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The best wireless earbuds under $50
By Lauren Dragan This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology. When readers choose to buy The Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. Read the full article here. After extensive research and over two dozen hours of testing by our expert panelists, we think the Anker Soundbuds Sport IE20 are the best Bluetooth in-ear headphones available under $50. Though they aren't perfect, if you're looking for something ultra-affordable that gets the job done, the IE20 are the best of the options available. They sound decent for the price, fit most people, handle phone calls remarkably well, and are inexpensive enough that it's possible to ignore their flaws. Additionally, with Anker's 30-day return-for-any-reason policy and 18-month warranty, if you find they aren't for you, you won't be stuck with buyer's remorse.
Accessory giant Incipio buys headphone maker Skullcandy
You probably don't see Incipio as more than the company who made your phone case or external battery pack. However, it's quietly becoming something of an accessory powerhouse: it owns brands like Braven and Incase. And now, it's getting even bigger. Incipio is paying $177 million to acquire Skullcandy, best known for its ostentatious (if not usually top-rated) headphones. The move not only gives it a dedicated headphone brand, but dips its toes into the waters of gaming gear thanks to Skullcandy's Astro Gaming badge.
Skullcandy's Method sports buds will get tunes stuck in your head
If you've ever gone running with earbuds, you'll be familiar with the condition "pushem-backin-itis." It's an affliction that troubles many music-loving joggers once they break a sweat. Some companies prescribe over-ear hooks, or "wing tips" to combat this; Skullcandy is taking a different approach. Its new "Method" and "The Chops" in-ear lines come with sensual "Stickygel" technology. No points for figuring out what that is. Skullcandy claims their proprietary bud gels are 30 percent more loving to your earlobes (well, the skin at least) than standard tips. We mean loving in the attachment sense of the word. The sensual part? The adhesive action only kicks in once you work up a sweat, so you've got to earn that affection. As per always with Skullcandy, there's a choice of colors and styles -- and at $30 for the Methods, the grabby part doesn't extend to your wallet, either.
343 Industries partnering with Skullcandy for Halo audio gear
In the Halo games, turning on skulls will change certain aspects of the game. For example, Grunt Birthday Party makes alien heads explode with confetti. Hopefully that won't happen to you when you turn on a different kind of Halo skull - as in, a Halo-branded headset from audio manufacturer Skullcandy - but we make no promises. 343 Industries, Microsoft and Skullcandy announced this week that the companies have partnered together for a multi-year deal that will result in new Halo-themed gear, including headsets and speaker tags. The deal also encompasses ASTRO Gaming, a division of Skullcandy. Unfortunately, exactly what these products will look like, what they'll do, how much they'll cost and when they'll be available are as of yet unknown. Considering Master Chief's penchant for stumbling across forbidden information, maybe we'll find out soon. [Image: Skullcandy]
Skullcandy's women's line of headphones are purple, flowery and covered in human skulls
We'll admit that this wasn't exactly the announcement we were expecting out of Skullcandy. The populist headphone maker is celebrating CES with the launch of a line specifically targeted at the ladies. What, pray tell, does that mean, exactly? Well, according to the press materials: The collection is designed, colored, cushioned and patterned for females with a pioneering focus on acoustics and fit, unmatched in the electronics space. The line is apparently the result of "years of research" into the "anatomical and acoustic differences between men and women." The result is different sizes, shapes, form-fitting ear gels, fabrics and, based on the one image we have, lots of purples and flowers -- though it wouldn't be Skullcandy without some bones on there. The line is launching on March 15th with prices ranging from $30 to $100. Come June, the company will also be launching a line of durable, sweat-resistant sports headphones, as well. Update: At CES 2014, we got to speak with Skullcandy about the new female-friendly headphones in more detail. The research mentioned (taken from existing scientific papers, and not undertaken by Skullcandy itself) not only relates to comfort, but differences in what (i.e. subtle variations in frequency sensitivity) women hear.
