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Comparing AirPods 2nd Gen and PowerBeats 2: A Personal Experience After hitting my weight goal of 170 pounds, I decided to treat myself to a pair of AirPods 2nd Gen , which I snagged on sale for just $60. Additionally, a friend gifted me a pair of PowerBeats 2 , allowing me to compare the two after several weeks of use. Design and Purpose These two headphones are quite different in form factor, making direct comparisons challenging, as they serve unique purposes. AirPods: Perfect for casual and indoor use, these are compact and easily portable thanks to their sleek carrying case. PowerBeats: Designed for rugged use, they are ideal for outdoor activities and exercise, featuring a wired cable that hangs around your neck. Performance Comparison Battery Life: PowerBeats Win I typically use the PowerBeats for 30-60 minutes at a time, and they easily last several days without needing a charge. In contrast, the AirPods require charging after about 2 hours of continuous use. Ergonomics: Ai

Review of Voulao V8 Bluetooth Headphones I recently picked up the Voulao V8 Bluetooth headphones in black from Temu for just $16 , using credits from a refunded purchase. Here’s a breakdown of my experience with them over the past several months. Initial Impressions In the first few hours of use, the V8s paired effortlessly with my iPhone, and I was pleased to find the volume controls responsive and easy to use. The sound signature leans towards a softer tone compared to my JBL 510s , but it feels more accurate overall. They come equipped with Type C charging (the same as my JBLs) and a 3.5mm jack for wired use if the battery runs low. Speaking of battery life, these headphones boast an impressive 80-hour battery life , which is a significant plus. 1-Week Review After a week of usage, the V8s really began to shine. They clearly segment music, especially in the mids, which reminded me of the Grado SR80s . While the bass isn’t as punchy as the JBL 510BT, the overall sound quality felt

Review of Vivitar WE-ES62-WT Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds For just $5 at Target, you can grab a pair of Vivitar wireless Bluetooth earbuds. Known for their basic design, these earbuds are a budget option that resembles Apple AirPods in appearance. Pairing Process Don’t expect a seamless pairing experience like with AirPods; it’s crucial to follow the provided instructions to avoid frustration. Many negative reviews stem from users not reading the guidelines, which is common with cheaper tech. Design & Form Factor The design is surprisingly decent for the price. They look good and feel okay, which is impressive for $5—making you wonder about Apple’s markup on their products. Sound Quality Sound quality is poor, described as tinny and harsh with little bass. While they may not satisfy audiophiles, they outperform some $20-$25 wired options. Adjusting the EQ can help, but the sound can still be tiresome over time. Build Quality The build quality feels flimsy, especially the case hinge,

JBL 510BT Bluetooth Headphones Review I recently scored a deal on the JBL 510BT Bluetooth Headphones for half off, paying only $30 . So far, they’ve proven to be a solid, budget-friendly option for wireless headphones. Initial Impressions While AirPods are great, the added bulk of a charging case can be inconvenient, especially when I'm on the move and worry about losing earbuds. For just $30 , I’m not overly concerned about knocking around the JBLs. I’ll need to use them for a few days to give them a proper review, but here's what I've gathered so far. One Week Review Final Verdict: Buy these headphones for $30. While I wouldn't recommend them at full retail price, they deliver decent value for their lower price point. Sound Quality Decent and Pleasant : The sound quality is pleasant, reminding me of my wired Sony ZX310 headphones. Bass and Clarity : These won’t win any awards, but they’re great for their segment. They can sound muddled at times, especially with hea

Review of Apple AirPods (1st Generation) The Apple AirPods have been around for several years, and I'm currently using the 1st Generation model, which I acquired about five months ago in December 2018. Overall, I've found them to be a convenient addition to my tech collection. Here’s my assessment based on five key categories: Overall Impressions The Good Battery Life : The battery life is impressive. I can get about 8 hours of listening time daily , and they last me several days without needing a recharge. Ease of Use : They sync effortlessly with my iPhone and other Apple devices, which enhances the overall user experience. Build Quality : Like most Apple products , the AirPods are well made and designed to integrate seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. The Average Sound Quality : While the sound quality is decent for casual listening, they don't compare to wired headphones. Even the standard wired Apple Earbuds provide a better sound experience. Form Factor : The co

