Headphones are an amazing invention. They allow us listen to music without speakers, while traveling or at home. Whether they are for the MP3 player, smartphone or stereo system – headphones are used on many devices today.
Not only they are practical on the road, but also they can be easily used at home. For example, the headset is essential for many applications on the PC (the likes of: Skype or speech recognition software).
Good Hi-Fi headphones can considerably increase the enjoyment of music on the stereo. Thanks to modern transmission technologies, such as wireless or Bluetooth, we can be very flexible and we no longer have to rely on cable.
Headphones are available in every price range and in different designs. Which model is right for your own needs? How do you find good headphones? Which type meets your personal preferences, purpose, budget and your own music taste?
The offer is huge today, so it is not easy to keep track. Each type of headphones has its own Pros and Cons. Ultimately, the choice also depends on the purpose. For example, ear buds are more practical when you are walking, while headphones, which are larger, may be used at home, when sitting around.
As a rule, it’s not about just one model, many people nowadays have several types of headphones for different purposes.
In our purchasing guide, you will first get an overview of the different types and variants of headphones and their respective characteristics. We also discuss the most important technical aspects and new developments. Therefore, this guide helps you along with our reviews in your purchase decision.
[toc]THE DESIGN: IN-EAR OR ON-THE-HEAD?
Although there are many different types and variations of headphones, there are two different types of designs: On-the-Head a.k.a headphones and in-ear headphones, and in between these two, there are headphone models that sit on the ears (0n-ear headphones) and those that are worn over the ear (over-ear headphones).
In-Ear Headphones or Ear Buds
The terms in-ear headphones and ear buds are often confused. There is actually a difference. Ear Buds are the flat plastic headphones, which are only loosely placed in front of the auricle. In contrast, in-ear headphones are pushed more or less deeply into the ear canal, depending on the design. They have an attachment made of plastic or silicone.
On-the-Head a.k.a Headphones
These headphones sit on or over the ear. It’s typical to find a headband, which connects the two shells together and keeps them upside down. Because of this, this design is also referred to as bracket headphones and the label can be somewhat misleading. In the meantime, there are also in-ear models with brackets.
Although the strap is worn on the head in most models, there are also other variants, in which the strap is worn differently.
Neckband Headphones
In this variant, the bracket is worn around the neck. This allows better freedom of movement and it is perceived by some users as more comfortable. Anyone who fears for his hairstyle may also be happy with the neckband. Neckband headphones are often worn during sports, as they hold well during exercise.
Chin Strap Headphones
Chin Straps Headphones are a great alternative for those who feel uncomfortable with a headband or a neckband. The hanger is carried quite loose, without tension under the chin. This variant is mainly used on PC or interpreting headphones.
Although the chin guard prevents the headphones from falling down, it does not provide a particularly good grip. That’s why this type of headset is better for sedentary activities and not for exercise. They are also used as TV headphones.
Ear Hook Headphones
For ear hook headphones, each side is individually attached to the ear with a hanger. This type is often bought as an in-ear model and nowadays it is part of the sports headphones group.
The ear hooks simply provide the best grip. Although the wearing comfort is lower than other underwire variants, the ear hooks hold the ear securely during sports and do not slip.
Conclusion:
For whichever type you decide, they ultimately have to meet your preferences and desired purpose. The small headphones, which are worn in the ear, can be stored to safe space, they are ideal for traveling or for sports and they are visually inconspicuous.
Big On-Head headphones, used to be worn predominantly at home, but that too has changed, especially as the colorful designer models are very trendy.
So you see more and more people who walk with big, colorful headphones through the city. Meanwhile, there are also the so-called lightweight headphones.
For example, the Koss Porta Pro, which offers a particularly comfortable fit and can be easily stored in the jacket’s pocket, by means of moveable stirrups.
CLOSED, OPEN OR SEMI-OPEN HEADPHONES – AN IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE
In the case of headphones, a distinction is made between the closed and open design. In addition, there are semi-open headphones, which represent a compromise between the two.
Open Headphones
Open headphones are designed so that the ear is not completely shielded. They are available in every type of construction, for example as on-head headphones or earphones or in-ear headphones (sitting in the ear).
