Aedle VK-1 Portable Closed Back Headphone Review

aedle vk1

Verdict

A great newcomer to the Portable Headphone range – The Aedle VK-1 has real punch with weighty bass and cracking midrange. Not only do they sound exciting, they look it too! They are easy enough to drive off a portable device and are very comfortable. So if your looking for a portable on ear headphone with an exciting sound, great bass and stylish looks then look no further.

Pros

  • Great bass quality
  • Stylish and well built
  • Replaceable cable

Cons

  • Don’t isolate as well as other portable headphones
  • No headband padding

Key Features

  • Driver diameter – 40mm
  • Impedance – 32 Ohms
  • Weight – 216 g
  • Replaceable cable (optional smartphone cable – not included)
  • Aluminium driver housing
  • Cable length – 1.3m and 2.4m (both included)

First Impressions

Everything about these headphones – including the packaging – oozes style. The VK-1’s come very well packaged, they even have that ‘new shoe’ smell. In the box you get a very smart carry bag, two cables (1.3m and 2.4m), a 3.5 to 6.3mm jack adapter, an airline adapter and an Aedle ID card which allows you to ‘discover surprises’ on their website.

The headphones look great! The aluminium housing and brown leather really compliment each other and they are a perfect portable size – it’s obvious that lots of work has gone into designing the Aedle VK-1. The cables supplied are coated and even though they are a little thicker than some other headphones, they are very flexible.

The headband uses a spring steel structure so it’s very flexible and tough. To adjust it you just bend it into shape – this gives a very secure fit that will perfectly fit your head.

Sound Quality

Straight away you pick up on the quality of bass that comes out of the VK-1 – it’s punchy without being bloated or overkill. The midrange also stands out, especially snare drum crack. There is probably a slight top end roll off, but with such great quality mids you forget about this very quickly. Overall the sound is exciting and edgy and thanks to the venting on the driver housing there is a great sense of space in the sound.

Listening to Dire Straits – Your Latest Trick, the opening trumpet sounds rich and the cymbal comes in effortlessly in the far left. Once the track gets going there is a snare rim shot that really cuts through and the keyboards add the right amount of emotion, then the vocals come in sitting perfectly on top of the instruments. Once the song is in full swing you can pick out every instrument with ease and enjoy every one of them.

Next up was Slipknot’s Duality (obviously). These headphones are made for this track! When the stereo guitars kick in they completely surround you and then the drums… WOW. The snare and kick have real impact and the bat on beer keg sounds as though its being hit right next to you. Metal can sometimes be a tough test for headphones, but these seem to handle it with ease.

Lastly is Break by Jurassic 5 – this one really tests the bass. From the off there’s a massive kick drum and snare sample, the kick drum resonates very naturally and the snare has a great ring to it that comes across perfectly on the VK-1. The vocals come in and there is no confusion, everything has its place.

The Aedle VK-1 is rhythmic, edgy and punchy. They have a wide sound for a closed portable headphone and there is no harshness or sibilance.

Summary

The Aedle VK-1 comes into Sennheiser Momentum territory and it definitely gives you something different. They’re not as relaxed or controlled – they have more oomph and punch without having a harsh top end. The midrange cuts through more and as they are on ear they won’t have the same fit issues that the Momentum has. I would recommend these to anyone who wants a pair of headphones that look great, sound exciting with weighty bass and crisp mids and don’t completely cut you off from your surroundings. If you prefer a more neutral sound with top end detail then I would consider the KEF M500 as an alternative.

Score – 9/10

KEF M500 Portable Closed Back Headphone Review

Verdict

KEFs addition to the portable range of headphones is sleek, comfortable and most importantly sounds great! Clear detail with tight bass and crisp mids – They also fold up for easy storage and come with a spare cable for iDevices. The KEF M500 is extremely well built and feels solid, the pads are  soft and they isolate very well.

Pros

  • Foldable
  • Solidly built
  • Extra cable with in-line mic and controls for iDevices

Cons

  • Earpads are fully on the ear so can get warm

Key Features

  • Driver diameter – 40mm
  • Impedance – 32 Ohms
  • Weight – 208 g
  • Replaceable cable (iDevice cable included)
  • Foldable headband
  • Cable length – 1.3m

First Impressions

From the start you can see that KEF have gone for an elegant design. The packaging is simple, and follows the M500s colour pallet of silver and black. Inside you get a hard case – again very simple and well designed, 2 1.3m tangle-free flat cables (one with 3 button remote and microphone for iDevices), a flight adapter and a 6.3mm jack converter.

