PREFER EARPHONES? READ MORE: Best Earphones 2024

BEST ENTRY LEVEL HIGH-END

Audeze MM-100 – £399.00

The Audeze MM-100 is a versatile headphone designed for both studio engineers and music enjoyers on a budget. It can be driven by just about any source, making it ideal for life on the go. With its Audeze patented planar magnetic drivers, it delivers precise, studio-quality audio with incredible detail and clarity, making it ideal for mixing, mastering, or casual listening. The sound is stunning, especially when paired with a quality setup and completely outperforms anything else in its price bracket at just £399. Lightweight and comfortable, the MM-100 ensures long sessions are a breeze and gives an immersive listening experience to anyone who put them over their ears.

BEST BUDGET WIRED HEADPHONES

SoundMAGIC HP151- £88.99

The SoundMAGIC HP151 offers excellent audio quality with a balanced sound signature and impressive detail for its price. Its spacious soundstage and comfortable design make it an ideal choice for budget-conscious listeners seeking reliable, wired performance. Priced just under £90, it is a great pick for anyone looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.

BEST WIRELESS HEADPHONES

1More SonoFlow HQ51– £89.99

If earphones aren’t your thing, then the SonoFlow HQ51 makes a perfect upgrade choice under £100. With its extended 70 to 100-hour battery life, advanced ANC, The SonoFlow HQ51 also features an all new DLC 40mm dynamic driver. Comfortable to wear, it is equiped with Bluetooth 5.4 and has 12 EQ modes, it’s ideal for immersive listening at an affordable price. The SonoFlow is a great alternative challenger to the pricier options out there from Sony, Bose and Sennheiser.

final UX3000 ANC Wireless Headphones – £119

Final have really worked their magic here. Solid build quality, paired with great sound and effective ANC for under £120 is something rarely heard of. Add to that fantastic mic quality and you have an absolute bargain on offer. The UX3000 can be recommend to absolutely anyone looking for a portable over-ear headphone and you will only see smiles on their faces.

SoundMAGIC P23BT Portable Wireless Headphones – £49.99

How do they do it? SoundMAGIC have once again made a killer headphone for a super price. The P23BT doubles up as a headset too with the included cable and boom mic (great for home office or even gaming). In addition, the headphone is lightweight and comfortable. Add into the mixer an incredibly impressive battery life and a simple ease of use and you have got yourself a bargain. They sound full and warm yet never bass heavy. They really do sound incredible and for a Wireless on ear headphone what more could you want?

WATCH VIDEO: SoundMAGIC P23BT Wireless On Ear Headphone Review

READ MORE: Christmas Gift Guide 2024

BEST OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

5. Audeze LCD-X Planar Magnetic Full Size Headphones – £1149

The Audeze LCD-X are a real eye-catching headphone. For a retail price that seems crazy at first glance, the bottom line is that the price-performance ratio of this headphones is absolutely fantastic. Not only due to the impeccable manufacture, but also a robust construction, use of high-quality materials and wonderful, detailed sound Loved by Audiophiles and sound engineers alike. If you want to give yourself a birthday or Christmas present, you can safely consider surprising yourself with the Audeze LCD-X.

READ MORE: Audeze LCD-X Planar Magnetic Headphones

READ MORE: Christmas Gift Guide 2024

Audeze MM-500 Planar Magnetic Full Size Studio Headphones – £1699

Audeze MM-500 is designed to suit the requirements of long daily listening sessions under almost any condition. World-class studio monitor? Check. Quick reference on-the-go? No problem. Deep late-night listening? Done. With its ease of drive, comfortable fit and trustworthy sound, you can count on the MM-500 to deliver in every situation. The MM-500’s planar magnetic drivers provide realism that audio professionals like Manny “can’t live without.” With lightning-fast transients, accurate frequency response and trusted mix translation.

READ MORE: Audeze MM-500 Planar Magnetic Studio Headphones

Final D8000 – £2,999.00

Instead of going for the usual neutral-ish sound signature of most high-end models, Final instead decided to make the D8000 enjoyable, with very punchy and dynamic bass and impressive clarity across the board, the D8000 stand out from the crowd.