In the market they are referred to as on-ear headphones. Sure you must have come across that term.
The headphones are only on the outside of the auricle (the visible outer part of the ear, usually just referred to as ear) or are loosely placed in the ear (depending on the type).
The open design is intended to provide a particularly natural listening experience. Since the ear is not completely closed, external noise can still be perceived. This design has advantages and disadvantages.
On one hand, outside noise can naturally affect the enjoyment of music; on the other hand, sometimes it is important that you’re able to hear the environment. For example, in public roads you should always use open headphones.
In addition, the wearing comfort of open models is usually better; this is especially true for in-ear models. Since the headset is only loosely placed in the auricle and not deep into the ear canal, it does not become uncomfortable even after many hours.
Whether on foot, by bike or by car – whoever is on the road should always choose open headphones for safety reasons!
Closed Headphones
Closed headphones shield the ear almost completely from the outside world. Depending on the design, they either enclose the entire ear (in the case of on-head headphones) or, similar to an earplug, sit directly in the auditory canal (for in-ear models).
Sub sounds are mostly hidden, so that the listening pleasure is not clouded.
The sound pressure cannot escape to the outside, which makes the bass sound more punchy. In addition, with this design, a lower volume is required to achieve the desired sound result, because the sound can penetrate directly into the ear.
Closed headphones are ideal for listening to music, radio or a radio play in the recording studio, at home or wherever. Many users report that the closed design allows them to concentrate fully on listening and to relax better.
On the road or in everyday life, this design can be problematic, since outside noise is not perceived. The honking of cars, a warning signal or the ringing of your own mobile phones is not overheard with such headphones.
The in-ear models fit perfectly in the ear, so they are usually supplied with attachments in different sizes. After a few hours, the headphones in the ear can be a bit uncomfortable, and this also depends on quality, material and processing of the headphones.
Closed shell headphones sit tightly on the head; they have a ring-shaped pad that firmly encloses the ear. These models can become a bit uncomfortable after a few hours. In both variants, the comfort period might be limited to a few hours (depending on the model), because the ear is not ventilated by the design.
Semi-Open Headphones
Semi-open headphones are a relatively new development. Here one tries to find a compromise between the closed and open design, so to speak. In half-open headphones, the ear is indeed shielded from the environment as far as possible, but not as strong as in the closed models.
The low tones are transmitted to the outside, thereby creating a natural sound. Outside noises can still be perceived, but much quieter than with an open headphone. Therefore, this design is also not suitable when you’re on the road.
Since the half-open variant does not surround the ear so tightly or sits so low in the ear canal, the wearing comfort is better than with the completely closed models.
BUY WIRED OR WIRELESS HEADPHONES?
In the past, there were only wired headphones, but today wireless headphones have long prevailed. The classic wireless headphones are still there, in addition, the data are naturally transmitted via Bluetooth in many modern headphones and headsets.
Before you decide on a variant, you should familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the different transmission methods. Of course, wireless headphones are more practical and they allow maximum freedom of movement.
However, they also have some drawbacks, so wired models are still being bought a lot.
Wired Headphones for the Best Sound Quality
Among the high quality studio headphones, you will find many wired models. This is because the cable always guarantees trouble-free transmission. Prerequisite, however, is that it is a correspondingly high quality cable.
Some people also opt for a wired headset because they want to exclude additional radio resources in their environment. In addition, it can always come with wireless transmission to a low background noise, which is barely perceptible in the high-quality models. Therefore, there are several good reasons to buy a wired model.
Last but not least, headphones with cable are also cheaper than comparable wireless models. But even with cable headphones, there are certain differences that you should pay attention to when buying.
Cable is not always the same
Wired headphones have quite different cables. Spiral-shaped cables are especially handy for small headphones that you want to put in your jacket’s pocket when you are out and about. They can be pulled apart, if necessary, and otherwise take up little space. In addition, the risk of cable clutter is much lower here.
Much more common, however, are models with normal, smooth cables. These should always be wound up carefully to avoid kinks and knots in the cable.
When buying expensive headphones make sure that the cable can be replaced if necessary, because a cable break is one of the most common defects in headphones. For very low-cost models, this aspect is not quite as important as the replacement of the cable is unlikely to be worthwhile anyway.
