by Ed on November 2, 2011
If you’re looking for high-end quality at a mid-range price, look no further than the Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-canceling Headphones.
The ATHANC7 is highly comparable to a set of Bose (close to $300) at half the price (under $150 on Amazon).
Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-cancelling Headphones
“The ATs have an unbelievably excellent noise canceling circuit. They cut the outside noise to practically nothing, while not producing a noticeable hum or whine.” –jthw, Amazon.com
First off, the noise-canceling feature on the ATHANC7 is very impressive. I was pleasantly surprised that the ATHANC7 was able to completely silent my next-door neighbor’s renovation drilling while I played Call of Duty 2.
Outstanding results for gaming and music
The ATHANC7 really enhanced my online gaming experience, alerting me of the slightest hint of oncoming attacks and other players creeping up on me in the game.
On my iPod, the ATHANC7 also gave an excellent performance. The bass wasn’t muffled while on its highest setting; treble was sharp and clear. With its amazing noise-canceling feature, I was truly in a world of my own while using the ATHANC7.
Comfortable fit
The ATHANC7 fit comfortably around the ears, similar to the feeling of wearing ear muffs.
I’ve got small ears and the ATHANC7 ear cups were an exact fit and didn’t add too much pressure.
Using it for about 3 hours at a time, my ears did feel a bit warm but perhaps that was also a sign to let it ‘breathe’ a little.
Built to last
The ATHANC7 is built very well, with the padding on the headband very well cushioned for a comfortable fit. You can also bend the headband to readjust the size for a snug fit around your head.
If you have a larger-than-average size head, I think these will still fit you nicely as you can bend these out quite a fair bit.
Prepare to share your music
I have to agree with a lot of other reviewers who mentioned sound leakage on the ATHANC7.
Using the ATHANC7 with my iPod on a moderate volume level, the sound leakage was very noticeable.
Don’t be surprised to find the person next to you bopping along to your music. Sound leakage here is loud enough for them to hear almost everything.
Great offer at Amazon
The Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-canceling Headphones are still an excellent buy and give Bose a run for their money.
At Amazon, these are going at $118.88 after a generous 46% discount. More than a thousand reviewers have also voiced their satisfaction with the ATHANC7.
To grab the amazing deal on the ATHANC7, here’s the direct Amazon link.
If you’re interested in noise-canceling in-ear headphones rather than full-size ones, check out my review on the Shure E4c headphones.
For a wireless solution, take a look at the Pioneer SE-DIR800C Wireless Headphones with Dolby Headphone Technology.
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I like using my iPod whenever I’m commuting to work or jogging, but I’m not quite a fan of the earphones that come with the player.
So during my search for a new set of headphones that wouldn’t break the bank yet doesn’t compromise on quality, I found the Koss PortaPro Headphones.
Best Portable Headphones
Going for under $50, I was amazed that the PortaPro delivered such spectacular sound quality.
26 year old design
The Koss PortaPro was released back in 1984 and remains untouched to this day because it’s got such a massive following. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Amen!
The retro design of the headphones adds to the fun factor and I always feel a little chirpier with these on while I’m on the street.
“Actually, I cannot say enough about the sound quality, it is well balanced, full, hits the highs, lows and everything in between accurately. They produce clean scratch that pristine audio that is a pleasure to listen to.” –Techie Camp Director, Amazon.com
Awesome sound
I was blown away by the delivery of bass on these. Crisp, sharp and clear, the PortaPro adds an extra ‘oomph’ to the bass of any song I’m listening to, from rock to pop and dance.
Treble notes come out like crystal. It simply delivers sound with details that I never noticed before.
Good for street use
When using any set of headphones in a street environment, you really don’t want to shut out ALL external sound so you can be alert of oncoming vehicles.
The Koss PortaPro is NOT a noise-canceling set, which makes it suitable if you plan to use it while jogging, cycling or any outdoor activity.
