headphones: earphones + earbuds-alpha

LAB POINTS

• collaboration with Swedish music component maker Teenage Engineering
• same design-ethos as the Teenage Engineering's OP-1 synth
• on-cable mic works with most portable devices
• full frequency response with emphasis on low and mid range
• includes 3 sleeves for comfortable fit

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Jesper Kouthoofd from Teenage Engineering has designed the PX-0 and the aesthetics of the earphone follows the same design-ethos as the OP-1 synthesizer. The sound has been tunes by AIAIAI and the result is a well-defined frequency response and full spectrum sound with an emphasis on low and mid range, but still with distinct clarity in the high-range frequencies. The PX-0 comes with three different sleeves for better custom fit. The PX-0 is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod.

KEY FEATURES

• 9mm drivers
• speaker impedance: 16 ohm
• frequency response: 20 - 20kHz
• maximum power input: 5mW

COMES WITH

• 3 sleeves for comfortable fit

LAB POINTS

• simple and organic design
• 3 Button in-line Microphone with call/music/volume control
• sound quality is fine tuned by C4 Studios and offers a full-spectrum from the deepest bass to high-frequency tones
• earphone sleeves deliver external noise reduction for clearer sound at safer volume levels
• includes three sets of earphone sleeves for an accurate fit and different levels of external noise reduction

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The Pipe Earphone offers impressive sound quality and overall strength in an organic and ergonomic design. Made from lightweight and highly resilient materials this earphone displays an elegant coherency between the overall design and the individual parts. The 9mm precision-engineered driver provides a highly detailed full-spectrum sound experience from the softest bass to the crispiest high notes.

TECH SPECS

• Driver unit size: 9 mm
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• Sensitivity: 106dB/mW at 1K Hz
• Frequency Respons: 20-20K Hz
• Rated power input: 4 mW
• Maximum power input: 20 mW

COMES WITH

• (3) sets of ear sleeves

LAB POINTS

• bold, industrial in-ear housing with a tactile finish
• 3 Button in-line Microphone with call/music/volume control
• integrated tangle-free Y Connector
• sturdy cables with in-line coil for added flexibility
• 5 sets of form-fitting ear buds for a comfortable, tailored fit
• 10mm in-ear driver delivers rich, heavy bass with clear full-spectrum sound
• angled gold plated stereo plug

KEY FEATURES

• Driver unit size: 10mm
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• Sensitivity: 106dB/mW at 1K Hz
• Frequency Respons: 20-20K Hz
• Rated power input: 4 mW
• Maximum power input: 20 mW

COMES WITH

• 3 sleeves for comfortable fit

Grado enters the in-ear market with the GR8. The GR8's feature Grado's renowned quality and top notch sound reproduction as well as a proprietary wide bandwidth moving armature design providing the listener with unsurpassed performance. The small size allows earphone to nestle well within the ear canal, maintaining an excellent air seal for improved bass and reduction of outside noise without causing discomfort. Includes 3 pair ear tips (small, medium, large; proprietary blend of two silicon rubber materials) for a custom fit, 4 ear wax proof cloths, and 2 ear wax proof cloth rings. Recommended.

Grado's iGi are the most affordable in-ear headphones from the legendary Brooklyn based headphone company. The iGi's sport Grado's proprietary wide bandwidth moving armature design providing the listener with unsurpassed performance. Their small size allows the earphone to fit comfortable inside the ear canal, maintaining an excellent air seal for improved bass and reduction of outside noise without causing discomfort. Includes 3 pairs of ear tips (small, medium, large; proprietary blend of two silicon rubber materials) for the perfect fit.

LAB POINTS

• ergonomic EarClick design for extended comfort
• size adjustable with 4 silicone size pads for perfect fit
• mic + remote that is cell phone compatible
• neutral stereo plug adapter for use w/ sources not compatible with 2-way standards (such as computers and older electronic equipment)
• distinct Marshall markings and accents

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The Minor is an advanced and hard working in-ear model. In addition to its good looks it incorporates quite a few exciting features. EarClick is a patent that ingeniously secures the earphone into position in your ear. The Minor comes equipped with microphone and remote for use with your cell phone. Combined with excellent audio and a tangle resistant fabric cord the Minor is in it for the long haul.

KEY FEATURES

• Transducer: 15.4mm Moving Coil Dynamic Speaker
• Impedance: 32 Ohms +/- 15% at 1kHz
• Sensitivity: 115 +/- 3dB at 1kHz 1mW
• Frequency Response: 20 - 20kHz
• Rated input power: 2mW
• Maximum input power: 5mW

LAB POINTS

• 9mm neodymium drivers
• anodized machined aluminum alloy housings
• noise isolating Silicone Hollow Points (sleeves)
• MUNITIO's Bass Enhancing Chamber
• Kevlar reinforced cable with cloth cover
• 24K gold plated 3.5mm plug
• includes 2 sets of S, M, L replacement tips, tactical carrying case

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Superior audio performance in a sleek, rugged package. Deep bass, crystal-clear highs and in-line mic for music and media on the move. Military-inspired colors. Includes 6 sets (3 Clear with Black Core, 3 Smoke with Red Core) of SiliconeHollowPoints in 3 sizes (S, M, L).