The M500 is very well built, and thanks to the aluminium frame not only are they light weight but they look great too! The headband padding is very soft and the earpads are made from breathable memory foam –  this provides great isolation. KEF has not only designed a headphone that feels good – they also look great and they’re extremely comfortable.

Sound Quality

The KEF M500‘s are well balanced without being boring – clean, clear and crisp with tight bass, well defined mids and lots of top end detail. Having a well balanced sound makes them sound great with all genres and the top end detail works really well with acoustic music or any songs with plenty going on. The separation is superb – you can hear the edge of every instrument, and considering these are fully closed back they have great soundstage.

Summary

For a portable headphone the KEF M500 is gives you everything – stylish, compact, well built, iPhone compatible, comfortable and it sounds great. The sound will suit anyone looking for a clean, balanced and detailed sound – especially in the higher frequencies. For a warmer sound I would suggest the Sennheiser Momentum or for something with more bass impact the Aedle VK-1 would be a good choice.

Score – 9.5/10

Sennheiser Momentum Full Size Portable Headphone Review

Verdict

The Full-size Sennheiser Momentum is the big brother to the smaller on-ear Momentum; the last word in luxurious, portable listening with sumptuous earpads made from real leather. These headphones are fantastic for separation, and they have a very wide soundstage which belies their closed back design. Sound isolation is high; the leather pads excel in keeping unwanted noises out, while social isolation is low due to the handy Apple mic and controls.

Pros

  • Comfy Earpads
  • Smart/Stylish
  • Rich Bass
  • 5 year warranty

Cons

  • Top end detail
  • Relatively unforgiving headband

Key Features

  • Coupling: Over Ear
  • Transducer principle: Dynamic, closed
  • Frequency response: 16Hz – 22kHz
  • Impedance: 18?
  • Weight: 190g
  • Cables: (no mic) 1.4m, (Apple mic) 1.3m

First Impressions

The Momentum headphones have a solid feel with a steel and leather construction. At the same time they are quite light to wear; I don’t imagine being fatigued with these during extended periods of use. They have a style reminiscent of Aviator sunglasses; rounded, tinted and very cool with a touch of 80s chic.

As well as the 1.3m Apple-compatible cable, there’s a spare 1.4m cable (without mic) and a semi-solid case for keeping them in good condition whilst on the go. The headband pad could do with plumping up a little, but the earpads are very comfy indeed. For an ‘over-ear’ design however, the spaces in the earpads are limited so comfort may be dependent on an individual’s own ear shape and size.

Sound Quality

The Sennheiser Momentum excels at bass warmth without being bloated, and the soundstage appeared to be shoulder-wide; the ‘breadth’ of the music far exceeds the physical size of the headphones. Separation is very good also with each instrument in its own space. Mid range is involving and enjoyable, but there is a slight lack of high-end detail which some may prefer to keep. I’d summarise the frequency response as akin to the design; very comfortable indeed but not likely to send you to sleep in a hurry!

Dance music is particularly suitable, and although the Momentum can be used straight from a portable device they respond really well to amplification. Sub bass is plentiful, indeed awesome with the Fiio E12‘s bass boost. The Momentums really respond well to EQing.

Summary

If you like to relax in the bath with a box of chocolates, these are the headphones for you! This is not to say that these headphones are suitable for relaxing music only of course. Dance, rap and R&B all come across really well; acoustic music will be good due to the midrange but may lose a little something at the top end. Soundstage and separation will make up for this however; any performance will not feel any less real.

Score – 9/10

Fidue A31s In Ear Isolating Earphones with Mic

 Our Verdict

At this price point, you’ll find it very difficult to find an earphone with mic as good as the Fidue A31s. These earphones are extremely light weight, the build quality is superb and most of all the sound is excellent!

Summary

Experience portable high fidelity sound in an affordable package. Fidue A31s embody everything a modern earphone should: superior sound, smartphone compatibility, external noise isolation and long term comfort. High fidelity sound is provided with a balance of strong bass, smooth mids and well defined highs.

With small housing design and long sound tube the A31s differs from conventional earphones in creating big sound in a small space. Micro-dynamic 8mm drivers funnel superior sound directly into the earcanal. Double flange eartips provide excellent noise isolation and offer unparalleled comfort for long-term listening.

