deliver a pair of cans to commemorate the band's ninth (and surely most awesome) studio album, Death Magnetic. Two limited edition models will be made available -- the $69.95 Hesh and $49.95 Lowrider -- and those prices include "free" downloads of the aforementioned disc. The Hesh cans (pictured) possess a fatter, more comfortable headband with 50mm drivers, while the Lowrider includes 40mm drivers and a fold-up headband for portability. No telling how long it'll be before these disappear, but we're hearing this strange rumor that pre-loaded clips of Hetfield play underneath your tunes to subconsciously encourage you to uninstall your BitTorrent client. Not like that's even fathomable or anything.[Via MusicRadar]
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.
Skullcandy to cram color mirasol display into MFM Pro headphones
Remember that Freestyle Audio player that was supposed to blow folks away with its integrated color mirasol display? Yeah, that one that still hasn't shipped? Qualcomm is apparently uninterested in that tiny little factoid, as it's proudly pumping the MFM Pro headphones as the "second color mirasol-enabled design for the US market." According to Jim Cathey, vice president of business development for Qualcomm MEMS Technologies, the deal with Skullcandy is being made to "move mirasol displays into the hands of more consumers," but considering just how long we've been waiting for the aforementioned DAP, we'd say the burden of proof is squarely in its court. Oh, and the ship date for these cans? There isn't one.[Via Slashgear]
Astro's A40 Audio System headset detailed on video
We're closing in on one year since we first heard about Astro's A40 gaming headset, and for those of you who've held off in anticipation of these changing your life, here's a few more details you'll surely want to know. Astro founder Brett Lovelady sat down with Core77 in order to talk about the company and the headset in detail, and he gives us a first hand look at what the A40s are all about. We'll warn you, he does ramble on for a solid four minutes, but it's good stuff if that's what you're into. Check the vid just after the break.
