Wired headphones are still considered the benchmark when it comes to sound quality. That's why in today's ranking we have only wired models.
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Best wired headphones
Headphones broadcast audio signals transmitted by radio electronic equipment. The wired connection between two devices is most often made through a standard 3.5 mm plug. A 6.3 mm jack is used less frequently.
Wired headphones are more reliable than wireless Bluetooth headsets because they are independent of the power source - you don't need to charge them. To listen to your favorite tracks, all you have to do is plug the cable into your phone or any other device.
And they always sound better than wireless models in the same price range. This is because the cord provides a stable connection and transmits sound as accurately as possible.
Beyerdynamic Aventho Wired black
Wide range over-the-ear headphones
The Beyerdynamic Aventho are lightweight, modern headphones that broadcast clear sound and do a great job of blocking out outside noise.
Reasons to buy:
- Robust build;
- balanced sound;
- detachable cable;
- portability.
The closed-type headphones are solidly built. The cups are attached to the metal headband, rotate 90 degrees. Cushions wrapped with eco-leather. There are no external openings on the bodies, which guarantees good passive noise isolation. Soft headband inserts prevent friction or excessive pressure and make the accessory comfortable to use.
For excellent sound is responsible proprietary Tesla speakers. They give clear detailed sound, suitable for amateur and professional musicians.
Connect to your phone or player through a removable audio cable with 3.5 mm jack. It also has a remote control with microphone and volume control module. Included with the headphones is a cloth pouch for storage.
Sony MDR-7506
Powerful sound, comfort and practicality
MDR-7506 from Sony is a good choice for home and professional use. The stylish headphones are comfortable, and this not only applies to the fit, but also to the closed design and the long spiral cable.
Reasons to buy:
- Effective passive noise isolation;
- reliable and long cable;
- the possibility of replacing components;
- innovative speakers.
The body of the Sony headphones is made of durable plastic - not the best solution, but it allowed to reduce the cost and weight of the device. The earpiece is closed by a soft insert, round ear cushions wrapped in synthetic leather. For transportation they can be folded inside the headband.
The cable is thick and sturdy with a 3.5mm jack and is not detachable. It is heavy enough, but less likely to break and malfunction. The cable length is 3 meters.
Especially for this model, the company has developed dynamic transducers, the work of which is based on the use of a corrugated diaphragm with a large diameter. The reproduced frequency range is from 10 to 20 kHz.
MDR-7506 are made of high quality, do not squeeze your temples and do not cause headache when you wear them for a long time. Because of these features, the accessory quickly gained popularity in the professional environment and among ordinary customers.
Etymotic ER-4S
Compact armature "ears
Convenient in-channel headphones provide detailed reproduction of all the nuances of audio compositions. Recommended for recording engineers, musicians and amateurs who value precision in sound.
Reasons to buy:
- Interesting design;
- authentic sound reproduction;
- good passive noise isolation;
- extended package;
- durability.
The housings of the earplugs are made of lightweight metal, resistant to deformation and corrosion. Thin silicone earpieces do not create unnecessary pressure on the ear canal and keep you comfortable while listening to music for a long time. Removable filters inside the earpieces protect electronics from dirt.
The 3.5mm connection cable is removable, so it is easy to replace if necessary. The armature drivers allow you to fully enjoy classical music and vocals. They lack bass, of course, but this is a feature of all such models.
When you buy Etymotic ER-4S you get three pairs of different sized earmolds out of the box, replacement acoustic filters, a tool to replace them, a zippered case and a clip to attach the cord to your clothes.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Comfortable studio headphones
The ATH-M50x offers balanced studio sound - perfect for professional monitoring and mixing.
Reasons to buy:
- neat design;
- sturdy build;
- powerful and beautiful sound;
- tight detachable cord.
The plastic accessory features a flexible, adjustable, padded headband. The oval ear cushions fit snugly over the ears and isolate from ambient noise.
The hinged cups rotate 90 degrees and fold inward. The three planes of mobility allow you to find the most comfortable fit for your monitors on your head. Once the cord is plugged in, a locking mechanism works to prevent the connector from accidentally falling out of the socket.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x broadcasts clear and dense bass, as well as bright treble. The scene is detailed, clear and very beautiful. But the headphones are demanding to the sound source.
The model is popular with music experts and fans of quality sound. A soft fabric case is provided for storage and transportation. The product is sold together with three cables and adapter for 6.3 mm jack.
MEE Audio Pinnacle P2
Interesting sound and good insulation
The MEE audio Pinnacle P2 headphones are a justified choice for people who need reliable isolation from outside noise and good performance.
Reasons to buy:
- clear sound;
- good microphone;
- lightweight;
- reliable thick cable
- A wide selection of ear cushions in different shapes and sizes.
In this model, the anatomically shaped housings are made of plastic, which made it possible to significantly reduce the cost of the headphones compared to the more pretentious first version made of polished zinc alloy. Each earpiece has a built-in dynamic driver and a standard MMCX cable connector.
The 130 cm long braided cord has a microphone and a one-button control panel. The microphone accurately transmits voice and is suitable for phone calls. You can wear the headphones with the cable down or throw the cords over your ear. The second method is more comfortable and eliminates accidental loss of the earplugs from the ear canal.