KEY FEATURES

• 9mm drivers
• Frequency Response: 12Hz-22kHz
• Sensitivity: 98db +/
• 3db at 1kHz
• Rated Power: 3mW
• Max Input Power: 10mW
• compatible with industry-leading smartphones, MP3 players, laptops and tablets

COMES WITH

• noise isolating SiliconeHollowPoints sleeves
• tactical carrying case
• earhooks

LAB POINTS

• limited edition Photek edition in hand numbered box
• 9mm neodymium drivers
• anodized machined aluminum alloy housings
• noise isolating Silicone Hollow Points (sleeves)
• MUNITIO's Bass Enhancing Chamber
• in-line microphone
• Kevlar reinforced cable with cloth cover
• 24K gold plated 3.5mm plug
• includes 2 sets of S, M, L replacement tips, tactical carrying case

REVIEW

This is the limited edition Photek version of Munitio's Winter Billets, packaged in a hand numbered box. Superior audio performance in a sleek, rugged package. Deep bass, crystal-clear highs and in-line mic for music and media on the move. Includes 6 sets (3 Clear with Black Core, 3 Smoke with Red Core) of SiliconeHollowPoints in 3 sizes (S, M, L). Only 100 produced!

KEY FEATURES

• 9mm drivers
• Frequency Response: 12Hz-22kHz
• Sensitivity: 98db +/
• 3db at 1kHz
• Rated Power: 3mW
• Max Input Power: 10mW
• compatible with industry-leading smartphones, MP3 players, laptops and tablets

COMES WITH

• noise isolating SiliconeHollowPoints sleeves
• tactical carrying case
• earhooks

LAB POINTS

• 9mm speaker drivers
• titanium coated machined copper alloy housing
• engineered to produce the tightest most accurate bass without distortion
• Custom tuned for the smoothest mid to high frequency response while minimizing ear fatigue
• silicon sleeves with noise isolating technology designed for secure comfortable fit, resulting in lower volume levels and better sounding music
• Kevlar reinforced fabric cable
• mic control for hands free operation
• compatible with most industry leading MP3 and PDA devices.

REVIEW

Engineered from the inside out to offer tight, low and thundering bass; accurate and enveloping sound and clear, smooth mids for unmatched sound purity. Available in 3 titanium-coated finishes and featuring Kevlar-reinforced cloth cables for premium style and durability. The NINES are rooted in performance audio with the addition of an in-line single button suppressor [M]ic Control to stay in touch while in motion. Also includes a ballistic nylon carrying case and 1 set of replacement S,M,L Silicone Hollow Point tips with MUNITIO’s patent pending technology for increased isolation and audio clarity. Compatible with most industry-leading MP3, smartphones and tablet devices.

KEY FEATURES

• Driver: 9mm
• Frequency Response: 12Hz - 22kHz
• Sensitivity: 98db +/- 3db at 1kHz
• Rated Power: 3mW
• Max Input Power: 10mW
• gold UPC: 617885963261 /silver UPC: 617885963254

COMES WITH

• ballistic nylon carrying case
• 1 set of S,M,L replaceent silicon isolator tips

LAB POINTS

• sound isolating design
• detailed sound with resonant bass
• single dynamic microSpeaker II
• integrated three button remote control
• compatible with Apple Voice Control and Voice Over
• custom fit kit included

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The SE115m+ uses Second Generation Dynamic MicroDriver technology to deliver the rich, warm sound quality of the SE115 Earphones, with integrated three-button remote and microphone for select Apple products. The ergonomic earphone design and sleeves block outside noise and provide a comfortable, custom fit.

KEY FEATURES

• sensitivity (1mW)105 dB SPL/mW
• impedance (1kHz)16 ohms
• Frequency Range 22Hz - 17.5kHz
• integrated three-button remote and mic allows you to adjust the volume, control music and video playback, record voice memos, and answer or end calls
• 54 inch cable

COMES WITH

• custom fit kit: includes three sizes (S, M, L) of the Soft Flex and Black Foam Sleeves
• zippered carrying case

LAB POINTS

• sound isolating design
• professional, ergonomic design
• detachable cable with Wireform fit
• lightweight, low-profile shape with optimized nozzle angle is designed to rest comfortably in the ear
• over-the-ear configuration keeps cables out of the way
• highly detailed sound with enhanced bass
• includes fit kit & carrying case

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Evolved from personal monitor technology that's been road-tested by pro musicians, the SE215 delivers detailed sound for personal listening or professional monitoring. Dynamic MicroDrivers deliver detailed sound with enhanced bass. A detachable cable with formable wire enables easy replacement and a secure, comfortable fit on-stage or on-the-go. Sound Isolating sleeves in multiple sizes provide up to 37 dB of isolation and a customized fit.