Integrated with call answering button compatible with most smartphones, the Fidue A31s will work with iPhone, Android, Window and Symbian devices. The integrated remote control allows the user to have full control of music. Calls can also be answered and ended by using the single button remote.

Experience portable high fidelity sound in an affordable package. Fidue A31s embody everything a modern earphone should: superior sound, smartphone compatibility, external noise isolation and long term comfort. High fidelity sound is provided with a balance of strong bass, smooth mids and well defined highs.

With small housing design and long sound tube the A31s differs from conventional earphones in creating big sound in a small space. Micro-dynamic 8mm drivers funnel superior sound directly into the earcanal. Double flange eartips provide excellent noise isolation and offer unparalleled comfort for long-term listening.

Integrated with call answering button compatible with most smartphones, the Fidue A31s will work with iPhone, Android, Window and Symbian devices. The integrated remote control allows the user to have full control of music. Calls can also be answered and ended by using the single button remote.

– See more at: http://www.hifiheadphones.co.uk/fidue-a31s-in-ear-isolating-earphones-with-mic-red.html#sthash.xn9fLWK6.dpuf

 

Please click the image below to select the colour you would like;-

Price – £19.99 all Models with free Shipping in th UK until Christmas.

Features

  • Call answering button compatible with most smartphones (iOS, Android)
  • Small and lightweight housing and sound tube design
  • Double flange silicone eartips offer high noise isolation
  • Unparalleled comfort for long-term listening
  • Suitable for portable media players with standard 3.5mm connection
  • Balanced sound with strong bass, smooth mids and well defined highs
  • Durable twisted PU coated cable built to last

Beyerdynamic T51i Portable Headphones With Mic – Announcement

The Beyerdynamic T51i is one of the best portable headphones out there. Now they have gone a step further by adding an in-line microphone and smartphone controls – making them the ultimate portable headphone!

HifiHeadphones are happy to announce that the Beyerdynamic T51i is now in stock.

Buy Beyerdynamic T51i Closed Back Headphones with Apple Controls & Mic here

Price – £245.95

Features

  • Convenient 3-button remote control and microphone for phone calls and media playback
  • Outstanding balanced and powerful sound quality
  • Brilliant treble and deep bass reproduction
  • Tesla technology with highest efficiency
  • Excellent ambient noise attenuation
  • Swivelling earcups 90°
  • Foldable headband design
  • Made in Germany

Pioneer SE-MX9 Review

Pioneer SE-MX9 – Review – Superior Club Sound

Thanks to certain headphone brands’ marketing campaigns of late, the perception by users and manufacturers alike is that people want a heavy bass in the sound as well as something that looks good on the street. And the response from Pioneer is the Pioneer SE-MX9, a good solid headphone with a bass response which, although it’s heightened, doesn’t dominate the presentation.

Pros

Solid build, yet light
Comfortable
Various options for cable

Cons

Ear pads may be an awkward size for some
Pouch offers little protection
Isolation could be better

Summary

When looking at headphones produced by large long-established companies it is easy to expect a product which is the result of committee meetings rather than the vision of a gifted and talented individual or team, and although the SE-MX9 headphones do appear to have had some influence from Pioneer’s marketing division I think they offer as much excitement as any equivalent from a specialist headphone maker.

Key Features

Features and accessories are basic with no frills – a curly 2m cable (3m extended) is included to give the option of listening at home, as well as the iPhone cable with volume/track control. The usual flight adapter and 6.3mm jack adapter is also present. A travel pouch is included; although the earcups fold flat the filled pouch still has some size to it, and the pouch will afford little protection should any knocks or bangs be encountered in transit. Admittedly however, it should take quite some impact to damage these headphones.

 

First Impressions

Of course, the first thing that springs to mind is the similarity to the almost ubiquitous ‘b’ headphones for which the young and under informed are clamouring. However any similarity ends when they are donned; this is the sound I was expecting when I first tried that other brand! Boosted bass frequencies needn’t affect the midrange you’ll be glad to hear.

Sound Quality

I’ve been checking around for a genre which the SE-MX9 doesn’t get on with, and all I can offer is anything which might have heightened bass already. Given that those who might want to listen to dance music etc. will not have a problem with this, I think Pioneer have got it about right. The midrange is very clear and revealing; decays are very enjoyable and the sense of space is very real. High frequencies are bright without being strident, and the soundstage is impressive for a closed-back portable.

