Portable lossless media players can get expensive. Some brands have players that cost thousands of dollars. But finding a nice, portable, hi-resolution music player doesn’t have to break the bank. Fiio is a manufacturer that has several high-quality lossless music players and their most affordable model is the X1 at just under $100. This handy device is small enough to fit in your pocket and can hold up to 256 Gigabytes of your favorite music. Let’s take a closer look at the Fiio X1 (2nd Generation) music player.
Fiio X1 (2nd Gen) – The Affordable, Portable Hi-Res Music Player
The Fiio X1 (2nd Generation) High-Resolution Lossless Music Player is a compact, portable device designed to store and play your music files on the go. The X1 Digital Audio Player uses the Texas Instruments PCM5242 DAC chip for exceptional sound quality and an Intersil ISL28291 sound buffer. It has 1 MicroSD slot capable of handling as much as 256GB of storage. Plus this handy little player can play APE, FLAC, WAV, AIFF and ALAC hi-res file formats. The X1 (2nd Gen) can also play low-res formats like MP2, MP3, AAC, WMA, and OGG.
All the controls you need are easily accessible on the X1 (2nd Gen). You have Play, Pause, Volume, Scroll Wheel, Select Track and Back buttons for quick access to your music library. Also on the X1 you have a standard 3.5mm (1/8″) jack for headphones as well as Bluetooth capabilities for wireless headphones. And the built in rechargeable battery lasts up to 15 hours.
Stream music wireless to your headphones or speakers via Bluetooth 4.0
The Fiio X1 (2nd Gen) has a several other useful features as well. For starters the X1 has an In-Vehicle mode that reacts to the start and stop of the vehicle. When your vehicle starts, so does the Fiio X1. And when you turn off your car, the X1 shuts down. The Fiio X1 also features a deep-sleep standby mode which means you can access and play your music quickly without having to reboot. Shutting down in-between uses is not necessary as the X1 music player will initiate deep-sleep mode when not in use. And finally Fiio has added in-line control to the X1 player which means you can start and stop tracks as well as control volume with most headphone in-line controls (excluding Apple).
The Fiio X1 (2nd Gen) music player is packed with features and yet only weighs 102g (3.6oz). The 2 inch color display features a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels and the sturdy aluminum alloy body measures just 97mm x 55.5mm x 12mm. You can get the Fiio X1 music player in 3 sophisticated colors… Silver, Rose Gold or Black.
Take a look at the full specs of the amazing and affordable pocket sized hi-resolution player from Fiio and decide for yourself. It’s easily one of the best portable music players and it’s just under $100. Get your Fiio X1 Hi-Res Player for the cheapest price at Audio46
Fiio X1 (2nd Gen) The Affordable, Portable Hi-Res Music Player
Connections
Output Line / Headphone: 1/8″ / 3.5 mm
Headphone Impedance Range 16 to 100 Ohms
Line Output
THD + N ≤0.003% (1 kHz)
Frequency Response 5 Hz to 60 kHz
Crosstalk ≥101 dB (10 kOhms / 1 kHz)
Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) ≥115 dBA
Dynamic Range ≥107 dB
Line Output Level 1.7 Vrms (10 kOhms / 1 kHz)
Headphone Output
Output Power Output Power 1: >100 mW (16 Ohms / THD+N <1%)
Output Power 2: ≥70 mW (32 Ohms / THD+N <1%)
Output Power 3: ≥8 mW (300 Ohms /THD+N <1%)
Frequency Response 5 Hz to 60 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) ≥113 dBA
Output Impedance 4.0 V p-p
Maximum Output Current >130 mA (for reference)
Power and Battery Options
Power USB Charger: 5 VDC, 2A (recommended)
Computer USB Port: 5 VDC, 500 mA
Battery Charge Display Red light indicates, green light turns on after fully charged
Battery Display Yes
Battery Capacity 1800 mAh, 3.7 V
Battery Type Lithium-ion polymer (LiPo)
Battery Life >12 h (Volume: 39, 27 Ohm)
Charging Time Supported Audio Formats
Audio Formats Lossless
APE (Fast): 192 kHz/24 bit
APE (Normal): 96 kHz/24 bit
APE (High): 96 kHz/24 bit
FLAC: 192 kHz/24 bit
WAV: 192 kHz/32 bit
AIFF: 192 kHz/32 bit
AIF:192 kHz/24 bit
WMA Lossless: 48 kHz/24 bit (to be supported by future update)
Apple Lossless: 192 kHz/24 bit
Lossy Compression
MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG
General Specifications
Model Name X1 (Gen 2) / FX1221
Color Black
Material of Construction Aluminum Alloy
Chipset SOC: JZ4760B
DAC: PCM5242
LPF: OPA2322
OP: ISL28291
Memory Capacity 256 GB via microSD Card
Display 2.0″ / 50.8 mm TFT screen, 320 x 240 pixels
Volume Control 100-step digital potentiometer
Equalizer 7-band equalizer (±6 dB)
Balance Control 5 dB
Dimensions (L x H x D) 3.8 x 2.2 x 0.5″ / 97.0 x 55.5 x 12.0 mm
Weight 3.6 oz / 102.0 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight 0.55 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) 6.9 x 3.8 x 1.6″
Final Audio’s new E Series earphones seem to be stirring up some real buzz. Having reviewed the uber-svelte E3000 just a short while ago, my expectations are fairly high for the E2000. But how does this $45 earphone sound? And where does it stack up in relation to other Final Audio products?
Final Audio E2000 Review
The E2000 comes with four extra pairs of eartips, a soft carrying pouch, and two hard plastic clips to fit the cable over your ears.
If its short on accessories, this earphone makes up for it in build quality. Utilizing a black aluminum housing on each earpiece, the final result feels light but solid.
Comfort, too, impresses me. With plenty of eartips to choose from, and the ability to wear the ‘phones straight-down or looped over the top of the ear, Final Audio has the bases covered. Even after two hours of heavy listening, my ears still don’t feel a thing.
