Not sure what to look out for when purchasing a new pair of headsets?
Well, we all, at some point, have been confused about the same thing due to the ever-increasing features and hype around these highly evolving gadgets.
However, this shouldn’t worry you. With the correct information regarding their most valuable features, you can make an informed decision.
Below we’ve listed some technical features to look out for and product benefits to consider when selecting your next pair of headphones.
Sound quality
There is no doubt that poor output from your headphones can be a real turn-off. This makes audio quality one of the primary factors to consider when purchasing a new pair.
Therefore, it is crucial to look for headphones that support the most appropriate technology to enable high-quality audio transmissions–in this wireless headphones era.
For example, headphones that support aptX technology. Typically aptX technology does a better job at compressing and decompressing music during transmission. This also allows for the introduction of lesser latency in comparison to other codecs.
This technology comes in handy when using your headphones for video games or watching movies. Aptx Technology is the complete opposite of bluetooth technology which is reputed for its lackluster audio quality.
High-quality Headphones such as the 900 Legacy Headphones and the BT 120 NC earphones integrate this incredible technology.
Voice call quality
Most use their headphones to receive or listen in on conference calls, making voice-call quality a top technical feature to consider when selecting your next pair of headphones.
Battery Life and charging speed
Unlike older models of wired headsets or headphones, new modern wireless headphones incorporate their built-in batteries making enabling functions that much faster. An additional key vital consideration when selecting your headphones is the battery life expectancy and charging speed.
Most contemporary wireless headsets will offer you a few hours of excellent service before they run out of charge. Unfortunately, you won’t enjoy the freedom that comes with wireless headphones once they are grounded.
Thus you need to look for a set that can sustain playtime for the longest period before they require recharging. An example of such is the HP Omen Frequency wireless headset that delivers up to 30 hours of battery life.
Charging time for the battery is equally important as this determines the length of time you’ll have to wait before using the headsets again.
Everplay-X feature for Traveling
Alternatively, you can use Phiaton’s Everplay-X feature to transform your wireless Phiaton earphones into their wired equivalents. Phiaton products such as the BT 460, 900 LEGACY, and BT 390 headphones feature a 3.5mm jack that can be used along with the Everplay-X cable when connecting them to your tablet, phone, or any other portable device to enable continued functioning even when out of power.
To easily access the jack, you simply open the USB port located at the bottom of the headphone
In smaller headsets such as the BT 100 NC and the BT 220 NC, you need to connect the Everplay-X cable to the USB port used for charging.
This feature is valuable on special occasions, such as when you’re traveling or when you want to listen to music via an old iPod or laptop.
The only downside you’ll have to forfeit other functionalities such as playback/call controls and noise cancellation.
Multipoint connect
In modern working or social environments, you might find yourself needing to simultaneously answer different calls from different gadgets. This is not possible with a simple ordinary headset. However, if you purchase one of our products with the multipoint connect feature, you can combine two calls forming a conference without taking off your headphones.
For instance, with this capability, you can connect your Bluetooth headphone to two different devices at the same time using the simple multipoint format. When one of your phones ring, the headset knows which one it is. This enables it to automatically stream from the correct device when answering the call.
Furthermore, the feature would alert you if there is an incoming call from the second phone if you are still attending to the first one. This allows you to directly answer the second call using the same headphone.
Comfort level
Ideally, comfort is what most folks consider when purchasing a new pair of headphones. This stems from the fact that they would use them most of the time.
Comfort in headphones depends on two major factors: form and weight.
For starters, headphones can be categorized into three main forms: the in-ear type, on-ear type, and over-ear.
The first style is the tiniest of the three types and will fit in your ear canal or easily hang around your neck. They are fantastic as they mostly feature sweat and water-resistant materials and are more portable, making them a good fit for working out with.
They are also convenient and do not interfere with your earrings, hair, or glasses. Their only downside is that they easily tangle and might feel intrusive after some use.
The second style of on-ear, are considered average in size and rest on top of your ears without fully enclosing them. The good thing about them is that they allow some breathing space; therefore, you won’t feel hot when using them for extended hours.
Besides that, they allow you to hear whatever is happening in your surroundings.
The last group, the over-ear type is the largest of the three types. They will cup or surround your ear and stay on by applying light pressure on your upper jaw and temple.
Over-ear type headphones come in two versions, either open or closed type. The open-back style allows the surrounding noise to reach you. On the other hand, the closed-back style cuts everything out allowing for better bass and higher sound volumes.
The downside with these kinds is that they can be challenging if you wanted to move around with them due to their bulky nature. Furthermore, they can get a bit uncomfortable (hot) if used for a long time or when working out.
Regarding weight, you can consider a model that features lightweight material so that you don’t get bogged down after heavy use. For instance, you can select a headset that is made up of aluminum, carbon fiber, and plastic components.
Controls and pairing
How you will control and pair your headset is also equally important as it will determine their ease of use. The traditional wire models have physical controls along with the cords where you can add their volume or change a radio station on your phone.
On the contrary, wireless headphones feature modern touch controls on the earpieces themselves. By making different touch movements on the surface of the earpiece, you can accomplish several tasks.