Pinnacle P2 produces clear sound with embellished upper and lower frequencies. In general, the manufacturer has worked a lot with the AFC, as a result of which the headphones learned to pull out beautiful and interesting sound even from the recordings of low quality.
The accessory is recommended for listening to music in the city, during travel and flights, as it gives good passive noise isolation. The kit includes a set of 6 pairs of replacement ear cushions, a cute zippered case, 3.5 mm audio cable and adapter for 6.3 mm.
AKG K371
Comfortable full-size monitors
A mid-range professional headset produces neutral sound and provides a sense of spatial perception.
Reasons to buy:
- Stylish design;
- clear reproduction;
- interchangeable ear cushions;
- functionality;
- adequate price.
Studio headphones combined of lightweight metal and plastic have rounded, articulated ear cushions that completely cover the earshells. Design features allow the cups to rotate 180 degrees and move away from the ear to hear ambient noise. Cushioned ear cushions with soft foam inserts reduce pressure on your temples.
The frequency range of the monitors is very wide, from 5 Hz to 40 kHz. The titanium-coated drivers are responsible for clean playback. The connection to the sound source is made through a wire with a 3.5 mm jack, but the kit also includes an adapter for 6.3 mm.
AKG K371 impresses with bright concert sound and in addition to professional use is suitable for watching movies and listening to classical and electronic music at home.
Sennheiser G4me One
The gaming headset
Sennheiser traditionally delivers natural sound that allows you to fully focus on gaming while comfortably communicating in virtual chats.
Reasons to buy:
- stylish look;
- Powerful speakers with plenty of volume;
- noise-canceling microphone;
- lightweight, padded headband.
The design of the accessory is suitable for experienced gamers and casual users. The housing is made of impact-resistant plastic, the adjustable headband is covered with a soft covering, and the ear cushions are made of velour.
The outer side of the cups is perforated, which allows air flow and reduces sound pressure. The headset plays off the music background and special effects in games, movies or when listening to audio compositions in a cool way.
On the left side is a noise-canceling speaking microphone. It cannot be disconnected, but you can lift it up to mute the broadcast. The volume control on the headphones themselves is on the right cup. The maximum level is 116 dB, and thanks to Sennheiser's proprietary Transducer technology, the model guarantees incredible sound clarity and accuracy.
Beats urBeats3
Two connection options
Beats urBeats3 is a great option for all wired headset lovers who prefer clear sound and comfortable listening. The model is available in two versions: mini-jack and Lightning plug.
Reasons to buy:
- Tangle-free cord;
- Tilting ear cushions for a comfortable fit;
- easy operation;
- Quality microphone.
The body of the classic in-ear earbuds is shaped like a bullet. Inside each ear piece is a dynamic driver that transmits sound to the ear canal through an angled ear piece. On the outside, there are magnetic elements that hold the heads together during storage.
The nonremovable flat cable prevents tangling. It has a three-button remote to control playback and a microphone to receive calls. The microphone muffles background noise and guarantees a natural voice transmission.
Beats urBeats3 fits securely in your ears and fully immerses you in your favourite music, even during sports activities. It comes with a case and ear pads in four sizes.
How to choose headphones for listening to music on your phone and computer
Basic Wired Earphones
On the market there are several types of wired headphones, which differ in shape and method of fit:
- In-canal (vacuum). Inserted into the ear canal, they block some of the ambient noise, providing passive isolation and powerful sound.
- In-ear (earmolds) .. They resemble small buttons that are placed in the ear canal. They lack acoustic isolation and do not stay in place well if they are not the right size.
- Full-size and ear pieces. Equipped with large cups with soft cushions that fully or partially cover the ears. The first option is more comfortable for long use, the second is more compact.
According to the acoustic design, there are open, closed and mixed models. The first ones let the air and external noise through. They are not designed for serious soundproofing, but provide natural and clear sound, as well as spatial audio scene.
Closed headphones cut off ambient noise and make listening easier, but the sound in them can "press" on the ears. These are more suitable for use in noisy places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which headphone format is best?
It all depends on what you will be using your headphones for. You may even need a pair of different devices.
In-ear and earbud models are good for sports, with moisture protection, a strong wire, and a clip for attaching to your clothes.
For gaming and computer use, full-size, closed-the-ear or mixed-mic devices are best. Listening to music outdoors is comfortable in vacuum headphones with moderate noise isolation or in overhead headphones.
For studio work the main priority is the quality and "truthfulness" of the sound. Here you need specialized monitor models.
What to pay attention to when choosing?
Pay attention to the technical characteristics. For reliable equipment, the average indicators are as follows: frequency range 20 Hz-20 kHz, sensitivity 100 dB, electrical impedance 16-30 Ohms.
The design must be strong enough and assembled without backlash - so that nothing creaks. The quality of the cable is very important, especially if it is not detachable. Look for a thick and dense cord, ideally a flat cord.
How do you fold the cord so it doesn't get tangled?
Lay out the cords in an even line and squeeze in your hand. Loosely wrap the cord around your palm several times. Remove the twisted cable and wrap the rest around it - you should get a kind of figure of eight. Pull the end with the plug into the ear formed as a result of the coiling.
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