Other than maybe your phone charger, your headphones are probably the plug-in that you use the most. So…why are you still rocking those factory-grade earbuds?? We asked the team at premium headphone manufacturer Monster for the low-down on the 5 key things to look for when shopping for ‘phones to make sure you get the best sound — and the best investment:
1. Where will you use them: According to some studies, consumers own on average 1.9 headphones. If you’re planning on investing on a pair of premium headphones figure out where will you use them most: working out, commuting, at home, or all three. This will help narrow down your choices on design.
2. Select your style: There are basically three types of headphones: on-ear, over-ear, and in-ear. Before making a purchase you should try all three out. Women tend to prefer on-ear: they are lighter and don’t interfere with earrings as much. People with small ear canals may prefer an over-ear model for better sound isolation.
3. Get your seal on: One of the most critical mistakes consumers make when wearing headphones is not making sure that are put on right, especially in-ear models. A good seal will enhance the performance of the headphone and will provide natural noise isolation. A good seal will also minimize the need to raise the volume to potentially dangerous levels.
4. Take ‘em for a test drive: Sound is subjective: what one person enjoys another will hate. It is very important that you “test drive” as many headphones as you can to learn which sound you prefer. Every headphone has a different acoustic signature. A good retailer will have a headphone bar so you can try them out. Note: Make sure you to listen to the same track when comparing them!
5. Noise-Isolating versus Noise Cancelling: If you’re shopping for a pair of travel headphones, try out both passive and active models. When a manufacturer incorporates noise-cancelling technology into a headphone, its performance diminishes. A good over-ear or on-ear can provide natural noise isolation without sacrificing performance.
For more about Monster, check out our Recessionista-in-Chief’s interview with “Head Monster” Noel Lee here!
