|
Bluetooth Headphones Atomicx W203 (iDea USA)
|
|
In comparison with other quality headphones I have tested, this new model from iDea USA represents the best compromise between depth of bass, complexity of layers and clarity of sound. Physically, they are a bit smaller than some of the over-ear full-size types but much more substantial than the most foldable models.
The Atomicx headset is neatly packaged in a box with a magnetic fold-down top. Inside are the headphones (they fold simply along the side hinges), a USB recharging cable, a standard AUX audio cable, a detailed leaflet of instructions in English, French, German and Spanish and information about how to register for the 1-year guarantee. A roomy synthetic carrying bag is also included. The earpads are different from the usual large, round ones in that they are shaped like smallish triangles, to roughly mimic the shape of our ears. They do not completely encase the ear but rather sit over its contours. The band is lined rather than padded but feels fine due to its correct curve. I found them comfortable for up to a couple of hours, after which I started to feel a little pressure. However, I should mention that I have a rather small head and usually have trouble with fit. Many headphones simply slide off my head, like my old Sennheiser ones. For me the band is marginally too long even in its closed position, so the earpads sit lower than they should. On my husband, the headphones sit correctly when extended down a little, so I think most people will find them just fine. |
|
The commands are pared down to three multi-function buttons, all on the right earpiece: the round button on the outside does On, Off, Pairing, Play, Pause, Answering and other specific telephonic functions. The two small buttons on the rear edge control volume (up and down), skip tracks and perform some advanced phone functions as well. They are low-profile and sometimes difficult to find.
Bluetooth pairing is accomplished very quickly and reliably and confirmed by voice prompts: Power On, Pairing, Connected, Power Off, etc. After the initial pairing, subsequent connections with the same source are immediate (as tested with my laptop, Kindle Fire HD, Smartphone and tablet). The headphones can also be connected to any audio device with a standard 3.5 mm port by means of the provided AUX cable. I tried that with my pc which does not have Bluetooth. Since the audio cable is no more than 1 metre long, I also connected with a vinyl player via a tiny transmitter that adds Bluetooth capabilities to anything with an AUX port. |
|
|
For my evaluation I spent some pleasant hours going through my large library of blues, rock, jazz, and classical music. I always play Miles Davis to test audio devices, and his piercing clear notes came through as though he had been sitting in the room with me. For classical music, I played some violin concerts (Yehudi Menuhin). Glorious! For me, that is the best feature of these headphones. While most of the competitors in this price range are favouring bass to the point of wooliness, these render sound in a very clear, direct way which I prefer. Sound effects and adjustments can always be applied if desired, but I really love the clean native reproduction. Sound isolation is excellent despite the shape of the earcups, and I am told that there is no leakage.
The other outstanding feature is the battery life (stated as 20 hours). I haven't kept track but they have only been recharged once in over a month of regular use. I am not an expert, but in my opinion, these headphones are very good. For my husband, they have become the go-to choice to evaluate his music demos, when he needs to hear every nuance and imperfection.
The other outstanding feature is the battery life (stated as 20 hours). I haven't kept track but they have only been recharged once in over a month of regular use. I am not an expert, but in my opinion, these headphones are very good. For my husband, they have become the go-to choice to evaluate his music demos, when he needs to hear every nuance and imperfection.
|
Bluetooth Headphones HB-8A (Audiomax )
|
|
I am in awe of these Bluetooth headphones. Amazing sound reproduction, deep layered bass, beautifully rendered treble, soft and round vibe and loud enough for most, I would think. In short, the best Bluetooth headphones I have tried so far. I love the articulated design that allows the headphones to fold neatly onto themselves for storage and the enclosed carrying pouch with drawstrings smacks of quality.
They come neatly and securely packaged in a box nice enough to give as a gift; also supplied: the above-mentioned protective bag; a USB micro cable for recharging and an auxiliary audio cable for wired-in connectivity (both cables are supple and look strong). The manual is clearly written and organized. Bluetooth connectivity is immediate with my laptop and pc (both on Win 8.1), my Kindle Fire and my other tablet. The signal is steady and reliable across a large room and even through a solid brick wall. The earpiece on the right contains the simple commands: the top button, marked with a telephone icon, serves as On/Off, initiates pairing and, if used in connection with a phone, it controls answering; two smaller buttons below turn the volume up or down and skip tracks. Once I got used to the positioning of these very discreet buttons, I found them responsive and intuitive to use. |
|
Unlike similar headphones, these can also be used in wired mode, making them extremely versatile, however, my preferred mode is Bluetooth, for wireless, cordless, tangle-free listening. Battery like is exceptional. I haven't exactly timed but the stated 19 hours sound about right.
