Choosing Active Headphones

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

15 May 2008 11:43 AM

Do you listen to your iPod while you run? What about some tunes while you do your housework or yard work? Love to rollerblade or shoot some solo hoops? What about working out at the gym? One of the main problems is usually that most headphones aren't made for activity, even through most people use their headphones while being active.

Lately I have been taking out books on audio from our local library. These books are actually compact MP3 players that contain the entire book and are geared specifically for audio books with features that remember where you last left off and allow you to bookmark chapters, etc. They are called "playaways," and I enjoy being able to get in a book while getting other tasks done at the same time. I have to supply my own headphones, well, at least my husband's headphones. One of the problems I have been running into while listening to the audio books is that the headphones tend to slip out whenever I bend or fly to quickly up or down the stairs, while I am pulling up the vinca, when reaching in to pull out laundry, etc.

Fortunately, active headphones are one of the newest trends around, as manufacturers begin to realize that there is a real need here for this type of product. One of the newest pairs of active headphones is the $50 Sony MDR-AS50G. You'll notice at first glance that they look very different from the normal set of headphones. While I have not tried these headphones personally, I am considering taking a closer look. Cnet did review the headphones, and in brief, here is a list of some of their pros and cons, distilled and reworded by myself.

Pros:

The earphones really do stay in place with or without the band that is placed over the ear.

The cable is modular, meaning that it can be short for active applications and use with an armband. And extended cable, complete with a clip, adds inches if you want to keep your MP3 player in your pocket or a bag.

The sound quality is very good, with rich mid tones and a slight tendency to be heavy in the bass.

Cons:

Although the reviewer found these headphones to be surprisingly comfortable, some discomfort on the inside of the ear may occur after several hours of wear, especially if the band around the ears is not used. These headphones should not be used for cyclists, because they contain two earbuds. For safety reasons, cyclists should use headphones with one earbud so they can hear approaching traffic or other hazards.

They block out a lot of noise, so they could pose a safety hazard to street runners. Of course this could be turned into a positive for the gym.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

Related Articles:

Free Access to iTunes May Be Coming Your Way

The New iPods

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger