I had the opportunity to look at a number of different headphones from Phiaton in recent months.

The first pair of Phiaton headphones I reviewed were the Phiaton’s PS 20 BT Stereo Headset. (Read the review.) These wireless bluetooth headphones were incredibly comfortable and sounded great. I found the control module to be a bit awkward. It’s round and the buttons were rather difficult to access times. I also didn’t love the fact that you couldn’t use your own earbuds but, thankfully, the earbuds that came with the PS 20 BT Stereo Headset were comfortable and sounded great. Here’s what I had to say-

What I Like: Headphones feel great and sound good; Controls easy to use; Looks cool; Can clip or hang with the lanyard

What Needs Improvement: Cannot use different headphones since they are permanently attached; I worry the control button will eventually break

I then reviewed Phiaton’s MODERNA MS 200. (Read the review.) These are a simple in-ear wired offering with a half in, half out design that I had enjoyed in the PS 20 BT Stereo Headset. The MODERNA MS200 come in a bright red color. The leather carrying case is a nice touch that goes along with headphones that sound good and are surprisingly comfortable when wearing them an extended period of time. Some reviewers commented that they don’t block enough sound and you can, as a result, end up disturbing the people next to you. I didn’t run into that issue but it’s worth noting. My review summary:

What I Like: Great unboxing experience; Comfortable; Look terrific; In-Line microphone and remote doesn’t stand out but works well; Tangle free cord; Sound great

What Needs Improvement: Nothing but at a price of $150 you had better LOVE the red color and unusual earbud design

Most recently I reviewed the Phiaton PS 300 NC Premium Noise Canceling Headphones. (Read the review.) These on-ear noise canceling headphones sound quite good and do a decent to good job of canceling out noise. Because they sit on rather than around your ears however they can get a little bit uncomfortable after a period of time. That, however, wasn’t my biggest issue with them. No, my biggest issue with the Phiaton PS 300 NC Premium Noise Canceling Headphones was the build quality. The headphones are made of plastic and, quite frankly, I’m not sure how much use and abuse they would endure over an extended period of time. When dealing with relatively expensive headphones- they have an MSRP of just under $300- that is something that is worthy of concern. My summary of the headphones:

What I Like: Complete package with lots of extras; Quite comfortable, especially for the first few hours; A number of special technologies that allow for both passive and active noise cancellation; Work as regular wired headphones even when there is no more power

What Needs Improvement: After a few hours the on-ear design introduced some fatigue; They are made of plastic, and while I have had no issues I have read of some parts failures

This time out we are taking a look at Phiaton’s PS 210 BTNC. This pair of headphones are not only wireless bluetooth headphones but include noise cancellation as well. In other words, the PS 210 BTNC headphones seek to combined the features of the first three Phiaton headphones we reviewed. First up, here’s our video review.

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As if the Monster Inspiration headphones I reviewed last fall (and still use regularly) weren’t already something special, the new collaboration between Hublot and Monster promises to blow them out of the water. Hublot, the luxury watchmaker, has teamed with Monster to “combine the very best in high fidelity audio with the finest watchmaking craftsmanship and materials” to create Inspiration Hublot — a luxury noise cancelling headphone that offers an “unprecedented music listening and lifestyle experience.”

The new Inspiration Hublot over-ear headphones will have a brushed aluminum finish, a premium rubber headband, a leather headband, and carbon fiber earcups with leather earpads. This isn’t the case of slapping a new exterior on the same interior, however. With the debut of Hublot Inspiration comes the debut of Enigma Audio Engine, Monster’s newest audio innovation that “delivers crystal clear music and a richly detailed and realistic soundscape.” One of the features of the new Enigma chip is what Monster is calling “the world’s most advanced digital noise cancellation as well as wireless Bluetooth with advanced AAC and APT-X codecs, direct USB audio and user-customizable sound shaping technology for a tailored listening experience.”

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Doesn’t mom deserve diamonds this Mother’s Day? Sure she does! And if mom loves diamonds AND music, then doesn’t she deserve the ultimate Gear Diary Mother’s Day Giveaway? Yes! She! Does!  We’ve got a pair of Monster Diamond Tears Headphones in hand that we are in the process of reviewing. With Mother’s Day on the way, we wanted to get the giveaway started even before the review is up.

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Don’t let this happen to you…

“Elana do you know where the Harman Karden NC headphones I’m reviewing are?”

“Where did you last use them?”

“If I knew that I wouldn’t be searching for them… Oh, got ‘em!”

“Where were they? Buried under the pile on your desk?”

Yes, there is an advantage to keeping your headphones hung up and close by the way they are when you use the Just Mobile’s HeadStand. It prevents them from getting lost under a pile of papers. It keeps them safe and protected from someone who might sit on them after yo accidentally left them on a chair. And there is the added benefit that your stylish headphones look great hanging from the HeadStand. Just Mobile describes the HeadStand as “The high-design headphone hanger [that] is the perfect place to hang your high-design headphones.”

The aluminium desktop stand keeps your headphones on display and within reach while offering the added benefit of cable storage hidden in the dual-layered aluminium base. It keeps your desk neat and tidy and shows off headphones like these White Tuxedo Monster DNA headphones. We reviewed the silver HeadStand and are now back to look at the even cooler, even classier black version. Check them out.

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When shopping for a pair of headphones, it seems that things keep getting harder and harder. After all, in the battle for your ears there are an ever-growing number of headphones vying for attention. Admittedly we haven’t done much of anything to make the task any easier. After all, in just the past few months we’ve reviewed headphones from Phiaton, Monster, AKG and many more. Worse- or better- yet, pretty much all the headphones we have reviewed recently impressed us enough that we would recommend them to a family member looking for some new cans.

Is there room for another pair of headphones in the lineup of “Gear Diary Recommended Headphones”? If that pair of headphones are the Harman Kardon NC over-the-ear noise canceling headphones, then the answer is a loud and confidant, “YES!”. The reason for this is simple — these headphones are amazing.

We reviewed the Harman Kardon NC over-the-ear headphones last summer. (You can read the review here.) I loved pretty much everything about these high and Bluetooth headphones. I found them to be comfortable, sound great, and run for an acceptable period of time on each charge. Judie found them to be rather interesting, so I sent them down to Texas. They continue to be one of the two pair of headphones she switches between. At the time I expressed interest in the possibility of checking out the noise canceling version of these headphones upon their release. I have had the opportunity to do just that for the past month and a half and, as I mentioned in the introduction, I am thoroughly impressed with these headphones.

I have a pretty complete review of the headphones and my thoughts on them in our video review, so let’s jump into that and then look at a gallery of images.