Only gripe – snags at hair
The only minor gripe I have with the PortaPro is the metal headband catches your hair, especially when you quickly pull it down.
Following the advice of other reviewers, I solved this problem by carefully wrapping the band with transparent Scotch tape.
And voila! the Koss PortaPro was made perfect.
Amazon is offering a crazy deal on the PortaPro at $31.28.
There’s no risk involve when you get these, because it comes with a lifetime warranty from Koss AND a great return policy from Amazon. So what’re you waiting for!
Here’s the direct link to Amazon:
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When I’m going for a run or working out, I really depend on some rock solid tunes to boost my energy levels.
Using full-size headphones, like the Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-canceling Headphones aren’t very practical because those huge ear cups will only get in your way.
And in-ear headphones like the Shure E4c Headphones have a tendency to fall out if you’re doing some hard running.
Perfect size and stays in place
Enter the Sennheiser PMX70 Sport Line Stereo Neckband Headphones, a simple and functional set of headphones that were designed for sporting activities.
Sennheiser PMX70 Sport Line Stereo Neckband Headphones
“I absolutely love them and highly recommend them for athletes.” – Amanda F. Vega
I tested these on the treadmill, starting at a slow pace. The headband on the Sennheiser PMX70 goes around the back of the neck, securing the ear buds very nicely in place.
I upped the pace to really give these (and myself) a challenge, and was surprised at the ergonomics of the Sennheiser PMX70. It stayed in place throughout my run, and didn’t get in the way at all.
Powerful sound from a small set – IMPRESSIVE!
Sound quality was also excellent. I wouldn’t compare these to full-size headphones, simply because it wasn’t constructed to perform like one.
As sport headphones though, I was very impressed.
The bass on the Sennheiser PMX70 is surprisingly deep for such tiny ear pieces, and the mid-range and treble is very sharp and clear too.
I liked that it’s not noise-canceling either (as no sport headphone should be), so it doesn’t block too much environmental sound. Good for using while taking a run around the neighborhood.
Attention-seekers will love the design
If you’re into bright neon colors, then you’ll love the fluorescent green of the PMX70.
It’s a pretty loud color, I must admit, but it adds energy and fun when you’re using it during a workout.
Here comes the best part
These are probably one of the most inexpensive and highly efficient headphones around. Usually retailing for just under 60 bucks, Amazon’s got a fantastic deal at half price. Plus, it’s a trusted Sennheiser. Score!
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by Ed on February 25, 2011
Here are some of my favorite headphones, each unique in features but all with one purpose – enhancing your listening experience. Enjoy!
Best In-Ear Headphones – Shure E4c Headphones
Shure E4c Headphone
I keep coming back to the Shure E4c, no matter how many other headphones I’ve used. It looks fantastic and delivers superb sound. It’s especially good for bass-heavy music like jazz and dance. I’ve never been disappointed with the Shure E4c, even when my mp3s were of low quality. It also feels comfortable in the ear, and doesn’t irritate or cause discomfort after several hours of use.
Read my full review on the Shure E4c here.
Best Full-Size Headphones/Best Buy Headphones – Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-canceling Headphones
Audio-Technica ATHANC7 Noise-canceling Headphones
I was very impressed with the ATHANC7 headphones for gaming. The noise-canceling feature is very useful in cutting out environmental noise and it doesn’t produce additional hums either. The ATHANC7 picked up every little sound possible in my games, giving me a more realistic enjoyment that other headphones couldn’t provide.
As a gamer, I wear headphones for many hours on end. The ATHANC7 didn’t add too much pressure and fits comfortably around the head and over the ears. The ATHANC7 is definitely one of my faves.
For more, read my review on the Audio-Technica ATHANC7 here.
Best Wireless Headphones – Pioneer SE-DIR800C Wireless Headphones with Dolby Headphone Technology
Pioneer SE-DIR800C Wireless Headphones
Until the Pioneer SE-DIR800C, I was never a real fan of wireless headphones. From experience, wireless sets have the convenience of being clutter-free but the constant noise interference was too annoying for me. But the Pioneer DIR800C has converted me into a believer that wireless headphones can rival a wired one anytime, any day.