Pay Attention to the Appropriate Plug
After buying headphones, you may go home and realize that the plug does not fit into your MP3 player or the hi-fi system. Therefore, make sure before buying, which connector is needed for your device.
Most small devices such as mobile phones or MP3 players require headphones with a 3.5 mm plug. Headphones for stereos usually have a 6 mm plug.
Apart from the size, connectors differ in quality. Particularly high quality are gold-plated connectors. The gilding improves the conductive properties and, thus, also the signal transmission. In addition, these plugs are more durable, as gold does not tarnish or rust even after many years.
Wireless Headphones for Maximum Freedom and Movement
Wireless headphones have gained so much popularity.
The signal is transmitted either via radio or Bluetooth. Bluetooth digital transmission is the most common technology today. The advantage clearly is in the maximum freedom of movement. You can move freely in the room with the headphones, as they are not tied to the cable’s range.
Bluetooth headphones for mobile phone are also handy, as no cable, bothers and the phone can be easily stowed in the pocket or jacket’s pocket.
How is the Signal Transmitted?
Theoretically, there are three different transmission techniques for radio transmission in headphones: digital, analog and infrared. The infrared transmission is used for the TV remote; data are transmitted by light signal.
However, this technique no longer plays a major role today because it is very susceptible to interference and leads to a strong noise. In addition, a permanent visual contact is necessary for the infrared transmission.
The analog radio technology is indeed much better, but in this case, you have to expect noise as well. That is why it has lost its importance and it is barely used in headphones.
Digital Data Transmission
With a few exceptions, today there are only wireless headphones with digital data transmission. The digital transmission simply offers the best sound quality; a strong noise is not to be feared in this case.
The noise of analogue radio technology came to fruition in the past, if the signal was not completely transmitted.
In the case of digital data transmission, on the other hand, there is only “on” or “off”, so the signal is either transmitted or not transmitted. The only disturbance that can occur with digital data transmission is the complete failure of the signal.
This happens, for example, when the headphones are too far away from the transmitter. Thanks to digital data transmission, the modern, wireless headphones no longer rustle! Wireless headphones are available today as a digital version. Another digital transmission option is Bluetooth.
Most users prefer Bluetooth headphones because the transmission is very easy via Bluetooth interface. The differences between wireless and Bluetooth headphones will be discussed in the following paragraphs.
The Difference between Digital Radio and Bluetooth
Bluetooth and radio are often confused. Both are digital data transmission techniques.
Digital Wireless Headphones
In the case of digital radio technology, the data is transmitted via radio waves from a transmitting station to the headphones (e.g. Sennheiser RS 175 RF) . A wireless headset works like a cordless phone. The actual headphone therefore always includes a base station that converts the signal and sends it to the headphones.
Bluetooth Headphones
Bluetooth is a special short-distance transmission method that is nowadays used primarily for the transmission of data to smartphones, notebooks and other mobile devices. A Bluetooth headset does not need a transmitting station; it is connected to the desired device via Bluetooth interface.
Bluetooth or Digital Radio – Which Should I Buy?
Both Bluetooth and digital radio lead to a clean data transmission. Which variant you should choose depends mainly on what the headphones should be used for.
Data transmission via Bluetooth only works at shorter distances, usually several meters. It also assumes that there is a Bluetooth interface on the output device. Bluetooth is therefore the ideal solution for headphones and headsets that are to be used for mobile phones, MP3 players, the car radio or even the computer, as long as the devices have a Bluetooth interface.
Wireless headphones, however, achieve more coverage. You can walk around the house with a good wireless headset without interrupting the signal. In addition, radio technology does not depend on certain interfaces on the output devices.
For example, a digital wireless headset can also be operated on an older stereo system. However, the disadvantage of this technology is that a base station is always needed. That is why wireless headphones are not suitable for mobile use on the move.
THE MOST IMPORTANT TECHNICAL DETAILS OF HEADPHONES
When making a purchase decision, you should look at the technical details of each model. But what do they mean in detail?