Audeze LCD-5 -£3,999.00

The Audeze LCD-5 is a masterpiece of audiophile engineering, delivering unmatched clarity, precision, and emotional depth to your music. Audeze’s Flagship LCD has a lightweight magnesium frame and the premium materials ensure long-lasting comfort, while the cutting-edge planar magnetic drivers reveal every nuance in your favorite tracks. For those seeking the pinnacle of sound reproduction and a transformative listening experience, the LCD-5 is still there, in a league of its own. Full Review

READ MORE: Christmas Gift Guide 2024

BEST GAMING HEADPHONES

Audeze Maxwell Ps5/Xbox – £319.00/£349.00.

The Audeze Maxwell redefines what a wireless gaming headset can be. With its planar magnetic drivers, it offers astonishingly clear, detailed sound that brings games and music to life. Combine this with ultra-low latency performance, an 80-hour battery, and a premium build, and you have a headset that’s as serious about sound as it is about gaming. The Maxwell remains the gold standard for serious gamers and audiophiles alike and a must have in 2024

Have We Missed Anything Out?

Please feel free to leave a comment below and let us know…

The post Best Headphones 2024 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

About SoundMAGIC

Tony Xu founded SoundMAGIC in 2005. As mentioned above, their main products include in-ear headphones, professional HiFi headphones, Bluetooth headphones and more. They are one of the only Chinese earphone brands that is widely recognized worldwide. Having been deeply involved in the industry for more than ten years, a lot of their success can be attributed to their brand purpose:

Providing consumers with high-quality audio products that have the ultimate cost / performance ratio. 

SoundMAGIC are particularly famous worldwide for their flagship earphones, the E Series. The E series in-ear headphones are known to be fun and exciting while producing clarity and definition rivalling earphones twice the price. The E Series consists of earphones like the SoundMAGIC E11C, SoundMAGIC E10C, SoundMAGIC E11BT, SoundMAGIC E80, E10, E11 & more!

Many “E” products from SoundMAGIC have been highly praised by the world’s two famous industry magazines “WHAT Hi-Fi” and “Stuff” for the last 12 years and have repeatedly won the “Best Product of the Year Award”. Since 2018 the “E11C” has been best in class in its product category. Proving that you can get immersive sound quality, outstanding durability and stylish aesthetics on a budget.

Product Highlight: SoundMAGIC E11C – “Natural Born Winner That Sounds MAGIC “

Sophisticated Sound
As well as Providing refined and accurate sound from redesigned 10mm dynamic drivers, SoundMAGIC E11C delivers a balanced sound image with extended transparent detail and warm, textured bass.

Elegant Aluminium Housing
Furthermore, E11C are completely crafted from aluminium in a high-precision cutting process and finished with a unique hand painting process. The lightweight and robust housing of the E11C displays a delicate texture with refined and elegant appearance.

Another great pair of SoundMagic budget earphones, the E11C in-ears continue the fine work of their predecessors and deliver an entertaining, upfront sound, complete with a remote control and mic. And we can’t argue with that.

What Hi-Fi 2022 Award Winner Review

Comfortable Isolating Design
Likewise, the E11C combines ergonomic angled sound tubes with an in-ear fit that seals the ear canal totally with soft silicone eartips to provide a secure fit with total sound isolation and immersive listening.

Complete Communication
In addition to the above, they are able to pair with any type of smartphone. The SoundMAGIC E11C has been equipped with a unique technology in the 3-button control unit that switches automatically between Apple and Android smartphones for management of volume, track control and telephone calls. Though some remote features may have limited functionality on Google Pixel 3a/4a and Sony Xperia devices.

Brand Culture

In essence, a good brand is established by the accumulation of time and the spread of word of mouth. By and large, providing customers with high-quality products and services is how you succeed. This is what SoundMAGIC is. As well as focusing on the performance of their products they also focus on their customers with a both come first approach. Hence pursuing original product design, aiming for perfect quality, listening to customer feedback and providing end products that are cost effective & high quality, is what has helped them create a world renowned brand.

