The Hellacious “best headphones under $100” Thread

Blackstar · 08-26-2007

We all know that good sound requires a good source and good headphones, in this thread, I’ll attempt to guide you through to brands known internationally and in particular their products that provide best “bang for buck”. Dont get worried if you don’t understand some technical jargon I’ve used (I’ll try to keep it at a bare minimum, I promise ^^ ), you can refer to this excellent guide to gain an understanding of concepts you do not understand. (it's a dictionary for audiophiles XD): Stereophile: Sounds Like? An Audio Glossary

==Earbuds (open intra-aural)==
Earbuds are your common type of earphones, the one that you can just place into your ear on the go. To describe it best, some examples of earbuds are, the apple ibud (which you all will have no doubt seen everyday of your life) and the Audio Technica CM7 (a rarer model).

Earbuds have a particular advantage of being very portable, meaning it takes very little time to put them in your ears and are great on the go. The main disadvantage, may not affect everyone, but there can be fit issues with earbuds. If your ear’s are just shaped differently, earbuds may not rest in your ears properly causing them to fall out. You can possibly fix this with the use of foam covers, but a proper fit is not guaranteed. In addition, earbuds, provide next to no isolation, meaning you will more than likely have the need to turn up the volume on public transport or other noisy transport means.

Sennheiser MX400/500 ($20-40AUD)

These guys are probably going to be the best knockaround pair anyone can get. For the price, they provide decent amounts of bass, a nice relaxed midrange and some sparkly treble. They have a relatively small diameter which means they can fit in your ears easily. The difference between the MX400 and 500 is that the MX500 has an inline volume attenuator. The attenuator apparently adds some resistance to the earphones and improves the bass, although the difference in bass is slight

AKG Accoustics K14P ($40AUD)

AKG Accoustics, have been around for many years priding themselves on their excellent quality products that focus on detail and accuracy. The K14P in particular is an interesting product which provides smooth yet detailed treble and a nice lush midrange. In terms of detail it doesn’t lose out to the Sony MDR-E888, however some may find the bass of the K14P lacking. Not for the basshead, but good for people who like detail and accuracy. (Or genres such as orchestral or classic etc)

The K14P also has an inline volume attenuator.

Sony MDR-E888 ($60AUD)

One of the more “popular” brands out there. E888 is in my opinion the best earbud for the price. The E888 gives quite a bit of bass (for an earbud) with the bass being clean and detailed. The midrange is very warm and the treble is nicely controlled and crisp. These earbuds are very enjoyable and produce very nice sound quality for an earbud.

The only downside is that they are a bit fragile, and if you do not take care of them, you’ll find yourself grabbing another pair.

Cresyn LMX-E700/Audio Technica ATH-CM5 ($70-80AUD)

This is probably a rare model that you wont find for sale anymore, but a few stores in Korea and Japan stock these. Aesthetically they look good and the sound is decent. Comparing this to the MDR-E888, the it has less of a bass presence , but the midrange is upfront, meaning vocals in particular are accentuated. Its a fun sounding earbud, although for the price its not as good as the MDR-E888.

However, these things are made with aluminium and feature a high quality cable, so if durability worries you, E700 > E888.

Audio Technica ATH-CM7SV ($100 AUD)

Depending where you look, you may be able to find these for 100 dollars though usually they are a bit more. Audio Technica earbuds means one thing. Detail. And plenty of it. While the bass on these may seem thin, the bass presence is greatly improved with the use of foam covers. With the foam covers the bass quantity is increased so is the low end attack (punchy bass). The midrange is also upfront, which accentuates vocals. Treble.. is well.. excellent, fast, transient, accurate and detailed.

The more interesting feature of these earbuds apart from their sexy look is that as an earbud the “airyness” of the audio it produces is great. “Airyness” is that open special feeling you get with headphones and these earbuds manage to emulate that feeling quite well.

Pricy, but sexy and produces good sound quality, these are the words to describe it.

YUIN PK2 ($100AUD)

These are much raved about at Head-Fi. YUIN is a relatively new (???) Chinese company much like Meizu that produce quality earbuds. The YUIN PK1 apparently holds the title at head-fi being the best earbud in the world. The PK2 is its little brother and features a lower impedence (and a lower price) so that portable audio players can drive them easily. The PK2 has tight and strong bass, lush midrange and accurate treble.

Definately food for thought if you’re willing to pay for it, aesthetically it doesn’t look good, but those after sound quality shouldn’t worry too much about looks.

==Canalphones (closed in-ear)==
Canalphones are similar to earbuds but have a protrusion that sticks into your ears to provide isolation against ambient noise. The noise isolation is effective in noisy areas and the advantage is that you do not need to pump the music up so loud and damage your ears. Although there is no scientifically proven result that canalphones and IEMs damage your ears faster than earbuds, In my opinion, canalphones and IEMs can save your hearing provided you use them responsibly.