The best thing about the DIR800C is ZERO interference. I was blown away! There wasn’t any pop or crackle sounds that you would normally find with other wireless sets. The surround sound technology in the DIR800C is also spectacular and brings entertainment to a whole new level. If you’re a gamer or an action movie buff, the DIR800C will really excite you!
Read my full review of the Pioneer DIR800C here.
Best Value Headphones – Sennheiser HD448 Headphones
Sennheiser HD448
If you’re new to headphones technology and simply want a fuss-free solution, I suggest you go with the HD448. A trusted brand, excellent performance and under $100, the Sennheiser HD448 is a fantastic all-rounder. This is one of the best deals I’ve found in a while.
The HD448 makes low quality music sound good, and high quality tracks sound like a symphony. The closed back design means no sound leakage either. The HD448 also fits very comfortably, without being too tight or adding too much pressure on the ears.
Take a look at my review of the Sennheiser HD448 here.
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by Ed on February 24, 2011
The Sennheiser HD448 are excellent all-purpose headphones and a great step up from any low-end models.
Sennheiser HD448 Stereo Headphones
These delivered a great performance at an even greater price.
Comfortable fit over the ears
The HD448 fits great over the head and ears.
It wasn’t too tight or constricting and the ear cups covered the ears completely without added pressure.
I tested these on while playing some computer games and after 7 hours of continuous use, the HD448 didn’t ‘heat up’ my ears like most full-size headphones do.
Impressive sound delivery
The Sennheiser HD448 delivers brilliant sound that could easily rival those 10x its price.
The HD448 brought out musical detail in each instrument without bass distortion when I turned the volume up.
Precision was spectacular when I used it on gaming; it was picking up sound that I had never heard and really brought the experience to life.
As with any headphones, it also depends on the quality of your audio source.
The HD448 still made low quality audio sound decent, but it truly shines when it delivers high quality tracks.
Privacy for your music
The HD448’s closed back design means that other people won’t be listening to your music with you. This should be especially useful if you’re using it on the train or at work.
The Sennheiser HD448 is one of the best headphones that $100 can buy. It looks pretty neat too, and is a perfect fit for extended wear.
I highly recommend the Sennheiser as an all-round multipurpose headphone that will please your ears and your wallet.
You can get the Sennheiser HD448 at Amazon with free shipping AND a return policy. So really, there’s nothing to lose here!
Here’s the direct link to the Amazon page.
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by Ed on February 23, 2011
If you’re looking to upgrade the little (and often useless) earphones that come with your mp3 player, consider investing in these Denon AH-C751K In-ear Headphones. The C751 is very tiny, but could possibly knock the sound out of any full-size headphones.
Denon AHC751K In-ear Headphones (Black)
Incredible musical harmony
I tested the Denon C751 with my iPod to different genres of music – hip-hop, dance and jazz. I’m pleased to say that the C751 didn’t disappoint in any category.
Bass was rich and kicking; the mid-range was punchy and full of life. It creates a beautiful harmony of each instrument without competing to overshadow each other.
Good sound isolation
The Denon C751 are essentially sound-isolating earphones, and it does the job wonderfully.
I took these out while commuting to work and while it didn’t completely silent city noises, with the music playing, I totally forgot that I was in the presence of others.
Plus, I didn’t need to turn my volume up to block external noise, so I’m able to listen at a much safer level than I normally would.
Looks good, feels even better
The designers at Denon C751 were smart to keep it looking simple and smart. I tested the ones in black, and you really can’t go wrong with that since it’s a universal color that matches anything.
The first thing you’ll notice about the C751 design is how incredibly tiny it is.
Users who are new to using in-ear headphones may need to fiddle around a bit to find a comfy fit.
The earpieces come in 3 sizes, so I strongly suggest that you try each one out for your perfect fit.