All “SoundMAGIC” products present the best cost to performance ratio in their respective categories.

SoundMAGIC Philosophy

Milestones

• 2005: Shenzhen SoundMAGIC Technology Development Co., Ltd. was founded and “SoundMAGIC” trademark registered
• 2006: Comprehensive overhaul design, research and development, manufacturing and sales system
• 2007: SoundMAGIC’s first earphone sold overseas won a four-star recommendation from the influential magazine “WHAT Hi-Fi”
• 2009: The SoundMAGIC PL11 earphones received a five-star recommendation from the world-renowned magazine “Stuff”
• 2010: The SoundMAGIC PL50 received five-star recommendation from “Stuff” and created a best-selling myth
• 2011-2013: The SoundMAGIC E10 has been voted “Best In-Ear Headphones Under £40” by WHAT Hi-Fi for three consecutive years
• 2014-2015: SoundMAGIC E10S was voted “Best In-Ear Headphones Under £50” by WHAT Hi-Fi for 2 consecutive years
• 2016: SoundMAGIC E10C voted “Best In-Ear Headphones Under £50” by WHAT Hi-Fi
• 2018: SoundMAGIC E11 received five-star recommendations from “Stuff” and “WHAT Hi-Fi”
• 2019: SoundMAGIC launches the first closed-back HiFi headphone HP1000 with a unique design and an open-back sense of hearing
• 2019-2022: SoundMAGIC E11C has been voted “Best In-Ear Headphones Under £50” by WHAT Hi-Fi for four consecutive years

Our Top 5 SoundMAGIC Product Picks

1. SoundMAGIC E11C In Ear Isolating Earphones with Mic – £52.99

Launched in 2018, the SoundMAGIC E11C is still reaping rewards for being a great pair of affordable in-ear headphones, complete with remote and mic. It’s not often that budget consumer goods stand the test of time but the E11C continues to deliver a great sound for an outstanding price.

2. SoundMAGIC P23BT Portable Wireless Bluetooth Headphones – £49.96

SoundMAGIC once again show that they are unrivalled when it comes to creating budget models with excellent sound quality, the P23BT has such an enjoyable sound that you quickly forget they only cost £50. The addition of a boom mic on the wired cable is really impressive for home working or office use, along with insane battery life for everyday use.

3. SoundMAGIC S20BT In Ear Isolating Wireless Earphones with Controls & Mic – £39.95

The S20BT is the perfect exercise partner. For just under £40 you get a warm and enjoyable wireless set of earphones that sound fun and fit securely for any kind of active use. These are specifically designed for out and about use, and for that purpose they tick all the right boxes.

4. SoundMAGIC E11 In Ear Isolating Earphones– £42.99

The E11 is perfect for somebody who likes what is offered by the E11C but has no use for a microphone or volume controls.

5. SoundMAGIC E10 In Ear Isolating Earphones – £31.99

SoundMAGIC’s acoustic engineers carefully configured the drivers of the E10 to produce exciting sound with powerful bass and balanced musical detail. It is a beautifully finished in-ear sound isolating earphone made from brushed metal with a choice of four vibrant colours.

Lastest SoundMAGIC Updates and News:

Headphones with the Best Battery Life

December 13, 2024

When you’re on the move or working through a busy day, nothing beats the convenience of headphones or wireless earbuds that keep going as long as you do. Long battery life is crucial, whether you’re commuting, traveling, gaming, or simply enjoying your favorite playlists. Here, we’ve rounded up the best…

Best Wireless Headphones 2024: On-Ear, ANC, Earbuds, Audiophile

December 2, 2024

Our breakdown of the very best wireless headphones and earbuds, full size and gaming to buy for home, portable and travel use.

Top 5 sub £100 Portable Audio Devices

November 26, 2024

We often feature high end equipment on our blog, but there are plenty of excellent products to be had for under £100. Today share our top 5 sub £100 picks for 2024!

