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Hello
I am on the hunt for some good headphones that I can use to listen to music and answer/talk on the phone. I got some headphones off amazon that said they were for the incredible, however you can't answer the phone by the headphone controls... Has anyone found some good headphones?
Thanks
Swegin
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
I'd recommend pre-ordering the Klipsch Image S4A's. I have the regular Image S4's (no inline remote/mic, otherwise identical) and they sound incredible. They're well worth the asking price.
I am notoriously cheap. Um, I mean frugal.
Awhile back I looked around for earbuds and found a few that I liked. I like Koss, though they can tend to be kind of bass-heavy (to the point of muddiness). The Plug by Koss is an example of this: they fit wonderfully but can be a bit biased toward bass.
I replaced my Plugs by Koss with a pair of black Yamaha EPH-20 earbuds. They are quite a bit "brighter" than the Plug but don't skimp on the bass.
I personally can't see spending more than $30 or so on earbuds for my cell phone, so I hope this helps.
No brainier when these come out. Inline control works with Android, iOS and WindowsPhone for $50.
http://www.jays.se/products/earphones/a-jays-one-plus.html
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
I use JH Audio 13 PRO with my Dinc and they sound incredible but they are $1,150 ha ha.
I use a pair of JVC Marshmallow 'buds... they're $20 at Wal-Mart, come in several different colors, and sound amazing to me. Yeah, they don't have a built in mic, no external controls, but if what you're looking for is simply music, they're one heck of a deal.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/JVC-In-Ear-Marshmallow-Black/14562427
If you need the built in mic and answer controls, the wired headset earbuds from my old BlackBerry sound decent and the answer button / mic works. $8 on amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/BlackBerry-HDW-16904-003-Blackberry-Microphone-3-5mm/dp/B002ECE8QY
Regular price $60
On sale for $15
http://www.amazon.com/GOgroove-High-Performance-Hands-free-Playback-Controller/dp/B005MZU0JY/
Thats a good deal
Bang and Olufsen Earset 3 or A8s
I work for Bang and Olufsen, and we make a killer set, for about $200. I might sound a little biased, but honestly I could care less if you chose to by ours over another brand. Why? If I sell one, I make about 5 Bucks commission. And the odds someone reading this forum is going to buy a set from me? Don't really need to answer that one. That being said, hear me out about the inside scoop:
They are made out of aluminum, and aren't the isolation type that get shoved in your ear canal. You lose a little bass, but you can walk down the street and not get jacked because you are oblivious to whats going on around you. They have great sensitivity (don't need to crank your device, which saves battery life), and the stereo imaging is amazing. The highs are clear and sharp and don't break up. They also stay on your ears very well and are great for exercising. Plus, they come with a 3 year international warranty: If you break them, you can bring them into any showroom in the world and we will swap them out on the spot (provided they don't look like you ran them over with a car) if you have proof of purchase (we will help you out with this part by contacting the store you purchased them from).
We also have sets of the Dre Beats In-Ears, Bose on-ears and in-ears (Bose stands for "Buy Other Sound Equipment"), and the Klipsch S4s in our showroom and have tested them against our own. We beat them hands down. Our customers have all agreed as well (comparing them hands-on with their own phones and ipods, not our demo tracks).
Go find a showroom, and give them a shot. Not saying their the best thing since sliced bread, but you might find them to be exactly what you are looking for.
philycheezblunt said:
I work for Bang and Olufsen, and we make a killer set, for about $200. I might sound a little biased, but honestly I could care less if you chose to by ours over another brand. Why? If I sell one, I make about 5 Bucks commission. And the odds someone reading this forum is going to buy a set from me? Don't really need to answer that one. That being said, hear me out about the inside scoop:
They are made out of aluminum, and aren't the isolation type that get shoved in your ear canal. You lose a little bass, but you can walk down the street and not get jacked because you are oblivious to whats going on around you. They have great sensitivity (don't need to crank your device, which saves battery life), and the stereo imaging is amazing. The highs are clear and sharp and don't break up. They also stay on your ears very well and are great for exercising. Plus, they come with a 3 year international warranty: If you break them, you can bring them into any showroom in the world and we will swap them out on the spot (provided they don't look like you ran them over with a car) if you have proof of purchase (we will help you out with this part by contacting the store you purchased them from).
We also have sets of the Dre Beats In-Ears, Bose on-ears and in-ears (Bose stands for "Buy Other Sound Equipment"), and the Klipsch S4s in our showroom and have tested them against our own. We beat them hands down. Our customers have all agreed as well (comparing them hands-on with their own phones and ipods, not our demo tracks).
Go find a showroom, and give them a shot. Not saying their the best thing since sliced bread, but you might find them to be exactly what you are looking for.
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While I have no doubt that the B&O set is very good, I have difficulty imagining that they're as much bang for your buck as (at least) the Klipsch S4s. I agree with a lot of your points (with Bose and Beats, you're paying for the brand, not for quality) but when you say that the B&O set beats all those, it should... it costs $200. The rest are $75-100, or cheaper if you find a decent deal (not too hard). As great as the B&O set may be, 3/8 the price for at least 5/8 sound quality (S4) makes a much better deal for the average, non-audiophile, consumer who wants great sound from their device.
but also to consider; the Klipsch ones aren't as durable. You'll probably go through 3 pairs in the time you go through one set of B&Os. $200 is for the earset, which has a mic for handsfree calling. 160 gets you headphones only.
philycheezblunt said:
but also to consider; the Klipsch ones aren't as durable. You'll probably go through 3 pairs in the time you go through one set of B&Os. $200 is for the earset, which has a mic for handsfree calling. 160 gets you headphones only.