Holiday Surprises: Bluetooth Gifts at the Company Party At a recent company party, I received two surprise gifts: a Bluetooth Sony speaker, the SRS-XB10, and a pair of Apple AirPods. I’m quite pleased, as I’ve been wanting some Bluetooth audio gear for a while. Sony SRS-XB10 Bluetooth Speaker The Sony SRS-XB10 is a fairly decent speaker for its size, and it will be especially useful at outdoor parties and events thanks to its impressive 12+ hour battery life. It’s compact and portable, making it easy to take along wherever I go. Apple AirPods The AirPods are proving to be even more interesting. After several days of regular use, I find them very convenient compared to conventional wired earbuds, particularly due to the freedom from tangled cables. To enhance my experience, I ordered a silicone case with a clip for added security and convenience, as I didn’t feel comfortable carrying the charging case in my pocket. A clip or some method to securely tether the AirPods is almost a necessi

Review of Beats Urbeats Earbuds I recently scored a pair of Beats Urbeats Earbuds from a friend who switched to Bluetooth-only headsets. Initially, I was skeptical since I had previously owned a pair of Series 1 Beats Studio headphones and was disappointed with their performance. However, after trying on these earbuds, I was surprised and impressed by their sound quality. Sound Quality Comparison The bass on the Beats Urbeats was toned down, which is unusual for Beats products, while the mids and treble were tuned to be a bit brighter. I had to compare them against my Klipsch R6i earbuds to see how they measured up. Environment Sound Source : iPhone 6s Volume : 50% Klipsch R6i Specs Drivers : 6.5mm Frequency Range : 10 ~ 19,000 Hz Sensitivity : 110 dB/mW Impedance : 18 Ohms Noise Isolation : -22 dB Plug : 3.5mm (Gold) Cable : Flat (Tangle Free) Microphone : Yes In-Line Control : Volume Up/Down, Start/Pause Price : $60 @ Amazon Beats Urbeats Specs Drivers : 9mm Frequency Range : 10 Hz

Comparison of Klipsch R6i and AKG EO-IG955 Earbuds Having invested in the Klipsch R6i earbuds back in 2016, I’ve found them to be quite useful for short transit and plane trips. They perform significantly better than the stock Apple earbuds or the AKG EO-IG955s that come with Samsung's Galaxy S8. After recently acquiring a free pair of the AKG IG955s and spending some time with them, I can appreciate both models for different purposes. Specifications Klipsch R6i Specs: Driver Size: 6.5mm Frequency Response: 10 ~ 19,000 Hz Sensitivity: 110 dB/mW Impedance: 18 Ohms Noise Isolation: -22 dB Connector: 3.5mm Plug (Gold) Cable Type: Flat (Tangle-Free) Features: Microphone, In-Line Control (Volume Up/Down, Start/Pause) Price: $60 @ Amazon AKG EO-IG955 Specs: Driver Size: Unknown Frequency Response: 20 ~ 20,000 Hz* Sensitivity: 93.2 dB/mW Impedance: 32 Ohms Connector: 3.5mm Plug (Non-Gold) Cable Type: Partial Braided (Sorta Tangle-Free) Features: Microphone, In-Line Control

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x vs. ATH-MSR7: A Comparative Review Having owned both the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and ATH-MSR7 headphones for several months now, I wanted to provide a thorough comparison between these two models. While the M50x has achieved legendary status for its value, the MSR7 appears to be a worthy successor. Price: M50x Wins ATH-M50x : MSRP around $169 USD (typically found on Amazon for $130 to $150). ATH-MSR7 : MSRP for $249 USD, but often available for around $200. The M50x offers a more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank. Sound Quality: MSR7 Wins Both models feature 45mm drivers, but there are notable differences in their specifications: MSR7 Frequency Range: 5 Hz – 40,000 Hz Impedance: 35 Ohm Power Handling: 2,000 mW M50x Frequency Range: 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz Impedance: 38 Ohm Power Handling: 1,600 mW In terms of sound quality, the MSR7s outperform the M50x with a tighter response, improved defin

Sony ZX Series Headphones Review: A Budget-Friendly Sound Choice If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly headphones with decent quality, the Sony ZX Series is definitely worth considering. I happen to own several models from the lineup: ZX-100 ZX-110 ZX-310 Let’s dive into how they compare in terms of build quality, cost, specs, sound, and overall value. Build Quality: ZX-310 Takes the Lead The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads. Over time, these earpads disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310, on the other hand, comes with upgraded earpads that don’t suffer from this problem, making them a clear winner in the build department. Cost Comparison: ZX-100/110 Wins for Affordability While the ZX-310 model co