The cable, measuring 4 ft (1.2 m), seems a bit thin, but still stands up to a good deal of rough use. The 3.5 mm stereo plug is right-angled.
Specs
Frequency Range: NA
Impedance: 16 ohms
Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 100 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): NA
Final Audio doesn’t offer a frequency range for the E2000, but I’d bet it lands somewhere around 15-27,000 Hz. Impedance is low – perfect for a low output device like a high-res portable player. Sound Pressure Level seems a bit low, being the same 100 dB found on the higher-end E3000. However, in actual use, adequate volume never really becomes a problem. Finally, Total Harmonic Distortion is also missing from Final Audio’s given specs, but I’d peg the THD at <0.2%…or even <0.1%.
Low End
With good detail and strong bass, the E2000 offers a rich and engaging low end. While excellent control keeps bleed to a minimum in most situations, the bass does seem to occasionally overpower some finer details in the low end. This doesn’t sound exactly like bleed, in that there’s no real corruption of the sound. All the finer details are still there, but now they’re covered in Bass Sauce.
Mids
Fidelity in the midrange is superb. Notes stay crisp and clean, even when that pesky love-it-or-hate-it bass draws more attention away from the lower mids. Vocals and instrumentation still remain clean – there’s no distortion or compression at play here.
High End
Perhaps the greatest contrast in regards to the E3000, the E2000’s high end doesn’t sound bright at all. More relaxed, the smooth highs still ooze detail, but do so without verging on piercing or uncomfortable. While I was amazed by the highs on the E3000, I’m downright dumbstruck by the E2000’s high-end performance.
Soundstage
There’s plenty of depth here, but only an adequate sense of placement. Not a total deal-breaker, placement can sometimes seem jumbled and oppressive. Most earphones suffer poor soundstage by default, and the E2000 still sounds better than most of the competition. However, those critical listeners who slaver for maximum soundstage will be better off considering the E3000.
Other Observations
Before my listening sessions, I was unsure of where this earphone sat in relation to other models in the Final Audio pantheon. Now, though, I’m pretty sure that the E2000 is a less expensive – if also more dynamic – alternative to the higher-end E3000.
I usually detest headphones with aluminum earpieces. I’ve been burned too many times by the wonky, sludgy acoustics of lesser earphones. The E2000 doesn’t suffer from that design, though – it’s a truly refreshing experience.
Recommendations
If you’re looking for a slightly brighter high end and a more balanced listening experience, skip the E2000 and go with the E3000 instead. Likewise, if you’re on an epic quest for more soundstage, the E3000 is where it’s at.
Those who desire a more emotive earphone would be better off with the E2000, though. With just as much detail, but with a more dynamic sound, the E2000 offers a rich, throbbing low end and smoother highs.
Personally, while I would use the E3000 for a critical listening session or two, the E2000 is the earphone I would be taking home at the end of the day.
Why no comparisons to other earphones? I can’t recall any other high-end earphone offering such a rich, dynamic sound at a similar price. I’ve tried tons of different earphones, and I keep wracking my brain to think of a worthy contender, but no dice.
Final Analysis
Dunces may dismiss the Final Audio E2000 as a cheap alternative to it’s higher-priced counterpart. However, with ample detail and a truly dynamic sound, the E2000 offers a unique listening experience that any audiophile will easily appreciate.
See more options in the Final Audio Store at Audio46!
Summer is here and there’s no doubt many of you (if not all) will hit the road or the friendly skies and head towards a nice vacation spot. Too bad getting to your destination can be a huge hassle. But, there’s nothing like a pair of headphones to help smooth things over. But the commute can be a lot easier with the right set of headphones. These are the 2017 Best Travel Headphones Under $100.
2017 Best Travel Headphones Under $100
Sennheiser PX 100-II
This headphone is a great travel companion. It is very slim with super lightweight ear pads (soft retro foam cushions) that swivel in a 90 degree position for easy-peasy transport. The frame is also compact enough that once it is in the collapsed position it can fit into a glasses case. The frame has minimal padding, but excess foam isn’t necessary as the body is very lightweight.
When it comes to sound, the headphones deliver way better than I expected. The signature sound of Sennheiser is fit into an incredibly tiny frame. The bass is big and robust. Which is nice, but it’s not as smooth as in some of the more premium Sennheiser headphones. It’s punchier. The mids are present, but sound a little less forward than I’d like. The highs are present and sparkle at just the right amount. The Sennheiser PX100-II is available in our Sennheiser Shop for $79.95.
Sennheiser HD 4.30i (iOS), HD 4.30G (Android)
If you are looking for a headphone that retains the signature Sennheiser sound, but is slightly more robust than the Sennheiser PX 100-II, you can opt for the Sennheiser HD 4.30. It is one of the more affordable options offered by their HD line. It features a slender headband and extenders with light padding. The cushions are the exact opposite – super plush and thick enough to cradle your ears. This model is available in black and white colorways.
When it comes to sound, these headphones provide a pretty wide sound stage – especially for the price. The bass is deep, nice, and smooth. At times, the mids slip under the lows and there is a slight loss in detail, but otherwise, themids are still quite lush. The highs, unfortunately, are where this headphone falls a bit short in that it lacks in detail. But, it could be worse. You don’t hear overbearingly tinny treble claps. Also, the headphone is only $100 and still delivers an overall smooth and pleasant sound. Sennheiser HD 4.30i and HD 4.30G are both available at our Sennheiser Shop for $99.95.
Klipsch R6 On-Ear
If you’re looking for one of the best sounding on-ear headphones in a travel-friendly frame, look towards Klipsch R6 on-ear. This reference headphone is to the point and doesn’t mess around with unnecessary features. It’s all about the music.