Hifiheadphone Verdict

These are one of those headphones I like more and more the longer I wear them – power combined with clarity makes everything sound fun and engaging without clutter or fuss. Build quality is great and the ear pads suit me as I can wear glasses or sunglasses without discomfort. Whether the average 17 year old can be convinced to forgo the fashion boost offered by that other brand remains to be seen, but if they had the chance to hear the different brands side by side these Pioneers would be the clear winner.

 

 

 

 

DUNU DN-12 Earphones Review

DUNU DN-12 Trident In-Ear Isolating Headphone Review

Summary

The DUNU DN-12 Trident is the entry level in-ear headphone from this exciting brand. DUNU is making waves in the headphone world and I can see why – if they put this amount of work into their low priced headphones then I can only imagine what their high end models are like!

Price – £34.99

HifiHeadphones Rating – 10/10

DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones

DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones
DUNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphones
UNU DN-12 Trident In Ear Isolating Earphone

Pros

  • Value for money
  • Tough cable
  • Punchy, tight bass and crisp detail
  • Titanium driver housing

Cons

  • Bassheads might want more

Key Features

  • Deep Bass, Clear Mids and Lucid Highs
  • Broad Dynamic Frequency ULTRA Driver Unit
  • Mirror Finished Solid Titanium Housing
  • Extensive Accessory Bundle

First Impressions

I had to keep reminding myself that these in-ears were under £50. The packaging is nicely finished and when you get inside you find a good quality leatherette bag, plenty of different eartips, a cable clip and even a carabina. The headphones themselves are extremely well built. The driver housing is made from titanium which feels great and has a good amount of weight. The cable feels tough and isn’t flimsy, this ends in a smartly designed angled jack connection – you even get a cable tidy designed by DUNU included.

DUNU have thought about even the finest details with their entry level earphone so you are totally impressed before you even listen to them!

 

Sound Quality

When I first listened to the DN-12’s I felt that there was a fair amount of bass and that there could be more treble… Then I remembered that they are £35!

Compared to other earphones in their price range they sound more refined with a good amount of bass that doesn’t bleed into the rest of the mix, the mids come through nicely with enough crack and the highs give a great sense of space. The soundstage is very impressive as you feel that you are right in the mix with a wide presentation. I really can’t think of anything negative to say about these great little in-ears!

HifiHeadphones Verdict

Not long ago I would have said that the SoundMAGIC E10 was easily the best in ear for under £40 – now they certainly have stiff competition! The DUNU DN-12 may not have as much weight in the low end as the E10, but for me this is for the best. These earphones feel and sound like something that should be worth somewhere in the £50 region, as not only can they compete with some higher priced models, they have put a lot of effort in the finer details – this for me helps put them at the top of their game

SoundMAGIC E10 S In Ear Headphone Review

SoundMAGIC E10 S In Ear Isolating Earphones

Summary

What can be better than the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 for under £40? The E10S has the same superb build quality and sound signature as the E10 but with the added function of a universal smartphone in-line microphone – need we say more?

Price – £39.99

SoundMAGIC E10S In Ear Isolating Earphones

Pros

  • Amazing value for money
  • High quality braided cable
  • Weighty bass and crisp detail
  • Universal smartphone microphone (iPhone and Android)

Cons

  • Nothing to fault at this price

Key Features

  • Comfortable fit and distinctive design
  • Made for all smartphones
  • Integrated smart remote and microphone
  • Unique, all metal earphone construction
  • Powerful bass balanced with superb musical detail
  • Robust tangle-free twisted cable design
  • Skype/VOIP adaptor included

First Impressions

From the start it is hard to believe that the E10S is under £40. The packaging is smart and of a very high quality – once opened you find plenty of spare ear tips and an attractive hard case. Holding the earphones you can feel how well made they are and the innovative switch on the jack plug will let you set the earphones to work with any smartphone – you would not expect technology like this on such a modestly priced earphone.

Sound Quality

Once you get over the impressive built quality and actually try them out you will not be disappointed. Like the SoundMAGIC E10, The E10S has tight bass with plenty of weight – the mids are well defined and the top end sparkles. These earphones are perfect for listening on the go as the sound is fun and they will sound great with whatever you throw at them. Soundstage is better than what you would expect from an earphone at this price – it’s engaging and natural.