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How long are you talking about going through the B&O's in? I've had the S4s for about 6 months. That's longer than I've ever had earbuds before (I'm VEEEERY hard on them), and they still look and feel brand new. By my standards, the build quality is extremely impressive.
My buddy is on an earbud hunting kick and I've been helping him out. We've tested just about everything we can find locally and so far the best sounding are the Klipsch X10I. We found them locally for $250.00 and they are worth it. I have a set of JH Audio 13 PRO's and the Klipsch X10I's sound about 50% of the JH Audio and that's really saying something. Besides the JH Audio, the Klipsch X10I's are the best sounding earbuds I've heard yet.
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-S2m-Noise-Isolating-Microphone-Single-Button/dp/B002FB7IWU
I like the S2m. Decent price too.
And BOSE also stands for "Basically...Overpriced Stereo Equipment"
No highs...No lows...Must be BOSE!!
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Sony-DRBT101-BLK-Stereo-Bluetooth-Headphones-Black/13904899
I use these as headphone for music and calls. I cannot attest to any sound quality As I am somewhat hearing impaired(need aids) But these are able to play music loud enuff for me listen too. On calls I hear the voice quite well and the caller says they can hear me clearly.
I have a pair of Shure SE210s and I love them, but I can't recommend them unless you're planning on photo-shopping your receipt to make it look like they're still under the 2 year warranty when they break every 1.5 years. The audio quality is fantastic, and I like the in-ear design but they just don't hold up to what I think is normal use.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/478568/multi-iem-review-200-iems-compared-hifiman-re272-added-10-14-11
That's all you need.
I use the $50-$60 ViSang R03 / Brainwavz M2, and couldn't be happier.
"The ViSang R03 is an incredible performer - a wholesome combination of build quality, comfort, and sound at a price well south of $100. In terms of coherency of sound signature they are up there with the best sub-$100 earphones I have heard. The combination of impactful bass, clear mids, and crisp treble give the R03 a very agreeable sound that can be enjoyed by both the audiophile and the casual listener in equal measure. And that fact alone makes them highly recommended earphones with a sound signature geared slightly towards the mainstream market compared to much of the gear talked about on head-fi. Do I personally still prefer a more analytical sound? Yes. But that does not prevent me from enjoying the R03 in the least. They are not perfect, but they are unreasonably good for what they cost."
PGleo86 said:
How long are you talking about going through the B&O's in? I've had the S4s for about 6 months. That's longer than I've ever had earbuds before (I'm VEEEERY hard on them), and they still look and feel brand new. By my standards, the build quality is extremely impressive.
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3 Years plus. They will most likely last you well past that, but if they break within 3, you get a brand new pair for free.
Klipsch
I love the new Klipsch S4A great sound quality for a low price, plus it's made specifically for android
I'm going to sound insane compared to folks advocating $50-$250 headphones.
I use OEM Palm Stereo Headset 3.5mm model#3422WW. These are in ear, not in ear canal. They sound better than $30 & $50 headphones I've tried. Oh yeah easily had on eBay $3.50.
First, this was a massive step for me. I am a Google Play Edition addict. I just wanted to test the HTC Boombass which arrived today as part of my purchase deal so flashed I back to Sense.
Remember that music listening is completely subjective so what I like you may not. However I am an audiophile. I only listen to FLAC and my home hi-fi is off the scale. I also tend to be quite harsh when reviewing H-fi kit.
I am not going to discuss the cosmetics apart from saying it is a small black and red box about 2" square. The bottom slides out to create a lip for the phone to rest on. The Boombass has a micro USB socket for charging and a small button on the back to enable Bluetooth/Sync. Press it once and you will hear the BT 'enable' sound.
One point to note. The viewing angle without a case on isn't bad. With a case, although the difference is minimal, it is still secure but it is hardly a viewing angle... unless you watch movies almost horizontally! Cosmetics over.
The Sound
First let me say. You haven't paid £/$500 for this. So if you are expecting to be absolutely blown away... leave this alone.
However...
Playlist
Queen's 'Too much love'
Without Boombass. As to be expected the phone was clear and you will all know the sound. As phones go, it doesn't get much better.
With Boombass. I was astonished! It adds a level of bass that is amazing for such a small device. There was no 'thud' or corruption.
Phil Collins 'In the air tonight'.
Without Boombass. Clear lyrics and highs, decent drums but lacking that bass depth
With Boombass.Wow again! Especially for the drum solo. No more to be said.
Pink 'Just like a pill'
Without Boombass. By now I was losing interest in the phone without the box. What had previously sounded 'full' for a phone was now sounding shrill and devoid of character.
With Boombass. Her voice sounded much more like the albums I played on the home hi-fi. There were parts that sounded a tiny bit 'thuddy' but I forgave them due to the fullness of the sound.
Pink Floyd 'Money'
Without Boombass. Still good, but I want more BASS!
With Boombass. OK you can guess where this is going....
Overall.
There are better devices out there without a doubt. But not for the same price. Nothing in the market comes close. However it does have limitations.
It has a limited compatibility set (applicable in this forum...HTC One M8. BUT NOT GPE)
If you are willing to pay more you can get better, but probably double at least to notice any substantial improvement.
Overall I give it 4 stars.
To get 5?
* Compatibility with GPE - after all HTC - you make the device... WTH?