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BLING! That’s the only way to describe the Monster Diamond Tears Edge Headphones. These fashion headphones stand out thanks to their crystal encrusted ear cups and music control. The sharp edges of the headphones immediately remind you of the facets on diamonds, and the transparent crystalline look of the Clear Diamond review sample we were sent (they also come in black) catches light and makes the appearance even more striking. Clearly targeted to a female audience, the Diamond Tears Edge headphones make as loud a fashion statement as you are going to find.

There is no doubt what Monster was aiming for with these headphones. As they explain on the product page, “The Diamond Tears high-definition headphone was created much like an object of high fashion…” Yet despite targeting these headphones to a fashion-conscious female audience, Monster goes to great lengths to focus on these headphones as a high-end audio accessory. They note:

When you’re hearing Diamond Tears, you’re hearing your music the way you’ve never heard before: through proprietary driver technology and the cut-no-corners materials required for high-performance audio. It was the only way to deliver the ultra-accurate response that Diamond Tears promises.

The Monster Diamond Tears Edge come in nice packaging that is reminiscent of opening a jewelry box. Lift the top of the inside box, and the headphones move toward you. It makes for a striking unboxing experience that is worthy of the over-$300 price tag. Speaking of the box, inside you will find:
- Monster Diamond Tears Edge headphones

- ControlTalk and Control Talk Universal for hands-free phone and music control

- Low profile, right-angle connector

- Three no-hassle, tangle-free cables

- Monster Cleaning Cloth with advanced Aegis Microbe Shield

- Touring Case, stylish protection for your headphones (It is actually a cheap soft case…)
Here’s a look at them on video.
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We all have our selection of favorite gear; you know, the equipment we have that we actually keep with us on a regular basis. So spring seemed like a good time to take a renewed look at the gear various members of the GD team actually use. First up — from Gear Diary’s Australian Bureau — Mitchell Oke.

My job takes me on the road a lot, so my laptop bag is never more than a few metres away, packed with all the gear that I might need when I’m out of the office.

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Shure’s new SE846 Sound Isolating Earphones are a pricey proposition. Shipping in June, they will have a price tag of $1250. That makes them more than a bit pricey. For that price however you get a Quad High-Definition MicroDriver with a three-way system configuration for dedicated low, mid, and high frequency distribution. The SE846 feature a patent-pending design includes a groundbreaking low-pass filter, a true subwoofer that enables deep low-end performance without sacrificing clarity or detail. Sound quality, noise isolation, and a design that includes an optimized nozzle angle that’s designed to rest comfortably in the ear, combine to make the SE846 Sound Isolating Earphones comfortable for long periods of use. This is aided by a lightweight design with a low profile shape. A detachable cable makes for easy replacement, something that is rather important since these headphones are anything but disposable.

The earphones also features a customizable frequency response that allows for adjustable sound signatures. Options include balanced, warm, and bright options. This is a first for Shure. And in keeping with their premium price tag the Shure SE846 Sound Isolating Earphones include sleeves in multiple shapes and sizes, an additional detachable cable, and two carrying cases. Are they worth the price? We’ll wait to see what the hands-on (or is it ears-on?) reviews have to say! You can learn more here on the Shure website.

I’m loving the Monster DNA headphones I reviewed last month. (Read the review.) They look good, sound good and are comfortable. and now that Monster is lending support to High School Nation more people than ever will have the chance to experience them. If you are not familiar with High School Nation, it is a performing arts program that has worked with over 5,000 public high schools and middle schools over the past ten years to provide fun and free lunchtime entertainment for students. High School Nation isn’t just about providing free lunchtime concerts though. No, it goes one step further and also works with students and educators to help develop their musical talents. This is accomplished, in part, by giving them the chance to learn firsthand from established artists in performance, digital and fine arts.

So what will Monster’s role with High School Nation be? Monster will offer a specially designed booth in the Guitar Center Music Experience Zone. In it students will be able to try out products like the Monster DNA headphones, and learn about how the special MusicShare feature allows groups of friends to enjoy their music simultaneously. (As I noted in my review, I love the idea of the MusicShare feature but have not had occasion to use it… yet.) The company will also be providing Monster DNA headphones at Jam Hub music demo stations. At these stations students will be able to experiment with electronic drum kits and keyboards. It is great marketing for Monster but also gives kids a chance to try out some of the best music accessories on the market today.

And the students won’t just be trying out the headphones and other Monster accessories. No, they’ll have a chance to enter daily raffles where they can win Monster DNA headphones, hats and T-shirts. As Monster’s Noel Lee explains, “High School Nation is a great way for young people to not only enjoy fun lunchtime concerts from terrific artists, but get involved in the arts themselves and express their passion for music, art and life. With so many public school arts programs either diminished due to budget cuts or shut down completely, High School Nation provides a valuable service, and Monster is proud to get on the bandwagon.”

You can learn more here.

A few months ago we brought word that JVC had upgraded their headphone line. The new versions of their headphones feature a rugged styling, a high-gloss finish and durable construction. The company is using heavy-duty Neodymium driver units and Extreme Deep Bass Ports to fill out the sound offered by the headphones. In addition, the company added a one button remote and microphone compatible with iPhone, blackberry and android devices to three of the models. The inline single-button remote lets you play, stop and skip tracks. It also lets you answer phone calls. They sent us a pair of the DJ-style over-the-ear HA-MR77X headphones for review. Here’s our video look.

As noted in the video these headphones have 57 mm drivers and wait just 14.90 oz. It’s clear who the target audience is for these headphones since the tag line on the product page states –

For the DJ life, flip up your cups, tough rubber protector and single-sided cord.

Every beat loud and clear with super audio backed by a 57 mm driver and extremely deep baseboard

Style that walks the walk added comfort and a remote mic with SmartSwitch.

JVC says they designed the headphones for comfort and excellent sound isolation. And while I do find them to be pretty comfortable I didn’t find that they block out the ambient noise as well as some other headphones we’ve tried including some on your styles. The sound was good but didn’t blow me away. Then again, as we note in the video, one needs to consider the pricing on these headphones. At under $100 MSRP these aren’t the priciest headphones on the market. if reviewed in an absolute sense they sound good but if viewed as headphones for under $100 there quite impressive.

Of course the main feature of this model is the flip up design that allows for easy hands-free monitoring in one ear while listening to the sound in the room with the other.

And, of course, when you’re not using then they fold up into a relatively small package.

The cable and plugs are described as “robust and built to last” and I have no reason to doubt that. Still, having the cable permanently connected to the headphones and not having the option to connect the cord to either ear was a disappointment. In all I think these are a decent buy for $99.95 and are great for the emerging DJ in your life. If you’re looking for a refined, high-quality amazing sounding headphone you’re going to want to look elsewhere but if you’re looking for a robust, bold statement that also sounds good these may be the headphones for you. You can learn more about the HA-MR77X DJ Headphones and the entire line here.

