With the release of the ATH-ANC9 noise cancelling headphones Audio Technica are trying to take the noise cancelling crown off Bose. These two heavy weights will duke it out in airport travel stores worldwide and whilst it may not be as interesting to watch as a David Haye Vs Dereck Chisora grudge match, we will be watching to see who comes out on top.

Bose have, through very clever marketing, become synonymous with noise cancelling headphones yet their performance is far from remarkable and they could succumb to the new kid on the block.

In the Audio Technica ATH-ANC9’s arsenal are two miniature microphones in each earpiece that pick up ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.) and create a sound cancelling signal to effectively block the noise. The ATH-ANC9 QuietPoint® headphones also feature Audio-Technica’s Tri-Level™Cancellation – three unique mode settings that offer adjusted active noise cancellation based on the noise in your environment. Mode 1: ideal for use on airplanes, trains, and buses, applies maximum noise cancellation to low frequencies. Mode 2: designed especially for use in noisy offices or crowded places, targets the mid-range frequencies. Mode 3: best suited for use in already quiet environments like libraries, creates a pristine, peaceful environment ideal for study.

The ATH-ANC9 QuietPoint® headphones are the first over-ear QuietPoint® model to offer a cable with an inline microphone and controller for answering calls and controlling music. The microphone has an omnidirectional pickup patter and is designed for crisp intelligibility, so you voice will be clearly transmitted without having to speak directly into the mic.

Audio Technica claim the ANC9 reduce environmental noise by up to 95% but through past experience we tend not to read much in to manufacturer claims. Many a noise cancelling headphone has boasted a 99% noise reduction claim yet in the real world the effects have been disappointing. What we do know is the drivers are 40mm, it comes loaded with accessories (hard case, battery, adaptors, & 2 cables (1 with inline control/mic), has memory foam on the ear cups and headband and works in passive mode even with no battery. The Bose do not, so round one to the ANC9.

In conclusion the 3 different noise cancellation settings are unique and adding in the microphone and controller are nice touches but will the sound be that right hook that flaws the Bose? We will have to wait and see unfortunately since it is as yet unreleased. As soon as we get a set we will do a review of the Audoi Technica ATH-ANC9 Vs. the Bose QuietComfort 15.

Watch this space!

If you have just had your new iPhone headphones delivered by iHeadphones and they are not working correctly then don’t panic, this simple fix may ease your woes.

It’s very rare for a new set of headphones to be faulty straight from the factory so if the mic or button is not working correctly or the sound is not as you’d expect then try this simple fix. Take a pin and insert it in to the headphone socket as lint/ paper/ debris can get in there and play havoc with your system. Clean the socket out and once removed you should be free to skip track and hang up on unwanted sales calls all day long.

If this does not work then a double check on compatibility may be in order. We can help you with that if you struggle to find it online and one final tip… always try the ingenius fix of turning your phone on and off. You’d be surprised how often this works.

If you are thinking this product by Versus looks very familiar then that is understandable as you have probably seen it before but dressed up as a Jaybird Sportsband. It is quite common for smaller manufacturers to take a generic product and customise it whilst offering their own warranty, support and licensing of the product.

So what we have here is essentially the same product by two different brands but with one big difference…. the price!

Whilst the Jaybird Sportsband is sold for around £100 the Versus Zync can be bought for half that price available here at iheadphones for only £49.99. Of course there are aesthetic differences in the colour options and what you have to ask yourself is if the styling is worth and extra £50, depending on your circumstances and taste only you can answer that but with new colours on their way from Versus the Zync is going to look a lot more appealing.

The Versus Zync currently comes in three colours of black, red and white and has the same specifications and package contents as the Jaybird Sportsband. It is a bluetooth headset with built in microphone that is charged via a USB cable. This can be converted to a mains charger with an adapter available from the iheadphones site.

The design takes cues from the 80′s while maintaining a sleek, modern edge and the light weight, wireless features of this product make it ideal for use in the gym or exercising outdoors. In this price bracket there really is no better bluetooth headband headphones.

Iheadphones, the  leading online seller of headphones in UK, is proud to announce that the brand new Bedphones from US-based product developer Eric Dubs, is now available on their website. These specially designed headphones were design to be word comfortably in bed can be purchase for only £26.99.