The frame is primarily made of plastic and isn’t collapsible. But, to be fair, the plastic is more of the durable kind than the cheap ones your find on children’s toys. It’ll last if handled with moderate care.The headband is slim and the ear cups are slightly angled for a more natural fit on the ears. Paired with comfy, soft ear cushions and an overall super lightweight frame, these headphones are ideal for extended wear. For Apple users, the cable features an in-line mic and controller.
When it comes to sound, Klipsch always delivers a clean, balanced listening experience. The R6’s bass is present and full without sounding too weighty. It does not bury the mids or highs, which actually sparkle quite nicely. The mids are detailed while the highs are crisp, not too much, but just enough to enjoy cymbal crashes and the like without getting annoyed. Even with high level of clarity, these headphones are pleasant to listen to. Klipsch R6 On-Ear is available in our Klipsch Shop for $99.
Sony MDR-ZX110NC
If you need active noise-cancelling, I’d say Sony MDR-ZX110 NC is a top choice. The slim-framed headphone is collapsible and easily slips into the side of a purse. To note, it’s modeled after the MDR-ZX110, so the frame is mostly comprised of plastic with extremely cost efficient cushions. It’s not the most premium in build under the $100 price, but what it lacks in aesthetics the company makes up for in sound and features. Noise cancelling is activated with the simple switch of a button. That being said, this model delivers great audio and the added benefit of noise-cancelling all for $49.99. ANC is better than expected. Low frequencies rumbles and hums are significantly lowered. When paired with your music, it’s easy to tune out co-workers or annoying air conditioner noises. To note, the headphone includes a AAA battery, but you’ll need to purchase more afterwards to keep that bit of technology going. Also, the cable does not include a remote and mic. As for sound, there’s a nice bit of oomph in the bass with pretty rich audio across lows, mids, and highs. There could be a bit more detail in the highs, but the overall sound quality is still great and definitely worth the very low price of $49.99. Grab the Sony MDR-ZX110NC for $49.99 in our Sony Shop.
JBL E45BT
Now, this headphone is one that spoils you just a little bit. For a smooth $99.95, listeners are able to enjoy great sounding audio without the wires. The JBL E45BT is wireless which makes it an ideal set for budget-conscious travelers. The entire frame is collapsible and the ear cushions rotate. The headphone, available in an array of bright colors as well as black, is made of a hard-grade plastic material. The on-ear sized ear cups are padded with leather ear cushions while the headband is comprised of a durable made fabric. While the clamping force of the headband applies a bit of pressure on the ears, thankfully the ear cups swivel left to right, which alleviates some of that stress. The right ear cup is built with buttons for controlling your music and answering calls. In addition, the headphones include a detachable cable that can be used when the headphone is done running for 16 hours. When it comes to sound, the E45BT delivers a neutral sound signature with a decent amount of bass. The mids and highs posses a great deal of accuracy and detail. JBL E45BT is available at our JBL Store for $99.95. P.S. If you are looking for an over-ear model, JBL E55BT provides the same sound signature and overall build, in a slightly bigger frame for $149.95.
Are there any other headphones that should be on our “2017 Best Travel Headphones Under $100” list? Let us know in the comments below.
It’s a tale as old as time: how do you easily tell which headphone goes in your right ear, and which one goes in the left ear (without reading tiny text)? You could always mark them with some tape or nail polish, but reader animatorgeek has a pretty clever solution.
Mark Your Earbuds with Electrical Tape to Easily Tell the Left from the RightMark Your Earbuds with Electrical Tape to Easily Tell the Left from the RightMark Your Earbuds with Electrical Tape to Easily…
When you're unwrapping your earbuds, there's always that moment where you struggle a bit…Read more Read more
I have a lot of old earbuds and a lot of them seem to have the same shape of silicone thingy that fits inside the ear. You can take that silicone thingy and swap it around between different-colored earbuds and end up with a set with two different colors. Now it’s much easier to know at a glance which side is which. For instance, on my set I can easily remember that grey is left and black is right.
Just a small tip for those that have a number of different (colored) pairs.
Use Colored Earbud Tips to Tell the Right From the Left | animatorgeek
The best headphones for sitting at your computer or in your home listening to music may not be the best headphones to put in your ears while you’re jogging around town. Activity will make them fall out and noise isolation or closed ear models will make it hard to hear your surroundings, but you still want good audio quality for your money. We asked you for the best headphones for those workout sessions at the gym, and here are the five best, based on your nominations.
Earlier this week we asked you which headphones you thought were the best to wear when you’re about to go for a run or hit the gym. Audio quality is just one factor in those situations—comfort, fit, price, flexibility, and durability are all also important. You offered up more nominations than we could highlight in one post, but here are the five models that stood above the rest.
Best Exercise Headphones?Best Exercise Headphones?Best Exercise Headphones?
The best headphones for listening to music aren't necessarily the best headphones to sticking…Read more Read more
The poll is closed and the votes are counted! To find out which of these top five you voted as the most popular exercise headphones, head over to our Hive Five followup post, where you can read about and discuss the winner!
Most Popular Exercise Headphones: Bose IE2/MIE2/SIE2 In-Ear HeadphonesMost Popular Exercise Headphones: Bose IE2/MIE2/SIE2 In-Ear HeadphonesMost Popular Exercise Headphones: Bose…
If you want to work out to music, whether your workout includes running, lifting, or aerobics, you…Read more Read more
Yurbuds
When you need a pair of headphones that fit well, work with just about any device you might have, and still sound great, but you don’t want to spend a ton of money for something you’re going to exercise in, the Yurbuds are a great option. Yurbuds feature their patented “TwistLock” technology, which the company ensures that your in-ear headphones will never fall out, even while you’re running, working out, doing aerobics, lifting, whatever. They’re also designed to allow in a little more ambient noise than other models, so you’re still aware of your surroundings while you’re biking or jogging, which is always a good thing. It also doesn’t hurt that they’re designed to both be comfortable (Yurbuds claims the design avoids “nerve-sensitive areas of the ear,” so you don’t get that burning feeling of having something stuck in your ears too long) and sweat and water resistant, so a strenuous workout doesn’t mean you have to dry out your headphones too.