Skullcandy intros Air Raid, a $150 Bluetooth speaker you can use to party pretty much anywhere
Skullcandy is well-known for making gear including headphones and earbuds, but the audio-focused company now also has a little Bluetooth speaker folks might be interested in. The Air Raid, as it's officially named, is a ruggedized box that's fitted with two 50mm drivers and a battery capable of holding a charge for up to 14 hours -- better yet, "it is built like a tank and loud as hell." Not surprisingly, Skullcandy says its new Air Raid is much louder than the competition, claiming that it's 200 and 33 percent noisier than the Jambox and Beats Pill, respectively. If you do believe the self-induced hype and like what you see, the Air Raid can be yours now for $150.
IRL: Skullcandy Crusher headphones and ASUS' G74SX gaming laptop
Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment. It's true; most Engadget editors would prefer some sort of Ultrabook-type laptop for attending pressers and schlepping around trade shows. But at least one of us has chosen a nine-pound gaming laptop for hitting posts. (It even says "Republic of Gamers" on it.) Speaking of schlepping, Michael has taken back (almost) everything he's ever said about over-the-ear headphones after swapping in the Skullcandy Crushers on his long commute. Hit the break to find out what he thinks of them.
Astro to offer Dead Space 3-themed A30 and A40 headsets on February 5th
Just in time for the release of EA's ultra-creepy Dead Space 3, Skullcandy subsidiary Astro Gaming is introducing themed versions of its A30 and A40 gaming headsets. While the headgear remains virtually unchanged, the news here is the addition of six custom magnetic speaker tags that feature tricked-out artwork taken directly from the game. Available on February 5th for $210 (A30) and $260 (A40), both headsets feature Dolby 7.1 virtual surround, a swappable cable system and cross-platform support for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. However, if you already own this eargear and are just looking to spruce up your cups, you can pick up the tags as a standalone purchase for $20 (A30) and $25 (A40) each.
Skullcandy's Crusher ears-on at CES: rumbling headphones that you'll actually want
Over the years, our ears have been treated (or tormented, depending on perspective) to a variety of rumbles from a multitude of wub-wub headphones. Typically, it's the gaming headphone sector that gets first dibs, but Skullcandy's Crusher is aiming to hit a few more targets. We had a chance to listen to a production version of the impending cans -- slated to ship in March for $99 in black, white and red hues -- and we were pleasantly surprised with what we heard. Er, felt. Actually, both. It's battery powered, but it'll continue to deliver tunes even if the cell powering the thumps goes dead. Moreover, it automatically disables when the music stops, preventing you from blowing through too many extra batteries. There's a slider on the rear that raises and lowers the sensitivity of the rumble, and we preferred it at about half-cranked. Amazingly, the sensation was actually enjoyable -- and moreover, accurate. We probably wouldn't listen to an entire album with the vibration on, but for movies and games? Yeah, that's clearly the sweet spot. Better still, the conventional 3.5mm headphone jack means that it's as universal as these things get, and the overall audio quality was very much on par with what we'd expect for a Benjamin. Hit up the gallery below for a closer look.
Skullcandy's Crusher headphones teased, soon to vibrate wubs into your head for $100
Skullcandy hasn't made any official headphone-related announcements at CES -- but that doesn't mean there isn't news to share. We've just been tipped about a bass-pumping followup to its now-defunct Skullcrusher headphones, set to release as the Crusher. The circumaural cans are said to be designed and engineered in-house, though they do look similar to Logitech UE's over-ears. As we understand it, the "crushing sensation" is handled by a vibrating unit inside of each earcup that's independent from its actual 40mm speaker drivers. Impressively, we're told that the lowend will still pump out if the battery dies unlike similar offerings, such as Sony's Pulse gaming headset. An on-earcup control lets you dial in your preferred level of wub, and the earcups can collapse and rotate for storage. Naturally, a detachable 3.5mm cable with an inline remote / mic is also included. Expect these to hit shelves during March clad in your choice of black, white or red for a cool 100 bones. That's all we've got for now, so keep it locked to our coverage of the show while we try to spot 'em ourselves.