Many people like wearing headphones to bed – whether you’re just the type who needs some ambient sounds to help you drift off to sleep, or staying in a hostel dorm and need to block out the sound of your snoring neighbor. Most conventional headphones are not meant to be worn in bed or while sleeping – they can be uncomfortable when wearer lays down on a pillow, pushing it against the ear. The earbuds eventually fall out, either because they are not secured properly or the wires pull them out when the listener (or in this case, sleeper) turns to a different position. The Bedphones were designed with comfort and function in mind. The earpiece (a slim 1/4 of an inch thick) is comfortable to wear even when lying down and when the head presses against a pillow, allowing the user to enjoy his or her music without being bothered. They fit over the ears, and use a moldable memory wire, allowing the user to create custom fits simply by manipulating the earhooks. The set also includes a sleep mask and carrying case – perfect for people on the go.

An added feature which Android users may find useful is the free app, downloadable from the website. This app can truly turn your Bedphones into a smart sleeping machine. The app turns the screen into a big “pause and play” button, allowing the user to shut off the music with one tap, instead of having to fumble with buttons in the dark. There’s also a function that automatically lowers the volume, and then shuts off the music after a set period of time. And perhaps one of the more useful functions – automatic shutoff once the user has drifted off to sleep and has stopped moving.

For the road-travelling businessman, backpacker, insomniac, or anyone looking for a pair of comfortable headphones for sleeping, you can get the one and only Bedphones at iHeadphones today.

People who make a living by working with sound such as recording and mastering engineers, music producers, studio technicians as well as lots of composers and musicians need sound studios equipped with hi-tech devices for their work. And still, one of the key gadgets for sound experts is a set of high-performance Hifi headphones. While mass-market earbuds and in-ear fitting headphones are suitable for listening to MP3 music outdoors or in a gym, full-size professional ones serve different purposes and are designed specifically to be used in a studio setting. There’re several good reasons why one shouldn’t compromise on the quality of studio headphones.

Sound quality

When it comes to Hifi recordings, one’s listening experience largely depends on the headphone performance features such as audio response and sound balance. Specialist Hifi headphones are expected to deliver music and sound flawlessly across the entire frequency range. They should be able to reproduce a deep, well-defined bass as well as provide clarity at higher frequencies. In terms of sound isolation over-ear headphones generally outdo in-ear ones thanks to their big cups. However, there’s a difference between closed back and open back headphones and it becomes a crucial factor when making a choice in favour of this or that solution. The point is that closed back Hifi headphones offer complete sound isolation which may result in a bit boxed in sound while open back ones can boast of a more open sound though with some of it leaking in and out.

Comfort

Another important point for consideration for those who spend most of their working time with a pair of headphones on is the comfort. A pair suitable for hours of continuous use should feature self-adjusting headbands, soft velvet or leather earpads and gimbal-suspended phones for a comfortable and secure fit. To make stereo listening even more true-to-life experts go for open-air headphones which produce no pressure on the ears. Quality Hifi headphones should also be completed with a long and reliable cable to allow freedom of movement with superior sound reproduction. It’s also essential that headphones don’t heat up even after prolonged use.

Value for money

Every year the latest headphones with constantly improving sound quality and more and more ergonomic design appear on the market. Some of these changes are so subtle they can hardly make much difference for ordinary people but they are quite noticeable for professionals.  Buying state of the art Hifi headphones they invest in a helpful and easy-to-use tool which is indispensable in their work. Also it’s possible to kill two birds with one stone because headphones from leading brands can be used not only in sound studios but also for listening to music and watching films in stereo quality at home. The last but not the least is the fact that alongside with high output sound quality full-sized headphones come in a variety styles and colours, so that everybody can find something to suit their taste.

It’s clear that all types of sound professionals can’t do without reliable and versatile Hifi headphones that can be used in the studio as well as at home. High sound quality and a comfortable fit are key factors for choosing a suitable pair.

In the era of great technological discovery life is getting easier and consumers no longer need to rely on numerous cables and lines. Wireless headphones that may increase your mobility and keep you from getting entangled in cords and cables are one of those welcome inventions. They operate from radio signals sent by the base unit, which receives impulses from the audio receiver. Most of the times the radio waves have a narrow band of frequencies; that is the reason why base units have a built-in antenna or a feed to an external antenna. When wireless headphones receive a signal, they convert it back into sound with the help of electromagnets. This article might introduce you to the benefits of these innovative gadgets.