* The phone has a case - consider the viewing angle 'including case'
* Phone charging??? (While on the speaker)
For a bedroom / student this is ideal if you don't have the funds to buy that Mission/NAD outfit you were after. And for anyone else that wants a better sound on a budget (me included!)
My view - as an exacting audiophile? For £50, you won't get better.
For more (see double) you might.
The bottom line?
It is enough for me to stay with Sense until HTC fix GPE compatibility
Are you serious. I'm no audiophile but to my untrained ear it's lame, bass is muffled and weak. Even my wife thought it was pathetic.
Would not waste £50 on it at all, sold mine on eBay.
Ant of these would be better. Or just use it without.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
crustyeye said:
Are you serious. I'm no audiophile but to my untrained ear it's lame, bass is muffled and weak. Even my wife thought it was pathetic.
Would not waste £50 on it at all, sold mine on eBay.
Ant of these would be better. Or just use it without.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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I am playing 16/24 bit flac which sounds great on the phone. The level of detail these files provide over the bog standard 192 mp3 is the same difference as light and day. Most people use the standard mp3 for file size. The issue is that a standard mp3 is about 3-5mb whereas a high bit single flac track can be 35-40mb plus. Albums can range from 400mb to over a Gb which is why people don't use them
I tried a standard mp3 after reading your response and it produced a muffled thud sound like the old style boombox.
But I did state in the post that I use flac.
I promise you the difference is good.
But hey like I said - 'subjective'.
“All opinions are not equal. Some are a very great deal more robust, sophisticated and well supported in logic and argument than others.”
― Douglas Adams, The Salmon of Doubt
All I can say is the audio quality through the headphone jack, and speaker on the Note 4 is garbage! That does not make it a bad phone, because with all its other features, the Note 4 is awesome but for an avid audiophile like me, my phone needs a great DAC/ headphone jack. The iphone 6+ Does have fantastic audio quality, but I use android phones as my workhorse, and Ipad as my consumption device, so iPhone is out for me. I am REALLY hoping that since the Nexus 6 has the 2 front facing stereo speakers, that it is being pushed by a strong high quality DAC. I currently have the M8 , and the audio is quite nice, but I have always wanted a nexus device after owning the HTC Nexus 1 , and the Nexus 6 checks all the boxes for me personally. It just has to have great audio and battery life and I'm sold! Hopefully we can get some reviews of the big sexy nexus before pre ordering starts?
I will admit, I am no audiophile. Can you go into detail on what exactly you notice in a bad audio output?
What headphones are you using?
Sent from my iPhone 6 using Tapatalk
_MetalHead_ said:
What headphones are you using?
Sent from my iPhone 6 using Tapatalk
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V-Modda M100's, B&W P7"s
Schoat333 said:
I will admit, I am no audiophile. Can you go into detail on what exactly you notice in a bad audio output?
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Hiss at higher volumes. Crosstalk/ Interference. Lack of soundstage or depth in the audio. Or lack of volume and "punch" in bass. I'm no "hardcore audiophile" that will ONLY listen to FLAC/ High Res music, as I listen quite often to Play Music on the go and at work @ 320kbps track that are streamed to me. But when reviewing new music or at the house wanting to check out new tracks and just want to be taken in by the music, then I load up some 24-bit/192kHz files, Ah the beauty of Android!
I know I can get a dedicated music player that serves this need, and I have one (Still have my old Zune 120 but with the way digital music distribution being so awesomely convenient through Gplay Store/ Itunes, I just like having a device that can "do it all" if I can find one. The Nexus being pure Android, "supposedly" all day battery life" Amazing screen, with hopefully excellent audio performance and supports High res audio files, sounds like that perfect device for me... Crossing fingers.
awareunlikeu said:
V-Modda M100's, B&W P7"s
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I'm not sure if root is available for the note4 yet, but if it is, install V4A. It helps to a degree. The nexus 5 is not a great when it comes to audio, however, with V4A installed, it is bearable. I use UE900 CIEM.
Edit: I am also hoping the N6 will have a powerful audio chip.
awareunlikeu said:
V-Modda M100's, B&W P7"s
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How do you like the P7's? I bought the P5's years ago but admittedly they don't get much use. I have tried the P7's and while I'm not sure if their sound sig is for me, they were insanely comfortable.
Sent from my iPhone 6 using Tapatalk
awareunlikeu said:
Hiss at higher volumes. Crosstalk/ Interference. Lack of soundstage or depth in the audio. Or lack of volume and "punch" in bass. I'm no "hardcore audiophile" that will ONLY listen to FLAC/ High Res music, as I listen quite often to Play Music on the go and at work @ 320kbps track that are streamed to me. But when reviewing new music or at the house wanting to check out new tracks and just want to be taken in by the music, then I load up some 24-bit/192kHz files, Ah the beauty of Android!
I know I can get a dedicated music player that serves this need, and I have one (Still have my old Zune 120 but with the way digital music distribution being so awesomely convenient through Gplay Store/ Itunes, I just like having a device that can "do it all" if I can find one. The Nexus being pure Android, "supposedly" all day battery life" Amazing screen, with hopefully excellent audio performance and supports High res audio files, sounds like that perfect device for me... Crossing fingers.
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If it helps, the new Moto G, a £150/$180 phone, comes with an excellent DAC. Its even more impressive given the price of the device.
I can only assume they'll implement the same solution as in the Moto X. Unfortunately I can't comment on that, but I'd assume it's at least equal or better than the Moto X.