My Growing Headphone Collection My headphone collection has grown significantly over time. I've moved on from Skullcandy and Beats in favor of Audio Technica and Grado. In hindsight, I wish I had purchased a pair of M50s many years ago. Here are my current headphones in all their glory, from left to right: Audio Technica — M50x (Purchased 2014) Audio Technica — MSR7 (Purchased 2017) Grado — SR80e (Purchased 2016) Future Plans As for future acquisitions, I’m not entirely sure. I have both closed and open reference cans covered, so my next move will either be to go upmarket to the $1k range with brands like Fostex or Ultrasone, or I might consider the tier below with options like the ATH M70x, Sony MDR1A, or other brands such as Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, or AKG. Realistically, it will likely be another pair of Audio Technica headphones, possibly the M70s or an open reference model like the R70 or AD700.

Review of Sony Earbuds MDR-EX15ap I picked up a pair of Sony earbuds, model MDR-EX15ap, over a year ago. They were on sale for about $5, and I couldn't resist the deal. While these earbuds are not great, they aren't terrible either. I keep them in the car as an emergency backup pair of headphones when I'm in a study session mood. Sub-Models From my research, I found there are two sub-models of the EX15s: AP : Android compatible LP : Standard version The 'AP' designation likely refers to the single push button on the in-line microphone, which is used for on/off functionality during phone calls or music playback. Basic Specifications Drivers : 9mm Frequency Response : 8 - 22,000 Hz Sensitivity : 100 dB/mW Impedance : 16 ohms Cable Length : 3.94 ft with in-line microphone Overall, the Sony MDR-EX15ap earbuds serve their purpose as a reliable backup option.

Review of AKG Headphones Model EO-IG955 I recently scored a pair of AKG Headphones Model EO-IG955 , which come with the Samsung Galaxy S8+ phone. A friend who knows I love headphones generously gave them to me. Here’s my take on these earbuds. Basic Features These headphones are a nice pair to receive for free, and while it's challenging to find detailed specs online, here’s what I gathered: In-Line Microphone : Yes Volume Control : Up/Down Pause/Resume Functionality : Yes Cabling : Braided cloth until the earbud split, transitioning to rubber. The braided design helps reduce tangling, although a full braided cable would have been ideal. Sound Quality In terms of sound quality, they compare favorably to Apple Earbuds , with a slight advantage in the upper mids and bass. Here are some specifics: Fit : The flex tips provide a secure fit without being overly intrusive, unlike my Klipsch R6i . Bass : The R6i's offer a bass-heavy tuning that outperforms the AKG's, but the AKG

Audio-Technica MSR7 Review One of my main objectives during my visit to Japan was to sample some headphones, and I stumbled upon a decent selection at the airport, including models from Sony and Audio-Technica. Although I couldn't find the M70x or MDR1a, I had the opportunity to try the ATH SR5, MSR7, and the new SR9. While the SR9 sounded better than the MSR7, I felt it required an amp to really shine.  Ultimately, I focused on the MSR7, and after a 15-minute audition, I decided to purchase a pair. Although Amazon sells them for the same price, I wanted to support the airport stores so they continue stocking cool gear for future layovers. Specifications Speakers: 45mm closed-back drivers Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW Frequency Range: 5 - 40,000 Hz Max Input Power: 2,000 mW Impedance: 35 ohms Weight (without cable): 290g The MSR7 has similar specs to the ATH M50x but boasts a greater frequency range and input power capacity. The Good The MSR7 is a worthy contender and a great comple

Adding Klipsch R6i Earbuds to My Headphone Collection Why I Chose the R6i To round out my headphone collection, I wanted a reliable pair of earbuds that would perform well for travel and everyday use. I decided on the Klipsch R6i Earbuds after searching for the discontinued S6i model, which was difficult to find at a reasonable price. I also considered going with Bluetooth options like the Jaybirds but wasn’t ready to transition to wireless just yet. The R6i fit my needs with its high-quality sound and practical design. Features and Build Quality The Klipsch R6i’s design includes several small yet thoughtful features. The flat, anti-tangle cable minimizes hassle, especially when stashing them in a pocket or travel bag, and the in-line volume control adds convenience without needing to adjust settings on my phone. They’re lightweight and compact, ideal for travel when I prefer to keep my gear light. Basic Specs Driver Size : 6.5mm Frequency Response : 10Hz – 19,000Hz Sensitivity : 110 d

