Steve Guttenberg
Steve Guttenberg, who writes the “Audiophiliac” column for the consumer electronics website CNET. A former record producer, Guttenberg has worked in the audio industry for more than 30 years. CNET.com
There are hundreds of different headphones available. Here’s a look at eight great ones…
“In ear” headphones are a good choice if you want small, light headphones capable of blocking out a good deal of outside noise. Some people call them “earbuds,” but earbuds technically are small headphones that rest inside the ear without entering the ear canal. True earbuds are not recommended—they do a poor job blocking outside noise, which causes people to crank up the volume to hearing-damaging levels. In-ear headphones, in contrast, extend partly inside the ear canal. Good ones are very comfortable. Great options…
Over-the-ear headphones completely cover the ears. They tend to sound better than comparably priced in-ear headphones (though this varies) and often do as good a job blocking out external noise. Among the best options…
• Koss Pro4S headphones provide well-rounded sound. And if they ever break, just mail them back to Koss’s Milwaukee factory with $9 to cover shipping, and Koss will repair or replace them. $150. Koss.com
Also: Koss Porta Pro headphones offer the same wonderful Koss warranty for a much lower price. They also fold up for easier transport. Their sound quality is good for the price. List price is $50, but available for around $35.