Best Earphones 2024: IEM, Bluetooth, Wireless, Budget, Audiophile

November 24, 2024

Here you can see the best earphones, in ear headphones, earbuds, Bluetooth and even audiophile IEMs to buy right now in 2024

SoundMAGIC P58BT ANC Now Live!

August 27, 2024

SoundMAGIC, a brand well known for delivering high-value, high-performance audio, has just unveiled its latest offering: the SoundMAGIC P58BT ANC. Priced at just £79.99, these wireless headphones are looking to redefine the standard for affordable portable audio. Combining advanced features with an all new, sleek design.

The post Brand Story: SoundMAGIC appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Design: 9/10

The E11C Features an updated 10mm dynamic driver from its predecessor, the E10C. It has also been upgraded via a high quality silver plated copper cable. Proof that SoundMAGIC is continuously evolving as a brand. Not only does this improve the sound, but it also gives the earphones a more sophisticated, grown up look. Other than these changes, they essentially look like a typical SoundMAGIC in ear earphone and still feature a 3.5mm jack. They look great. Why change a good looking winning formula?

Fit & Comfort: 9/10

As with previous wired models, the E11C can be worn with cable going over the ears or just straight down. Although this will interfere with the position of the microphone. The angled jack is great for when you have your Phone/ Mp3 Player in your pocket as it prevents any premature cable break (from poor care!). The ergonomically designed housing fits in your ear very well. The posistion of the in-line mic and controls is practical and makes them easy to use. Finally, the tips that are provided add to the comfort and it is easy to get a secure / solid fit. This ensures not only comfort but total sound isolation and the best chance to immerse yourself in the music.

The sound quality is excellent and the E11C is suitable for all genres.

Sound: 10/10

The sound quality is excellent. The E11C is similar in sound to the SoundMAGIC E50 models. But the E11C has a little more mid and upper-bass warmth to it. To sum up, the bass is well controlled, The mids crystal and the treble super smooth. It’s suitable for all genres, but is outstanding when listening to vocals, acoustic recordings and music making use of “real” instruments. (Sorry techno, you still sound great too though!)

Mic & Controls: 9/10

The E11C comes with an in-line control and mic that works with both iOS and Android (for devices that still have a jack). The controls provide volume and stop/start functionality which is great for when you are on the move. In addition to this the mic/controls are durable and unobtrusive. They do not interfere with the cable which means they do not create any background noise. The call quality is good and your voice comes through loud and clear on the other end, too.

The E11C proves that quality does not need to cost an arm and a leg.

Value For Money 10/10

The E11C proves that quality products do not need to cost an arm and a leg. The updates are modest but make the E11C stand out from its predecessors. The sound is more refined and pricepoint of around 50 pounds really hits the nail on the head. Most people will only spend as much as they need to in order to get something that they will be happy to use every day. And guess what? The E11C is it. The in-line mic and controls are a great practical feature and fantastic addition. They are simply a very durable, stylish and versatile earphone to use day in and day out.

Want to keep in the Loop with all things Sound MAGIC? Check out all News and reviews here.

The post SoundMAGIC E11C Earphones Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Our Own Review of the SoundMAGIC E11C? “We have found the E11C to be a grown-up earphone with a keen knack for giving a clear and accurate presentation across the board.  A truly impressive earphone for the price and in our opinion the new budget king.” – This was 3 1/2 years ago and still rings true today!

What more is there to say? What Hi*Fi concludes: “Considering the price, the SoundMAGIC E11C are nothing short of a miracle. If you’re on a budget, we have no hesitation in recommending them most heartily. What are you waiting for?” Check out What Hi-Fi’s newest budget buying guides here and here and go see for yourself!

If you would like more information on the product then check out SoundMAGIC’s online shop here: SoundMAGIC Headphones

Finally, there is plenty more information on many of SoundMAGIC’s products throughout our blog!