MSRP: $99.95

What I Like: Make a bold statement; Both ears flip up and out of the way DJ-style; In-line remote and microphone; Decent sound for under $100

What Needs Improvement: Good sound but not great sound; Block noise but not as much as I expected; 3.5mm jack is straight rather than right-angled

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

In 2010 yurbuds came out with one of the silliest audio products ever- or so I thought. They offered custom-sized “earbud enhancers” that fit over the one-size-fits all earbuds Apple and others included with phones and media devices. The goal of these “enhancers” was to create a better, more comfortable fit. I wasn’t impressed.

Fast forward to CES 2011, and the company showed off their revamped product. Now, instead of having a cover that fit over your existing earbuds, they offered a complete package — their own brand of earbuds with the yurbud special sauce,  the earbud enhancers already in place. We wrote about it here.

I wasn’t overly impressed, but I did bring the sample home with me. Then something strange happened. By January 2011, Elana was already well-established in her regular daily workout routine and on her way to becoming a trainer herself. One of the challenges she faced when using equipment such as the ellipticals at her gym was the fact that she had never found a pair of earbuds that were comfortable AND stayed in place during her workout. I brought the $50 earbuds home and asked Elana to give them a try. The first day she used them, I received this email from her:

Used new “yurbuds” ironman series a few min ago. They’re great- barely have 2 put in ur ears, comfortable silicon, stay put tight (no pulling during w/o), L/R markings, high sound quality/quiet ambient, easy to remove (slight tug), light, simply “carry-case”, “findable” color. ” ‘Nuf said… Review done 

She was sold on yurbuds, and has used them ever since. She has also sold dozens upon dozens of people on them as well. It seems Elana is not alone in her fondness for yurbuds. The company has been wildly successful and has expanded their product line considerably. They recently sent two of their newer products for us to check out; in this first review we will be looking at the yurbuds Focus Pro Sport Earphones. continue reading

The other day we reviewed yurbuds’ Focus Pro behind the ear sports headphones. I was impressed with the comfort of the headphones as well as the microphone and in-line controls on them. The audio from the headphones was good, but it wasn’t good enough to make the Focus Pros something I would want to listen to as my full-time pair of headphones. The Focus Pros are perfectly fine for a run or similar activity, but they simply don’t stand up to some of the other relatively high-end headphones we have reviewed. This time we are looking the yurbuds Limited Edition Sports Earphones, the more expensive cousin of the Focus Pros. At $99.99, these aren’t inexpensive. Does the sound, build and comfort justify the price? Let’s take a look. continue reading

Headphones are fashion and are now music to your eyes, just as they are music to your ears. Recognizing this fact, iLuv has just introduced their ReF line of premium headphones. As Brian Kim, Global Product Marketing Manager of iLuv’s Premium Headphone Division notes

Headphones are quickly becoming a part of the language of fashion, and we at iLuv recognize that consumers are searching for quality headphones that also feature a stylish design. That is why we are introducing Fashionology®, a combination of fashion and technology. Headphones traditionally appealed to a small group of audiophiles and technology enthusiasts, but that group is growing to include people who want to project their identity through their music accessories. There is a demand for headphones that represent ‘Who I am’ and ‘What I stand for’, and iLuv meets that demand with the ReF line.

The ReF headphones come in four different colors including black, white, navy and red. They have an all-fabric exterior, soft and breathable protein cushion ear cups and a built-in titanium coated diaphragm that delivers deep thumping bass. The line comes in two different builds, one for Smartphones iHP636 and one for Apple devices iHP635. Both allow users to answer and end incoming calls via the SpeakEZ remote.

The ReF premium headphones will be available at select iLuv retailers in November at an MSRP of $129.99. Learn more here. We have a pair on the way for review, and we look forward to taking a closer look (and listen).

Back in July I put the Phiaton PS 20 BT Bluetooth Stereo Headset head to head with the Jabra Clipper Bluetooth Stereo Headset. (Read the pos, here.) I preferred the Phiaton PS 20 BTs to Jabra’s offering, and I have continued to use them on a fairly frequent basis since doing the review.

Among the things that stood out at the time was the unusual design of the earbuds — they are angled in a manner that surprised me. On first appearance, the design looked awkward; I expected them to be uncomfortable, but I was wrong! The earbuds went into my ears with ease, stayed put without my needing to cram them in and, most importantly, they sounded great. Best of all, after wearing them for an extended period of time, the PS 20 BTs still felt comfortable. When I was offered the chance to check out Phiaton’s new MODERNA MS 200 wired headphones, I was eager.

The Phiaton Moderna earphones are described as “Bold, new half in-earphones featuring genuine carbon graphite fiber and a dual chamber for high-quality sound”. They look great but, for an MSRP of $150, they had better sound as good as they look.

So how do they sound? Let’s take a closer look.

From Phiaton:

Dual Chamber for Rich Sound and Powerful Bass: This striking new addition to the Phiaton line sets a new standard for audio performance of “in-ear” earphones offering powerful bass response and crystal clear sound. The Moderna earphones feature a “Multi-Tune Acoustic Design” with a dual-chamber and 5 tuning points engineered to accelerate airflow. The result is luxurious audio performance with crystal clear sound, rich detail and clean, powerful bass. In addition, its’ double-shelled body helps to contain sound and minimizes reverberation

Red-Hot Carbon Graphite Fiber Design: The Moderna earphones were designed to provide the ultimate in durability, style and convenience. A signature of Phiaton’s line, known for its bold styling, the Moderna’s opulent red and black design offers a bold look and its lightweight, genuine carbon graphite fiber body offers added durability and a modern aesthetic appeal.

The New “Multi-Tune Acoustic Design”: Phiaton’s new “Multi-Tune Acoustic Design” allowed Phiaton sound engineers to combine the excellent bass response of in-ear style buds with the crystal clear high frequency response of open-ear style earphones. Furthermore, Phiaton’s Moderna earphones achieve crystal clear sound quality and powerful bass with its 5 tuning points and dual chamber structure engineered to optimize airflow.

Tangle Free Oval Shaped cable with Microphone: For the ultimate convenience, the Moderna earphones’ tangle-free oval-shaped cable includes a built-in microphone for easy use while you’re on-the-go. Users can easily listen to the person at the other end of the call through their earphones, ensuring that you never need to remove them when you receive a call. These earphones can be stylishly stowed in a matching black and red leather carrying case.

The headphones have high-quality dynamic speakers with a frequency range of 10 Hz ~ 27,000 Hz and an impedance of 32 Ohm. They weigh in at 0.012 lb without the cord but, for the life of me, I can’t understand why the company would give the weight of the headphones without the cord when the cord is permanently affixed to them. It makes absolutely no sense. The 3.93 ft cord is long enough to wear comfortably without being too long to become tangled.

