Headphones for the Holidays: More good choices

Headphones are a popular holiday buy, but most advertised models seem to cost $100 or more. If you're shopping for a set, but are resistant to spending so much on a purchase that's likely to be used on the go, and liable to be lost or damaged, our updated tests offer sweet music.

We found new choices in good-sounding headphones of practically all types for under $100. Those supplement the recommended models in our last full Ratings (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers). Many of those older models, including those we recommend, remain available.

For more help in buying headphones, check our free buying advice, which includes a rundown of two hot headphone types: Noise-canceling models that use sound processing to reduce, though not to cancel entirely, ambient noise to the ear; and wireless headphones, which you can use with a Bluetooth-enabled music phone, laptop, or other device.

Here's some of the best values from our new tests:

Best choices for most in earbud and insert headphones:

These differing in-ear styles are the most popular headphones for MP3 players. One of the top values are the 'phones you likely already have: The earbud models that come with the Apple iPods.  Available separately for $30, and usable with any MP3 player, these have smooth frequency response, though they're a little lacking in bass. Have trouble getting a good fit from your earbuds? Consider the Sennheiser OMX 50, $30, which performed comparably to the Apple's and have hooks that loop around the ear to help secure the headphones.

At the opposite sonic extreme are two $10 sets with weak bass but adequate performance otherwise: the Sony MDR-E10LP (Click on the image at left for a closer look.) and Philips SHE2850/37. Also consider the Sony MDR-E829V, $15, even though it slightly under-emphasizes upper-midrange sounds.

So-called ear-insert models are longer and go deeper into the ear, thus providing better sound isolation. A good value in insert models is the JVC HA-FX33, $20, though they're quite bassy (you might want to activate the bass-reduce setting on your iPod when using them).

If a firm fit is paramount:

The Sennheiser PMX 70 (Click on image at right for a closer look), $50, is a sport-style model. This type, comprising two earbuds on a band that presses them into the ears, offer a secure fit even when exercising. Many, including these Sennheisers, are also designed to limit skin contact, thus minimizing the chance your 'phones will become sweat-soaked. The PMX 70 performed adequately, though it was weak in bass response.

For cordless listening with a Bluetooth-enabled device:

The Jabra BT-320S earbuds, $80, are decent in performance; they lack bass, for example. But they're an option if compactness and freedom from wires matters more to you than optimal sound. The rechargeable battery in the receiver unit runs for 5 hours on a charge.

—Paul Reynolds

Comments

[Paul Eng]

To Andrew Windham (and all):

I do hope you realize that you're commenting on a post that is nearly 18 months old?

Consumer Reports' Web site has obviously gone through a LOT of changes (like many other places on the Net) since December of 2007.

Have you seen our latest FREE headphone Buying Advice on the site?

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/audio-video/headphones/headphone-guide/index.htm

Or how about our FREE online video that shows you what's available in headphones and how we test them in Consumer Reports' labs?

http://video.consumerreports.org/services/player/bcpid1886192484?bctid=1915380821

And of course, if you haven't yet canceled your "membership," you surely have seen our latest Ratings and Recommendations of new headphone modeles, right?

Consumer Reports Headphone Ratings:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/audio-video/headphones/noise-canceling-headphone-ratings/ratings-overview.htm

Consumer Reports Recommendations: Headphones
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/audio-video/headphones/headphone-recommendations/noise-canceling-headphone.htm

And of course, you've seen our MOST RECENT post on headphones:

Now Live: New Headphone Ratings
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2009/05/headphones-.html

Hope that helps.

--Paul Eng, Web Sr. Editor, Electronics

[Andrew Windham]

This is an absolute joke. I think this is pathetic enough to cancel my membership. You seriously think this is of any value to anyone.

NOT!

Get real folks!

[Jim Leitner]

There are tv listening devices out there for people with hearing dificulties. I know "Sennheiser" is one brand name, and I believe they work on a laser concept, however they are fairly expensive. I was hoping to find all of the alternatives before making a decision on which one to buy. Help, I am not seeing where you have done any research on this.

[Paul Eng]

To DLM:

Our Electronics Gift Guide (the first link) I posted in my comment DOES have recommendations for headphones. (It's the second to last "link" on the left of that page.)

I did not put the link here in this comment because if it wraps, you will not be able to see it. But here it is, anyway:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/news-electronics-computers/2009/1/electronics-gifts/headphones/electronics-gifts-headphones.htm

As for the other link, that goes to our LATEST post about headphones. AS stated in that blog post, we have NEW Ratings and Recommendations for NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES. At this point, we're still trying to complete our FULL RATINGS of ALL TYPES of headphones. It is easier to get to the Ratings through the blog, but if you want a direct link to our list of Recommended NOISE-CANCELING headphones:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/phones-mobile-devices/headphones/headphone-recommendations/headphone.htm

In order to get to these links, you'll have to copy and paste the URLs--even though part of the addresses have scrolled off and remain hidden off the border--into your web browser.

--Paul Eng
Web Senior Editor, Electronics

[DLM]

The link Paul Eng recommends doesn't include any recommended headphones. I have to agree that I am increasingly frustrated with the lack of information available on this website, and the weak "search" feature that doesn't allow me to sort the search results by, say, date.

[Paul Eng]

To all:

If you've found this blog post while searching for buying advice (and Ratings) for headphones to give as gifts, there's some good news.