Skullcandy launches $130 PLYR2 headset for wire-hating gamers
Skullcandy is making sure gamers have yet another item to put on the holiday wishlist with the official debut of the PLYR2, which is not only the company's latest gaming headset but also its first effort at a wireless model. It boasts 2.4GHz wireless audio, Skullcandy's "Supreme Sound" technology, a GMX stereo transmitter for balancing game and voice audio, three different EQ sound modes and an adjustable boom mic that can be flipped up to mute. The PLYR2 is available in black, white and teal for $129.99 and follows the earlier release of a budget-friendly $79.99 SLYR wired headset, while a fancier Dolby Surround Sound-equipped PLYR1 is set to debut in early 2013. Now you can shout expletives in style as you get pwned in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 -- just what you needed, right?
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.
Skullcandy takes another shot at gaming headsets, quietly reveals SLYR, PLYR 2 and PLYR 1
Giving you the option to Edit your own Aviator headphones isn't the only news the fashionable folks at Skullcandy had up their sleeve for the end of 2012; with a bit of help from Astro Gaming (a recently acquired asset), it's also taking another stab at gaming headsets. The company's touting three new models: SLYR, PLYR 1 and PLYR 2, all of which were quietly detailed on its site within the last week. While Astro caters its full-on gaming audio systems (A30, A40 and A50) above the $200 mark, these Skullcandy-branded headsets essentially bring the ethos of those models to more wallet-friendly prices point of $80 to $180 -- not to mention in closer competition with the likes of Turtle Beach and Tritton. Most notably, Astro was quick to highlight to us that Skullcandy's new batch of gaming-focused earblasters have been created from the ground-up, unlike its past models which were just tweaks to its existing -- and less than well-received -- headsets. Curious for the initial details on these latest gaming audio aids? Lucky for you, we've got it all listed just past the break.
Skullcandy launches Edit headphone customization service, personalized cans from $199 (video)
One charge you could never level at Skullcandy is that its headphones are drab. But, if you were still thinking that the designs just aren't, well, jazzy enough, perhaps the new Edit service is for you. Taking a page out of Fanny Wang's book, the headphone maker has handed the painter's palette over to you. An online tool presents you with a stock pair of Aviators, letting you choose the color of the headband, frame, cord and ear caps -- all for $199. If you're even more fussy specific, an extra $20 will open up extra cap options. The creatively challenged among you needn't worry either, as there is a randomize button, and once you've conjured up something to your taste, naturally you can share it with your social world. Already set on your team's colors? Wave a brush over the source link to get started.
Astro Gaming's A50 wireless headset: the A40 and Mixamp 5.8 become one for $300
Turtle Beach may have acquired the MLG-endorsement crown that Astro Gaming used to solely hold for its headsets, but it's no matter as Astro has something else up its sleeve: the A50 wireless headset. Announced here at E3, the A50 is essentially the result of embedding the Mixamp 5.8's wireless chops into its flagship A40, finally sparing users of any pesky wiring and external beltpacks. Naturally, the stereo headset is compatible with Xbox 360, PS3 and computers, and it features Dolby virtual 7.1 surround sound -- not to mention Astro's signature game and voice chat mixing control (built into the earcup) so you can dial your game audio in the way you want. The A50 sports an internal battery that recharges over USB and a stand is included for storage that also houses its Mixamp 5.8 TX-esque wireless transmitter. That transmitter can also send sound to multiple A50s, although there is currently no word on exactly how many. Notably, the headset uses KleerNet lossless audio technology (a newer version of what's in 50 Cent's cans) and you'll have a choice between three EQ presets to shape overall voicing of the sound -- both firsts for Astro. The A50 is slated to hit shelves soon priced at $300, and we'll be sure to bring you our impressions as once we check it out here on the show floor. For now, you'll find a closeup of the headset itself after the break. Update: Per some confusion in the comments, those with Xbox 360s will need to connect a cable from the headset to a controller for chat functionality on the console.