The post SoundMAGIC E11C- Still the best Budget wired earphones out there! appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

SoundMAGIC ES18 / ES18S

SoundMAGIC have made a fantastic name for themselves within the budget in-ear market, no wonder they get on the list of top 10 best headphones under £50. The E18 is a great example of just how they do it – designing products which offer exceptional sound quality for the prices asked.

The ES18 has bass which is warm but not overblown, mids which are fluid and engaging, and highs which are slightly recessed. Suitable for those who find percussion and cymbals generally strident and fatiguing.

Also available as the ES18S with a microphone and button for answering/hanging up calls.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

For the asking price these are difficult to beat; try the famous SoundMAGIC sound for under £20!

DUNU DN-12 

The DN-12 is a sturdily built IEM with solid metallic housings and a good solid sound also.

Bass is deep and punchy without being boomy, midrange is slightly recessed with high frequencies well balanced; there’s a slight roll-off for those who like a warmer sound signature; normal for IEMs of this price.

A very well put together earphone with a sound signature that is sure to please.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

A great IEM for the price, the DN-12 gives great weight to music and will suit those who like a fun sound.

FIDUE A31

Another entrant in the IEM market is FIDUE, and their range starts with the fantastic FIDUE 31 – the capsules are tiny and the sound is big!

Good warm bass and good mid-range detail – there is a slight roll off in the treble region for those who like a warmer presentation.

The earphones are lightweight and tough, perfect for running or in the gym.  Ear tips are designed to keep the earphones in the ear and cables can be worn over the ear for a more secure fit.

Also fitted with a lightweight microphone in case you need to take calls.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

A great budget choice – narrower nozzles may make this a good choice for those with fit issues with other IEMs.  Perfect for sports use.

Audiofly AF33M

The entry-level AF33 from Audiofly gives a fantastic sound, and the AF33M version gives added functionality with smartphones, offering an answer button for those calls.

Good bass which is tight and well controlled, midrange with a slight recess and treble which has liveliness and sparkle without being fatiguing. When we first tried these we thought that there was a mistake – these sound like IEMs which cost more than £50.

A very capable earphone with a grown up sound signature without the boom, boom of some other budget earphones. Very musical.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Many are getting a kick out of Australian firm Audiofly’s range in more than one way. The engaging and involving sound of these IEMs will certainly get you waltzing.

Sennheiser HD201

Sennheiser’s entry-level full size, the HD201, is incredibly cheap for what you get – anyone looking for a good sound without wanting to part with much cash must be tempted by the HD201.

Good but not bloaty bass, a clear midrange and a slightly forward treble make these superb all rounders. Fantastic for detail, you might hear things with these which are missed on pricier headphones.

This are a ideal everyday headphone that won’t break the bank.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Probably the best full-size headphone you’ll find for under £20, hands down.

Koss PortaPro

The Koss Porta Pro may not be an obvious choice for the top 10 best portable headphones, it is likely older than most of its current users; introduced in the early 1980s, it pre-dates most other lightweight designs and has a real retro charm.

The sound is still very current however, as the PortaPro’s sound signature suits dance music, rap and anything the user can throw at them.

A good level of bass and midrange gives a good grunt with realistic body. The highs are a little rolled off but not to the point where it’s a problem, indeed the roll-off makes them less likely to fatigue the wearer if dance music is played.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

For the money this is amazing value – get yourself a design classic which has stood the test of time.

SoundMAGIC P21 / P21S

This portable is certainly a fun-sounding headphone – it also looks fun and feels it too!

They are very light and are a perfect travelling companion when folded into the semi-rigid case.Bass is present but not overblown, midrange is clear and involving, and highs are revealing but not overbearing.The flat cable does not tangle and the 90 degree jack is perfect for placing your music source in a pocket or bag.

If you need mobile phone compatibility try the P21S fitted with microphone and call control button for taking phone calls.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

Look no further if you’re planning to explore! This is the perfect travelling companion for the journey to another continent, or the local park!

Grado iGrado

Grado are well known for their trademark wide open and airy sound, and the iGrado follows in this theme. Designed to sit over the ear with a neckband keeping things in place, the iGrado gives a wonderfully natural sound.

