02 July 2011

Let's Get Physical with these Gym-Ready Earphones


The perfect soundtrack for serious runners goes at 170 to 180 bpm. Once you've got your favorite songs sorted next step is to choose headphones that suits the best for this purpose while staying in your ear as you work out - sweat resistance is also a big plus. These five earphones are all suitably gym-honed. Give them a try.



Sennheiser / Adidas PMX 680
 
Headphone superpower Sennheiser joins forces with Adidas to create strong, neckband style headphones with buds that protrude from the ear more than rivals, but remain doggedly secure during even the most energetic workouts. Sweat-and-water-resistance protects the PMX 680s from long-term wear, but lack of replaceable ear buds makes it difficult for everyone to find a perfect fit.

Sound quality is clear with great clarity even at high volumes as you'd expect from Sennheiser but Sony's combo top audio, value and fit wins.

Love : Secure neckband, Luminous design

Hate : Lack of replaceable ear buds hinders fit

Logitech Ultimate Ears 300VI Noise-Isolating Headset


Opting for a mouldable over the ear hooked fit these headphones can be awkward to reposition on the run and less secure than a neckband design. Sweat resistance protects against corrosion and a on-cord remote puts controls in easy reach.

Sound performance is amongst the most impressive on test with rich, deep qualities and noise isolation, with the buds plugging your ear canal ensuring you can hear your workout mix over the sound of your own labored breathing.

Love : Rich sound and noise isolation

Hate : Awkward to fit

V-Moda Remix Remote

The V-Moda's sonic output can sometimes be overly bassy overpowering the high notes and making for a less-than-balanced overall sound.

The on-cord remote and hands-free mic let you control your phone or PMP without having to break your stride and there's the option of detachable hooks that clasp onto your ear giving a reasonably secure fit - they do pose problems if you try to re-fit them on the move. With no protection against sweat, these don't make for ideal gym buddys.

Love : Comfortable fit, Hands-free mic with call/music control function

Hate : Awkward ear hooks. Bass-heavy sound won't appeal to everyone.

Philips SHQ4000/10
Do you insist on putting your trainers in the washing machine? Then clean freak, you might be interested in these ultra-hygienic phones from Philips. They are machine washable and a built-in anti-bacterial agent. Their slim neckband is ideal for running.

The audio feels disappointingly tinny and lacking in power. It's the design that's the star here though with clever hinges that allow you to lift out one ear bud while keeping the other secure. Pushing both buds into the ears also quietens the audio in an instant letting you hear the outside world (Smart).

Love  : Extremely hygienic and ingenious design

Hate : Tinny, weak sound

Song MDR-AS50G

With a flexible spiral neckband, the MDR-AS50Gs sit unobtrusively above the back of the neck while the buds remain secure inside the ears for an entire workout. An effective moisture guard prevents sweat-induced slippage and the 60 cm cord means you can comfortably keep your phone in your pocket.

The sound quality impresses delivering a rich-bassy response which stays true even when you turn it up to maximum volume.  
Love : Reasonable price, comfortable fit, consistently rich sound

Hate : No volume controls

Some 170-180 BPM Songs :
  • Mushaboom (The Vapors)
  • Turning Japanese (Joanna Newsom)
  • Good Intentions Paying Co. (David Bowie)
  • Panic in Detroid (TV on the Radio)
  • Wolf Like Me (Oasis)
  • Wonderwall (Thin Lizzy)
  • The Boys are Back in Town (www.JogTunes.com)

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