You can find some of CR's recommendations for headphones in our Electronics Gift Guide from the January 2009 issue of Consumer Reports. Or, you can check here:

http://www.consumerreports.org/giftguide

If you're a subscriber, you'll also find our Ratings and Recommendations for noise-canceling headphones on the Consumer Reports web site.

More information about that can be found in our latest blog post about headphones:

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/11/headphone-ratin.html

We're still working on complete Headphone Ratings and Buying Advice information. We hope to have that on the Consumer Reports web site soon.

Thanks.

--Paul Eng
Web Senior Editor, Electronics

[CG]

VERY DISAPPOINTING - All I want is to read the comparison tests and the only thing I could find was this meaningless drivel. I can find that anywhere. I use CR to get the facts, not a bunch of narrative.

[Chris]

Come on guys still no review! Headphones have to be one of the tougher purchases out there and you would figure with all the posts you would started something on the suject....may think twice before I get another years subcription....

Well here is one to add I just purchased a pair of Klipsch Custom-1 headphones $99.00 and did notice that sound was not too bad but when I compared them to my Cheaper Sony MDR-EX71's I found that my sony's had a crisper bass. The Klipsch were a bit more comfortable but the echo from the wires rubbing on my shirt drove me crazy. The klipsch use a fabric sheath over the entire length of the headphone cord and this when rubbed causes an echo in the headphone. Good thing for the 14-day return policy..will return and try a different model.

[GMM]

I just purchased a pair of Brookstone noise canceling headphones in Denver Airport. Went from the Bose station in terminal B and tried on their headsets. I then went to Brookstone right next door and tried on their headsets. Honestly, I could not find much difference in sound..they both canceled noise. I am not sure about quality, but both seemed durable. Both folded into a soft-zippered case....The only difference...was the cost. $149 for the Brookstone model and $399 for BOSE.

I asked the Brookstone guy to compare for me and he refused telling me that the BOSE dude had come over and hollered at him for saying his headphones were better. I told him I thought they were no different and he just kind of shook his head and winked...

[Jeff Patterson]

How about headphones with radio reception? My gym require that I tune to a bandwidth to watch the monitors over the cardio machines.

[Sharon]

I went to this site to look up headphones. I did not find what I was expecting. I get Consumer Reports so I can read up on items I want to buy. I could find the information I found here in any magazine. I wanted to see different infomation on different headphones to see what is rated best and worst. I found no such information. Please review headphones for more information. My family makes fun of me because I will not buy any product till I look it up in my "bible". Yes, the "bible" is Consumer Reports. I am VERY disappointed in not finding the information I needed.

[jr]

All the articles about increasing the quality of iPod/MP3 player output universally say that upgrading ear buds or headphone is the best method. In the US alone, there are well over 150 million iPods/MP3 players in use (possibly over 200 million). IMHO, this area warrants greater attention. Just listing statistics from the manufacturers, if CR does not wish to devote the resources to this modest little purchase, at least compare the manufacturer's specifications by category (in ear, over ear open/closed, etc.).

[Larry Musso]

I was very disappointed that there was no in-depth review of headphones. I've been a subscriber for over thirty years and expected such a review.

[shannon carpenter]

I'm disappointed. This is yet another product type for which Consumer Reports fails to deliver decent coverage. Thanks for nothing.

[Mere]

please review more earbuds

[Cory]

I agree with these guys. Please review headphones more in depth!

[king]

It would be very helpful if you would provide more detailed information regarding the options available. I want to buy but do not have sufficient information to make an informed decision. Help!

[Tim]

Must admit I'm disappointed Consumer Reports doesn't do a better job of covering this subject. I just signed hoping for more help. The earbuds on my new iPod don't sound as good as my friends older model. And I'd like to know how to upgrade with spending a $200 plus.

[archee ishie]

I to would really like for you all to cover headphones and wireless to if they have improved, I listen to and play music, so I woud be very happy for you to cover this, I have been a fan of consumer reports and do not purchase a major buy with out using your magazine, thank you , prentiss.

[Erik]

I agree that wireless headphones with mics should be reviewed by consumer reports. That was actually the product that caused me to subscribe, so I'm a little disappointed that CR hasn't done a comparison test yet.

[Ken Schroer]

I bought a wireless headset because I needed to watch TV without bothering anybody. So I bought a Pro-Luxe IR-710. They work great –– for about ten minutes. Then they go dead, presumably because the internal rechargeable battery is drained. I inadvertently bought a second pair and they were the same.

Warning: avoid Pro-Luxe headphones. They are useless.

[jrc]

Just wanted to mention that I recently purchased the Sony MDR-E828LP earbuds that I assume are similar to some of the Sony earbuds mentioned by CR. They cost $10 at Wal-Mart and I am very happy with them--a definite improvement over the earbuds that came with my Sangean DT-200VX headphone radio, which was puchased on the internet from ccradio.com. An excellent radio, by the way.

[Natalie]

I have bilateral nerve deafness. I'm looking for headphones that have volume adjustment for each ear. I can hear very low sounds in one ear while I can hear very high sounds in the other; voices are the issues for me. Any idea where I can get dual adjustment headphones that are of very good quality?

[Mathi]

What about computer headphones with boom mic? I have had 2 pair break in the past year, I forget the first pair, the second from Cyber Acoustics. I would love to know of one that will last me more than 6 months of gentle use (they hang in their own spot when not in use).

Could you add headphone w/mic to this list pretty please?