They are wide open in design, meaning that there is no isolation. Others will hear your music, and you will be aware of the environment around you. This makes the sound much more realistic in terms of soundstage and imaging, but you may get some odd looks if these are worn on the train, for example.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

The iGrado is very popular with joggers and those who prefer to be aware of the sounds around them, also they are a great low-cost upgrade for anyone wanting a headphone specifically for use in the home.

Fostex TH7-BB

For its price, this versatile Fostex model is great value and is great for enjoying music as well as a whole host of professional applications.

Imaging and soundstage are impressive thanks to the semi-open design, but isolation is not lost.

Bass goes low but remains tight, mids are clear and natural, highs are detailed and not rolled off, but not too bright.

The impendence and sensitivity may require a headphone amp for portable uses.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

A good rugged all-rounder for both in and out of doors, the TH7-BB is a great choice for those on a budget.

Grado SR60i

Another of Grado’s great value headphones, the SR60i is much like its elder sibling the SR80i, but may be more appropriate for enjoying older recordings or music with less than perfect sound quality. As the SR60i is not as bright sounding as the SR80i, they may be better or you if you find that you get fatigued after listening for a while.

The SR60 has been around for 20 years, which in the fast-moving world of electronic gadgets seems like a lifetime. Apart from the odd tweak, why change something which works so well?

Hifiheadphones verdict:

The look, feel and quality of the SR60i is magnificent for the asking price; why not get yourself a slice of a headphone legend? If you like details and a more forward or bright presentation, consider the SR80i.

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SoundMAGIC have pushed the boundaries of what can be expected from an entry level earphone with the SoundMAGIC ES20 Headphones, which makes this model a strong candidate for the title of best budget headphone.  The sound is a quantum leap up from the cheap earbuds supplied with most MP3 players, with warm deep bass and plenty of detail in the trebles.

While you might expect a cheap earphone to be badly made, the ES20 is a part aluminium construction and comes fitted with good quality braided cabling (normally reserved for high end in-ear monitor earphones) with strain relief that is built to last.  The quality of the product is truly commendable. The ES20 is like the baby brother of the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 which adds a full metal body and even higher sound quality – for a little more money.

Supplied with a neat carry pouch that is very usable and three size ear tips to get a good seal, the SoundMAGIC ES20 is a very well thought out package.

HiFi Headphones Verdict

In times past the Sennheiser CX300 was the first choice for entry level in-ear earphones, but the ES20 has just stolen that spot.  Sound quality compares with earphones costing two or three times the price.

The post SoundMAGIC ES20 Headphones – Mini Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

SoundMAGIC E10

Introduction – The E10 is from the second generation of SoundMAGIC headphones, it’s the successor to the excellent (and still available) PL11.

Description – The E10 sounds good, looks great and is beautifully made with metal casing and a high spec braided cable. SoundMAGIC are known for pushing the boundaries of what you can expect for your money, at it’s release you would have definitely had to spend at least twice as much to get the same quality in design and finish.

Anything else? – The E10 is also available as the E10M with a three button iDevice controller and mic.

Describe the sound – Few products capture a What HiFi? 5 Stars review but it’s immediately obvious to hear why the E10 is a twice What HiFi? Award Winner. The E10’s sound signature has a powerful and fun sound with plenty of bass, a great level of control and musical detail. The E10 has slightly elevated bass, which does give a warm and smooth tone, the sound feels like a reasonably accurate interpretation of what is really there, but EQ has been applied in the best possible way. Vocals are also treated gently, soundstage is always short with IEMs but here imaging has natural movement within a very decent sense of space. A nicely designed earphone with sound quality that is sure to impress. Very hard to beat at this price point!

RHA MA350

Introduction – RHA design fantastic audio products at their research and development centre in Glasgow, UK. The MA350 has a lightweight aircraft-grade aluminium build with excellent sound isolating properties and wearing comfort. The cable sports a braided fabric design that not only keeps the cable snag-free and also ensures a longer earphone lifespan. This build quality is rare at this price point.