Verdict

If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone then go for the E10S. Easy.

Best headphones with mic to buy in 2015

Best Mobile Headphones With Mic

Below you will find the best headphones with microphone in both in-ear and on-ear designs. The reviews include headphones compatible with iPhone and Android phones.  From trusted brands like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, to the newest brands like Audiofly and SoundMAGIC.  Below you can check out our best rated mobile phone compatible headphones from the year so far.

Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite headphones with mic.

Shop: Visit our earphones with mic store.

More Info: Read our Best In-Ear Headphones Buying Guide.

In-Ear Headphones

SoundMAGIC E10S

From the start it is hard to believe that the E10S is under £40. The packaging is smart and of a very high quality – once opened you find plenty of spare ear tips and an attractive hard case. Holding the earphones you can feel how well made they are and the innovative switch on the jack plug will let you set the earphones to work with any smartphone – you would not expect technology like this on such a modestly priced earphone.

The E10s comes with ‘Smart Switch’ making it compatible with all smartphones, the E10S incorporates this ingenious user adjustable switch enabling control of Apple as well as Android smartphones. Owners of multiple smartphones can easily swap between devices to control call answer and end functions without compromise, and to top it all it comes in a choice of colours.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone  then go for the E10S. Easy.

Sennheiser MM30G

Sennheiser’s quality earphones are specifically designed for more and more devices it seems, and it’s the turn of Samsung; for its Galaxy series of handsets.

They have a good balance with tight bass, clear midrange and great detail.

Enjoy Sennheiser’s trademark sound signature without incoming calls causing frustration. Also the wire-mounted control can change volume and track so you need not have your handset glued to your hand.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Perfect for commuting, holidays and around town, the Sennheiser MM30G will make a big impact with its small profile

Audiofly AF45M

Australian Audiofly’s sound really grabs the attention with great bass, well balanced midrange and great detail without being too bright. A smooth, appealing treat of a headphone.

The 11mm driver will make light work of making your music sound sweeter than ever, while the AF45M’s single button is suitable for smartphones and will answer calls.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you’re after a fun sound without any chance of fatigue, look no further than Audiofly’s AF45M – they have a good heavy low end but with enough tightness to get any foot tapping.

RHA MA750i

The attractive and well machined finish of RHA’s range is perhaps indicative of their sound – bold but well honed bass, a good clear midrange and treble which will suit most people who like detail, without causing fatigue.

The fit in the ear is comfortable, with an over ear cable design that stays put even when walking fast or running.

The MA750i is a British company and back up their beautifully made products with a whopping 3 year warranty.  With earphones as good as the good as the MA750i, RHA is a brand to watch.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you want a relaxed presentation with no details lost, the MA750i is a perfect choice. The solid construction and lengthy warranty ensures you’ll be enjoying your music for a long time to come.

Beyerdynamic MMX102ie

The new and updated version of the MMX101ie, the 102ie features a more solid and better built cable with housings which are also more robust.

Beyerdynamic is a brand that can be trusted to develop headphones that are of the best quality and the MMX102ie is no exception.  The build quality is excellent, with strong plastics and well made cables.

Bass is good and solid, midrange clear with treble giving good detail with no harshness. The single-button remote will work with most smartphones and tablets.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

For a good balanced sound with solid bass and superb build quality, the MMX102ie provides long-lasting value.

 

On-Ear Headphones

Koss iPorta Pro

The Koss Porta Pro may not be an obvious choice for the top 10 best portable on ear 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 Porta Pro’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.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Ideal for walkers, runners or for use around the house, the iPortaPro takes some beating and is based on what is generally recognised as a portable headphone classic.  For the money this is amazing value – get yourself a design classic which has stood the test of time.

Sennheiser MM400-X

Formerly voted What HiFi’s best wireless headphone, the MM400-X offers as much freedom as it does great sound. There are can never be any snags with a headphone of this calibre, but should battery life get low there is the option of using a cable so you need never be without your sounds.

They have the typical Sennheiser sound signature with good punchy bass, clear and balanced midrange, and smooth yet detailed treble. Isolation is good for a headphone of this type, but if you are looking for active noise cancellation consider the noisegard version, the MM450-X.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Ideal for commuting or relaxing at home, the MM400-X will free you up to enjoy your sounds without becoming entangled.

Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear

The supra counterpart to the full-size Momentum, this on-ear version packs a punch just like its bigger brother. Full and warm bass which stays controlled, mids which are slightly recessed but still engaging – these headphones would suit those who favour a slight ‘V’ shape in their sound signature.

Supplied with a sturdy travel case, these are great for foreign adventures or just for enjoying whilst at work. The remote on the cable ensures that no calls need be missed with these immersive headphones.

They are well powered by portable devices such as phones, and are really suitable for this purpose.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

If supra-aural headphones appeal to you, the On-Ear Momentum is definitely worth a punt. They are fantastic all-rounders which can do any genre justice, anywhere.

KEF M500

Portable headphones are really getting some attention again, and the M500 is a great example of the type of quality which has entered this market recently. They are designed to hug the shape of the head and look very cool when worn, although the wearer may well be grinning like an idiot!

The sound is of amazing quality and it really is a strange feeling to be enjoying such a presentation whilst walking in the street, for example. They are solidly constructed without being heavy, and feel very comfortable. The earcups consist of a very soft cushion which provides good isolation without causing discomfort, so the high quality sound these deliver can be fully enjoyed.

The sound is wonderfully balanced; the bass is handled very well and is tight without sitting too far back; midrange is clear and unforced, and treble is crisp and grabs attention without getting harsh.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

For the price, these headphones are incredible value; they are the perfect travel companion for anyone who does not like to compromise when on the go.

 

 

 

Under £50

SoundMAGIC ES20 Earphones £24.99

SoundMAGIC have pushed the boundaries of what can be expected from an entry level earphone with the SoundMAGIC ES20, 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.

– See more at: http://hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/best-in-ear-headphones/#sthash.SYDPW9ui.dpuf

Under £50

SoundMAGIC ES20 Earphones £24.99

SoundMAGIC have pushed the boundaries of what can be expected from an entry level earphone with the SoundMAGIC ES20, 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.

– See more at: http://hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/best-in-ear-headphones/#sthash.SYDPW9ui.dpuf

Best iPhone Headphones – Staff Picks

Using headphones while on the go is something that nearly all of us do, and with iPhones being used as portable media centres, you don’t want to have to unplug your headphones to take a call. The quality of portable headphones has gone up so much that you don’t have to sacrifice sound quality for the option of an in line microphone – Here is my pick of the best iPhone compatible earphones availablein our store.

Audiofly AF33M

The Audiofly AF33M delivers superb sound at a strong consumer value, the entry-level AF33M is an excellent multi-use in-ear earphone and offers best in class for value-conscious consumers that want a superior sound experience. Audiofly have come up with their own in line microphone placement, so instead of the mic and control being together they have separated them for ease of use and better voice transmission. When it comes to value for money, nothing beats these!

Sennheiser OCX685i

The Sennheiser OCX658i Clip-On Sports Earphones are the perfect choice for those of you that want a well built, great sounding sports earphone and in line microphone to be used with your iPhone. The earclips of the OCX658i stay secure to your ears so you no longer have to worry about them falling out or dislodging when you are pounding along on the treadmill. The earphones are also sweat and water resistant so they will be able to handle all you’ve got to throw at them!

SoundMAGIC E10M

The SoundMAGIC E10 gets voted the best in ear earphone for under £50 on a regular basis, so it makes perfect sense to go for the SoundMAGIC E10M. Still coming in under £50; the E10M gives you impressive sound quality with tight, full bass and crisp detail. Along with great sound quality you also get an in line microphone and controls for iPhones, an amazing combination for those of you on the go.

Volume DH-B38

Volume have come up with an extremely versatile portable headphone that is not only wireless, but has a built in microphone so you can also take calls. These headphones will connect to your iPhone using the built in Bluetooth technology and hey presto! You have a great sounding wireless headphone that can control your iPhone, take calls and is very comfortable… All for under £60!

Etymotic HF3

For those of you who want crystal clear detail and the best in sound isolation then the Etymotic HF3 is the earphone for you! The HF3 has superb build quality and with the amount of different ear tips supplied, you can find the perfect fit and possibly one of the highest levels of isolation in this price range. The sound you get from the Etymotics is not very bassy at all, these headphones concentrate more on detail and clarity giving a very crisp sound to the listener. The HF3 also come with an in line microphone and controls designed specifically for iPhones.