For the assessment of the quality, the harmonic distortion, the impedance, the sound pressure and the frequency response are important. There are also headphones with active noise cancellation.
The Harmonic Distortion
The distortion factor indicates the degree of sound distortion. This technical value should be as low as possible for the headphones. Very good models have a harmonic distortion of 0.1 percent or less. Values below one percent may still be acceptable.
The Impedance
The impedance is also referred to as resistance and it’s expressed in ohms. This value indicates the resistance to the music source (for example, the stereo, the mobile phone or the MP3 player).
The higher this value is, the more energy will be applied by the music source. A high impedance is even necessary for a good hi-fi system or in a recording studio. However, smartphones, MP3 players and sound cards in computers can get into trouble with high impedance.
Therefore, low impedance headphones should be selected for such music sources. (Usually below 64 ohms). If you are not sure, compare the manufacturer’s information of headphones and the music source. The resistance at the headphone’s input of the music source should be the same, or slightly different, from the headphone’s resistance.
Resistance is not as complicated as it looks. Manufacturers adapt the resistance of the individual headphone types to the usual usage. The mobile in-ear headphones and headsets are compatible with mobile phones or MP3 players.
PC headphones are adapted to the resistance of sound cards while hi-fi headphones have a higher resistance, as they are usually connected to a hi-fi system.
The Sound Pressure
The sound pressure is an important technical value, measured in decibels.
This value indicates at which volume the sound is distorted via the headphones. In simple words, the sound pressure indicates the maximum volume, up to which no sound changes occur.
A sound pressure of 90 dB is sufficient, only for DJ headphones has a sound pressure of at least 100 dB is recommended. For the human ear, a volume of over 85 dB is detrimental in a short time.
Therefore, you should never exhaust the headphone’s volume.
The Frequency Response
The frequency response (also called frequency bandwidth) denotes the sound spectrum of headphones. The larger the bandwidth, the lower or higher tones the respective model can generate. Good headphones represent the bandwidth that the human ear can hear.
In general, it is assumed that humans can hear a frequency bandwidth between 20 and 20,000 Hz. Better values may look good, but cannot be heard by most people.
Noise Cancelling: What is the Effect of Active Noise Cancellation?
Some manufacturers advertise with “active noise cancellation” or refer to their models as “noise-reduced”.
A special technology filters out disturbing environmental noises (especially low frequencies). In fact, with this technique, disturbing external noise can be filtered to some extent.
The active noise cancellation, however, has a positive effect only with open headphones. With closed models, it is superfluous, since environmental noise does not reach the ear anyway.
Here are some the headphones with noise cancellation. Bose QC15
HEADPHONES TECHNOLOGY – DIFFERENT TYPES OF TONE GENERATION
Why do some headphones cost several hundred dollars, while some are available for less than 50 dollars? Why are there so many differences in sound between a high-end model and the simple headphones that come with any MP3 player or phone
In order to understand why the quality is sometimes so drastically different, it helps to look at the technology. This is because different systems are used for tone generation.
Headphones with Dynamic Sound Conversion
Most commercially available headphones use the so-called dynamic sound conversion.
This type of tone generation is the cheapest for the industry, but of course, it still leads to good results. The sound is generated in this system as a normal speaker. In each earpiece, there is a magnet and a coil. In the middle, there is a membrane. As soon as current flows through the coil, it charges up magnetically. Thus, two magnets act on the membrane, which thereby vibrates.
This is how the sound waves are created. This technique is simple but effective. For speakers, of course, the diaphragm and magnets are larger, which can produce a wider sound spectrum and more volume.
Electrostatic Sound Conversion for an even Better Sound
In many expensive headphones, another method is used: the electrostatic sound conversion. This system essentially consists of two surface electrodes, between which a polymer film is stretched.
The polymer film serves as a membrane here. In contrast with the dynamic sound conversion, the polymer film oscillates extremely evenly and quickly between the electrodes. The original audio signal can therefore be reproduced unchanged.
Headphones with electrostatic sound conversion sound better than models with dynamic sound conversion. The sound spectrum is ready, the sound is reproduced as it were true to the original.
The production cost for this system is higher, which is reflected in the price.
