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Replacement iPhone Headsets

  • 26-12-2009 12:51am
    #1
    obsydion
    Closed Accounts Posts: 89 ✭✭


    Hi all,

    I realise there is an existing thread regarding 'best noise isolating earphones' but I think this category warrants a new thread. I'm looking for a replacement for my soon to be deceased iPhone 3G headsets. To clarify, by headsets I mean earphones that come with an inline microphone and remote to handle calls and with play/pause functionality. I've combed the net for reviews and while this has given me a fair idea of what's around, conflicting views and lacking the ability to be able to try any of these on for size have left me flabbergasted. In-Ear vs. In-Canal, Single vs Multiple Armature/Drivers, in-line vs. add-on remote/mic systems, availability of replacement parts, sound preference etc. etc.

    My budget is between €50 - €100, which means I'm in the market for something half decent sound quality wise but not super high-end. I've noticed that manufacturers are only just realising the market here and have tacked on iPhone compatible versions of existing products, usually putting an 'i' in front of the product name.

    Here are a list of offerings I have been considering based on my almost exhaustive 'review of reviews':
    • Etymotic HF2 ~€70 (soon to be superseded by HF3, with the only new feature being a better mic/remote)
    • Apple In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic - Price varies if hunting on eBay, saw one for €45.
    • Klipsch S4i €89 (relative newcomer)
    • V-Moda Vibe II with mic ~€70
    • Ultimate Ears SuperFi 4vi and 5vi - 73 and 89 pounds respectively
    • ...and the rest being the Sennheiser MM50s (cheap), Maximo iMetal ip-HF5 (hard to source besides from US).
    If it matters, only the Apple, Klipsch and Maximo headsets are compatible with iPhone 3G-S 'Voiceover' functionality. Given I only have a 3G this doesn't matter, unless Apple plan to provide this feature in a future update.

    Before I go on, I have to mention that my music taste fluctuates between classical/jazz/blues and rock/heavy metal so generally speaking I would prefer well-rounded performance over bass-heavy earphones. Comfort is obviously an issue but I would only wear them during commuting and gym sessions.

    From reading alone, I would say that I am torn between the Etymotic HF2 and UE SuperFi range but that is a much of a muchness.

    Hopefully there are some out there who own one or more of the ones I've mentioned and can guide me in the right direction. I welcome any other suggestions too.

    Thanks in advance :)


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