They are beautifully built and look cool with the brushed steel accents but what makes these headphones my current (and I suspect all-time) favourites is the incredibly comfortable fit. Unlike other headsets that fall off my rather small head, these fit me perfectly. The padding under the top is super comfortable, the cups are deeply cushioned and the lateral retracting design allows seamless adjustment. Once they are on, they feel secure and never seem to budge even when I'm working out or jumping up and down. Superb quality and, above all, fabulous to wear. |
|
|
|
Precision Studio Headphones (Auna) |
|
An excellent set of headphones, extremely comfortable and delivering superior sound quality, surprising for this price level. There may well be models with even more exquisite performance but, as with expensive wines, beyond a certain level the difference is so small that only an expert can discern it. They are certainly good enough for my tastes.
For my evaluation I spent some delightful hours rediscovering my large library of blues, rock, jazz, and classical music. Lately I had been using ear buds or Bluetooth sport-type headsets during my exercising session, which are perfectly adequate to provide the beat I need for reps and cardio training but flatten a lot of depth and detail. The word that comes to mind with these headphones is “round”. Everything is smooth and voluminous, the bass tones particularly resonant, great layering, and crystal clear treble without a shade of shrillness. The bias, if there is one, is towards deep bass but the full range is respected. Sound isolation is very good, although it is still possible to hear some ambient noise during quiet moments. |
|
Miles Davis' rasping, breathy voice in “Dune Mosse” sounds like he's just behind me while his divine trumpet soars. The drum becomes my heartbeat and Zucchero's stellar performance is fully represented. Similarly, the full range of sound is beautifully and smoothly rendered in whatever piece I have played with those on. In other words, I love these headphones.
As far as build quality, the materials used are top-notch; the padding in the ear cups is thick and smooth with no lumpiness, the synthetic leatherette covering is velvety soft, the top band is thinly-padded but so well shaped that it sits lightly in contact with the top of my head, while the secure but soft hold of the caps makes me forget I have them on. The sliding adjustment is available even while you are wearing the headset, so you can finesse the comfort. I have a small head and have trouble with fit. Some headphones simply slide off my head, like my old Sennheiser ones. I love the bulk and heft of these Auna headphones. They feel solid and durable, engineered for quality music reproduction and superb comfort. They are not light and flimsy, but give a sense of being enveloped in music. Important details like the cord, which is heavy and thick but very elastic, have not been skimped on. |
|
In fact there are two detachable cables, one smooth and the other extendable spiral type. The gold-plated 3.5 mm jack connects securely and can be moved around without generating any static. Also supplied is a screw-on adapter and a water-repellent storage bag to transport the headphones in, while folded. I am not an expert, but in my opinion, these headphones are superb.
|
Foldable Bluetooth Stereo Headset (TaoTronics)
|
|
|
Fantastic sound reproduction, deep bass, crystal clear treble, soft and round vibe and satisfactorily loud. Very impressive for this style of headset. The articulated design allows the headphones to fold neatly onto themselves and there is a very smart velveteen pouch with drawstrings for storage.
Bluetooth connection with my Kindle Fire was instant and the signal is steady and reliable across a large room. They also paired easily with my laptop running Win 8.1. The right headphone contains the commands: a central multi-purpose button (on and off, pause, accept and end calls and redial); on the periphery are the plus (volume up), minus (volume down), forward and backward buttons to move between music tracks. |
The fit is a little less than secure on me because I have a fairly small head and the rear wire is a bit stiff. I have to make sure to brush my hair completely out of the way and actually tuck the upper wires over the tops of my ears otherwise the padded cups slip away. It's not that they are too small or tight (the rear wire's position can be moved at the back of your head), it's just that the shape tends to glance off a little. I had trouble with a set of sports ear buds with the same behind-the-head design, so it could be me! Once secured over my ears, they stay in place reasonably well but if I'm not sure what would happen if I wanted to go jogging, for example.
The functionality is great if you want to use them in conjunction with a phone (which I have done only to test them). You can be listening to music and when you receive a call, the headphones put the music on hold, bring in the call and let you answer it (and end it) by pressing the multi-function button. The redial function may be a bit hit and miss, though. Battery life is fantastic. I have to admit that once they are on my head, they are so comfortable, I forget they are there.
The functionality is great if you want to use them in conjunction with a phone (which I have done only to test them). You can be listening to music and when you receive a call, the headphones put the music on hold, bring in the call and let you answer it (and end it) by pressing the multi-function button. The redial function may be a bit hit and miss, though. Battery life is fantastic. I have to admit that once they are on my head, they are so comfortable, I forget they are there.