Technology for In-Ear Headphones
The smaller the headset, the harder it is to produce good sound with conventional systems. In good in-ear headphones, the so-called balanced armature transducers are used.
In simple words, an additional, movable and magnetic component, the armature, is positioned in the magnetic field. As a result, the sound wave generation of the membrane is balanced out. In addition, this technique makes it possible to produce a good sound even with less power.
The best in-ear headphones today use even more complex technology to create a balanced sound. Thus, different systems are combined together to represent the entire sound spectrum.
SURROUND SOUND HEADPHONES – MODELS WITH A SURROUND SOUND EXPERIENCE
Models with surround sound represent a new trend. The so-called 5.1 or 7.1 headphones simulate true surround sound, creating a completely new listening experience.
The user has the feeling of being in the middle of the action. The sounds seem to come not only from right and left, but also from all sides. Normally, real sound requires a multi-part sound system. The headphones with surrounding sound simulate the surround sound experience with elaborate technology.
How does the Simulation of Surround Sound Work?
Depending on the model and the manufacturer, the surround sound generates differently. The principle is always similar. The sound signal in the headphones is split into several speakers.
So, there is at least one additional loudspeaker for the bass, as well as at least one center loudspeaker for the middle, and at least one loudspeaker for the treble per side. If you break surrounding sound headphones, you will see at least three speakers on each side.
The technique is even more sophisticated. For a natural listening experience, the manufacturers use intelligent systems that shift the phases and amplitudes of the acoustic signals in such a way that one really has the impression that the sounds come from many sides.
Therefore, there are not just simple speakers, but also built in chips that control the sound production.
5.1 or 7.1 Headphones
The designations 5.1 or 7.1 for headphones and headsets originally go back to the designation of sound systems for the room.
A 5.1 speaker system consists of a subwoofer for the bass and five other speakers.
A 7.1 system (e.g. Sony MDR DS6500) has, in addition to the subwoofer, seven speakers, which are distributed in the room so that it creates a surrounding sound experience.
Headphones with surround sound simulate this surround sound experience. Analogous to the sound systems, 7.1 headphones have two additional tone generators, compared to the 5.1 models.
WHICH HEADPHONE FOR WHICH GENRE OF MUSIC?
Your taste of music can and should have an influence on your purchase decision. Of course, you can hear and enjoy every genre of music with good headphones. But there are slight differences in the sound of each model.
While one model is more bass-heavy, another offers a particularly natural, balanced sound. Many manufacturers offer different headphone models, for certain styles of music
The manufacturer’s information can be well oriented. For example, classical music headphones should provide a particularly harmonious, natural-sounding sound. Strong basses are less desirable here.
Things are quite different with hip-hop, soul or rock and heavy metal, strong basses are particularly important here. Some manufacturers even offer headphones for a specific audience. For example, the popular Beats by Dr. Dre are specifically designed for hip-hop and rap.
For electronic music or guitar heavy, such as house and techno, not only strong bass, but also pronounced heights are important. Most DJ headphones provide such a sound image.
Last but not least, the preferred sound also depends on your own listening habits and preferences. The manufacturers’ recommendations merely say that a certain model is particularly well suited for a specific genre of music.
Of course, that does not mean that you cannot hear other types of music with those headphones.
THE DESIGN – HEADPHONE AS FASHION ACCESSORY
Headphones are no longer just bought because of their technical characteristics. After all, they are now also a fashion accessory. This is especially true for the strikingly designed on-head headphones.
Colorful headphones have been quite trendy for several years. Some labels even bring new color combinations to the market every year, matching the latest fashion colors. Not only women like this trend, but also men like to wear them on their heads. Particularly unusual designs justify a slightly higher price.
Finally, development and production are more complicated. No matter if you decide on a purist model in black, colorful fashion headphones or trendy retro headphones – the headphones should not only sound good, but also be appealing!
PRICE QUESTION: HOW MUCH MAY OR MUST AN HEADPHONE COST?
The question of what headphones should cost, is not so easy to answer. The more expensive the better?- you cannot always rely on this rule.
It’s not necessarily the most expensive headphones that perform best in tests. However, the higher priced models of well-known brands always meet certain quality requirements.