KEY FEATURES

• sensitivity (1mW)107 dB SPL/mW
• impedance (1kHz)20 ohms
• Frequency Range 22Hz - 17.5kHz
• 64 inch cable

COMES WITH

• fit kit w/ 3 sizes of sound isolating sleeves
• zippered carrying case

LAB POINTS

• sound isolating design
• professional, ergonomic design
• detachable cable with Wireform fit
• lightweight, low-profile shape with optimized nozzle angle is designed to rest comfortably in the ear
• over-the-ear configuration keeps cables out of the way
• highly detailed sound with enhanced bass
• includes fit kit & carrying case

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Evolved from personal monitor technology that's been road-tested by pro musicians, the SE215 delivers detailed sound for personal listening or professional monitoring. Dynamic MicroDrivers deliver detailed sound with enhanced bass. A detachable cable with formable wire enables easy replacement and a secure, comfortable fit on-stage or on-the-go. Sound Isolating sleeves in multiple sizes provide up to 37 dB of isolation and a customized fit.

KEY FEATURES

• sensitivity (1mW)107 dB SPL/mW
• impedance (1kHz)20 ohms
• Frequency Range 22Hz - 17.5kHz
• 64 inch cable

COMES WITH

• fit kit w/ 3 sizes of sound isolating sleeves
• zippered carrying case

LAB POINTS

• sound isolating design
• premium full range sound
• single high-definition microDriver + tuned BassPort speaker type
• lightweight, low profile shape
• detachable cable with wireform fit
• includes fit kit & carrying case

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Featuring single High-Definition MicroDrivers + Tuned Bassport, the SE315 delivers full range sound and optimized low-end performance utilizing a vented driver. A detachable cable with formable wire enables easy replacement and secure, comfortable ergonomic fit on-stage or on-the-go. Sound Isolating sleeves in multiple sizes provide up to 37 dB of isolation and a customized fit for pristine sound and maximum comfort over extended wear.

KEY FEATURES

• sensitivity (1mW)116 dB SPL/mW
• impedance (1kHz)27 ohms
• Frequency Range 22Hz - 17.5kHz
• 64 inch cable

COMES WITH

• fit kit w/ three sizes (S, M, L) of the flex and black foam sleeves as well as 1 pair of triple flange and 1 pair of universal fit yellow foam sleeves
• zippered carrying case

LAB POINTS

• ergonic sound isolating design
• spacious sound w/ rich bass
• triple high definition micro drivers
• lightweight, low-profile shape with optimized nozzle angle is designed to rest comfortably in the ear
• over-the-ear configuration keeps cables out of the way
• detachable cable w/ wireform fit
• includes premium fit kit

REVIEW

The choice for discriminating professionals and audiophiles, the SE535 utilizes Triple High-Definition MicroDrivers for incredibly spacious sound with rich bass. Evolved from personal monitor technology road-tested by pro musicians and fine-tuned by Shure engineers, SE535 earphones deliver an unparalleled listening experience allowing you to hear the details of your music like never before.

KEY FEATURES

• Sensitivity: 119 dB SPL/mW
• Frequency Range: 18Hz – 19kHz
• Cable style: 64" detachable with wireform fit

COMES WITH

• Hard zip case
• Premium Fit Kit
• sound isolating sleeves
• 1/4" adapter
• airline adapter

LAB POINTS

• compact in-ear design
• handmade 9mm drivers
• 3 sets of sleeves included to ensure a perfect fit
• tangle resistant fabric and TPE cord
• snap together construction connects around your neck when not in use
• compatible with iPhone, blackberry, HTC and more

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The Bagis is a compact version of the full Urbanears experience. It's an earplug construction for a direct sound and efficient noise reduction. It features rubber housing along with a combined fabric and TPE cord to eliminate distortions caused by friction. As a bonus each earpiece snaps together, allowing you to carry them around your neck when not in use. So now you know where they're at.