The headphones come packaged in a manner befitting the $150 price tag. The heavy-duty box is held closed with a magnet, and the first impression upon opening it is excellent.

What’s in the Box:

MODERNA MS 200 Earphones

4 sizes of silicon ear tips (XS, S, M, L)

RightFit™ Silicone ear tips

Comply™ Foam tips

Carrying case

Quick guide

Warranty Card

Pull up the interior tray and the earphones, and protective case are there waiting for you.

The leather case is just about as nice and classy a way to protect and carry the earphones that I have seen. I like that since it is, after all, the little touches that sometimes make one product stand out in a crowded field.

The striking red color of the MODERNAs is far from subtle. That’s not a bad thing. And while I tend to prefer subtlety when it comes to my earphones, cases and other assorted gear, I really like the way these earphones look.

In the looks department the real standout of these headphones is the carbon fiber design built into the earbuds and 3.5mm plug.

It isn’t immediately apparent when you first see the MODERNA MS 200s but, upon closer examination, the design jumps out… in a good way.

So in the looks department the earphones are winners. The same holds true in the comfort department. As previously noted, when I tried my first pair of Phiaton headphones I was surprised at just how comfortable the half in-earphones were. The MODERNA MS 200s carry the same design and, as such, offer the same level of comfort. And if they don’t fit properly right out of the box you can use the other included ear tips to get the fit that is right for you. As the company notes,

Hours of Comfortable Listening, 6 Sets of Eartips: The Moderna Earphones unique and ergonomic “half in-ear” design allows users to comfortably wear their earphones for hours on end. These earphones come with four separate sizes of soft silicon tips to ensure a natural feel and a welcome “no slip” fit. The Moderna Earphones also include Comply™ Foam Tips for the best, comfortable listening experience as well as patented RightFit™ silicon ear tips that deliver an ergonomic, stable fit that’s perfect for exercising.

So the Phiaton MODERNA MS 200 Earphones look great and are totally comfortable. That meets two of the requirements needed when considering a pair of high-end headphones. The third requirement is, of course, the most important — sound.

I’ve used these extensively for the last week for everything from music to movies to phone calls. My conclusion? The Phiaton MODERNA MS 200 Earphones go three for three. Yup, they look good, fit comfortably and they sound great. Great as in, “I really enjoy using these”. Great as in, “These are another example of the maxim ‘You get what you pay for’”. Great as in, “I’m really glad I was sent these for review because they now have a place in my gear bag. Great as in, “If you have $150 to spend on earbuds these are a terrific option.”

You can learn more about the Phiaton MODERNA MS 200 Earphones and all of the Phiaton line here, on the company website. We have yet another of their products on the way. so keep an eye out for the review.

MSRP: $150

What I Like: Great unboxing experience; Comfortable; Look terrific; In-Line microphone and remote doesn’t stand out but works well; Tangle free cord; Sound great

What Needs Improvement: Nothing but at a price of $150 you had better LOVE the red color and unusual earbud design

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

Back in August, we took a look at $35 MA350 Noise Isolating Aluminium Earphones. I liked them, but I didn’t LOVE them. My conclusion read,

What I Like: Good build-quality; Decent sounding; Fabric cord; Surprisingly low price for what they offer

What Needs Improvement: Lacks in-line microphone and controls

Recently the company was kind enough to send a pair of their RHA 450i Noise isolating aluminium earphones. Why are these different? Simple, they bring everything I liked about the MA350 and added in a remote and microphone. Even better, they managed to keep the price below $50. Let’s take a closer look.

From RHA:

The MA450i is a high spec earphone that combines RHA’s renowned sound quality with an inline remote and microphone for seamless control of your music library and calls.

Features:

Dynamic speaker for high-definition sound with full bass

Machined from solid aluminium

A choice of seven pairs of soft silicone ear-tip for a secure, comfortable fit

Fabric braided cable for reduced tangling and prolonged cable life

iPhone/iPod/iPad remote and microphone

3.5mm gold plated connections

Carry case and ear-tip storage box

Machined from solid aluminium and housing a 10mm driver, the MA450i offers music-lovers effortless control without compromising on acoustics. RHA’s signature aerophonic design delivers an impressively detailed, well-balanced sound experience.

The inline remote and mic controls calls, music and volume on your Apple device.

The dual density ear-tips are constructed for optimum noise isolation; soft silicone on the outside provides a comfortable secure fit and keeps external noise out, while firmer silicone on the inside produces a tighter seal to prevent sound leakage. A 1.5m shielded fabric braided cable produces less friction than a normal rubber cable which helps reduce tangling, prolonging product life.

The actual earbuds appear and sound the same as the 350s. That’s not a bad thing, since they sound good (not great, but good), and they seal into the ear quite comfortably. The company notes that the 350s and 450s offer noise isolation, and they do a decent job of it. The inclusion of six additional eartips – making a total of seven — certainly helps guarantee the best comfort and isolation. As the company explains,

a high specification earphone machined from solid, aircraft-grade aluminium. 10mm drivers are housed within unique, aerophonically designed earphones engineered to produce outstanding audio.

I do, however, find it amusing that the company refers to a “carry case and ear-tip storage box”. The carry case is a cheap cloth bag. The ear-tip storage box is a… cardboard box. Neither is really worth using to advertise the earphones.

Like the MA350s, the MA450i have a 5′ fabric braided cable. I love the heft of it and the fact that the cable is tangle free. I did, however, notice a bit of noise coming into the line that traveled up to my ears when I moved (presumably caused by friction). In my experience this is not all too uncommon when dealing with earbuds that have a heavy cord. It is, in my opinion, worth the trade-off.

As noted, the MA450i come equipped with an Apple specified three button in-line remote. It works well, is positioned at a proper distance from the actual earbud, and it has a nice curve that allows you to easily control your music by touch. That means there is no need to look down at the controls when controlling your music. And the nice curvature, in addition to the black and silver color, looks rather classy.

The fact that these sub-$50 headphones come with a three-year international warranty simply impress me to no end. The MA450i are a solid pair of earbuds that, considering the price, should be on your short list if you are in the market for new earbuds to use with your iOS device. You can learn more or order yours here.

MSRP: $49.95

What I Like: Seven different ear tips included; Inline controller and microphone; Tangle-free cloth cord

What Needs Improvement: These won’t blow you away with their sound but for under $50 it is hard to find fault with anything about them

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

I’m into a period of time that will see me on planes rather frequently, and while I’ve tried various noise canceling headphones over the years, I’ve never found a pair I loved to use. For example, I was impressed with the Sennhauser MM 450s when I reviewed them, but when I bought a pair on sale a few months ago I found myself disappointed with the buzz created by the noise cancellation system. It wasn’t bad, but it was noticeable, and I just couldn’t see myself using them longterm.