Crossroads MylarOne X3 ($60 AUD)

These are a new offering from Crossroads, a Korean manufacturer. The Mylar3 has interesting properties being a warm sounding canalphone with detail and decent levels of bass. For the price its excellent value and imo it can compete with the Shure E2c and Super.fi.3.

The only downside to these is that aesthetically it looks cheap, the cables are also thin. Treble also has a rolloff. Otherwise its a solid offering from Crossroads.

Sony N.U.D.E. MDR-EX90 ($95AUD)

This canalphone is a relatively new offering from sony and is seen by many as a canalphone version of the Sony MDR-E888. However, isolation of the EX90 is poor but the sound quality is similar to the MDR-E888. Consider the EX90 with a pinch of salt.

Audio Technica ATH-CK7 ($100AUD)

The CK7 is a canalphone which is in my opinion excellent value for money. Excellent treble resolution and bass response with nice detail, for 100 dollars these cannot be trifled with. An interesting feature of the bass is that it is present where needed. For example, a bass guitar playing a low note, would trigger quite a bit of bass from the CK7. This is what I would like to call accuracy. Bass comes where its supposed to and it does not add bass to elements of music that shouldn’t have bass.

The CK7’s sound signature is slightly cold, and analytical, but thats a typical offering from Audio Technica. Expect lots of detail and treble resolution from these.

Vsonic VS-R02PRO ($90AUD)

Comment Coming Soon!

Head-Direct RE2 ($100AUD)

Comment Coming Soon!

Blackstar · 08-26-2007

==IEMs [In Ear Monitors] (closed in-ear)==
IEMs are similar to canalphones however they provide a much higher degree of isolation and tend to take longer to insert into your ears. IEMs cost significantly more than their canalphone bretheren and sound better in many instances (if you’re willing to pay the price that is)

For IEMs in the under 100 bucks category, there are none, however I’ll suggest a few entry level IEMs that can be bought for less than 100USD.

Shure E2c (~$120AUD)

The E2c is an entry level IEM from Shure providing quite a bit of isolation. The E2c is very dominant in the bass arena, however the bass is muddy and dark. Treble is rolled off and midrange is dark. However the 10-band equaliser with the Meizu M6 can rectify these problems to a large extent. These IEMs are large so have quite a bit of weight, be warned.

Etymotic ER-6i (~150-200AUD)

The ER6 is an offering from etymotic research that provides excellent isolation from ambient noise and provides excellent treble resolution and detail. Midrange is smooth, however bass leaves little to be desired. Theres simply not enough bass in the ER6i and hence overall the ER6i sounds a bit thin. The “i” version of the ER6 has a lower impedence and lets portable audio players drive them at lower volumes.

Supposedly the “i” version has improved bass, but don’t get mixed up with the word “improved” and “heaps of bass”. /quote Marcus :D.

Ultimate Ears Super.fi.3.Studio (~150-160AUD)

The Super.fi.3 is a fun sounding IEM, with nice upfront midrange that keeps you listening. The treble resolution of these things is sharper than the E2c but not to the extent of the ER6. The bass presence is there, and is relatively clean and not too punchy or overwhelming. Overall these are excellent value for money.

Blackstar · 08-26-2007

==Clip-Ons/Super Portable Headphones (Supra-Aural)==
If you don’t like things sticking into your ears and like things that go over them, then this type of headphones will suit you perfectly. Having the perfect balance between portability and comfort.

Koss KSC-75 ($50AUD)

If I didn’t recommend these, I would be insane. Over in America you can pick these guys for less than 15 bucks! The KSC-75 is the KING in price-performance ratio. The bass of the ksc75 is superb, its stronger than any earbud and its punchy, The quantity is perfect for semi-bassheads, and with an equaliser, you’ll probably be shocked. The KSC75 responds well to low-end equalisation and particularly well to sound effects such as SRS WOW and BBE. The midrange is upfront, much like what you’d expect from grado, so it produces a unique warm sound making you dance. Treble is sparkly and may be sibilant at times, but with time you will get used to it.

I try not to rave about these, but they are simply the best value for money you can get. In my opinion these are better than Sony’s MDR-E888 and many others which are priced higher than the KSC75. The downside? Well some may think they look ugly on your head, but who cares, they sound great. =)

Sennheiser PX100/PX200 ($70-85AUD)

I have had limited experience with these headphones, but they definitely are portable with a foldable design. One of the main qualities of these headphones is the bass, they have a strong bass presence with a laid back midrange and sufficient treble. They didn’t leave a good impression like the KSC-75 did, but they do provide decent sound quality for the price and portability.

==Full Size Supra/Circum-Aural==

Circum-Aural headphones are "full-sized" in that they completely cover your ears (like earmuffs). The advantage with full sized headphones being that they are usually more comfortable, however, the added size and weight makes them inappropriate for portable use (Unless you like walking around the street with huge cans on your head).

Under 100 dollars, there are none I can recommend with acceptable audio quality. (Feel free to post suggestions or pm me directly, if you want to post some input on this section). Instead, I'll recommend some headphones that are under 200AUD.

Audio Technica AD500 ($120AUD)

The AD500 is an entry level "audiophile" headphone. There is another variant of this headphone, the A500, difference being the A500 features a closed housing and therefore provides more isolation and bass at the expense of airyness and soundstaging. I recommend the AD500 over the A500 if you prefer a less fatiging listening experience. The AD500 also has a wider soundstage and in general sounds better than the A500.

Key qualities of the AD500 are a "fairly" detailed headphone (for the price), fun bass and a somewhat tuned midrange for vocals. Its not the best thing you could get, but for the price it definately isn't a bad choice.

Audio Technica AD700 ($170AUD)

The AD700 in my opinion is quite a big step up from the AD500, A700 having greater detail, punchy bass and a more refined high end. Like the AD500, the AD700 is an open circum aural headphone and won't provide too much isolation but will allow you to wear them for extended periods. If you can afford the extra 50 dollars, then the AD700 would get my vote.

Sony MDR-SA1000 ($180-200AUD) (You may or may not find it at this price depending on where you look)

The SA series are Sony's audiophile product range of headphones. The SA1000 in particular has highly refined treble, smooth midrange and a decent amount of bass. In fact the only problem with this headphone is the bass. Its not necessarily weak in the low end, however in some songs, you'll feel that you want just a tad bit more. This is where the M6's equaliser comes in handy.

If you have slightly bit more to spend, it will probably be a tossup between the SA-1000 and Audio Technica's A900. Both are good headphones in their own right.

==Addition of new headphones in progress==
If you have any additions or comments, give me a PM.

Last Update: 06/06/08

mfb · 08-26-2007

I wouldn't say the CrossRoads are canalphone's, they're more like IEMs. You can take them pertty deep, and I haven't even tried any UE bi-flanges or foamies yet.

But besides that it's a nice overview for someone looking for a new headphone.

aps · 08-26-2007

Thats excellent Blackstar, i like the range of earphones you have covered and it sure will help a lot of people decide on which headphones they wish to purchase next. Not too detailed yet in brief but specifying key aspects.

Nice one, i hope to see the next range of earphones you still have upcoming.

Blackstar · 08-26-2007

@mfb.. yea i was deciding on whether the mylar3 was a canalphone or IEM, I ended up placing it in the canalphone category simply because of the stock tips it came with. Although yes you can use biflange tips for more isolation, better fit and effectively turn them into IEMs.

Surtr · 08-27-2007

Excellent thread, perfect timing too as I'm currently looking into a new pair of earphones

. In all past experiences the cords seem to go before anything else. What would you say is the best if durability is preferred as much as sound quality (earphones, canalphones, IEMs; so far I'm leading towards canalphones)?

The Koss KSC-75s are indeed a good set, I would still be using them if not I preferred the in-ear style.

BobbyQ · 08-27-2007

that's what the "sticky" feature was made for I think. Good job !

Tod · 08-27-2007

Originally Posted by Blackstar

@mfb.. yea i was deciding on whether the mylar3 was a canalphone or IEM, I ended up placing it in the canalphone category simply because of the stock tips it came with. Although yes you can use biflange tips for more isolation, better fit and effectively turn them into IEMs.

Blackstar... that the best review of under $100 I've seen anywhere... a couple of questin on the mylar3, which I'm seriously considering getting -
1) what biflange tips will fit, where can they be gotten?
2) have you tried the xb model.... how does the sound compare?

I'm also deciding between a Meizu M3 and M6 right now .... any signifcant differences in the sound? I'm not really interested in the video. Thanks for all the great info here! - Tod

Blackstar · 08-28-2007

@ Surtr,
Durability wise, they should all be around the same.. as with anything you consider expensive, I shouldn't need to remind you to take care of your belongings :D

I guess its not so much the type of phones' that offer more durability over another, but the brands and the price range you're willing to pay (headphones are more durable than earphones, thats the exception). For example, brands such as Westone, Shure and Audio technica seem to use thicker and more elastic cords/cables than companies such as Etymotic. But yea, even if its thick, if you are negligent then you can still break them.

Originally Posted by Tod

a couple of questin on the mylar3, which I'm seriously considering getting -
1) what biflange tips will fit, where can they be gotten?
2) have you tried the xb model.... how does the sound compare?