Otherwise, you won’t be getting the true performance of the earphones.
The Denon C751 comes in a nice carrying case for storage as well. Overall, I found these to be an excellent choice for any mp3 player, especially if you’re always on the go.
Amazon is having an incredible deal on the Denon C751, at half the usual price AND free shipping. It doesn’t get better than that! To check out this bargain on Amazon, click here.
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by Ed on February 22, 2011
If you’re looking for serious noise canceling headphones, then the Bose QuietComfort 3s are a sure bet.
Bose® QuietComfort® 3 Acoustic Noise Canceling® Headphones
After all, Bose practically set the benchmark for other brands to follow with its premium range of noise canceling headphones.
Nice, comfy cushioning over the ears
The Bose QuietComfort 3 is surprisingly a comfortably fit, with earpieces wrapped in soft leather that cushion nicely against the ears.
I wore it for a long stretch of five to six hours each time and never encountered any discomfort.
Comfort aside, the main purpose for these headphones were its noise canceling function. I tested these while playing my computer games with my roommate simultaneously watching a very loud action movie.
Bose wasn’t joking when they planned on canceling noise
I was well impressed that the Bose QuietComfort 3 brought external noise down to barely a whisper. What I particularly liked was that it didn’t produce any hissing sound either, unlike other noise-canceling headphones.
With the QuietComfort 3, I felt like there was nobody else around me even when my roommate was watching his movie at an insanely high volume.
Pumping bass, nice detail in acoustics
The bass from the QuietComfort 3 was pretty good too – rich and strong, it’s the kind of bass that will make dance music fans very happy.
Acoustics were also well delivered, with crispy sharp detail shining through.
Rechargeable batteries included
It was quite thoughtful of Bose to throw in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and a spare pack.
Frankly, I can’t stand paying for batteries.
The only gripe with the Bose batteries for the QuietComfort 3 is that once the batteries are dead, there goes your sound too.
The Bose QuietComfort 3 one of the most impressive noise-canceling headphones I’ve tested.
It’s a compact set that should make traveling a lot more pleasurable, especially with that smart carry case it comes in.
Bear in mind that these are upmarket headphones, so expect to pay around $350.
It’s well worth the money, though and with Amazon’s return policy, there’s more reason to at least give it a shot.
To check out the Bose QuietComfort 3 at Amazon, click here.
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by Ed on February 11, 2011
If you’re really serious about sound quality from your iPod and you don’t mind spending a little extra, the Shure E4c in-ear headphones are the way to go.
Shure E4c-n Sound Isolating Earphones
Where’d that bass come from!
With the Shure E4c headphones, I heard bass that I never knew existed! Not all of my mp3s are in CD or 320kbps quality, so I knew these were a winner when it boosted the fidelity on my 128kbps tracks.
Apart from thumping bass, the treble and midrange were superbly clear. Vocals sounded beautiful with these.
If the Shure E4c made poor quality tracks sound decent, it makes good quality mp3s sound like your personal symphony.
Sound isolation on the Shure E4c was excellent enough to rival full-size noise-cancelling headphones. I was surprised to find that I was listening at a much lower volume than usual, and still able to get such clarity in sound.
Designed to complement mp3 players
Luckily Shure designers knew this would be used with mp3 players, so they’ve made it very sleek and modern-looking, with stylish accents of grey and silver to complement the overall black design.
“The build quality of the E-4’s is also excellent. I have had mine for about two months of nearly constant use and they show no sign of wear or weakness.” -Amo Probos, Amazon.com
These feel ultra light and comfortable in use, unlike certain earphones that start to hurt the canals after extended use.
At one point, I’d switched off my iPod and didn’t remove the earphones. An hour later, I completely forgot that I was still wearing it!
Expensive at full retail price; but well worth it when there’s a discount
The headphones come in a convenient carry pack for protection when not in use, along with disposable foam sleeves and reusable flex sleeves.