Description – Unlike traditional earphone designs the RHA MA350 is inspired by the aerophonic design of trumpets, a perfectly shaped chamber channels air and sound efficiently to create a natural and clear sound with full and deep bass response.

Anything else? – The RHA 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. The inline remote and mic controls calls, music and volume on your Apple device.

Describe the sound – Another What Hifi 5 Stars product, the MA350 has a natural voice which feels acurate and effortless. Relaxed but not bass prominent they have a decent sparkle to the top end, consequently a great choice for the commutor or regular traveller.

Audiofly AF33M

Introduction – The Audiofly AF33M is an excellent multi-use IEM offering best in class for value-conscious consumers that still want a superior sound experience. For casual listening or taking calls, the Audiofly AF33M deliver amazing sound at an affordable price.

Description – The design of Audiofly products is a joyful blend of vintage music equipment, the latest moulding techniques and incredible colour combinations. With custom eartips, precision engineered alloy parts and serious attention to the sound chambers and nozzle, Audiofly mean business! Four pairs of specifically designed silicone eartips are included for better isolation and improved sound.

Anything else? – Audiofly have split the mic from the multi function button for better voice transmission during conversations, so you only need to say it once to be heard. To have such a great combination of accessories and a mic is almost unheard of at this pricepoint.

Describe the sound -The AF33M is fitted with a custom voiced 9mm dynamic driver for impressive detail in sound reproduction, but this is no bloated bass monster. The sound is refined and accurate, solid but also delicate with a pretty spakle. It’s surprising that you can build such an impressive piece of design with all of these exclusive features and still get it sounding so good for such a low price.

Quarkie

Introduction – Quarkie are probably most notable for their crazy creative designs, British made and designed the Quarkie earphone range delivers fantastic quality sound. The company motto “Quarkie looks and serious sounds.” Pretty much captures the brands identity perfectly. Earphones are available in a number of mad looking form factors, from snakes to rusty bolts, gemstones to reptile eyes.

Description – Despite the novelty looks, build quality and engineering is superb. At the heart of the unit is a 13.5 mm drive unit with a high-tech design that produces balanced sound with sparkling high-frequencies and deep, powerful bass.

Anything else? – Included is a microphone/MFB controller that is compatible with both iPhone and Android. Unique custom-made eartips are included in four sizes giving a perfect ear canal seal for optimum performance.

Describe the sound – Quarkie have given their headphones a reasonably flat frequency response. This gives them impressive tonal balance, Quarkie want you to hear the music just as it was intended to sound. These earphones are more sensitive than average so they can get very decent volume when used with phones or iPods. Neodymium magnets are employed for a wider dynamic range, higher sensitivity, a bigger frequency response and a faster transient response than other systems. The effect is a realistic presentation far beyond what you would expect from a pair of snake heads or chameleon eyes!

SoundMAGIC E30

Introduction – SoundMAGIC E30 are balanced sounding with a professional fit over the ear fit and solid construction – exactly the quality we have come to expect from SoundMAGIC. The E30 in-ear monitors can be and are used in professional audio situations but personal listening rather than stage monitoring is the more usual circumstance to find them in.

Description – Worn over the ears, the professional cabling keeps the E30 firmly in the ears when walking and the cable out of the way at the gym. Included optional earhooks guarantee a secure fit, along with a generous selection of tips. This gives them lower than average microphonic cable noise and great noise isolation.

Anything else? – Cabling is surprisingly high end, a top quality braided audio cable is used to squeeze out the highest quality audio and best durability possible. Strain relief is well thought out and a metal 3.5mm jack plug finishes off the high quality construction.

Describe the sound – SoundMAGIC have configured the drivers of the E30 for a neutral, detailed sound with well defined bass which reaches quite deep. Natural tonally flat reproduction with decent soundstage has been achieved. The in-ear design of the E30 gives high levels of noise isolation ensuring sound is not lost or diluted. The SoundMAGIC E30 is a great headphone for those who enjoy an eclectic mix of music and want an incredibly stable fit to the ear.

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