Many of you specifically mentioned the $30 Yurbuds Inspire models, and the $50 cloth-corded Yurbuds Ironman Inspire Duro (available for just over $40 at Amazon) as great, all-around options that won’t break the bank, won’t break your heart if they get lost at the gym, but also won’t make your music sound terrible while you’re exercising. In fact, those of you who nominated the Yurbuds almost universally praised their audio quality as well as their comfort and snug fit.
$39
Yurbuds Ironman Inspire Duro Performance Fit Sport Earphones…
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Bose IE2 In-Ear Headphones
We’re no strangers to the Bose IE2 in-ear headphones—you liked them enough to nominate them as one of the five best overall in-ear models not too long ago. They may be pricey, coming in at $90 direct (and $117 for the MIE2 model that includes audio controls and a headset). The Bose IE2 and MIE2 both sport Bose’s StayHear swappable ear tips, which Bose claims will keep them from falling out of your ears even during strenuous activity. They include several sets so you can experiment and find the one best for you. The MIE2s are perfect for listening to music on your phone while you’re out running or working out, but still give you the option to answer incoming calls when you need to.
Bose MIE2 Mobile Headset (Black) (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Five Best EarbudsFive Best EarbudsFive Best Earbuds
Solid sound doesn't have to come at the expense of portability. Earbuds used to get a pretty…Read more Read more
Those of you who brought up the IE2s and MIE2s specifically praised Bose’s build quality and the design of the headphones, and pointed out that it’s good to be able to buy one great set of earphones and wear them both when you hit the gym and when you’re on the train on the way to work, instead of having to swap out different ones for different uses. Plus, whatever you might think about Bose, they make decent audio products, solid enough that you probably won’t be disappointed with them, and with care they’ll last for a long time.
Jaybird Freedom/BlueBuds X
Jaybird’s Freedom and BlueBuds X earphones are both Bluetooth models that do away with wires and let you rock out wirelessly while you run, lift, or otherwise get your daily exercise in. The Freedoms, shown above, are $100 retail but will set you back closer to $77 at Amazon, and offer a flexible strap to keep them connected behind your neck, have clear, easily-pressed on-ear controls for volume and pairing, and allow you to answer calls with a quick tap while you’re on the go. The microphone is even built into one of the earbuds so your caller can hear you clearly. They also include sport cushions and multiple ear tips so they stay in your ears and fit comfortably. The BlueBuds X on the other hand, are a different, more traditional earbud design that will run you $170 retail (and at Amazon) but Jaybird says are the pinnacle of wireless earbud technology. You still have a connecting strap, but the audio and call controls have moved to a smaller control pod along the cable. The BlueBuds X also have been designed to compensate (according to Jaybird) for the inevitable sound quality degradation you’ll get passing audio over Bluetooth, and sport over-ear and in-ear fitting options so you can wear them the way you choose. The sport cushion and multi-sized ear tips are still there to keep your ears happy while you wear them.
$58
JayBird Freedom Bluetooth Earbuds, Retail Packaging, Midnight…
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Those of you who nominated the Jaybird models praised their battery life (8 hours between charges for the BlueBuds X and 6 hours for the Freedoms), their broad compatibility and easy setup, and the fact that they stay in your ears no matter what type of exercise you’re doing. In fact, Jaybird has videos of people working out wearing their earphones to prove the point. The other thing that’s important to note is that Jaybird prides itself on not just engineering earphones that are friendly for exercise—that are water and sweat resistant and comfortable to wear—but that also sound really good. They put a lot of attention into audio quality, and it shows—which it should, for the price point.
Decibullz
If you just haven’t been able to find a set of in-ear headphones that work for you, or that really do stay in place while you work out, Decibullz may be the answer. The company prides itself on their custom-molded headphones and ear tips that won’t fall out, because they’re designed to fit your ears and only your ears. You have the option to buy their headphones, which are the models we’ll talk about, or to buy just the custom molded ear tips and attach whatever earbuds or IEMs you already have to them (assuming they’ll fit). Decibullz’s headphones will set you back $40 direct for a pair with the Decibullz custom-molded ear tips along with them. Keep in mind though that Decibullz’s claim to fame is their ear tips, not their headphones, so while they’ll work with almost any device you plug them into, the remote control pod on the cable is designed for the iPhone. The ear tips on the other hand, are really spectacular, and are only $13 direct on their own.
The ear tips are DIY, so you get them, heat them up in the microwave, and then attach them to your own earbuds—as long as they’re the type that support replaceable rubber ear tips. Many of you pointed out that once you got a set of Decibullz tips for your own earphones, you never had a problem with them falling out again. Our friends at Gizmodo reviewed the headphones not too long ago, and-as you can tell by their headline—didn’t care much for them. The tips however, they loved—and we have to agree with them there.
Decibullz Headphones Review: A Perfect Fit That Sounds Like ShitDecibullz Headphones Review: A Perfect Fit That Sounds Like ShitDecibullz Headphones Review: A Perfect Fit That…
Everyone's ears are shaped differently. In fact, often, a person's right and left ears…Read more Read more
Motorola S10-HD
The Motorola S10-HD Bluetooth wireless headphones put the Bluetooth radio, battery, and other electronics in a firm band that goes around the back of your neck while you wear them, and fits snugly to your head. The earphones themselves fit right into your ears, and feature on-ear controls for volume and music playback, not to mention buttons to answer and hang up calls and pair with your smartphone. They’re sweat proof and water resistant, and have actually been on the market for a while, so you can score a pair for $68 at Amazon, much less than their original $90 list price. You’ll get about 8 hours of continuous play time out of the S10-HDs before you have to recharge the battery, and despite their look, they’re only about 1.5 ounces.