I'm also deciding between a Meizu M3 and M6 right now .... any signifcant differences in the sound? I'm not really interested in the video. Thanks for all the great info here! - Tod

1) The biflange tips offered by Ultimate Ears will fit perfectly on the nozzle of the mylar3, those can be bought at online stores such as www.earphonesoutions.com or you can find them on Ebay. With Ebay, just be warned, buy NEW tips only, using old tips or used tips is unhygenic and should be avoided.

2) I have not tried the XB model, however I have read a great deal about it. Almost everyone agrees that the XB is an eXtended Bass version of the Mylar3, but as such the sound characteristics also change. The increased amount of bass had a slight effect on the midrange and dampended the treble extension. Also a few people have reported that the XB model is not as detailed as the Mylar3.

3) I have not used the M3 before, nor heard one. You should ask around the Meizu forums about it though, the M6 TP version has a high noisefloor (hissing) in the background and interferes with quiet sections of music and certain genres of music (eg piano). If the M3 has a lower noisefloor and sounds relatively similar than the M6 then go for it. Personally the large 2.4" screen on the M6 won it for me, its very easy on the eyes.

But if you're after sound quality, you obviously get one that "sounds" better :D

Surtr · 08-28-2007

Originally Posted by Blackstar

@ Surtr,
Durability wise, they should all be around the same.. as with anything you consider expensive, I shouldn't need to remind you to take care of your belongings :D

I guess its not so much the type of phones' that offer more durability over another, but the brands and the price range you're willing to pay (headphones are more durable than earphones, thats the exception). For example, brands such as Westone, Shure and Audio technica seem to use thicker and more elastic cords/cables than companies such as Etymotic. But yea, even if its thick, if you are negligent then you can still break them.

Well I do take care of my things :P The problem that always occurs is that the wire gets weaker near the jack as I use them, I certainly don't do anything on purpose to weaken it. I also haven't spent more than $20 for a pair

Thanks

Blackstar · 08-29-2007

yea, most higher quality earphones and famous brands have a stronger plug, so the chance of them failing is much lower. (The only exception is Sony lol, although the professional sony headphones are of impeccable build quality)

Moogle Stiltzkin · 09-30-2007

I own a Audio Technica ATH-A900 closed cans.

Will the Meizu M6 SL be able to drive my cans ?

or do i need to get a portable amp ? Or is that not necessary because i don't have money to throw around =_=;

Blackstar · 10-01-2007

It will drive them just fine, unless you listen to your headphones at insanely loud volumes :D

Moogle Stiltzkin · 10-01-2007

Nah i won't :D i tend to turn down my volume because my ears ache.

aquatint · 10-08-2007

I just bought some Koss earphones. Sure, the bass is punchy, but bass is not that important to me. I like a full sound.
THE MAIN PROBLEM--- I can't stand having those things stuffed in my ears!

I still use the ones that came with the miniplayer. I would like to upgrade.
With this in mind, which earbuds (with foam covers) sound really good that don't cost much more than 20 dollars?

Oops! Maybe I'll look for: Sennheiser MX400/500

beanaford · 10-11-2007

A really cheap but GREAT quality, and great noise-reducer are these surprises earbuds that i chanced upon. I was really doubtful of their performing ability based on the brand and the price but i couldn't be happier with them - ESPECIALLY considering the price. Bought 2 pairs...

Marshmallow Earbuds

http://www.amazon.com/JVC-HAFX33B-He.../dp/B000IS1ZZI

aquatint · 10-11-2007

Originally Posted by beanaford

A really cheap but GREAT quality, and great noise-reducer are these surprises earbuds that i chanced upon. I was really doubtful of their performing ability based on the brand and the price but i couldn't be happier with them - ESPECIALLY considering the price. Bought 2 pairs...

Marshmallow Earbuds

http://www.amazon.com/JVC-HAFX33B-He.../dp/B000IS1ZZI

Thanks.
So, do they sound better than the stock Meizu earphones?
Are you talking about the JVC earbuds?

beanaford · 10-12-2007

Yup the JVC marshmallow earbuds - sound and fit waayy better than the meizu earphones - have some outside-sound dampening effects as well.

Originally Posted by aquatint

Thanks.
So, do they sound better than the stock Meizu earphones?
Are you talking about the JVC earbuds?

marleyfan · 10-18-2007

Very good headphone review. I own two of the headphones reviewed - the Sure e2c and the MylarOne X3, as well as a pair of Super.fi 5 Pro's. I am very impressed with the clarity and smoothness of the x3's. They have good punchy bass that is not nearly as muddy as the e2's. The M6 really makes them sing. However, although the sound is quite nice on the x3's the build quality seems nowhere near as good as the Shure or UE's. That just means I'm going to have to be more careful with them. The x3's have become my go-to headphones even over the UE's as i find them more comfortable and far less bulky. Although the UE's sound amazing they stick pretty far out of my ears and look kinda goofy. When I wear them I feel like I'm in an old Star Trek episode.