Long-distance operation

Radio wireless headphones may provide radio transmission of the range between 100 and 300 feet with the ability to convert sounds through walls and other structures. Due to their long-distance operation abilities you don’t need to be close to the base unit. If the headphones use an infrared beam for transferring signals, then the range equals around 30 feet. Bluetooth headphones are also widely available, giving you more freedom of movement. The ideal operational condition for these gadgets is an interference-free environment with minimum of physical obstacles between the base and the receiver. The layout of your house and budget might determine the choice of headphones and their working range.

Ease of usage and noise filtering

Many wireless headphones are popular for being lightweight and comfortable to wear. They are automatically rechargeable, which adds more convenience of not worrying about batteries going down. Such headphones supply an effective noise filtering from ambient sounds. If you are studying or working and do not want to be disturbed by outside loud distractions, wireless headphones may be quite handy. Some of them may allow you to change the volume right at the headphone set instead of doing that at the base unit. A wide variety of different types of such headphones makes it easier to find the proper pair for any taste and budget.

Affordable prices for high quality

A high quality set of wireless headphones can be found at reasonable prices, especially if you are looking online. Some of them offer surround sound, enhancing the quality of audio you are listening to. You can get a great value product at a lower cost with some additional bonuses. For example, your set may be equipped with a charger and hard case that protects it from damage. Many wireless headphones are compatible with iPhones, IPods and TV sets.

With all these advantages of wireless headphones you can enjoy listening to music, watching a movie or having a conversation with no wire to run. It can add more flexibility to your daily life as you are not chained to any electronic devices and have more mobility. This gadget may offer high quality sound with wireless transmission instead of jamming the space with cords and lines. It has become much easier to find a set of wireless headphones that corresponds to your needs and requirements.

With a wide range of various headphones available sometimes it may be difficult to make the right choice and find a suitable pair. Depending on your lifestyle, how and where you are going to use them you can choose the right pair from many types of these gadgets. While some kinds may be more appropriate during a flight or doing sports, others fit better for a more professional sound in a recording studio. This article might give you some tips on choosing headphones that could meet your needs and requirements.

Noise cancelling headphones

While most headphones provide some degree of noise isolation, noise cancelling models are usually more successful in ambient sounds elimination. They do it by using a small microphone and powered circuit that creates a wave opposite in polarity to the incoming noise. This type is suitable for flights, as it can easily block low frequency noise an airplane produces. Another means to enjoy music with the help of headphones is fitting them inside the ear canal. They might seal your ear by using plastic or foam earpieces that obstruct noises without additional hiss.

Sports headphones

If you are into any type of sports then sports headphones might become a great match for your activities. They can be presented by clip-on or wraparound models that offer more stability than unsupported earphones. Wraparound types are considered to be more resistant to bouncing as their headband usually goes around the back of the head. Such headphones typically come in lightweight highly portable open-backed designs because they are not intended to completely block ambient sounds for your safety when you are jogging or exercising.

Wireless headphones

Wireless headphones may help you to avoid numerous cords and lines by using radio frequency, infrared or Bluetooth wireless technologies. Many earphones of this type include a battery powered headset and a transmitter that is connected to audio or video equipment. They allow signals transmittance through walls and floors, which offers you more mobility and freedom of movement. The range of wireless headphones operating depends on the type of technological platform used.

Studio headphones

In case you deal with music professionally and want to enjoy the clarity of originally recorded sound you may select studio headphones that have a more neutral frequency response. This type often comes in larger variants like earmuffs connected by a headband. Sometimes they may include additional unique features and may be folded for smaller storage.

IPod and IPhone headphones

If you like Apple products like IPods or IPhones then you can find headphones specially designed for these gadgets. Being compact and lightweight they may enhance the quality of sound and make it clearer.

When choosing earphones it is necessary to remember that your lifestyle and type of music you listen to may determine the right choice. While electronic and drum-and-bass music may need deeper bass headphones, classical melodies might sound better with a wider treble range types. It is important to select an adjustable and comfortable pair that fits your head and ears perfectly. High quality models can be purchased from online stores, where you are able to read product descriptions and reviews for more information.

A pair of comfortable brand Sennheiser headphones at your disposal can do you a lot of good regardless of the reasons for using these devices regularly. Making phone calls, working, studying, watching films and listening to music becomes much more enjoyable and convenient with high quality headphones, specifically designed for this exact purpose. If you are going to buy proper headphones in the nearest future and don’t know where to start the search for quality items, here is a short guide to what you can find on the web.

