Headphones are a popular holiday buy, but most advertised models seem to cost $100 or more. If you're shopping for a set, but are resistant to spending so much on a purchase that's likely to be used on the go, and liable to be lost or damaged, our updated tests offer sweet music.
We found new choices in good-sounding headphones of practically all types for under $100. Those supplement the recommended models in our last full Ratings (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers). Many of those older models, including those we recommend, remain available.
For more help in buying headphones, check our free buying advice, which includes a rundown of two hot headphone types: Noise-canceling models that use sound processing to reduce, though not to cancel entirely, ambient noise to the ear; and wireless headphones, which you can use with a Bluetooth-enabled music phone, laptop, or other device.
Here's some of the best values from our new tests:
Best choices for most in earbud and insert headphones:
These differing in-ear styles are the most popular headphones for MP3 players. One of the top values are the 'phones you likely already have: The earbud models that come with the Apple iPods. Available separately for $30, and usable with any MP3 player, these have smooth frequency response, though they're a little lacking in bass. Have trouble getting a good fit from your earbuds? Consider the Sennheiser OMX 50, $30, which performed comparably to the Apple's and have hooks that loop around the ear to help secure the headphones.
At the opposite sonic extreme are two $10 sets with weak bass but adequate performance otherwise: the Sony MDR-E10LP (Click on the image at left for a closer look.) and Philips SHE2850/37. Also consider the Sony MDR-E829V, $15, even though it slightly under-emphasizes upper-midrange sounds.
So-called ear-insert models are longer and go deeper into the ear, thus providing better sound isolation. A good value in insert models is the JVC HA-FX33, $20, though they're quite bassy (you might want to activate the bass-reduce setting on your iPod when using them).
If a firm fit is paramount:
The Sennheiser PMX 70 (Click on image at right for a closer look), $50, is a sport-style model. This type, comprising two earbuds on a band that presses them into the ears, offer a secure fit even when exercising. Many, including these Sennheisers, are also designed to limit skin contact, thus minimizing the chance your 'phones will become sweat-soaked. The PMX 70 performed adequately, though it was weak in bass response.
For cordless listening with a Bluetooth-enabled device:
The Jabra BT-320S earbuds, $80, are decent in performance; they lack bass, for example. But they're an option if compactness and freedom from wires matters more to you than optimal sound. The rechargeable battery in the receiver unit runs for 5 hours on a charge.
—Paul Reynolds
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