Need advice -- How do you buy a pair of earphones you want if you can't possibly test them out first?

[trelx]

So I've been looking for a solid pair of earphones (under $100), not in-ear phones (they feel like Q-tips to me), and not headphones....just something like those earphones that come with your Ipod but sound much better.

Now I can obviously see why stores won't let you test them, because who'd want to wear a pair that's been in 100's of people's ears? That being said I come to you, and look for some advice on a good pair you'd recommend. Quick info:

• I listen to a lot of classic rock/ballads, not sure if this helps recommend a pair?

• I am not a fan of bass, the whole thump-thump sounds people obsess over isn't something I care for much. I like the sounds to be very clear.

• I'd like a pair that is durable and doesn't break easily like the cheap earphones.

• I'd like them to be comfortable.

• I'd like them to be under $100.

I'd really, really appreciate any recommendations or suggestions you may have, including the pro's & con's.

[naamanf]

Save up for some JH13s. Or fuck off, which ever comes first.

Edit: I also love ballads. That Micheal Bolton gets me every time. I mean "When I man loves a woman" who can't resist that shit?

Edited November 4, 2012 by naamanf

[Pars]

This will end badly...

[HeadphoneAddict]

Well, I am going to be nice. Try the Sunrise Audio AS-Feeling or AS-Charm earbuds. The AS-Feeling are the cheaper of the two, but still sound pretty decent for an earbud. They are also easier to drive than the 150 ohm AS-Charm, but with an amp the AS-Charm are better. I've read good things about the Yuin Pk-1 earbuds, but never tried them myself. You have to get these online (google).

[wink]

Try Head-Fi.org

Edited November 4, 2012 by wink

[trelx]

Save up for some JH13s. Or fuck off, which ever comes first.

Have an Amazon link to those?

This will end badly...

shh it won't, trust me.

[HeadphoneAddict]

Oh Lordy

[Wmcmanus]

I think Bose are for you.

[laxx]

I really like the Yuin PK-1's, I also have the PK-2's, which are also very enjoyable and don't require an amp. At the time they were "y" style cord which I thought I preferred, but after getting them quickly realized I didn't at all.

You can buy them at http://head-direct.com/Products/?act=detail&id=3

[wink]

shh it won't, trust me.

Read your welcome pm really careful like.

[aardvark baguette]

I'd really, really appreciate any recommendations or suggestions you may have, including the pro's & con's.

apple has redesigned their model. i havent heard it but i suspect it is what you want.

if you buy the new iphone 5 i think it comes with them. i'd recommend the verizon package since their cell towers are stronger and will keep the bass from sounding fuzzy. if you get the unlimited data plan that should help open up the bandwidth of the earphones considerably.

[Dusty Chalk]

What if there are vines on the trellises?

[grawk]

[swt61]

Edit: I also love ballads. That Micheal Bolton gets me every time. I mean "When I man loves a woman" who can't resist that shit?

Especially with that badass haircut he had! OMG, wouldn't it be spectacular if Micheal Bolton, Richard Marx and Rick Astley all did a concert together?

[The Monkey]

I like this thread.

OP, get the Klipsch Image x10 (the one without all the remote control shit)

[justin]

the klipsch were comfortable and lightweight

[shellylh]

I liked the first pair of X10 I had and wish I wouldn't have sold them. I bought another pair and the newer ones have quality control issues. Mine cut out a lot. I think Mike B had the same problem. I wouldn't buy another pair of them.

[The Monkey]

I liked the first pair of X10 I had and wish I wouldn't have sold them. I bought another pair and the newer ones have quality control issues. Mine cut out a lot. I think Mike B had the same problem. I wouldn't buy another pair of them.

Really? That sucks. Did you get the ones with the microphone or without?

[shellylh]

Really? That sucks. Did you get the ones with the microphone or without?

Without. I read that other people had problems but blew this off. Maybe they're better now? It sucks because they are the only truly comfortable non custom IEM that I have found for my tiny ear canals.

[swt61]

I still have mine. I got them shortly after their introduction. Still working great. Never felt the need for another IEM.

Edited November 4, 2012 by swt61

[justin]

sounds like OP has his answer. report back with pics of Klipsch X10.

[naamanf]

While listening to a sweet ballad

[MoonShine]

Please allow me to recommend some tasty tunes to go along with your new buds.

[MexicanDragon]

OP is in chat. DQ and I are having a nice chat with him. First thing he did in chat was ask for a MOD since he can't figure out why he can't post, even in HIS OWN THREAD! I know, right? Dan, deepak, n8, dinni, V, would someome please help this kid out?

Oh, just heard he posted this same thing to 5 other forums.

**BRENT**

[mikeymad]

poor thing - just looking for guidance in this crazy world...