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

[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?