(Dec 23, 2009)
Jasmine France
Senior Associate Editor
Earbuds are commonly issued as freebie headphones with portable players, but higher-performance earbuds can offer sonics that rival full-size headphones. Their tiny earpieces rest on the outer ear or need to be inserted into the ear canal. Ultracompact and lightweight, earbuds are the most portable of all headphones, and they can provide moderate to excellent isolation from external noise. They also offer little to no interference with earrings, glasses, hats, or hairstyles.
Klipsch Image S4 earphones
The Klipsch Image S4 earphones offer up sound quality on par with and better than sets that cost many times as much; they are a spectacular choice for anyone looking for new earbuds.
Price: $79.00 - $79.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 19, 2009
Outstanding
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Ultimate Ears UE-10 Pro
Looking for the best in-ear headphones that money can buy? You've found them in the custom-molded Ultimate Ears UE-10 Pros.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Mar 30, 2006
Outstanding
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Audeo Perfect Fit Earphones
The Phonak Audeo Perfect Fit Earphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for clear and balanced audio, a secure and comfortable fit, and a useful array of extras. All in all, they're a great value for the money.
Price: $139.00 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 6, 2009
Excellent
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Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)
If you're looking for a premium listening experience, check out the Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones. They sound fantastic and will probably outlast your MP3 player.
Price: $170.00 - $249.99 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 5, 2007
Excellent
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Etymotic hf5 (blue)
The Etymotic hf5 earphones are an excellent option for those who want the highest level of sound isolation without sacrificing sound quality, portability, or style.
Price: $107.49 - $142.29 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 22, 2008
Excellent
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Klipsch Custom 3 headphones
If you're looking for a stylish pair of in-ear headphones that don't lack for low end and can withstand daily abuse, the Klipsch Custom 3s are an expensive treat.
Price: $199.99 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 20, 2008
Excellent
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Klipsch Image Headphones
The pricey Klipsch Image in-ear headphones combine rich sound with superior comfort.
Price: $349.00 - $449.99 (check prices)
Review date: Feb 28, 2008
Excellent
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Monster Turbine In-Ear Speakers
Monster's Turbine in-ear headphone looks, feels, and sounds like a much more expensive model.
Price: $149.00 - $149.95 (check prices)
Review date: Jan 16, 2009
Excellent
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V-Moda Bass Freq earphones (blue)
V-Moda's Bass Freq earphones are the perfect accessory for bass-loving Creative Zen Micro owners who are on a budget. If you prefer less low end, look elsewhere.
Price: $24.99 - $29.95 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 3, 2006
Excellent
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JayBird Tiger Eyes Sound Isolating Earphones
The JayBird Tiger Eyes earbuds are a good option for active iPod owners with a hankering for bass.
Price: $89.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 6, 2009
Very good
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Ultimate Ears Super.fi 5 EB (black)
Bass addicts with a desire to maintain an articulate high end in their music will enjoy the quality Ultimate Ears Super.fi 5 EB in-ear set, while purists who prefer flat EQ should steer clear.
Price: $140.00 (check prices)
Review date: Feb 1, 2006
Very good
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Denon AH-C551 In-Ear Headphones
The Denon AH-C551 In-Ear Headphones offer mostly great sound quality and a compact, understated design. They're a solid choice for an everyday earbud.
Price: $67.26 - $99.99 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 9, 2008
Very good
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Radius Atomic Bass earphones (black)
The Radius Atomic Bass earphones are a good choice for bass-addicts with an eye for style and a concern for budget.
Price: $29.55 - $35.95 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 12, 2008
Very good
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