You probably will not find expensive headphones that are poor quality.
On the other hand, there are cheap models that deliver a surprisingly good sound. Even your own preferences play a role, because each headphone model has its very specific characteristics, a distinctive sound and it comes with advantages and disadvantages.
The more complex the technology, the more the headphones usually cost.
Budget and Purpose
Budget and purpose play important roles in the purchase decision. If you want to listen to some music via your MP3 player or mobile phone from time to time, you may be satisfied with a cheap headset.
Simple but good models of well-known brand manufacturers are already available for less than 50 dollars. However, if you listen to music mainly through the headphones, you’ll be ready to invest a bit more. A balanced sound image, as offered by the good high-end models, is a real treat for any music lover.
With high-quality hi-fi headphones, you can listen to music for hours at home. Of course, you also pay extra for additional technical features. Surround sound headphones, wireless headphones and headsets are therefore a bit more expensive, as they have a more sophisticated technology installed.
Are Fashion Headphones Worth the Money?
On some models, the extra charge is justified not only by the technology, but also by the exceptional design. Many people wonder if fashion headphones, such as the beats or models of designers and fashion brands, are worth the money.
This question can only be answered subjectively. The more expensive fashion headphones usually deliver a good sound and are technically convincing. However, there are often cheaper models from other manufacturers, which are just as good, but do not look so good. Headphones are now also a fashion accessory.
A single design can justify a higher price.
COMPATIBILITY: CAN THE HEADPHONES WORK WITH A SMARTPHONE, TABLET OR PC?
Headphones for iPhone, iPod and iPad
Most cellphones and MP3 players come with simple headphones. However, it makes perfect sense to buy a higher quality model eventually. For the iPhone, for example, the purchase of a headset makes sense, because it can also make phone calls.
Nevertheless, when buying headphones for Apple products, you should be extra careful.
Not all commercially available headphones are compatible with the iPhone, iPod or iPad. So pay attention to the manufacturer’s information before you decide to buy. To make your search easier, we have created an overview page for iPhone headphones, iPod headphones and iPad headphones.
Compatibility with other Smartphones, MP3 players, Tablet and PCs
If you are looking for headphones that are compatible with other smartphones, MP3/4 players, tablet PCs and with Android or Windows operating system (e.g. conference calls) you have to pay attention to the details.
Normally, all headphones can be used if the plug fits. Tablets, PCs and smartphones usually require 3.5 mm plugs.
However, there are also exceptions, some headsets and headphones are only suitable for use with certain smartphone or tablet models. To make sure that the desired model is also compatible with your own device, you should pay attention to the manufacturer’s information.
If there are compatibility issues, manufacturers will also explicitly list the appropriate models. If you do not find any further details on the packaging or in the product description, you can usually assume that the headphones will work for all devices.
HEADPHONES WITH IN-LINE VOLUME CONTROL – IDEAL FOR THE SMARTPHONE
You don’t want to constantly control the volume via your smartphone or MP3 player? Then you need headphones with in-line volume control.
Meanwhile, many good models are equipped with a control on the cable. So you can conveniently leave your cell phone or your MP3 player in the bag and adjust the volume and other operating commands such as “stop” or “play” directly on the cable.
THE SPECIALIST: HEADPHONES FOR A SPECIAL PURPOSE
The range of headphones is endless. For example, there are also models for special applications such as ear protection earphones, headphones for children or waterproof headphones. Here is a brief overview:
Gaming Headphones and Headsets
Gamers need a good headset to communicate with other players while playing online. With the right sound, games are simply more fun. Gaming headphones and headsets have been designed to meet the needs of gamers. In this case, the models are mostly with surround sound.
If you want to connect the headphones to a game console, be sure to check the compatibility. Here you can find special models for the Xbox360 and the PS3. Astro Gaming A40, Razer Blackshark, Sennheiser G4ME One
Studio Headphones for the Highest Demands
Studio headphones are high-end headphones that are particularly suitable for a professional recording studio. They are usually closed back headphones, which almost completely shield the ear from external noise.
This is important so that you can concentrate solely on the recording.