Wireless headphones

Wireless brand Sennheiser headphones are at the top of the checklist of numerous music lovers and professionals who have to wear these devices at work every day. Having a pair of wireless headphones, designed to ensure long comfortable wearing, allows you to perform daily tasks without being chained to the place where the audio device is located. High quality wireless items give you an additional advantage to quickly switch between calls and music delivered in excellent stereo sound at just the press of a button. Invisible high performance microphones ensure clear conversations without sacrificing flexibility. Expertly designed wireless headphones can be connected everywhere including laptops, mobiles, in-flight entertainment systems and iPods so they can be used for practically any purpose.

DJ and studio headphones

Musicians, sound operators, DJs and other professionals need high quality brand Sennheiser headphones to deliver superb sound when working at studios and clubs. Neither sound quality nor convenience can be compromised when it comes to using headphones for these purposes. Additionally to being high performing, comfortable to wear and providing a vivid bass response, DJ and studio headphones have to be safe for hearing by offering good insulation against ambient noise. When choosing proper DJ and studio headphones, take into consideration such features as the sound pressure level, total harmonic distortion, frequency response, transducer principle and design flexibility of different items to make sure you get the most of these devices.

Travel headphones

If you travel a lot, you certainly need quality noise cancelling brand Sennheiser headphones to protect your hearing from excessive noise during trips while enjoying your favorite music, making calls or learning a foreign language. Proper noise cancelling headphones are available in a number of designs to suit any needs. Opt for highly portable travel headphones featuring steel reinforced headbands if you are looking for high durability devices. Choose design-wise wireless items with rotatable ear cups if you want incredibly comfortable travel headphones.

IPod and MP3 headphones

For dedicated music fans, high performance brand Sennheiser headphones are definitely a must. Enjoying your favourite music without a pair of suitable headphones at your disposal is quite an issue so try to find ergonomic ear canal phones or comfortable on ear items which are perfect for long city walks and everyday commuting. There are plenty of options to choose from, including headphones optimised for MP3 players, iPods, iPhones and other gadgets.

As can be seen, good quality headphones are designed to perfectly suit your everyday activities. Depending on the reason for using these devices, you can opt for wireless, travel, iPod, MP3, DJ, studio headphones and others.

A growing number of music lovers agree that to enjoy excellent sound quality intended by the studios you need to invest in high-grade earphones. The earphones mania is actually rational: if you can afford a high-end smartphone filled with quality music worth about as much as the device itself, then a pair of custom-fit, noise-blocking earphones is a necessity rather than a luxury if you want to enjoy that sound. Trusted brand Westone and the like have a lot of innovations for you to enjoy.

Improved clarity has become a reality

There have been lots of complaints about sound quality produced by low-priced earbuds recently. Users say music leaks out and extraneous noise gets into the ear, especially when in noisy places. Modern in-ear headphones by high quality brand Westone have been designed to make up for the downside of the previous generation devices and provide far clearer sounds even at lower volumes. Because of their ergonomic configuration, they seal the ear so tightly that any external noise is blocked from getting in and the sound is prevented from leaking out. This means that you don’t have to turn up the music when on the Tube and can still hear it perfectly well at lower volumes.

Increased sound quality at safer levels

How often do you listen to loud music? Research has revealed that anyone listening to music at high volumes is at risk of developing hearing damage. If you do this for more than an hour a day for at least 5 years in a row, you might even suffer from permanent hearing loss. Protecting your health starts with listening to music at safer levels. With top quality earphones by famous brand Westone, you can enjoy crisp highs, warm mids and thumping bass at lower volumes without damaging your eardrums. They are suitable for being used in very noisy places, including public transport, busy streets and industrial premises.

Comfortable durable wear

How long can you wear your in-ear headphones? Most people acknowledge that their earbuds cause some discomfort and aren’t suitable for durable wear. The precise configuration of modern high-grade devices ensures they fit your ear perfectly and remain comfortable no matter how long you use them. Earphones by high quality brand Westone come with different ear-tips for you to find that perfect fit for your ears. Despite its small light ergonomic body, the earbud is good at blocking noise and stopping the sound from leaking out. There is also a wax cleaning tool in the pack to extend its life span and save you money.

Back in the day, when the iPod entered the market with its eye-catching white earphones, they were the coolest thing to see on the streets. From then on they have been updated and upgraded to meet the needs and requirements of music lovers for comfort, functionality and style. Earbuds by first-rate brand Westone and the like are now available in a wide range of colours, designs and styles to satisfy all tastes. Most importantly, they provide a comfortable custom fit and excellent sound quality and clarity at low volumes. All in the name of progress!