Engadget Giveaway: win one of five pairs of Skullcandy Hesh on-ear headphones!
We're not going to lie: we sometimes wish our giveaways could extend out to us as employees. Skullcandy just released its latest lineup of new gear, and the Supreme Sound Hesh -- billed as a mid-tier on-ear headphone that has the sound of sets twice its cost -- looks pretty tempting. The Hesh aims to enhance the bass, natural voice and precision highs, regardless of what you're listening to (we know you enjoy the occasional Air Supply, no need to be ashamed). As always, just read the rules and hook us up with a comment below to enter. There's five sets of headphones to be won this time around! Update: due to some technical difficulties, we're extending the deadline for submitting your comment to 11:59AM on May 9th. Thanks!
Los Angeles Apple stores offering exclusive headphones this NBA All-Star weekend
If you're around Los Angeles and need some new headphones this weekend, your local Apple Store has a deal for you. To celebrate the NBA All-Star Game, Skullcandy is selling its NBA All-Star Aviator headphones in Apple Stores exclusively, this weekend only. At $180 they're not cheap, but they are some serious premium headphones. If you're the kind of person who likes owning exclusive gear, and you were planning on picking up a nice pair of headphones anyway, they're yours to hunt down and buy... unless you're an NBA All-Star player, in which case Skullcandy is giving you a set already, personalized with your own signature and jersey number. Most of us aren't NBA All-Stars, so everyone else will have to head out to the mall. If you do pick up one of these this weekend, let us know how it goes. This seems like a weird deal for Apple to host officially, considering the small potential audience. [via 9to5Mac]
Skullcandy Fix versus Yurbuds Ironman ... battle of the in-ear headphones! (video)
Skullcandy is hitting CES with a characteristically bold claim: its new Fix in-ear headphones are touted as the first to never fall out of your ears, irrespective of the intensity of your physical activity. We've matched them up against the Yurbuds Ironman Series, a rather larger pair of in-ear speakers, which makes the exact same assertion. Both companies have patented their particular technology and both claim to be the one and only true solution. Obviously targeting runners, vigorous exercisers and discreet headbangers, they're priced at $70 for Skullcandy's Fix and $50 for the Yurbuds Ironmans. We've had a pair of each to play around with for a few hours here and sound quality is generally satisfactory on both. The Ironmans are much punchier in the bass range and offer significantly better sound isolation -- a lot of external noise leaks in through the Fix's seal, but the oversized Ironman buds netralize the vast majority of it. Both sets feel comfortable in the ear and shouldn't cause any grief if you opt to wear them for prolonged jogs outdoors ... or impromptu indoor moshing sessions. %Gallery-113401% %Gallery-113423%
Skullcandy debuts Jay-Z-approved Roc Nation Aviator headphones
While they may not exactly look like it, these new Roc Nation Aviator headphones are fairly understated compared to some of Skullcandy's other offerings, and it looks like you have Roc Nation co-founder Jay-Z to thank for that. Available in your choice of three different colors, the Aviators sport a foldable design and an "optics-inspired" polycarbonate speaker housing, along with a pair of 40mm full-range mylar drivers with neodymium magnets, and a tangle-free nylon cable complete with an in-line mic and controls. Still no word on a price just yet, but Skullcandy says the headphones will be available sometime in June. Oh, and envy had absolutely nothing to do with the creation of these.
Skullcandy intros Decibel Collection headphones for the young, hip, and colorblind
We thought that Skullcandy might not be able to top its Special Edition Metallica Death Magnetic headphones in terms of aesthetic loudness, but we were apparently mistaken. The company's just launched its vast Decibel (dB) Collection, a wide range of wildly styled, Limited Edition "high performance" cans that take design up to eleven, to say the very least. With customizable lines including Big Slick, Vibe, Dream Team, Lurker, Catfight, Audiophile, and Illustrative, it's safe to say that Skullcandy will probably have whatever it is you're looking for in headphones... as long as what you're looking for is truly insane. Hit the read link to check out the myriad designs.[Via Coolest Gadgets]