Motorola S10-HD Bluetooth Stereo Headphones – Retail Packaging
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Those of you who nominated the S10-HDs pointed out their solid bang for the buck price, lack of wires or cables, and the fact that they make decent headphones as well as workout headphones, even taking Bluetooth into consideration. Plus, many of you pointed out that the way the band fits around the back of your head means the earphones don’t slip out of your ears easily, and a quick wipe-down with a towel cleans them up nicely without having to dry out cables and such, and the audio quality is really solid without being so loud or over the top that you can’t hear your surroundings.
Now that you’ve seen the top five, it’s time to put them to an all-out vote to determine the community favorite:
Honorable mentions this week go out to Skullcandy’s In-Ear models, which many of you called out for walking the line between affordability, audio quality, and solid design, but not so expensive or so great that wearing them while you exercised or ran around town jogging was a problem for you. Many of you didn’t specify which Skullcandy model you preferred, but we imagine the Titans or the 50/50s were some of the models you had in mind.
We also have to give an honorable mention to the various Sony in-ear models that were nominated. No specific models got enough nominations to make the top five, but there were enough Sony nominations to warrant a mention. Specifically highlighted were the Sony Active Style (MDR-ASxxxx) series, in-ear models with a unique wrap-around band for each ear that makes sure they won’t fall off while you exercise. Some of you praised Sony’s other models with over-ear adapters so you didn’t have to trust the headphones to stay in your ears while you worked out, and those of you who don’t like in-ear headphones at all praised the Sony MDR-Q68LW for being a solid clip-on model that rests on-ear instead of in-ear.
Have something to say about one of the contenders? Want to make the case for your personal favorite, even if it wasn’t included in the list? Remember, the top five are based on your most popular nominations from the call for contenders thread from earlier in the week. Don’t just complain about the top five, let us know what your preferred alternative is—and make your case for it—in the discussions below.
The Hive Five is based on reader nominations. As with most Hive Five posts, if your favorite was left out, it’s not because we hate it—it’s because it didn’t get the nominations required in the call for contenders post to make the top five. We understand it’s a bit of a popularity contest, but if you have a favorite, we want to hear about it. Have a suggestion for the Hive Five? Send us an email at [email protected]!
If you want to work out to music, whether your workout includes running, lifting, or aerobics, you probably want a set of headphones or earbuds that are up to the task. Last week we asked you which you thought were the best, then took a look at the five best exercise headphones. Now we’re back to highlight the winner.
Best Exercise Headphones?Best Exercise Headphones?Best Exercise Headphones?
The best headphones for listening to music aren't necessarily the best headphones to sticking…Read more Read more
Voting was tight all weekend, but the Bose IE2/MIE2 In-Ear Headphones (and, as many of you pointed out, the sport version of the same, the Bose SIE2, should be included in that group) took the top spot with close to 27% of the vote. They’re pricey at around $100 (the SIE2s retail for $150, but are closer to $100 at Amazon), but those of you who voted for them swore by their combination of sound, build quality, and durability, even over the other earbuds in the roundup that were specifically designed to handle athletics and exercise.
Bose SIE2 Sport Headphones – Green
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In second place with 23% of the overall vote were the Bluetooth-enabled Motorola S10-HD wireless headphones (although some of you also praised the Motorola S11-HD, the logical successor to the S10s). Despite varied reviews on its moisture-resistance in the discussions, most of you appreciated its snug fit, long battery life, and solid audio. The battle for third place was a close one, and the difference between third and fourth was only four votes. Still, the high-tech, highly-engineered, and completely wireless Jaybird Freedom/BlueBuds X took the third place spot with 20.7% of the vote, and the affordable, wired, perfect-fit, never-fall-out Yurbuds took fourth with 20.6% of the votes cast. Bringing up the rear were the Decibulls, with close to 9% of the overall vote, mostly because many of you appreciated their custom, moldable ear-tips that can be used with your existing earbuds—not necessarily their headphone models.
The Hive Five is based on reader nominations. As with most Hive Five posts, if your favorite was left out, it’s not because we hate it—it’s because it didn’t get the nominations required in the call for contenders post to make the top five. We understand it’s a bit of a popularity contest, but if you have a favorite, we want to hear about it. Have a suggestion for the Hive Five? Send us an email at [email protected]!
Earbuds have a habit of getting tangled and annoying when you toss them in a bag. Luckily, you can keep them organized with a standard chewing gum container.
Instructables user Kris T. shows you how it’s done. The project is pretty straightforward, but I love that it keeps the the headphones organized while still letting you use them. He used a bead to keep the aux jack from sliding into the box, and a paperclip to control how much length he can pull out of the other side. The only downside is that you have to manually repack the spare wire once you’re done, but that still beats dealing with tangles. Be sure to check out the source link for complete instructions.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get great sound. High end, pricey headphones definitely have their place, but if you know what to look for and shop smart, you can get surprisingly good audio for around $20. Here’s what to look for, and some suggestions to get you started.
Choosing the right pair of headphones can be tricky, and is definitely a matter of personal taste (no matter how many comments, forums, and Amazon reviews try to tell you otherwise), but there are some commonalities that can give you great sound on a budget.
How to Choose the Perfect Pair of HeadphonesHow to Choose the Perfect Pair of HeadphonesHow to Choose the Perfect Pair of Headphones
Whether you're at home or on the go, many of us spend a lot of time listening to music on our…Read more Read more
To get you started, we’ve discussed some great headphones, some great in-ear models, even some solid headphones designed for exercise, and noise cancelling models for the office. Now let’s look at some budget friendly models you won’t feel bad about tossing in your bag as you run to catch a train, or manhandling while you’re doing yardwork or cleaning around the house.
Five Best HeadphonesFive Best HeadphonesFive Best Headphones
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What You’re Getting and What You’re Giving Up
You can get great sound on a budget. Will it be the same as expensive, super-high-end headphones? Likely not. Is it good enough for most people, especially if you’re listening to a lossy mp3 or middling-quality internet stream on your phone or PC? Absolutely. There’s a time and place for expensive headphones, and it’s usually in quiet environments with lossless audio where fidelity is important. For every other time, on the go, when you’re traveling and you want good sound but don’t want to feel terrible if your headphones are lost or broken, or if you’re on a budget, more affordable headphones are better buys.