Obviously it can't compare to any dedicated player though. I still regularly notice the huge difference between my Note 2/3 Z3 experience and my old ipod touch 3rd gen. iPod destroys everything still.
feedtheducks said:
I'm not sure if root is available for the note4 yet, but if it is, install V4A. It helps to a degree. The nexus 5 is not a great when it comes to audio, however, with V4A installed, it is bearable. I use UE900 CIEM.
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Yeah those UE900's are some mighty fine phones my friend! But yeah I just want superb audio out of the box without tweaking. I know I can get it if I go back to apple for a phone, but I use iPad, so to me having an iPhone with its boring software when I already have an iPad that I use for consumption/work just seems like unnecessary overkill. As I use Android as my workhorse/EDC device. I have the HTC One M8 right now, and its close to what I want, but I don't particularly care for the software, except Blinkfeed, and I loath the camera. Headphone audio is damn good only because it is the loudest phone on the market right now due to the DAC having to push the BoomSound speakers and also pushing that same power to the headphone jack. But louder is not always better. The iphone 6 Plus's audio quality is quite a bit better, but not as loud, or "punchy". I hope its not too much to expect excellent audio quality with the way Googs is going away from the decently priced cutting corners Nexus devices to the absolute best Android has to offer Android device, which is what the N6 is sounding like they are marketing it has.
istrikerx said:
If it helps, the new Moto G, a £150/$180 phone, comes with an excellent DAC. Its even more impressive given the price of the device.
I can only assume they'll implement the same solution as in the Moto X. Unfortunately I can't comment on that, but I'd assume it's at least equal or better than the Moto X.
Obviously it can't compare to any dedicated player though. I still regularly notice the huge difference between my Note 2/3 Z3 experience and my old ipod touch 3rd gen. iPod destroys everything still.
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I know right.. I think Apple's audio superiority comes from the fact that they use a totally separate processing unit, independent of the processor for Audio processing. Where as Android phones generally use qualcomm's SOC and they dont have there own dedicated DAC. I may be mistaken on some of that lingo, but I think its close enough.
"The Nexus 6 comes with a pair of stereo speakers on the front, just like HTC’s phones. And just like the phones from Taiwan, Google’s phablet gives brilliant sound quality. Movies really draw you in with the combination of that huge screen and those crisp speakers And we could fill the whole house with music just with the Nexus 6
Source
awareunlikeu said:
V-Modda M100's, B&W P7"s
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Click to collapse
I am a M-100 user as well, hell year brother!
As for audio quality, personally I never use something as spread out as a Cellphone/Smartphone for quality music listening. Most of the time they are not equipped with the proper magic for good audio compared to PMP's and other quality audio sources. That is why I still carry around a PMP for most of my music listening (Better HW for sound, Storage all for Music, Separate battery for Music).
I know it's almost archaic to still have a PMP and a SmartPhone since the latter can technically do both, but if you want the best audio quality it's best to get a PMP for your audiophile needs. I suggest taking a look for this if you are curious for a PMP recommendation: http://www.fiio.com.cn/products/index.aspx?ID=100000060437344&MenuID=105026016
As for the N6, its up in the air. But I usually would not bet my wallet that it would make a quality music player. It might be good for some music here and there but as a whole with pro cans it just might not be enough to get the most out of them.
To me the original Moto X audio quality through headphones was great. I ordered a Nexus 5 trying to decide which one to keep and ended up sending the Nexus back. One of the reasons was the audio wasn't as good as the X. I HOPE the N6 will be just as good. Motorola hasn't let me down yet.
I wonder if the N6 will be able to play FLAC lossless files. I really would like to hear my music in it's purist form. I have tried looking on Moto's and Google's spec websites and there is nothing about the audio part of the device....
racerxe24 said:
I wonder if the N6 will be able to play FLAC lossless files. I really would like to hear my music in it's purist form. I have tried looking on Moto's and Google's spec websites and there is nothing about the audio part of the device....
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I am fairly sure FLAC files are supported by the current version of android. I just flashed a completely stock rom, no root on my N5 and I am able to play FLAC on it using Shuttle+.
Power amp pro is worth the purchase. It made my N3 sound soooo much better. Out of the speaker, headphones, and aux out for playing music. Also ViperFX and Volume+ were good at tweaking your sound.
amebiasis said:
Power amp pro is worth the purchase. It made my N3 sound soooo much better. Out of the speaker, headphones, and aux out for playing music. Also ViperFX and Volume+ were good at tweaking your sound.
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+1 for Poweramp
I'm curious how the front speqkers compare to my m8. I love the audio on this phone.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
There are 2 main improvement in android L for sound: low latency and usb-enabled headphones. I'm not an audiophile myself but I guess for startes those two should make a difference.
That being said, unfortunatly, headphones quality output is something hard to tell without specific reviews.
awareunlikeu said:
I know right.. I think Apple's audio superiority comes from the fact that they use a totally separate processing unit, independent of the processor for Audio processing. Where as Android phones generally use qualcomm's SOC and they dont have there own dedicated DAC. I may be mistaken on some of that lingo, but I think its close enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny you talk about Apple's "audio superiority" when their headphone jacks across iPad, PowerBook/MacBook, iPhone, and iPod lines have been poorly grounded for years.
As many of you know Sony has a pretty good offer on pre-ordering a Xperia XZ1 or XZ1 compact. You'll get a free Sony NC headphone!