Sennheiser Amperior

If in ear earphones aren’t for you, then the Sennheiser Amperior Headphones are a superb choice for portable listening and iPhone control. These headphones are designed with pro DJs in mind, so the sound is very punchy with plenty of good quality bass and great detail. They are extremely comfortable and very sturdy, just what you would expect from a high end brand like Sennheiser. To top it all off, nearly everything on the Amperior is replacable and spare are easily purchased from the Sennheiser Spares website, so there is no need to worry about catching your cable in the door!

Nakamichi NW501 Digital Wireless Headphones – New Product Announcement

The HiFi Headphones team is pleased to announce that the new wireless on-ear model from Nakamichi, the NW501 is now available to be purchased on our website.

With the development of the wireless NW501 headphones legendary Japanese audio company Nakamichi have created the perfect partner for Apple devices. Tangled cables are now a thing of the past when enjoying music from your iPod, iPhone or iPad. The NW501 wireless headphones feature 2.4GHz digital technology with digital paring with a range of up to 5 metres without interference for mobile music without compromise.

  • Nakamichi NW501 – Free Your Apple Device
  • Made for iPod, iPhone and iPad
  • True High-Fidelity Musical Enjoyment
  • 2.4GHz Digital Wireless Technology
  • Rechargeable via USB Cable
  • Automatic Shut-Off Saves Battery Life
  • Wide Transmission Distance of 5 Metres

To purchase the unit, please visit our website:

Buy Nakamichi NW501 Digital Wireless Headphones

Klipsch X10i with controller for iPhone 3GS

Klipsch have added an in line mic and iPhone controller to their top of the range Image X10i.

One of the world’s smallest and lightest in-ear headphone designs, using a single wideband balanced armature driver, for comfortable wear and audiophile-quality listening.  Although tiny, each machined aluminium and finished in anodized copper ear piece looks stunning. The X10i also includes an advanced mic and 3-button remote (as seen on the Klipsch Image S4i) for taking calls and controlling the music content on your iPod, iPod touch or iPhone 3GS.

The X10i positions its in-line microphone and remote at the yoke—where the two cables meet at chest level—to create a more natural feel when answering calls and controlling music.

Because the microphone is a highly responsive 360° design, you don’t have to talk down into it or hold it close to your mouth. The microphone has also been designed to cancel echo, which keeps it from picking up surrounding noise reflection so your voice always sounds clear as a bell.

Inside the well designed box you get a sleek hardshell carry case, an aeroplane socket adapter, a 3.5mm-to-1/4″ adapter, the  X10i, a clothing clip and a variety of single and dual-flanged ear tips.

Just like the Image X10 before it, the Image X10i gives a big warm bottom end which is solid and defined. They cope with vocals beautifully and have a crisp contemporary presentation that will see iPhone owners Dubstepping, Rocking out or relaxing to Acoustic chillout in style. Be aware that the X10i is not for casual listening. If you rip your digital music files using a low bit rate, the high resolution Klipsch Image X10i earphone will uncover the flaws in your content.

Compatibility

While the Image X10i serves as a pair of premium headphones for any device with a 3.5 mm headphone jack, its mic and remote system handles the music and/or voice control of the following Apple products: iPhone 3GS, third generation iPod shuffle, second and third generation iPod touch, fourth and fifth generation iPod nano models and the iPod classic 120GB.

If you have an iPod touch or iPhone and Wi-Fi access, you can also use the Image X10i with VOIP (need an adapter for PC or Mac), Skype and iChat.

More Information

For More information on the X10i and the rest of the Klipsch earphone range please check out the HiFi Headphones web store.

New range of iPhone Earphones from Ultimate Ears – with call and audio control button

We now stock a range of high quality iPhone earphones that are enable to you handle calls as well as control audio and video playback on your iPhone.

The simplicity of design with these earphones means that it’s easy to integrate making mobile phone calls and listening to your favourite tunes.

All of the iPhone compatible earphones we offer work with the recessed iPhone headphone socket (on the 1st Gen iPhone) and have a multi-function control button that lets you take/drop calls, pause/resume audio and skip music tracks (you just double click the button to skip a track).

One of our favourite iPhone earphones so far is the very nicely finished Ultimate Ears Super.fi 4vi iPhone Earphone, which offers good quality audio and smart styling to match the gorgeous iPhone.

More Information

At the HiFi Headphones store we stock the full range of Ultimate Ears iPhone compatible earphones, as well as the ultra high noise reduction Comply iPhone earphones, which come in single and double earpiece models.