We’re not here to settle the debate over high-end versus low-end audio, but we will tackle a few important points. First, buying affordable headphones will require some compromises. None of the models we tested had that broad, beautiful soundstage that make everything sound almost live and real. By going budget, you’re giving up the kind of high fidelity sound, frequency range, and rich, clear mids and highs that mimic live performances or studio quality.
In return, the best models grant you deep, rich bass (which can be a good or a bad thing, we’ll get to that), portability, decent mids and solid highs (if at times a little bright). Bottom line though—you’re not going to get an experience that matches hundred dollar-plus headphones, but a pair of Hamiltons can certainly buy sound quality that matches or surpasses headphones two or three times as expensive.
The Best In-Ear Monitors and Earbuds for Under $20
Monoprice 9927 Enhanced Bass Hi-Fi Noise Isolating Earphones ($7 direct): You didn’t think we would kick off this list without mentioning these, did you? The 9927s have quite the cult following, and while a lot of professional reviewers are mixed on them, I loved them for their rich, full bass response and clarity through the midrange. Whether I was listening to electronic, classical, or jazz, I found they offered rich and full sound that’s often tough to get in a pair of in-ear headphones. Part of that has to do with their massive external drivers, which can lead to an uncomfortable fit depending on your ears, but the price-to-performance ratio is solid. Some people have said the treble is too high—I didn’t find that at all. I did, however, find that the bass can be overwhelming sometimes, and how comfortable you are wearing them for long periods depends on your ears. We’ve featured them before. You love them. Buy a pair.
Monoprice Improves on Their Awesome $7 EarbudsMonoprice Improves on Their Awesome $7 EarbudsMonoprice Improves on Their Awesome $7 Earbuds
If you're on the hunt for cheap earbuds, Monoprice has updated their Enhanced Bass Noise…Read more Read more
RHA MA-150 ($12 on Amazon): While technically RHA has moved on from the MA-150s, they’re still widely available, and they’re some of the most crisp, clear, rich headphones that you can get for the money. I found them a bit less bass heavy than the Monoprice models, while the mids and highs were remarkably clear. Don’t misunderstand me though—they pack a serious low-end punch, which again is great for electronic, but if you’re an acoustic or metal fan, there’s a lot here to like as well. The bass can be a little distracting though; and if you listen closely they can leave the mids and highs a little muddled. The 150s offered rich and deep sound in a small and comfortable package. I wasn’t expecting much when I tried these on, especially as I’d had the opportunity to try RHA’s higher-end models a few months back, but I was so blown away I actually emailed my contact to ask how they managed to make cheaper headphones sound better than their more expensive models. Don’t just take my word for it though, PCMag rated them highly (and I’ve seen their headphone testing facilities) and even the New York Times had good things to say as well.
Panasonic RP-TCM125-K ($16 on Amazon): The Panasonic RP-TCM125-Ks are The Wirecutter’s pick for best sub-$30 earphones, so I had to try them out myself. They’re spot on with their recommendation here, with a few caveats: If you need headphones with a microphone and you’re sticking to this price point, these are a stellar option. They offer well balanced sound and even frequency response that makes all of your music sound smooth without any part of it being muddled by anything else. At the same time, that even response may turn off people who really like powerful bass or strong highs. They’re a comfortable fit, and come with additional ear tips if you need them. They’re not perfect though—I like a little more punch, but I felt that the tradeoff for even, clear sound was that everything sounded more boring than I was used to (which could be personal preference). That said, if you want good headphones not just for listening but also for talking, you can’t do much better.
Koss KSC75 Ear Clip Headphones ($15 on Amazon): The Koss KSC75s are perfect for someone who doesn’t like in-ear headphones (or has a hard time getting a good fit) but doesn’t want to give up their convenience for a pair of full, over-the-head supra-aural or circumaural cans. I loved this combination—they clip snugly around the backs of your ears, and the pads rest on-ear. I could see those pads getting tough to wear over long periods, but they’re very modder-friendly in that department. Sound-wise, I found them a little underpowered and soft, but when I connected them to an amp, they really, really shined. That isn’t to say you won’t have a good experience—they have a wide frequency response and offer great sound. However, they’re definitely open-backed, so your neighbors may hear more than other in-ear models, and because they’re on-ear, they won’t block out as much external noise. That said, they sound good, they’re cheap, and they’re perfect for people who want portability but not necessarily something jammed in their ear.
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If you have a little more to spend…
If you have a little more to spend on headphones than $20, you have plenty of great in-ear and portable models that are just over the $20 price point.
Sennheiser CX 300 Mk-II ($35 on Amazon): An extra $15 bucks gets you a pair of Sennheiser in-ear headphones that offer great build quality, excellent clear and crisp sound, surprising soundstage for such a small set, and satisfying—although not overwhelmingly boomy—bass response. I really liked the CX 300s (although not as much as their pricier big brothers, the CX 400 Mk IIs, but they’re over $50), and when I first tested them they were much closer to $20 than they are now. Chalk it up to holiday price inflation or what, but if these were still $20, they’d be in the category above. They’re light, noise isolating, and while they’re not the most powerful earbuds I’ve listened to, they are some of the most clear. Don’t take my word for it though, they’re well liked at Engadget, over at PCMag, and at CNET.
Klipsch Image S4i-II ($40 on Amazon): Double your dollars, and you can grab the Klipsch S4i-IIs, the successor of one of your favorite in-ear headphones that also packs volume controls and an in-line microphone. Here’s the deal with these—when they were new, they were over $80. They’re a little old, but since you can pick them up for half-price, they’re a decent bang for the buck. The build quality is solid, the separated tip-and-driver design is comfortable, they have great noise isolation, and most importantly they sound good. Some of the others above will match it beat for beat when it comes to clarity and bass response, but your extra dollars here go towards a better build that will hopefully last you longer. The in-line controls were a little spotty on my Android device, but Klipsch only markets them to iPhone users anyway, so keep that in mind if you buy. For more, check out CNET’s review.