There is only one dilemma, they offer two types;
The MDR-1000x
https://www.sony.com/electronics/headband-headphones/mdr-1000x/specifications
and the WH-H900N
https://www.sony.com/electronics/headband-headphones/wh-h900n/specifications
The MDR-1000X was voted one of the best NC headphones of 2016 but is an old model. The WH-H900N is a lot newer so there are not a lot of reviews to compare it with the MDR-1000X(so I have no idea if it's any good)
So I was wondering: What headphone are you guys going to choose and why?
Are there any places that are offering this pre-order bonus still? I can't seem to find it, the closest thing I see is by Clove UK which is giving away the SBH24 Bluetooth Headphones.
My research so far resulted in this list of points in favor of the 1000x, when compared to the 100ABN (h.ear on wireless 1):
- subjectively better sound quality
- better noise cancellation
- more comfortable on the head (again, subjectively)
- hard carrying case (instead of a pouch)
- less issues with wind sounds amplified through the mics
Things that are in favor of the H900N:
- probably more responsive touch controls
- less issues with phone calls (mic related)
- sony headphones connect app support
- presumably no headband issues with the 100ABN
- longer battery life (and quick charge support)
- more recent model
But again, this is mostly when compared to the 100ABN; the H900N might just have improved sound quality and/or noise cancellation... let me know if you find any reviews!
I haven't seen that offer on the Compact in the UK. Best offer I've seen was the Clove one with the bluetooth adapter - which what I opted for.
For the XZ1 too, the headphones were limited to the first 400 users to complete a successful claim. Sounded too much like a gamble to me.
I've got some Sennheiser earphones at the moment, but am tempted by a pair of cheap Sony noise-cancelling headphones to go with the bluetooth adapter instead. Drown out some office noise etc.
found this WH-H800 review with some WH-H900N references:
https://nerdtechy.com/sony-wh-h800-h-ear-2-mini-wireless-ear-headphones-review
I was googling for an answer to this question, which is how I ended up here.
So I searched a bit further. My guess is: the WH-H900N is only a year younger (I think) than the MDR-1000X. What is more, The MDR-1000X is last year's top-model and its successor is the WH-1000XM2, not the WH-H900N.
The MDR-1000X had excellent sound quality and great reviews. Sound quality isn't a technology with huge developments, so I think purely sound-wise, the MDR-1000X is probably still better than the WH-H900N with only a year between them.
It also looks a fair bit beefier. Possibly better padding on the earcups; I read it's still very comfortable with glasses.
The WH-H900N does seem to look a bit sleeker and comes in a variety of colours. Maybe a bit more fashionable.
This year's models also come with fast-charge (65 minutes playing after 10 minutes charging) so that's in favour of the WH-H900N. The WH-H900N also has 6 hours more playtime when fully charged.
So MDR1000X seems to have some disadvantages and some (possible) advantages over the WH-H900N. If I'd had to choose right now I'd say MDR1000X, but I'm going to check on the tech issues mentioned above by sssparkkk first.
It's a pretty sweet deal though, whichever you choose!
- edit - checking some reviews on amazon.com and amazon.de (3 stars and below) I read that multiple users have issues with the headband, and other breakage issues. So maybe the WH-H900N after all..
I've ordered the black WH-H900H today. Will write a review when it arrives
The way I see it is that the MDR-1000X is last years top model of Sony, where the WH-H900N is a segment lower. I have compared the MDR-1000X and the H900N's predecessor MDR-100ABN in the store. The 1000X was lighter, had a much better fit and its ANC was clearly of a higher level. The 100ABN was sturdier though, probably can handle more clumsiness. The H900N still has somewhat the same design, making me believe the 1000X still has an advantage there. Also the ANC works better with the earpad design of the 1000X.
Looking at other specs and features they are almost the same. Here are some differences:
The H900N has a better battery life (28 hours), however I think 20 hours of the 1000X is also plenty enough. This is of course a personal choice.
The H900N probably also has a better touch control system, and maybe some more options with a connected mobile app. This I haven't checked.
The 1000X on the other hand has a wider sound spectrum, giving it a more clearer and nicer sound.
The 1000X also has this really nice feature that the ANC adjusts itself to the shape of your head.
So, if you want to be sure you have top notch headphones with probably the best sound quality and definitely the best ANC, go for the 1000X
If you want to have headphones that are a bit more sturdy and have the newest (secondary) features like the application with all its options, go for the H900N
Curious whether you guys agree!
I've got the 100ABNs and am wondering about upgrading to the WH-H900N but I don't really see any reason to do it for touch controls and more codecs. Unless the ANC has improved I'll probably stay on the 100ABNs.
Interesting.
Here, they only offer 3500 headphones for those who register after preordering.
One of the issues surrounding the 1000x, and its upgraded version, is that noise cancellation turns off after 5 minutes unless it is paired or has an audio jack plugged in. Kind of makes it a strange noise cancellation accessory.
I did not buy the 1000x, it has problems in the headband, they break near the hinge. Prefer the new version 1000xM2 that in theory, does not present that construction failure. Greetings.
I own the sony 1000x, great sounding headphones. My one complaint is phone calls the mic picks up to much external noise to make it usable. I would like to think this has been improved given this is one of sony's better nc wireless headphones.
When I was buying headphones I tried WH-H900N and MDR-1000X. After a mounth of calculating I decided that MDR-1000X has better sound quality. Decision was a half good because my MDR-1000X broke after 6 months of use. I don't know if Sony fixed this on newer series of MDR-1000X. MDR-1000X has excellent sound quality but poor build quality. On the other hand WH-900N has better build quality but not good sound quality as MDR-1000X although they have dedicated android app for better sound.
Two months ago I bought MDR-1000XM2 and concluded my searching for now.