Studio headphones are always of the highest quality, here comes the latest technology to the application. For some models, the so-called monitoring (e.g Grado SR325e) is also possible. Here, two different sound tracks can play in parallel on an ear.
Studio headphones have a first-class sound with particularly good bass reproduction. That’s why they are increasingly being bought for private use. Demanding music lovers use them to listen to music on the hi-fi system, some gamers even on the gaming console for the special multimedia experience.
Sport Headphones
Sport is just more fun with music. But not every headphone is really adaptable to sports.
Sport headphones meet the special requirements of various sports. It is especially important that the headphones join in every movement and do not slip off the head.
That’s why most models have a special attachment mechanism. Mostly in-ears or ear buds that are worn in the ear and not on the head. On some models, additional ear hooks fix the earphone to the ear.
Other manufacturers rely on a neckband, which prevents the headphones from slipping and falling down when moving. Waterproof sports headphones have been developed for water sports.
However, all sports models have a certain resistance to water, which is important because you normally sweat during sports, so the headphones have to be regularly cleaned.
Kid’s Headphones
Children’s ears are still growing and therefore sensitive. To save them from hearing damage, you should definitely buy children’s headphones for children and adolescents. It should be a volume limiting headphones of about 85 dB, because this is the maximum volume recommended by children’s ear specialists.
Waterproof Headphones
Do you want to listen to music under water? Waterproof headphones make this possible.
They are ideal for beach holidays or water sports, such as surfing or water skiing. Athletes also use waterproof headphones, because you can easily clean them under running water. This is advantageous for hygienic reasons, if you sweat a lot during sports.
Bed or Sleep Headphones
Bed or Sleep headphones are designed for people who like to listen to music in bed.
Conventional headphones can become uncomfortable when lying on the pillow. That’s why special bed headphones are built very flat. There is a soft headband made of fabric, so that the headphones cannot slip when falling asleep.
Ear Protection Headphones
Whether at home or at the construction site, hearing protection headphones are needed in many areas to protect your ears from noise. They are available in the simple version without integrated speakers or in the stereo headphones version, with which you can also listen to music.
HEADPHONES ACCESSORIES
For headphones, there is now a large selection of accessories. Here is an overview of the most important accessories that you can buy for your headphones.
Adapter for Headphones and Headsets
There are various adapters for headphones and headsets, which can be a good fit under certain circumstances. For example, if you do not have a Bluetooth interface on your computer, you can still use a wireless Bluetooth headset if you simply buy a Bluetooth adapter. The adapter connects via USB.
Headphone Holder
Of course you can just put headphones on the table. However, anyone who has bought a high-quality model understandably wants to treat it with care and present it appropriately.
For this purpose, there are headphone holders in many different designs. Depending on the model, the holder can be placed on a table or on a shelf or it can be mounted on the wall. So the headset is always at hand and is also properly stored. The cable can also be wound up on the headphone holder.
Headphones Pad
For some ear buds and headphones, you can replace the earphone pads. This is recommended if the supplied pad does not sit or scratch so well.
Also for hygienic reasons, it makes sense to renew the cushion after some time. Headphone pads are now available not only in black, but also in many bright colors.
Headphone Bags
You should always protect your headphones. A small headphone bag is especially handy to safely and space-efficiently, accommodate the headphones.
There are bags for every type of headset and, of course, many appealing designs. Headphones and cables can be precisely put inside the bag so that nothing gets mixed up during transportation.
Improve the Sound with a Headphone Amplifier
Good headphones provide a balanced sound and a strong sound. There is hardly anything that can be improved on the high-end models. But you can get even more out of the best headphones with a headphone amplifier, especially more volume.
Headphone amplifiers are primarily intended for listening to music at home. However, there are also very small models that can be stored in the jacket’s pocket and are thus also suitable for mobile use on mobile phones or MP3 players.
Headphone Cable
When buying headphones make sure that the cable can be replaced. Because over time, the cable might have a defect or it might lose contact. Especially with the expensive models, where the replacement of the cable is worth the money. In addition, there are also extension cables for headphones.
If the supplied cable is too short, it can be extended in this way. In order not to worsen the signal transmission, you should not overdo it with the extension. Because with increasing cable length, the sound quality can deteriorate.