The Best Over-Ear Headphones for Under $20
If full, on-ear and over-ear headphones are more your style, $20 still nets you a great selection of quality audio gear. These models deliver great sound, whether you wear them on the go or at your desk listening to music on your PC.
Monoprice 8323 Premium Hi-Fi DJ Style Over-the-Ear Pro Headphone ($20 direct): The 8323s are a brilliant example of great sound and comfort on a budget. They’re built pretty well (barring the pleather earpads), and they sport a long, strong, detachable cable. I was a little put off by the wide fit of the headband and the plastic earpads at first (all of which are easily modded), but that faded pretty quickly when I started listening to music. They deliver way better sound than you would expect in a $20 closed-back set of headphones. They’re DJ-style, so the individual cups are adjustable, and the whole thing collapses nicely for storage or portability. The bass is strong but not too boomy, the mids are good but a tad muddled, and the highs are crisp. They’re well balanced, but the drivers still deliver enough power to really make you feel what you’re listening to at any volume. Hook them up to a solid DAC (digital to analog converter, a topic we’ve discussed and have recommendations for) for a real treat. For more, check out this Head-Fi review and CNET’s glowing review.
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Sennheiser HD 201 ($20 on Amazon): I’ll be blunt about the HD 201s. They don’t sound like $20 headphones. If I didn’t know they were $20 before I put them on, I would have assumed they were $50, and the sound is balanced like a pricier pair of headphones. They’re well built to boot, sturdy and comfortable to wear—unlike a lot of headphones in this category, they don’t feel like a little twist will crack or break them. They’re over-ear, closed back models too, so they do a decent job at isolating outside noise so you can focus on your music. I found them a bit underpowered, and not as bassy as I would like, but if your favorite tunes aren’t bass heavy, it’s not a big deal. They’re crisp and clear, but definitely not loud. For more, check out CNET’s review, or Head-Fi’s review of the 201s. If you have room to stretch, step up to the $33 HD 202s or the $38 HD 203s. The 202s and 203s each sport a more stylish look, if you care about that kind of thing. Audio-wise though, each step up will earn you better sound. Sennheiser’s bang for the buck here is remarkable.
Panasonic RP-HX40-K ($18 on Amazon): If you’re really on a budget, these Panasonics will deliver solid sound in a pretty small package, at around $18, less if you shop around. Part of this is because they’re on their way out—I think Panasonic is either finished manufacturing them, or about to discontinue them, so while they’re easily available now at multiple online retailers, this time next year they may not be. Surprisingly though, they’re some solid sound—definitely on par with the others here—and they include an in-line microphone for taking calls. That means if you prefer full headphones but don’t want to give up the convenience of actually listening and answering on your phone, they’re worth a look. Here’s the catch—they’re really flimsy, and don’t feel like they’ll take a ton of punishment. One sharp twist and they feel like they’ll break. The soft fabric on the earpads is thin as well, so they wouldn’t be comfortable for long periods. They’re also a little snug fit-wise, which may or may not be a bad thing for you.
Koss Porta Pros ($25 on Amazon): The Koss Porta Pros are pretty legendary, and have a long and storied history that goes back to their introduction, 25 years ago. That’s why we’re cheating a little bit and adding five bucks to the bottom line to mention them here (as opposed to below). They have a well-deserved following, and are highly regarded as solid bang-for-your-buck headphones. I actually owned a pair of Porta Pros a long time ago, and it was nostalgic to try them again, only to find that they sound even better, today. They’re still beautifully balanced with rich bass and striking highs, and soundstage unlike anything else in the category. They’re well built and sturdy, and while they’re semi-open backed, leakage isn’t terrible at moderate volumes. They’re comfortable to wear (although I imagine people with long hair may hate the collapsible band), and even though they definitely have that 80s headphone look about them, they sound terrific regardless of the type of music you put through them. Even if you buy another pair of headphones, these are worth having around.
If you have a little more to spend….
JVC HAS400B ($28 on Amazon): These headphones sound surprisingly good. They’re really well built over-ear, closed back headphones that sport solid sound in a small, collapsible package. They’re made from firm plastic, not the flimsy stuff. They’re also pretty powerful and clear at low and high volumes. I found them a little bright (aka, louder in the mids and highs than the bass) but just like bassy headphones, it’s probably not an issue for you if the music you listen to is acoustic-heavy or aggressive in the high frequencies. Their bass, while lower in volume, was pretty solid and natural. They’re comfortable to wear for long periods, and while the earcups have that plastic-y feel, you can replace them with fabric pretty easily if you choose. Second, JVC touts its use of carbon nanotubes in these headphones, and while they may be carbon in there somewhere, or maybe the drivers were manufactured using technology associated with carbon nanotubes, just know that this is marketing at play (although I admit it sounds pretty cool.) If you can grab a pair at this price or even cheaper, they’re a great buy.
Superlux HD 681 ($30 on Amazon): The HD 681s may not win many awards for portability, but if you love this style of old, can-style headphones and you also want sound you’d normally get from a $50-$60 pair, look no further. These are clearly designed to appeal to audiophiles, specifically audiophiles on a budget. The sound is crafted to be even, clear, and balanced, with restrained bass response and even highs. If you like driving music, or your favorite genres are really loud, you might be disappointed with them, but I was impressed by exactly how balanced these headphones really were. Electronic and hip hop tracks I knew were ridiculously bassy evened out a ton (which could be a good or a bad thing), and gentler music like classical and instrumental jazz were almost silky smooth. Not everyone will like the design, but they were certainly comfortable to wear, sport a self-adjusting headband, and while CNET praised them, they think they’re ugly. That’s a matter of taste, as these Head-Fi reviewers indicate. One thing to note however; the HD 681s look closed, but they’re actually open backed—you’ll definitely get sound leakage from them, and they’re not for noisy environments. They do sound great though for 30 bucks.