WH-H900N vs MDR-1000X vs WH-1000XM2
I initially purchased the H900N, but quickly concluded that the sound quality, even using the cable, was pretty poor even compared to my old $35 Sennheisers from 10 years ago. Before sending the H900N back, I did a sound comparison between the H900N, my old Sennheiser HD212, and a friend's 1000X, with all the features turned off on both the Sony's (i.e. power off, cable plugged in so as to purely compare the quality of the cones, without in-built software messing around with the sound). The H900N sounded lifeless, muffled, lacked fidelity, and made everything sound dull. The 1000X sounded a million times better, much more life-like in the sound, and just sounded great. I then spent ages swapping back and forth between the Sennheisers and the 1000X and concluded the probably sounded better on the 1000X, but my ears are so tuned into the Sennheisers after many years it's probably difficult to tell. However, when I then turned on noise cancelling, the 1000X smashed the Sennheiser out if the park, it just sounded fantastic, and the ability to drown out background noise meant I was able to here so much more detail even at very low music levels.
I can only conclude that the H900N are a low quality headphone but with all the bells and whistles. They're great if you want some well-made noise cancelling headphones, but the audio quality is inferior to even cheap wired headphones, so avoid if you're even slightly an audiophile.
I sent the H900N straight back, and purchased the Sony WH-1000XM2. I did weigh up getting the original 1000X (cheaper, same price as H900N), but was keen to have AptX-HD (which was the original reason I chose the H900N over other brands) so went for the pricier M2. The 1000XM2 is so much more of a premium product than the 900, they sound so much better, the noise cancelling on them is fantastic, bluetooth streaming over AptX HD sounds great, they feel sturdy and comfortable to wear, and they come with a proper case (unlike the H900N which comes with a flimsy soft case). Not looked back since!!
Mangohed said:
I initially purchased the H900N, but quickly concluded that the sound quality, even using the cable, was pretty poor even compared to my old $35 Sennheisers from 10 years ago. Before sending the H900N back, I did a sound comparison between the H900N, my old Sennheiser HD212, and a friend's 1000X, with all the features turned off on both the Sony's (i.e. power off, cable plugged in so as to purely compare the quality of the cones, without in-built software messing around with the sound). The H900N sounded lifeless, muffled, lacked fidelity, and made everything sound dull. The 1000X sounded a million times better, much more life-like in the sound, and just sounded great. I then spent ages swapping back and forth between the Sennheisers and the 1000X and concluded the probably sounded better on the 1000X, but my ears are so tuned into the Sennheisers after many years it's probably difficult to tell. However, when I then turned on noise cancelling, the 1000X smashed the Sennheiser out if the park, it just sounded fantastic, and the ability to drown out background noise meant I was able to here so much more detail even at very low music levels.
I can only conclude that the H900N are a low quality headphone but with all the bells and whistles. They're great if you want some well-made noise cancelling headphones, but the audio quality is inferior to even cheap wired headphones, so avoid if you're even slightly an audiophile.
I sent the H900N straight back, and purchased the Sony WH-1000XM2. I did weigh up getting the original 1000X (cheaper, same price as H900N), but was keen to have AptX-HD (which was the original reason I chose the H900N over other brands) so went for the pricier M2. The 1000XM2 is so much more of a premium product than the 900, they sound so much better, the noise cancelling on them is fantastic, bluetooth streaming over AptX HD sounds great, they feel sturdy and comfortable to wear, and they come with a proper case (unlike the H900N which comes with a flimsy soft case). Not looked back since!!
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3 months in...did the headband break yet?
rayjr13 said:
3 months in...did the headband break yet?
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Not regretted getting the 1000s for a second... Use them everyday and they're awesome! Robust and sound great. Really appreciated them on a recent flight too.
Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk
Curious what users are doing for audio. Wired eaphone options are pretty thin if you're connecting via USB but they provide the range that Bluetooth can't match. I've had mixed results, what's your take?
varcor said:
Curious what users are doing for audio. Wired eaphone options are pretty thin if you're connecting via USB but they provide the range that Bluetooth can't match. I've had mixed results, what's your take?
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I am only using Buds series for a while as they came free with the S-series in Australia when pre-ordered. Very convenient.
Buds+ you need a set if for nothing other than phone calls. That's all I use on my 10+
Using the c port for audio output all the time is going to screw up cables and maybe the port it's self. Tell Samsung to not jack off
varcor said:
Curious what users are doing for audio. Wired eaphone options are pretty thin if you're connecting via USB but they provide the range that Bluetooth can't match. I've had mixed results, what's your take?
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1. I use a USB C to 3.5mm convertor and good wired haedphones (with a wider soundstage and instrument separation) for immersive listening at home (usually in the eveing after dinner, before I go to bed). I use the dongle mainly becasue I already have wired headphones that I don't want collecting dust - and I don't want to spend a lot on larger wireless headphones when a relatively cheap adapter can do the same thing for me.
2. Galaxy Buds live for use during the workday for calls and casual music streaming while going running in the morning, or other outdoor activity. Very comfortable for long use, strong reliable connection and good mic quality for phone calls. Easy to carry around without a tangle of wires.
If I did not have a pre-existing collection of earphones, and was given a gun-to-the-head choice of just one device, I'd choose the wireless earbuds over the wired ones, simply because it fits my needs the best. YMMV.