Fiio E10K Olympus 2 DAC and Amplifier Introduction I've always been interested in trying a DAC (Digital Audio Converter) and amplifier for my headphones. After some research, I settled on the Fiio E10K Olympus 2. In hindsight, I might have preferred a more portable model that accepts audio line-in, but the E10K proved to be a solid choice when connected to my laptop. I also plan to build a 'soundbook' using my netbook, which adds to its utility. Sound Quality Using the E10K has improved my sound experience in several ways. Certain frequencies are now clearer, allowing me to hear details that were previously subtle. The overall music presentation feels more "forward," enhancing the listening experience. While this initially felt overwhelming, I've started to appreciate the refined soundstage that the E10K provides. One notable observation is how poorly some of my cheaper headphones perform with the E10K. I had hoped that the increased power would improve their

Sony MDR-ZX310 Headphones Overview By luck, I stumbled upon a pair of Sony MDR-ZX310 headphones at a thrift shop. I couldn't resist the opportunity to scoop them up, especially since I've heard so many positive reviews online about their performance for the price point of $18. Basic Specifications Driver Size : 30mm Frequency Response : 10 ~ 24,000 Hz Maximum Input Power : 1,000 mW Sensitivity : 98 dB/mW Impedance : 24 Ohms Weight : 125 g Cable Length : 1.2 m I also own the lower-end model, the ZX100, and can compare the two. Sound Quality The ZX310s have a wider response range than the ZX100s, which is particularly noticeable in the bass. While the midrange and treble frequencies are almost identical, the weaker bass of the ZX100s makes the mids and treble feel more pronounced. However, with deeper listening, the ZX310s provide clarity in certain frequencies that the ZX100s lack. If you prefer vocals and mids, the ZX100s might be a better option. Even with EQ bass reduction, t

Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 On-Ear Headphones Overview I recently realized I haven't discussed my pair of Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 on-ear headphones in detail. I purchased these headphones two years ago at Yodobashi Camera in Shinjuku, Tokyo, for approximately $40 in yen. They are a fun pair and have become one of my favorites. Condition and Issues One downside I encountered is that the plastic housing on the left speaker popped out of place. To fix it, I used Krazy Glue, which has worked well. However, as a result of this issue, the left speaker has lost the ability to swivel, making it less convenient to stash the headphones in my backpack. Basic Specifications Driver Size : 38mm Frequency Response : 10 ~ 23,000 Hz Maximum Input Power : 500 mW Sensitivity : 103 dB/mW Impedance : 36 Ohms Weight : 133 g Cable Length : 1.0 m Overall, despite the minor setback with the swivel mechanism, the Audio-Technica ATH-WM77 headphones continue to deliver a solid performance and remain a valued part

Audio Technica ATH-M50x Earpad Update Earpad Replacement After about two years of use, the original earpads on my Audio Technica ATH-M50x headphones have deteriorated significantly, leading to white flakes on my shoulders. I decided to purchase some new aftermarket earpads for $20 . Overall, they’re not bad—definitely larger than the originals. In hindsight, I might try velour pads next time for a softer feel. I also wish there was a replacement option for the headband, which is starting to flake badly. Design Insights An interesting feature I’ve discovered is that the speakers inside the M50x headphones are angled. This design enhances the audio experience by making the left and right channels more distinct, adding to the overall immersion when listening to music or watching movies. Update on Velour Earpads In March 2019, I realized I had barely used the M50x, and after two years, the new earpads disintegrated. I opted for velour earpads this time, but I regret that choice because it

Grado SR80e Review Specifications Brand : Grado Model : SR80e Frequency Response : 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz Sensitivity : 99.8 dB Impedance : 32 ohms Price : $99 @ Amazon Overview The Grado SR80e headphones are widely regarded as one of the best deals in audio. Second only to the legendary Audio Technica ATH-M50 series, having both in a modest headphone collection provides a sufficient range and options for most music enthusiasts. As an owner of both models, I can attest to the consensus that this combo is excellent. Decision Process I debated adding an open-air headphone for some time, considering options like the similarly priced Audio Technica AD700x . Ultimately, the retro styling and sound profile of the Grado SR80e won me over, and I'm very pleased with my choice. Usage These headphones are strictly for indoor use, staying close to my PC and PS4. I primarily reach for them when watching movies, playing video games, or enjoying music. Interestingly, I still prefer the M50x or MSR7