If you really have a bit more to spend and you want a solid return on your investment, the Grado Labs SR60i ($80 on Amazon) and the SR80is ($100 on Amazon) are absolutely incredible for the price. The Audio Technica ATH-M50s (~$100 on Amazon) have also earned high praise from multiple corners of the web, and while I liked them the last time I tried them, I didn’t get to test them for very long in a controlled environment. Besides, we’re talking low-end, budget headphones here, so I don’t want to go too far with this, but just note that all three of these are mentioned in our best headphones roundup, for damned good reason.
Further Reading and More Options
These are just some of the models we tried (and the only ones we loved), but they’re by no means the only sub-$20 headphones available. There are others we didn’t get to test, and more still hit the market regularly. Many are terrible, but there are diamonds in the rough out there. Read reviews and first-hand impressions, and take the advice of reviewers you trust. Don’t throw your money away just because they’re cheap. Check out the return policy of the retailer you’re buying from, and if the ones you get sound like crap, send them back or exchange them for another pair. If you can try them before you buy, that’s best. Finally, remember: the only person’s ears who matter are yours.
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Check out some of these reviews and roundups if you’re looking for more suggestions and reviews:
Headphones at The Wirecutter (Specifically their guide to in-ear headphones under $30)
Head-Fi, specifically their Help and Recommendations forums
HeadRoom, specifically their best cheap headphone guide
Over the years, we’ve talked about a lot of ways you can avoid the tangled mess of poorly-wrapped earbud cables, and we’re not about to stop now. This time, we’ve got a rather handsome DIY snapping leather clip.
Keep your earbuds tangle-free with a DIY cord wrapperKeep your earbuds tangle-free with a DIY cord wrapperKeep your earbuds tangle-free with a DIY cord…
Collaborative DIY web site Instructables aims to make your earbuds tangle-free with a step-by-step…Read more Read more
Instructables reader amalkhan shows us how to make a leather earbud wrangler with a snap enclosure. All you need is a bit of leather (or felt), some snaps, a few common tools, and the wherewithall to do a bit of measuring.
Hit up the post at Instructables for the full instructions.
Ever notice that when your earbud cable moves, you can hear it rustle in your ears? This cable noise is called microphonics, and there are a few tricks you can use to avoid it.
This tip has been around forever, but we’ve never featured it—and I didn’t know about it until reader Bat21 posted it in the comments of our Comply earbud tips review. A lot of this noise depends on the quality of your cable, but to cut down on the noise, wrap the cable around the back of your ear, as shown above. You should get less of that rustling and thumping. CNET also notes that you can use a shirt clip to cut down on that noise, if you have one.
The E2000 comes with four extra pairs of eartips, a soft carrying pouch, and two hard plastic clips to fit the cable over your ears.
This headphone is a great travel companion. It is very slim with super lightweight ear pads (soft retro foam cushions) that swivel in a 90 degree position for easy-peasy transport. The frame is also compact enough that once it is in the collapsed position it can fit into a glasses case. The frame has minimal padding, but excess foam isn’t necessary as the body is very lightweight.
If you are looking for a headphone that retains the signature Sennheiser sound, but is slightly more robust than the Sennheiser PX 100-II, you can opt for the Sennheiser HD 4.30. It is one of the more affordable options offered by their HD line. It features a slender headband and extenders with light padding. The cushions are the exact opposite – super plush and thick enough to cradle your ears. This model is available in black and white colorways.
If you’re looking for one of the best sounding on-ear headphones in a travel-friendly frame, look towards Klipsch R6 on-ear. This reference headphone is to the point and doesn’t mess around with unnecessary features. It’s all about the music.
If you need active noise-cancelling, I’d say Sony MDR-ZX110 NC is a top choice. The slim-framed headphone is collapsible and easily slips into the side of a purse. To note, it’s modeled after the MDR-ZX110, so the frame is mostly comprised of plastic with extremely cost efficient cushions. It’s not the most premium in build under the $100 price, but what it lacks in aesthetics the company makes up for in sound and features. Noise cancelling is activated with the simple switch of a button. That being said, this model delivers great audio and the added benefit of noise-cancelling all for $49.99. ANC is better than expected. Low frequencies rumbles and hums are significantly lowered. When paired with your music, it’s easy to tune out co-workers or annoying air conditioner noises. To note, the headphone includes a AAA battery, but you’ll need to purchase more afterwards to keep that bit of technology going. Also, the cable does not include a remote and mic. As for sound, there’s a nice bit of oomph in the bass with pretty rich audio across lows, mids, and highs. There could be a bit more detail in the highs, but the overall sound quality is still great and definitely worth the very low price of $49.99. Grab the Sony MDR-ZX110NC for $49.99 in our Sony Shop.
Now, this headphone is one that spoils you just a little bit. For a smooth $99.95, listeners are able to enjoy great sounding audio without the wires. The JBL E45BT is wireless which makes it an ideal set for budget-conscious travelers. The entire frame is collapsible and the ear cushions rotate. The headphone, available in an array of bright colors as well as black, is made of a hard-grade plastic material. The on-ear sized ear cups are padded with leather ear cushions while the headband is comprised of a durable made fabric. While the clamping force of the headband applies a bit of pressure on the ears, thankfully the ear cups swivel left to right, which alleviates some of that stress. The right ear cup is built with buttons for controlling your music and answering calls. In addition, the headphones include a detachable cable that can be used when the headphone is done running for 16 hours. When it comes to sound, the E45BT delivers a neutral sound signature with a decent amount of bass. The mids and highs posses a great deal of accuracy and detail. JBL E45BT is available at our JBL Store for $99.95. P.S. If you are looking for an over-ear model, JBL E55BT provides the same sound signature and overall build, in a slightly bigger frame for $149.95.
