Who else here is somewhat of an audiophile?












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To start, I've been looking for a new set of quality earbuds.

I only like 'in-ear/canal' earbuds.

I'm looking to replace some that I used with my iPod nano for my workouts. Even in my workouts, I appreciate a good quality headphone.

I used to use a set of Ultimate Ears SuperFi 4's, but the wiring has gone to crap from the constant use + pulling/tugging that can happen during workouts.



I just bought a set of Klipsch Image S4's a few nights ago. Seems to have great sound quality for the money, but the wire is shit. I think I'm going to return 'em for that reason and try to find something else.




I also prefered the metal construction of the ultimate ears set better.

 

So now I'm on the hunt for something with good sound quality, but durable construction to hold up during workouts...

 

Here's what I'm about to do:

1) Buy some Etymotic hf5 (earbuds only) or hf3 (headset) depending on if you need a microphone.

http://www.etymotic.com/ephp/hf5.html
http://www.etymotic.com/ephp/hf3.html

2) Get custom fit ear pieces for them for another $100.

http://www.etymotic.com/customfit/index.html

 

For the ipod, I just use a set of Philips ear buds. When it comes to earbuds, I think comfort is the most important thing. They can sound great, but if they are uncomfortable to wear you won't be happy.

When I'm recording music, I use a set of Koss studio headphones. They do a better job of blocking outside noise and give you a better feel over the sound/tone you are pulling from the instrument. Beyond that I can wear them for hours at a time with absolutely no discomfort.

Despite the night and day sound quality difference, I doubt you would want to work out at the gym or go jogging wearing the ones I use when recording, they are just too bulky for mobility purposes.

 

I'd love to get a set of over the ear headphones for just personal and travel use, but you're right, I wouldn't want a set like that for workouts.

 

You specified those two models, but I'm guessing the custom mold could be used with any of Etymotic's earbuds?

 

^Those look interesting and price is good. I bought some V-Moda Vibes in 2007 for $99 they lasted about 10 months and the left side went out. I sent them in and got new ones under warranty. Those died 6 months later and again got new ones under warranty then I broke those by accident cord got wedged on a chair and when I went to get up...SNAP!

Sound quality was nice besides the crappy wiring fit was comfortable and I could use them for hours with no problems. Most reviewers say the same thing sound is great but durability sucks. Luckily their warranty is hassle free no questions asked. Now they cost 50 but I rarely use my ipod outside of my car. I have some Sennheiser HD202 for when I listen to music in private. They get the job done.

 

There are some interchangeability and compability limitations -- http://www.etymotic.com/customfit/faq.html

 

I may be the exception here, but I tried the over the ear headphones for working out (Shure) and the cords to the earpieces were too heavy a gauge for comfort during workouts, although the sound was incredible. I had better success running the cord INside my shirt as the cord swung around less, but still ended up returning them.

Honestly, now I use some cheap Koss earbuds with the expanding foam inserts. The sound 'good' and for $15 I can throw them away and get a new pair every 6 months if I need to, which I have not needed to.

http://www.amazon.com/Koss-SPARKPLUG.../dp/B00081A2DQ

Avoid the Koss stuff with an inline volume/mute switch.. YMMV.

 

No need for the "unofficial"


And we have an entire Home Theater/Audio section.

Moving...

 

And I go old-school

 

^^^
Those look suite. Are they actually old or do they just have a bit of retro styling?

 

They are AKG 240s and are probably 20 years old if not older. I got them when I was in college and they are still considered reference headphones.

Looks like they go for about $100 today. Not sure if they make them with the gold or are all black now.

 

im trying to find a pair of stereo bluetooth headphones like this.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Ericsson-...086816&sr=8-16

but the reviews on that sony are so-so..

 

if you're looking for in ear headphones I use this for reference, it includes price range

http://www.head-fi.org/forum/thread/...0#post_6492051