Most recently I had purchased a pair of inexpensive Sony in-ear headphones with active noise cancellation. They worked well enough, but I’ve been spoiled by some of the higher-end headphones I’ve been reviewing lately, and I longed for something better. I mentioned this to one of out contacts, and a package arrived a few days later with a pair of Phiaton PS 300 NC Premium Noise Canceling Headphones. I had been pleasantly surprised by the prior two pair of Phiaton earbuds I’d reviewed, so I was excited to try these out. Our trip to Aruba presented the perfect opportunity to give them a try, and try them I have.

So I sit on United’s flight to Newark at the end of our week away, listening to Phantom Planet and writing this review. Let’s take a look at the headphones and whether they stand up in the crowded world of noise-canceling headphones.

From Phiaton:

The Phiaton PS 300 NC headphones are masterfully made and matched to exacting standards. With powerful noise canceling technology that minimizes distortion while allowing authentic production values to come through, the PS300 NC allows you to listen to your music with up to a 90% reduction of most unwanted noise in your surroundings. This unit has a comfortable, compact on-ear fit with a flexible ‘fold and go’ design that fits headphones conveniently into a compact carrying case for easy travel. When on the move, the Custom lithium-polymer rechargeable battery offers up to 20 hours of reliable run time while the set of four adaptors allows you to recharge anywhere. The standard 3.5mm plug and the 6.3mm adaptor make this earphone perfect for any portable or home theater electronics.

In creating the premium quality “Primal Series” PS 300 Noise-Canceling headphones, Phiaton’s engineers and sound designers utilized all their expertise to exceed expectations. Featuring the luxurious look and feel of supple leather and leather-grade trim, as well as some of the world’s most advanced sonic technologies; the Phiaton PS 300 NC noise-canceling headphones offer music lovers a superb listening experience with unprecedented comfort, audio quality, style, and musicality.

I was immediately impressed by the packaging. There is no question that Phiaton was going after the premium market when designing these headphones and their box. The experience of opening the box and exploring everything inside was more than a bit pleasant. And speaking of everything inside, the PS 300 NCs are a good example of a company actually adding extras into the package rather than increasingly skimping on what is included — the way we have seen with smartphone companies who are now increasingly leaving out the headphones AND wall adapters. Sure, regardless of the company, the included headphones were crap; but leaving them out while keeping the price the same is just obnoxious.

So what IS in the box?

Phiaton PS 300 NC Headphones

2 rechargeable lithium-polymer batteries

6.3 mm stereo gold-plated plug adapter

Two 5-ft. detachable audio cables (one with inline mic)

Dual-plug adapter for airplane

International power plug adapters

Cradle charger with USB cable

AC/DC adapter

Carrying case

Owner’s Guide (Including 1-year warranty)

Product registration card.

We’ll get back to the headphones, but first let’s run down the extras.

The case is large and formfitting, and it is specifically designed to hold these headphones and accessories. The material used is rigid enough to hold its shape even when the headphones aren’t inside. That translates to them offering decent crush protection; I like that. One side is designed for the headphones and the other has a series of mesh pockets that hold all the accessories.

Next up is the inclusion of two cables and adapters. One is a straight cable for simply listening to your music; the other includes an inline microphone. We’ve seen this on other high-end headphones, and I always appreciate it. Unfortunately the material used for the cables is thinner and more tangle prone than some we have seen and, as a result, feels like it is a bit on the cheap side. Regardless, both cables work well; since they are removable they can be replaced fairly easily if need be.

From Phiaton:

Two Separate Audio Cables Allow for Phone Access: For total on-the-go convenience and flexibility, the PS 300 NCs comes with two separate single-sided cables, including one standard cable and another that features a remote microphone function that lets you access phone calls while listening to music.

I totally love the charging system.

The wall adapter comes with both US and European plug adapters, so you can use these headphones just about anywhere you might go.

The company includes not one but two batteries with the headphones — that’s unheard of in today’s money-grab electronics environment.

From Phiaton:

The PS 300 NC comes with two rechargeable batteries, a cradle charger with USB cable, and universal AC/DC adapters. One battery offers 18 hours of noise canceling function. Unlike most other noise-canceling headphone products on the market today, the unique PS 300 NCs still play music even if the noise-canceling battery is out of power.

To charge the batteries, you use the included USB adapter.

A neat feature is the fact that the adapter into which the battery slips looks very much like the ear cups on the headphones.

For those of you interested in specifications the company lists the following:

Studio Grade 40 mm Electrodynamic Drivers

Impedance: 32 Ohm

Frequency Range : 15 Hz ~ 22,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 98 dB

Max input power: 1000 Mw

Cord length: 5.2 ft / 1.6 m

Weight: 5 oz /140g without cord

The headphones themselves are fairly compact and, no doubt, are modeled after Bose’s smaller noise canceling offerings. The near headphones have a soft padded cushion that sits on your ear and, thanks to its ability to mold to them, creates a fairly effective noise barrier on their own even before the noise cancellation is turned on.

Buttons are kept to a minimum, and they are limited to the noise cancellation on/off control and a toggle that claims to offer extra bass but didn’t have much of any impact in my experience with the headphones. The plug for the audio cable is on the right ear cup, and it is offset about half way up on the side. This is notable since these headphones to an effective job of canceling noise whether you have music playing or not. Also notable is the fact that if you turn the noise cancellation off and remove the battery, the music plays through as if these were an ordinary pair of headphones. That’s a great feature, which means you can take these headphones on a trip and have them serve as your only headphones whether you have them charged or not.

The headphones fold up into a fairly compact package that can then be stowed in the included case. I do worry about what might happen if you didn’t stow the headphones carefully, since the build quality does feel a tad on the chintzy side. That is especially so after having reviewed the Harman Kardon headphones this past summer; now THOSE were headphones that were built like a truck!!

I found the headphones to be comfortable, but I did notice some ear fatigue after a few hours; I suppose that a certain degree of this can be attributed to their on-ear style. With that said, sund quality was excellent, and I really enjoy listening to music while wearing these.

The exceptional noise-canceling capabilities of the ultra-lightweight PS 300 NC headphones literally shut out the unwanted noises of the world so you can enjoy your own music in peaceful solitude. Phiaton’s powerful noise canceling technology minimizes distortion while allowing the authentic production values to come through. It’s the ideal lifestyle solution for hearing all your favorite music, including subtleties and nuances, even while traveling on an airplane or listening in noisy surroundings, like a train or subway car.