The big Buds+ thread:
Galaxy Buds, Buds+ Set up
Install the Galaxy Wearable and Galaxy Buds software. Update software and Buds firmware, this is important because the old versions sound sucks. Turn on/go to Developer Options in Settings and on the Bluetooth Codec setting toggle on Samsung's...
forum.xda-developers.com
I haven't used to Buds Pro so I can't comment on them but their body is a different design from the Buds and Buds+. The Pros may not stay in as well though.
The Buds/Buds+ are identical dimension wise.
The wings and ear pieces are interchangeable between these two models.
They don't fall out, ever. For calls you can put them in loosely and they still stay put. The Buds+ bring longer battery life (very long) and better sound Q than the Buds, I have both.
With respect to audio listening devices I'm compelled more towards sound quality than convenience. Buds are developing as the market grows with improved acoustic profiles and software integration for codecs. They also provide a higher flexibility for physical variations like exercise and two way communications.
The biggest drawbacks are the diminished range of audio signals, reliance on the Bluetooth subsystems and charging metrics. In my youth and midlife I spent years in a variety of bands. Rock, alternative, blues, techno and even country. Lots of nights preforming live gigs and even more time in studio sessions. As a result my listening skills are pretty well developed.
Not a big believer in high priced units knowing a $50 set can put a pair of $300 sennheisers to shame. When I surrendered my S10 Plus to my wife I started researching wired units with USB Type C Connectors. Dongles while useful for retaining a good 3.5 jack unit are just another link in the chain so I've dismissed them.
What I've found is there isn't much to chose from, just a handful. Much to my dismay 1MORE Quad Driver, which offers pristine audio quality have yet to expand beyond it's 3.5 jack. So I settled on the next best option which had to deliver a solid bottom and midranges, which most units lack, they're too tinny and treble focused.
In the interim I found a decent set of Samsung/AKG Type C noise cancelling earphones. They no longer manufacture them but a few sellers in South Korea still stock the item. Not expensive at $70 USD and the sound quality is a solid 8 on a scale to 10. Strong response in all ranges and very comfortable in my ears, YMMV. Another plus is the noise cancelling doesn't sap a lot of power which can lead to reduced volume. In conjunction with Poweramp and some solid tunes, life is good!
varcor said:
With respect to audio listening devices I'm compelled more towards sound quality than convince. Buds are improving as the market grows with improved acoustic profiles and software integration for codecs. They also provide a higher flexibility for physical variations like exercise and two way communications.
The biggest drawbacks are the diminished range of audio signals, reliance on the Bluetooth subsystems and charging metrics. In my youth and midlife I spent years in a variety of bands. Rock, alternative, blues, techno and even country. Lots of nights preforming live gigs and even more time in studio sessions. As a result my listening skills are pretty well developed.
Not a big believer in high priced units knowing a $50 set can put a pair of $300 sennheisers to shame. When I surrendered my S10 Plus to my wife I started researching wired units with USB Type C Connectors. Dongles while useful for retaining a good 3.5 jack unit are just another link in the chain so I've dismissed them.
What I've found is there isn't much to chose from, just a handful. Much to my dismay 1MORE Quad Driver, which offers pristine audio quality have yet to expand beyond it's 3.5 jack. So I settled on the next best option which had to deliver a solid bottom and midranges, which most units lack, they're too tinny and treble focused.
In the interim I found a decent set of Samsung/AKG Type C noise cancelling earphones. They no longer manufacture them but a few sellers in South Korea still stock the item. Not expensive at $70 USD and the sound quality is a solid 8 on a scale to 10. Strong response in all ranges and very comfortable in my ears, YMMV. Used in conjunction with Poweramp and some solid tunes, life is good!
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Poweramp... whatever earphones or buds you use, use Poweramp to dial them in. I would hate my Buds without it for listening to music.
It's graphic equalizer is second to none.
Poweramp has a steep learning curve but is extremely configurable. Applicable only if you have a music database.
blackhawk said:
Poweramp... whatever earphones or buds you use, use Poweramp to dial them in. I would hate my Buds without it for listening to music.
It's graphic equalizer is second to none.
Poweramp has a steep learning curve but is extremely configurable. Applicable only if you have a music database.
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One badass feature Poweramp has which other platforms lack is the preamp slider which actuates as a great gain function, it's versatility second to none.
Guys aren't you a little concerned about the safety of the TrueWireless (TW) buds? I mean, the fact that they have a direct wireless connection passing directly trough your brain, doesn't feels a bit weird.. Something about it seems fishy to me when I think of limiting radiation exposure.
I use Bluetooth headphones where the BT receiver is under my neck. The cable is separately connected to the KZ ZS6 which have 4 speakers in each headphone. The sound is out of this world.
Most buds employ direct wireless connectivity. Does the BT signal cause damage to the brain? Ask an ENT Specialist but the buds don't transmit BT, they recieve it. Excess volume is the number one harmful side effect in near tympanic audio signals. My question is if you're going to use a wired connection in your BT configuration, why not use wired earphones? The audio quality is superior and you won't need to worry about BT scrambling your brain.
varcor said:
Most buds employ direct wireless connectivity. Does the BT signal cause damage to the brain? Ask an ENT Specialist but the buds don't transmit BT, they recieve it. Excess volume is the number one harmful side effect in near tympanic audio signals. My question is if you're going to use a wired connection in your BT configuration, why not use wired earphones? The audio quality is superior and you won't need to worry about BT scrambling your brain.
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Well actually the wired vs wireless quality is not something to even discuss. The above headphones I mentioned, eat any other headphones I have ever tried for breakfast when it comes to quality.
