iPod earphone recommendations

[Reggie Dunlop]

I've been moved to other duties at work which allows me the opportunity to listen to my iPod. I've got the standard-issue earbuds that came with it, but I find them uncomfortable not to mention they don't really stick in my ear very successfully and keep popping out.

I'd like something that is a little more stable, but at the same time, not the type than envelop the ears and are physically obvious. I think I'd like to have a pair that are less obvious to the casual observer. Discrete if you will.

Something with a loop around the neck or an ear brace. They can be wired, as Bluetooth headphones require constant recharging (I have a pair of iMuffs already, but only use them at home).

I'm not the biggest audiophile but wouldn't mind paying for quality ones if they meet my other criteria.

Suggestions?

[jar_e]

I'd personally recommend the Shure SE Models...

[Displaced Flames fan]

These are what I have Reg.

http://www.etymotic.com/ephp/er6.aspx

I had a pair of Shures, but I found that they won't fit in my ear any better than the apple standards. The ER6's have superb sound quality and an extremely comfortable fit.

The one drawback is that you can create noise if you're doing some strenuous activity by bouncing the wires around. So maybe not the best choice if you're going to be running a lot. Don't get me wrong, it's not that big a deal but some noise is there.

One more drawback, they don't hold up very well to dogs that like to chew.

You can get them for $100 or less on eBay.

[Reggie Dunlop]

Originally Posted by jar_e

I'd personally recommend the Shure SE Models...

Thanks. Those are interesting. Not sure about the "sound isolating" feature. I still have to be able to hear outside sound, so basically what I'm looking for is something thats inobstrusive. Sort of like a personal Muzak system. But ones that don't fall off when I turn my head. They could hang around my neck when not in use.

[Displaced Flames fan]

Originally Posted by Reggie Dunlop

Thanks. Those are interesting. Not sure about the "sound isolating" feature. I still have to be able to hear outside sound, so basically what I'm looking for is something thats inobstrusive. Sort of like a personal Muzak system. But ones that don't fall off when I turn my head. They could hang around my neck when not in use.

My suggestion might not work for you then Reg, the ER6 is noise cancelling...and they do a great job.

[Reggie Dunlop]

Originally Posted by Displaced Flames fan

My suggestion might not work for you then Reg, the ER6 is noise cancelling...and they do a great job.

Thanks man.

Just some fussy criteria on my part.

[Rathji]

Check Monoprice.com, they had a set like the ones you seem to be looking for. I doubt they are extreme high quality or anything, but I have yet to be disappointed with anything I have received from them.

[Azure]

Bose makes some quality in-ear headphones.

But I do believe they are noise-canceling as well.

EDIT:

http://www.bose.ca/controller?event=...adphones_index

Bit expensive though.

[browna]

I haved used these for the past year, when running. Started off with cheap sony ear clip ones, but the jostling of running would loosen them.

http://www.sennheiser.ca/main.php?node=ct_01&pro=400

Got these, and they're fantastic...a different kind of clip, supported by the neck band. The don't budge out of the ear. Rugged...have lasted a year with weekly sweating.
Not sure if that's the style you want, or, if the neon green is a little too conspicuous fpr, but they sound great, and most importantly for me, stay in your ear.
Sennheiser makes a few variations of these models, as well as more audiophile quality stuff, so check the site out.
Picked mine up at Memory Express...Apple stores carry them too.

[icarus]

Originally Posted by Azure

Bose makes some quality in-ear headphones.

But I do believe they are noise-canceling as well.

EDIT:

http://www.bose.ca/controller?event=...adphones_index

Bit expensive though.

Those are the ones I have and they are great. I recommend.

Originally Posted by browna

http://www.sennheiser.ca/main.php?node=ct_01&pro=400
.

A buddy of mine swears by his Sennheisers, not sure what model he has though.

[kermitology]

How long did you use the standard ones? I pitched mine the moment I got them since their such terrible quality. I'd personally go with Bose or Sennheiser

[Azure]

I use mine until they fall apart.

Usually takes about 6 months.

Had a pair of Panasonic's that have lasted me well over 2 years now. Problem is that they don't make them anymore.

[Ro]

I own the Shures, and love them, but they are definitely noise-isolating. I prefer the foam earpieces, and when I have them in and the music/podcasts on at just half max volume, I can't hear anything else.

They are awesome earphones though.

[Pagal4321]

I can't stand those in ear headphones, I find that I can't get them to stay in my ear, even when sitting.
Picked up a pair of Sennheisers....love em. But if I could afford Bose, I'd go that route!