The exceptional noise-canceling capabilities of the ultra-lightweight PS 300 NC headphones literally shut out the unwanted noises of the world so you can enjoy your own music in peaceful solitude. Phiaton’s powerful noise canceling technology minimizes distortion while allowing the authentic production values to come through. It’s the ideal lifestyle solution for hearing all your favorite music, including subtleties and nuances, even while traveling on an airplane or listening in noisy surroundings, like a train or subway car.

Adjustable headband and a soft ear cushions seal in the sound for superior audio quality VHST for noise cancellation creates an occlusive effect for better noise reduction.

Phiaton’s patented VHST (Valves of the Heart Sound Technology) for noise canceling was inspired by the valves that enable flow of vital blood supply in and out of the heart. Translated to the audio paradigm, the technology makes use of check valves that expertly control airflow in and out of the headphone speakers. Rear enclosure and closed-ear design combine to create an occlusive effect for better noise reduction.

While the headphones are worn, the ear pads contract, exerting pressure on the front of the speakers. Normally, this would ‘rumple’ the speaker diaphragm and create a buzzing effect. But VHST Valves of the Heart sound Technology is designed to prevent rumpling of the diaphragm, thereby reducing air pressure and transforming incoming noise into reversed phase signals, or reproduced sound, which interferes with or cancels the unwanted noise. This allows real production values to come through with greater clarity.

I’m three hours into my flight while I write this, and I am paying critical attention to the noise canceling’s effectiveness. I was prepared to write that the NC was not all that great, but then I took headphones off and heard what things around me really sounded like. Boy are planes loud! Or, more accurately, boy are planes loud without NC headphones!

So I’ll access the cancellation of the PS 300 NCs by writing that the on-ear noise cancellation is good, but I suspect that a set of good over-the-ear cans would do a better job.

I like the Phiaton PS 300 NC Premium Noise Canceling Headphones more than any other on-ear noise canceling headphones I have tried. I’m still anxious to try the company’s in-ear solution, since I am increasingly convinced that I prefer in-ear headphones a bit more than the on-ear or over-the-ear design. That, of course, is a matter of my personal preference.

Suffice it to say I think anyone purchasing these headphones will be quite happy with them. I’ll be headed to Vegas, Florida and a few more destinations in the coming months, and the only reason I wouldn’t be bringing these along would be if the company’s in-ear offering shows up for review.

MSRP: $299 (You can currently purchase them through our Amazon Affiliate Store for just $253.75. Buy them now.)

What I Like: Complete package with lots of extras; Quite comfortable, especially for the first few hours; A number of special technologies that allow for both passive and active noise cancellation; Work as regular wired headphones even when there is no more power

What Needs Improvement: After a few hours the on-ear design introduced some fatigue; They are made of plastic, and while I have had no issues I have read of some parts failures

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

To say that I have been impressed with the Scosche RH1056MD Reference Grade On Ear Headphones with tapLINE Remote and Microphone would be an understatement. It is not that these are the best sounding or most comfortable over-the-ear headphones on the market; they aren’t. But they do look good, fit and sound quite good, and for under $150, they are an excellent value.

The RH1056MD reference headphones, which ship with an abundant collection of accessories that add even more value to an already impressive package, have 40mm drivers and are designed with a custom blend of mylar, precision wound copper voice coils, rare-earth neodymium magnets and leather ear cushions. Honestly, I had to check and recheck the price of the RH 1056MD headphones since $149.99 seemed far too inexpensive for what Scosche has put together here. Here’s our video look.

Let’s take a closer look at these headphones, which have an MSRP of $149.99, but are available on Amazon for even less.

I’ve been rather critical of companies that don’t include a carrying case for their high-end headphones or, just as bad, include a soft cheap bag that does little to protect the product. The fact that Scosche ships the RH1056MD headphones with both a soft-shell protective case and a light bag struck me as an example of a company going the extra mile to make sure consumers feel like they are getting significant value.

That, however, was just the beginning. Inside the soft case, Scosche includes a cable with tapLINE III remote and mic, a straight cable, a gold plated 3.5mm to 3/4 ” adapter, a PC adapter for gaming/VOiP, and a cleaning cloth. They could have saved more than a few shekels by reducing the number of included accessories and not lost any perceived value, but they didn’t. I was, and am, impressed. The cable with the tapLINE III remote and mic is a nice piece of kit. The 6.5ft tangle-free flat cable has a goldplated 3.5mm connector and feels substantial.

The in-line control is solid and offers decent feedback as you use it to play, pause, change the volume and skip tracks. Many inline controls feel like they are slapped onto the cable and might fall off at any moment; that is anything but the case here with the RH1056MD headphones. Oh, and if you were wondering, yes, it is Siri compatible.

Scosche made an interesting design choice when they opted to keep the in-line microphone separate from the tapLINE III remote. I’m not a big fan of using headphones like this for phone calls or dictation, but I do like knowing I can if I need or want to.

The headphones are largely made from plastic but they feel substantial. The design, which definitely brings the RH1056MD headphones into the “fashion headphone category”, is definitely a bow to Beat’s initial Studio offering. The ear cups are made from memory foam covered in leather. They seal quite nicely around the ear and are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

The headphones are able to collapse. And while I would not call the headphones, when folded, particularly small, having them fold up does make it easier to store and/or carry them. The stainless steel hinges feel quite sturdy and lock into place with an audible click. As Scosche notes, “Fully adjustable headband combined with the 2 axis gimbal system ensures a flawless fit every time”. In all the build-quality on the RH1056md headphones is impressive and I expect they will hold up quite well over time.

Specifications:

Gold plated Stereo 3.5mm to 1/4in adapter

Conforms to ROHS, EN-71 and WEEE standards

Driver size: Φ40mm

Impedance: 32Ω

Frequency Range: 15Hz to 30KHz

Sensitivity: 105dB +/- 3dB at 1KHz (IEC-318 I/P Level: 1mW)

Rated Power : 20mW

Max Power: 40mW

Angled 3.5mm Plug

Robust Strain Reliefs

Folding Design

The RH1056md headphones have 40mm drivers. “precision wound copper voice coils” and “rare-earth neodymium magnets”. In addition, each ear cup has a “ported sound chamber”. (That’s the reason for the small grill on each one.) This air chamber help “provide the exact air space necessary for optimal component performance”. The result of these quality materials and well-conceived design is sound that is quite good.

How good is good? I suspect anyone but the most particular audiophile will be more than happy with the Scosche RH1056ma headphones. And at a price of $149.99 (as compared to $279.95 for the Beats Studio headphones) they are not only a smart purchase, but they are a good deal as well. You can learn more here.

And, how’s this for a Gear Deal, you can get them here in our Amazon Affiliate Store for under $110!. Buy them now.

The white version are available for $113.99. Buy them now.