The buds do receive and emit BT and it is happening right next your ears. The bigger issue I mean is that the 2 TW headphones are directly communicating with each other trough some sort of electromagnetic connection that I had never heard of until I googled "how do True Wireless headphones work." That direct connection is not BT and it is emitting and receiving at the same time, directly trough your brain... You feel me?
No one is talking about that and no one is assuring us it is safe. It is almost as if it is magic and no one should be even thinking of it.
The BT headphones with a cable that I showed above, have their BT antenna in the little black thingy you see on the pic, it is usually hanging under my neck, which is at least 20+cm from my brain.
I am aware we cannot fully escape radiation but we could at least try to limit the artificial type a little bit when we can. Just my 2 cents.
Yeah the massive amounts EM radiation that Nicola Tesla subjected himself to killed him at the early age of 86
If a little low energy EM is all it takes to TKO today's whatevers... good luck with the hard stuff.
babyboy3265 said:
Well actually the wired vs wireless quality is not something to even discuss. The above headphones I mentioned, eat any other headphones I have ever tried for breakfast when it comes to quality.
The buds do receive and emit BT and it is happening right next your ears. The bigger issue I mean is that the 2 TW headphones are directly communicating with each other trough some sort of electromagnetic connection that I had never heard of until I googled "how do True Wireless headphones work." That direct connection is not BT and it is emitting and receiving at the same time, directly trough your brain... You feel me?
No one is talking about that and no one is assuring us it is safe. It is almost as if it is magic and no one should be even thinking of it.
The BT headphones with a cable that I showed above, have their BT antenna in the little black thingy you see on the pic, it is usually hanging under my neck, which is at least 20+cm from my brain.
I am aware we cannot fully escape radiation but we could at least try to limit the artificial type a little bit when we can. Just my 2 cents.
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Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) is the wave you're concerned with, not the BT wave. It's been around a lot longer than BT, first used in hearing aids decades ago. Can't say if it's harmful but I'm sure studies have been done. You really like your setup, whatever works for you but I won't agree sound quality is capable of matching a good wired set. BT doesn't have the range wired sets offer, regardless of how you tweak the codecs, the conductivity is inherently deficient.
I have a pair of Shure se846 earbuds that I connect via the Shure USB/DAC cable and it sounds absolutely fabulous when listening to anything CD quality and above. For convenience sake however, I use the Sony WF 1000XM4s and they sound really just as good. Especially with the LDAC codec.
chetly968 said:
I have a pair of Shure se846 earbuds that I connect via the Shure USB/DAC cable and it sounds absolutely fabulous when listening to anything CD quality and above. For convenience sake however, I use the Sony WF 1000XM4s and they sound really just as good. Especially with the LDAC codec.
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The biggest problem with S21 Ultra Codecs is they squashed aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency and aptX HD even though the Snap 888 SoC supports it. The reason, they're pushing their own Scalable Codec, Galaxy Buds and they don't want to pay Qualcomm's licensing fees. The aptX Codec available on the device is an older, vanilla version, not much different than SBC. Cheap bastards!
varcor said:
The biggest problem with S21 Ultra Codecs is they squashed aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency and aptX HD even though the Snap 888 SoC supports it. The reason, they're pushing their own Scalable Codec, Galaxy Buds and they don't want to pay Qualcomm's licensing fees. The aptX Codec available on the device is an older, vanilla version, not much different than SBC. Cheap bastards!
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You got LDAC and SSC. Get the Buds+ and be happy. I'm using them right now, been using them for the last couple hours... their battery life is really long and they sound good. They link up seamlessly with a Samsung phone. Samsung actually got it near perfect... finally
Or jump ship to the newest Sony with the codecs you want plus a 3.5 mm jack.
Given a choice I'll take a vinyl over a cd or anything digital every day of the week. Why, because it's direct sound, BT just gets in the way. The Samsung/AKG ANC's are dirt cheap with great response throughout the entire range.
Was listening to some old tunes, The Best of Simple Minds. What separates them from others is their dynamic composition and arrangement. As a musician when I listen to a song, I feel the song as a whole, but I'm paying much closer attention to each of the individual instruments. When you can hear the sound of the guitar pick hitting strings, not the reverberation of strings, the click of the pick, your know your audio signal is tight.
When I upgrade it's going to be wired with 4 drivers, likely the 1More Quad Driver, may have to deal with a dongle. There's virtually zero overlap of frequencies. Put that set in your ears and you'll throw rocks at any BT device on the planet.
varcor said:
The biggest problem with S21 Ultra Codecs is they squashed aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency and aptX HD even though the Snap 888 SoC supports it. The reason, they're pushing their own Scalable Codec, Galaxy Buds and they don't want to pay Qualcomm's licensing fees. The aptX Codec available on the device is an older, vanilla version, not much different than SBC. Cheap bastards!
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Yeah, I totally agree there. Don't know why they did this but at least I can use LDAC and it sounds even better than aptX
Buds+ is mandatory for a Samsung phone if for nothing other than calls. Music sounds pretty good using SSC.
Now the real bad news...
No sealed system can faithfully reproduce the sound stage. You must have a minimum of 2 stereo open air speakers*. The stereo (or more) acoustic waves need open air to interact with one another to reproduce the sound stage. This is what creates the electronically coupled sound stage ie where it was recorded to your listening area.
Headsets and earbuds destroy the sound stage.
Even DTS and Dolby headphone solutions don't come close to the complex sound stage an open air system reproduces.
Read it and weep ( you will when you hear the difference).
*minimum 12 - 50,000+ hz frequency response for optimum sound stage