KEY FEATURES

• 9mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 107 dB
• Impedance: 16 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

COMES WITH

• 3 sets of sleeves (S, M, L) for the perfect fit

LAB POINTS

• patented Earclick fit design improves overall earphone experience (read below)
• mic + remote feature compatible with iPhone, Blackberry, and most mobile devices
• solid sound specs
• 47" fabric wrapped cord prevents tangles
• interchangeable pads for customized fit

LAB REVIEW

Urbanears Medis are a new style of earphones that are somewhere between in-ear style and traditional earbuds, and introduce the revolutionary "earclick" fit. The patented Earclick solution solves the problem of earbuds falling out of your ears without you having to stuff your ear canal with a sleeve of some kind, like in-ear style buds require. This is achieved with ergonomically shaped buds that secure to two separate points of your outer ear, relieving pressure to a nearly non-existent level while sticking firmly in place. It comes with interchangeable pads in four sizes to ensure the perfect fit. Additionally, the Medis rests a small distance from your ear canal and therefore doesn't affect your sense balance. Of course, the Medis also features slick monochromatic design, like all Urbanears, as well as and features inline mic and remote compatiblbe with most devices from Nokia, Blackberry, and iPhone.

KEY FEATURES

• 15.4mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 96 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• mic + remote compatible with iPhone, Nokia, Blackberry
• alternate search term "urban ears"
  

KEY FEATURES

• 4 interchangeable Earclick pads for perfect fit

LAB POINTS

• patented Earclick fit design improves overall earphone experience (read below)
• mic + remote feature compatible with iPhone, iPad
• Plus remote comes with a volume control feature unlike the standard Medis
• solid sound specs
• 47" fabric wrapped cord prevents tangles
• interchangeable pads for customized fit

LAB REVIEW

Urban ears Medis are a new style of earphones that are somewhere between in-ear style and traditional earbuds, and introduce the revolutionary "earclick" fit. The patented Earclick solution solves the problem of earbuds falling out of your ears without you having to stuff your ear canal with a sleeve of some kind, like in-ear style buds require. This is achieved with ergonomically shaped buds that secure to two separate points of your outer ear, relieving pressure to a nearly non-existent level while sticking firmly in place. It comes with interchangeable pads in four sizes to ensure the perfect fit. Additionally, the Medis rests a small distance from your ear canal and therefore doesn't affect your sense balance. Of course, the Medis also features slick monochromatic design, like all Urbanears, as well as and features inline mic with volume control compatible with Apple devices.

KEY FEATURES

• 15.4mm handmade drver unit
• Sensitivity: 96 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz

KEY FEATURES

• 4 interchangeable Earclick pads for perfect fit

LAB POINTS

• low profile design
• (3) different pairs of silicone ear pieces for custom fit
• wide frequency response
• mic + remote feature compatible with iPhone, Blackberry, and most mobile devices

LAB REVIEW

The Piccolo features a minimalist, low profile design with small WESC logos on the ends of the earbuds. Though the Piccolos are small, they deliver the same quality sound as their bigger cousins with 8mm drivers and a full frequency range. Includes 3 sets of in-ear sleeves to get the perfect fit and a handsfree microphone with call button.

KEY FEATURES

• 8mm drivers
• Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000Hz
• Impedance: 16 ohms
• Sensitivity: 115 db @ 1 kHz
• white UPC: 7332577494610

LAB REVIEW

Woodees are quality sound-isolating ear buds that feature unique wood housings that not only look stylish, but also help enrich the sound of your music. Enjoy detailed highs, deep bass, warm mids all in Woodees' compact, lightweight design that works with any iPod or Mp3 player. Includes a set of silicone ear buds that block out noise and come in four different sizes to ensure a comfortable fit. The flexible Y-cord resists tangles and features an inline mic for your cell phone and ends in a stereo mini plug. Comes with cloth carrying pouch.

KEY FEATURES

• sound-isolating earbud design
• natural wood housings for deep bass
• designed for iPods and MP3 players
• powerful neodymium magnets
• includes 4 sets of interchangeable earbud sleeves for a comfortable fit
• inline mic
• 24k gold-plated stereo mini plug resists corrosion
• 48" soft, tangle-free cable
• frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz
• impedance: 16 ohms

COMES WITH

• carrying pouch and shirt clip

LAB POINTS

• sound-isolating earbud design
• natural wood housings for deep bass
• powerful neodymium magnets
• includes 4 sets of interchangeable earbud sleeves for a comfortable fit
• compatible with iPhone, blackberry, HTC and more

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Woodees are quality sound-isolating ear buds that feature unique wood housings that not only look stylish, but also help enrich the sound of your music. Enjoy detailed highs, deep bass, warm mids all in Woodees' compact, lightweight design that works with any iPod or Mp3 player. Includes a set of silicone ear buds that block out noise and come in four different sizes to ensure a comfortable fit. The flexible Y-cord resists tangles and ends in a gold plated stereo mini plug. Comes with cloth carrying pouch.

KEY FEATURES

• designed for iPods and MP3 players
• natural wood housings
• 24k gold-plated stereo mini plug resists corrosion
• 48" soft, tangle-free cable
• frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• impedance: 16 ohms

COMES WITH

• includes 4 sets of interchangeable earbud sleeves for a comfortable fit