MSRP: $149.99

What I Like: Come with hard and soft carrying case; Two tangle-free cables included; In cable has an excellent in-line remote and microphone; Headphones feel quite sturdy; Headphones sound quite good

What Needs Improvement: A bit light on the bass

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

Sexy and stylish are the only way I can describe the Phiaton Bridge MS500 headphones. That came as a surprise, considering I have been impressed with the sound of previous Phiaton headphones I’ve reviewed, but I would not have described any of them as particularly stylish. (The Moderna MS200 did come close.) The Bridge MS500 headphones bring style to the Phiaton lineup even as they bring a premium price tag of $299. Does high style merge with great sound when it comes to the company’s marque headphones offerings?

Read on to find out.

Before we dig into some of the specifics lets take a look at the headphones on video.

As you can see, inside the box you will find:

The Bridge MS 500 Headphones

A Carrying Case

A 6.3 mm Adaptor

A Straight Audio Cable

A Cable with in-line Control and Microphone

A Warranty Card

Specifications:

High quality dynamic speakers: 40 mm

Frequency range: 15 Hz ~ 22 kHz

Impedance: 16 Ohm

THD: Less than 1% at 1 kHz

Sensitivity: 99 dB at 1 kHz

Maximum input power: 1,000 mW

Weight: 250 g (without cord) / 0.55 lb (without cord)

Cord Length: 3.6 ft / 1.2 m

The included bag is a nice add-on, although I would have preferred to see the company include a hard case. I’ve been a bit spoiled by my look at a few of the headphones in Scosche’s current lineup, and the fact that they include both a hard and a soft case with their headphones. While that may be overkill, I would like to see premium headphones ship with a case that will actually protect your investment. A soft case is certainly better than no case at all, but still…

The headphones feature what Phiaton refers to as “Ez Fold”. This is marketing-speak for the fact that the Bridge MS500 headphones fold into a relatively compact package that fits into the included carry bag. This is a nice feature, although in 2013 it is something I have come to expect.

I’m mixed on the inline microphone control that ships with the headphones. To their credit, Phiaton ships the Bridge MS500 headphones with both a straight cable and a cable with an inline microphone and control. Both cables are covered in a red, tangle free woven material that looks and feels great. The cables — as well they should – scream “premium product”. That noted, I was a bit disappointed with the inline microphone and control. The microphone works well but the “control” aspect falls short. The one-button control will play or pause music, launch Siri or skip tracks, but there is no volume control on the cable or headphones themselves. I’ll admit the result of there being just one button on the remote is a far more solid assembly, but I do which I could adjust the volume without having to go directly to the audio source.

I’ve got another complaint when it comes to these headphones. The cable, as I noted, is impressive. The jacks on either end are as well. Both are made from metal and the 3.5mm jack that plugs into the audio source not only has a 90˚ angle, but it has a nice industrial design all its own. Moreover, as Phiaton’s marketing-speak notes, “‘Oxygen Free Copper’ cables provide 99.99% purity helping to ensure a clean connection and minimal audio distortion.”

My issue with the design is simple: while the jack that goes into the audio source is the standard 3.5mm design the jack that goes into the headphones is smaller. I would much have preferred the company use a standard 3.5mm to 3.5mm design here. A huge deal? No, but a deal none-the-less.

Why did they opt for a jack that is smaller than the ubiquitous 3.5mm standard? Because the Phiaton Bridge MS500 headphones connect to the cable via the ear cup post rather than the ear cup itself. Why does the cable plug into the post rather than the ear cup itself? The answer is simple: Phiaton is phreaking smart!! They figured out that by having the cable connect to the headphones away from the ear cup itself, they are able to keep the cord from rubbing against the face of the person wearing them. I switched between these headphones and a pair that use the standard “connect to the ear cup” design, and there is no question having the cable sit away from my face was a far better option.

And there’s more. Phiaton designed the headphones so you can plug into either of the two ear cup posts. That means the cable can be on the left or the right and, in both cases, be set a distance from the face of the person wearing them. Phiaton refers to this as “Ambidextrous Inputs”.

The Bridge MS500 headphones have a rather unusual design that stands out in an ever-more-crowded market. A leather headband wraps around an aluminum frame. The frame, in turn, ends in a metal hinge that then contact to a metal seat into which slip the ear cup posts. The posts, like the main frame of the Bridge MS500 headphones are also made of aluminum. In all, these are headphones made from among the most premium materials we have seen.

The leather and plastic ear cups appear to attach to the aluminum posts with plastic. This connection point offers a bit of movement and allows for the ear cups to sit comfortably over the ears. Whether or not this plastic attachment point ends up being the weak link in an otherwise superbly built pair of headphones waits to be seen. It is a concern for me and if we do see stress failures with these headphones I would bet this is the point at which it occurs. Other than this connection it is worth noting that these headphones are as well-constructed as any we have seen.

The sound from the Bridge MS 500 headphones is excellent. Designed with a “dual-chamber structure” that provides rich detail and clear, more powerful bass. This was no small design choice. As the product page explains,

Whether on an electric guitar, violin or bass, the bridge is an essential component to creating sound in an instrument. Much like the bridge on a well-tuned instrument, Phiaton’s Bridge Headphones expertly deliver authentic sound to your ears, transporting your music, the way it was intended to be heard. Phiaton’s Bridge Headphones integrate qualities similar to those found in a great instrument, matching superior audio performance with a stunning, sleek design. Its dual-chamber structure and multi-tune acoustic design offer high-end performance and sound quality, combining the excellent bass response of closed ear headphones with the crystal clear high-frequency response of open-style headphones.

I knew the Phiaton Bridge MS 500 headphones were something special when I first saw the release announcing them, and they did not disappoint. The MS 500s are made from top quality materials, have a fit and finish that is superb, and they have an unusual design that is not only eye-catching but also adds to both the comfort and the sound they offer. Get these, and you will not only enjoy good music for years to come, but you will stand out without looking like you are trying to work too hard at it. You can learn more here on the Phiaton website.

MSRP: $299

What I Like: Look great; Quite comfortable; Come with two cables, one with an inline mic and remote; Design holds the cable away from your face; Cable inputs on both sides; Sound terrific

What Needs Improvement: Single button controller; No hard protective case included; Don’t use a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

While in New York for a CE Week event last week, I had a chance to spend some time at the Monster headphones booth. While there, I saw the Monster Inspiration Active Noise-Canceling Headphones which Judie had reviewed and loved. (Read the review.) The White Tuxedo Monster DNA Headphones I reviewed were also on display. (Read my review.) There were also a pair of strikingly bright headphones that caught my eye; these were the upcoming iSport Freedom headphones.

The iSport Freedom headphones are Monster’s first-ever on-ear wireless headphones. The iSport Freedom headphones are water-resistant, anti-microbial and sweat proof. Inside the iSport Freedom headphones is advanced Bluetooth technology that offers, to use Monster’s own words, “exceptional wireless sound quality for both music and phone calls”.