The Shure E4c usually goes for more than $300, but Amazon has a great deal now for $169!
Combine that with Amazon’s return policy, and you’ve got yourself one awesome bargain.
To take advantage of this deal at Amazon and to read more user reviews, here’s the link:
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by Ed on February 3, 2011
Many gaming enthusiasts, myself included, would be quick to credit the Sennheiser PC150 as THE headphones for gaming, but having tested the Beyerdynamic DT234Pro headset, I’ve had a pleasant change of heart.
Beyerdynamic DT 234 PRO - Headset ( ear-cup )
If you’re looking to enhance your gaming experience with superior sound quality and a decent mic to boot, the DT234 Pro surpasses expectations affordably at under $100.
Brings computer games to life
The bass on the DT234 is superb and adds a nice boost to explosion and shooting sounds during a game.
The DT234 also gives outstanding fidelity. Enemies creeping in on you won’t stand a chance as this headset delivers the slightest hint of a whisper.
The microphone is attached on a sturdy and flexible arm, so I’m confident it won’t snap off easily. Sound quality on the mic is also pretty decent and is a lot more convenient than having a standing mic on your desk or a clip-on lapel mic.
The DT234 also doesn’t have sound leakage, which is a major plus since it won’t leak audio from the earcups into the attached microphone.
Comfortable use, minimal pressure – ideal for extended use
This headset feels very comfortable over the head and around the ears. It rests nicely on top of the ears and places pressure on the bottom of the earlobe, rather than on top of it. This makes extended use a lot more comfortable, especially if you’re prone to gaming for hours on end.
I also found minimal ‘warming’ of the ears even after wearing the DT234 for 6 hours continuously (I’m a serious gamer, what can I say!). Many headphones usually feel hot after an hour of use, but not the DT234, which are one of the most comfy sets I’ve tried.
If the mic on the DT234 had an on/off switch, then these would be absolutely perfect for gaming.
Crazy bargain for a superb set
The Beyerdynamic DT234Pro headset is a steal, going for under $100 at Amazon. There’s limited stock so gamers, check it out fast at Amazon.
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by Ed on January 24, 2011
Wireless headphones usually have a poor reputation compared to full-size wired sets. But these Pioneer SE-DIR800C Wireless Headphones has made me a firm believer that wireless is just as good, if not better.
Pioneer SE-DIR800C Wireless Headphones
Although the Beyerdynamic DT234Pro Headset is my favorite for gaming, having a wireless option is convenient when I’m playing at LAN parties and need to move around a lot.
Games are brought to life
Enter the Pioneer SE-DIR800C. With its integrated Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, these wireless headphones brought sound like never heard before.
Blasts were so real, I almost felt the earth tremble.
Announcements in the game were so vivid; movement of characters were echoed with such crispy clarity that I felt the game had new life breathed into it.
Incredible surround sound
The Dolby Headphones on the Pioneer SE-DIR800C made surround audio incredibly realistic.
The 3 settings (DH1 for small rooms, DH2 for average-size rooms and DH3 for small theater) brought movies to life and made it feel like a concert was playing in the room just for me.
“In 4 years of usage they and the transformer are still going strong. Pioneer products really are durable.” -Todd March, Amazon.com
Zero, and I really mean ZERO, sound interference
As long as I’m directly in front of the transmitter devices, there’s absolutely zero interference. I’ve not experienced any lost connection so far, or any pop or crackle noises that signal connection attempts.
Whether for gaming or watching movies in the middle of the night, the Pioneer SE-DIR80 brought a realistic experience to it all.
What’s the catch?
Well, it’s going to hurt your wallet, that’s for sure. The Pioneer SE-DIR800C fetch a very painful $399 at retail.
That would’ve been a deal breaker for me, but I found a great deal at Amazon for just under $280. That’s an awesome 35% discount, which make the SE-DIR800C well worth the price.
To snap up this deal now while it’s hot, go to the Amazon website:
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