On top of that, others like the 900 legacy can allow you to pause music or initiate the noise-canceling feature by slightly pulling the left earpiece away from your ear.
A few others are controlled by external applications or voice.
On the issue of pairing, you can select one that uses Bluetooth technology or one that has NFC functionality, taking into account we have models that utilize both technologies.
Build Quality and Reliability
If you want a headset that would serve you for a considerable period, it’s best to research and check their build quality. In this case, you have to physically assess them to determine if they are finicky or not, research the materials utilized, and check out if they have the necessary certifications such as the IPX for durability and wear and tear resistance under constant use.
You shouldn’t forget to make sure your pair of headphones has a warranty and customer service policy, even if you’re purchasing from a reputable brand. In short, settle down on a robust pair that has a functional warranty backing and proper certifications.
Price
Finally, you’ll have to consider your intended product’s price to determine if it fits your budget.
Like any other top-notch products out there, quality headphones will come at a premium price.
For instance, a pair of headphones with all the whistles and bells, such as a great design, noise cancellation capabilities, and superb sound quality, among other advanced features you’ll definitely want to research your options. Otherwise, if you needed something simple to answer a call with or listen to music, then a cheaper alternative would fit the bill.
Here are some steps to consider when selecting one.
1. Determine the specific use of the headphones
The first thing to consider when purchasing a product or service is to determine its purpose. The same applies to a pair of headsets.
For instance, do you want a pair of headphones you’ll be using while working out in the gym? Or will you use them to listen to music while in bed, at the office, or doing some gardening work? Doing so reduces the scope of your search.
2. Select your kind of headphone type
There are three main types of headphone sets in the market. There is the in-ear type, on-ear type, or over-ear type.
Each one of them has its good and bad sides, as mentioned earlier in the article.
3. Choose between the open-back or closed-back headphones
Depending on your intended use, taste, or comfort levels, you can choose between the following two versions:
The closed-back model — This type is designed without any vents or holes on their outer shells. The model is standard among the in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear headsets.
Open-back model — On the contrary, this kind has holes and vents on their earpieces. This allows sound and air to get in and out of your ears, giving you an illusion of a standard radio or soundstage.
4. Choose between the wireless and wired headphones
Next, you’ll decide on whether to purchase the traditional wired headphones or their contemporary wireless counterparts.
Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, which leaves you with the option of selecting what works for you.
For instance, wired headphones will provide you with consistent high-quality audio regardless of the existing conditions besides having a better battery life compared to other wireless types. However, they will require you to carry along your gadget.
On the other hand, wireless headphones will allow you to move within a particular radius without your phone or music player allowing you to answer phone calls or listen to music. A downside would be, they lose function once the battery runs out of charge. Sound clarity and quality can be affected or stop working if you move too far away.
5. Noise cancellation
Another thing to decide on is whether to have a headset with the noise cancellation feature or not. Nonetheless, this technology enables you to cut off any noise when using a pair of headphones. They can be a good fit for several experts such as transcribers who require a noise-free environment.
The only caveat here is that they are pricier compared to other types.
6. Add-ons, options, and accessories
Lastly, you can consider if your potential pair integrates, as well as supports the use of several valuable add-ons and accessories.
For instance, if they feature:
An Amplifier: A pair of headphones that incorporates an amplifier will often have a more comprehensive dynamic range, more clarity, and incredible detail. All these are fundamental to an excellent audio experience.
Cables and stands: A few headphone brands come along with their unique stands. Having one of this kind can enable you to display your pair wherever you’re or can help you spice up your décor. Similarly, most wireless headphones come along with a USB charging cable for recharging their batteries and a regular cable that can enable them to work like the traditional wired models. Ensure that your would-be pair includes this in their combo for convenience purposes.
Microphone: Another critical thing is to check out if your headset has the microphone component, which enables you to make and receive phone calls
They have a Digital to Analog Converter (DACs): A DAC converts a digital file back to an analog file to enable an accurate, richer, better, and clearer sound.
Thus procuring a headset pair that supports this add-on can significantly improve your audio experience.
Upgrade your visual and sound experience: Resolution quality is always important when selecting your monitor. Using 5k and 8K resolution qualities actually provide this difference making it helpful for all types of professions digital, artistic and artificial or gaming. With a 5k monitor, you’ll be getting a resolution of 5120 × 2880. That’s twice the high def of 1920 x 1080. While with 8k monitors, you’ll be getting a whopping 7680 x 4320. We’ve provided a list to help you select your future best visual experience option. Partnering crisp visuals with crisp sound will give you the ultimate experience. It allows you to have a more immersive experience if everything is high quality because you see and hear things more clearly.
Wrapping it up, choosing your next pair of headphones can be a difficult task with the correct information at your fingertips it can become a simple decision. By using the above-mentioned tips you can easily find the right headphones or earphones for your everyday needs.
Trying out your potential pair of headphones or earphones from your favorite store is always the best way to see if your selection is a good fit, especially if they are expensive.
Recommended Reads:
How AI is Transforming the Music Industry; All You Need to Know
New Headphone & Earphone Tech: Features to Look for in Your Next Pair
What is Noise-Cancellation Technology?
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