As Monster explains,

Freedom delivers seamless and superb wireless audio, so active users can focus on their workout without ever having to worry about tangled wires or any disruption. In addition to pioneering the inclusion of AAC and APTX for an unmatched wireless music performance, Monster meticulously engineered Freedom’s advanced microphones to deliver the clearest possible phone conversation performance for total versatility in the office or in the gym.

The headphones have specially designed antimicrobial soft ear cushions that help ensure bacteria-free comfort. And the rechargeable battery is powerful enough to provide over 30 hours of music playback and calls per charge. The iSport Freedom wireless headphones includes a 3.5m ControlTalk Universal microphone cable, so you can use the headphones in wired mode. In all, these bright Bluetooth headphones are packed with features.

This all makes for a nice package, but what really matters is whether these Bluetooth headphones sound good or not. On that front I am happy to report that … even in a loud, crowded event hall they sounded great. Seriously, the headphones are light and comfortable AND they sound really, really good. I was impressed, but I was disappointed to learn that it will be a few more weeks before they start to ship. (Yeah, I’m impatient like that.)

The Monster Freedom Bluetooth headphones will be available in neon green in the UK on July 14th for a suggested retail price of 240 GBP, with U.S. availability to follow. Check out all of monster’s headphones here.

We recently reviewed the Scosche RH1056md Headphones. I was impressed with the wired, over-the-ear headphones and thought them to be a decent value at under $150. Scosche was good enough to also send a pair of their RH1060 Wireless Bluetooth headphones for review. The RH1060 headphones look quite similar to the RH1056md sample we have been using; in fact, then you use them in wired mode they are pretty much the same. Comparing the specifications of the two headphones reveals that both have 40mm drivers and an impedance of 32Ω. The frequency response of the RH1056md headphones is slightly better, but not so much that it makes a noticeable difference. In other words, at under $200 the Scosche RH1060 Bluetooth Headphones give you the best of both the wired and wireless worlds. Let’s take a closer look.

Like its slightly less expensive wired siblings, the RH1060 headphones come with a nice protective case. This is a fairly massive headphone case, something made necessary due to the size and bulk of the headphones themselves.

Similarly, like the RH1056 headphones, the RH1060s come with a soft protective bag. I have no doubt that including both protective options costs Scosche pennies. Still, going that extra mile here rather than going as cheaply as possible once again impressed me. That noted, I don’t see using the soft bag much if at all since the harder case actually offers some degree of protection when taking the RH1060 headphones on the go.

Inside the hard case you will find a nice bit of organization. The folded headphones site nicely in one side. It is specifically molded to let the headphones fit in one way and one way only. This tight fit means the headphones won’t shift much if at all when you have them in your bag. That, in turn, adds an additional layer of protection. On the left side of the hard shell is a space for the RH1060 accessories. This holds them securely and keeps them away from the headphones when the case is closed.

The RH1060 accessory pack includes a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable, a USB to microUSB charging cable, a cleaning cloth (these headphones are made from glossy black plastic that attracts fingerprints like nobodies business) and a carabiner clip that lets you hang the headphone case. It is worth noting that the 3.5mm cable does not have inline controls or a microphone; those are found on the headphones themselves.

As previously mentioned, the headphones fold up for storage. Even when folded up, these are anything but small. That’s no surprise since, after all, these are large, over-the-ear cans.

Charging the headphones takes two to three hours, and it provides about eight hours of audio playback and one thousand hours of standby time. Surprisingly Scosche only put Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity in the RH1060 headphones. There is no BT 3 or 4 and no NFC – Near Field Connectivity — as we have seen in an increasing number of wireless headphones. No doubt this was done in order to keep the price of the RH1060 headphones below $200.

Features:

Precision wound copper voice coils and rare-earth neodymium magnets create extremely accurate musical reproduction

Ported sound chamber provides the exact air space necessary for optimal component performance

Fully adjustable headband combined with the 2 axis gimbal system ensures a flawless fit every time

Stainless steel hinges allow the headphones to collapse for added portability

Supple genuine leather

Viscoelastic memory foam

40mm REALM drivers

Built-in rechargeable battery offers 8 hours of battery life

Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) to allow the best audio performance possible from a wireless device

Click to view slideshow.

Scosche made a rather striking decision when designing the RH1060 headphones and went with physical buttons for controlling the music and adjusting the volume. In a world of touch-control, this might be seen as a step backward were it not for the fact that having tactile buttons actually works well when trying to control headphones without taking them off. It is not that I am opposed to touch-sensitive buttons, but I don’t have an issue with the old standby mechanical approach we find here. The larger of the three buttons is used to play, pause and advance tracks. Pushing and holding this button also activates Siri, if the RH 1060 headphones are connected to an iOS device. (Siri works well with these headphones and the microphone picked up my voice accurately.) The remaining buttons control the volume when listening to music.

The other ear cup has a single button that turns the headphones on and off. Pressing and holding the button also puts the Scosche RH 1060 headphones into pairing mode.

Overall, the RH2016 headphones have impressed me. The sound is quite good, and the headphones offer a good bit of bass without it being too much. No doubt that was what Scosche was going for when they designed the RH1060s. After all…

…this is one of their key marketing images for the audio device.

Both Elana and I find the RH1060 headphones to be quite comfortable. That is saying a good deal, since we need rather different adjustments to fit each of our heads. We are also enjoying the music coming from them. That was the case with a wide range of musical styles. In addition we were both impressed by the degree of ambient sound that was blocked by the RH1060′s leather ear cups. These do not offer active noise cancellation, but they do block a ton of sound once properly seated on our ears.

My one main criticism of the Scosche RH1060 headphones actually touches on the issue of active noise cancellation. These don’t have it, but when the Bluetooth is on and there is no music actually streaming you might think there is; in other words, the slight hum that is so often associated with active noise cancellation is present in the Bluetooth radio of the RH1060. It isn’t noticeable once the music starts to stream, but it is there. I will admit it bothered me more when I was first using the headphones, but just knowing that is the case bugs me a bit. Again, it isn’t noticeable once there is actual music, but the buzzing is there when music is paused.

Other than this criticism, I am impressed with the Scosche RH1060 headphones. They sound good, are quite comfortable, and they come in at a price that is south of $200. That a good trick, and it results in a rather nice package. You can learn more here, and you can get them through our Amazon Affiliate Store.

MSRP: $199.99

What I Like: Comfortable; Good sound with decent bass; Block a fair bit of outside noise; Hard and soft case included; Charge in under 3 hours and give 8 hours of streamed music; Tactile controls

What Needs Improvement: Slight radio buzz when there is no music

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample