Headphones: Here is how to choose one

Being aware of a few key elements and the options available could let you make a smarter choice.

| Updated: Tuesday, February 20, 2018, 21:47 [IST]

During the last-minute scramble just before leaving the house, one of the things that many look for are headphones. They are something you will carry with you everywhere.

While each of us own headphones, sometimes we wish we had a better one. Thus we go out to retail outlets or visit e-commerce website in search of the best possible headphones to buy. But again, there is a lot of choice in the market right now. As such, apart from the budget, there are few things to remember before buying a new headset. Besides, being aware of a few key elements and the options available could let you make a smarter choice.

1) Types:

a) Full-size headphones

• Over-ear:

With a heavy bass and a better surround system, these are very good at blocking external noise but they have less efficient noise isolation.

• On-ear:

These are incredibly light and is easier to carry around. There is no scope for heat getting trapped around the ears either.

But the pads press against the ear and has less effective noise isolation.

b) Ear-fitting headphones

• In-ear:

The ear plugs extend into the ear canals and molds into the shape of the ear canals. The noise isolation and bass reproduction are quite superior due to the perfect seal.

• Earbud:

The earbuds do not extend into the ear canals but rest in the outer ear. The lack of a perfect seal compromises the bass but it also prevents the seepage of ambient noise.

Material:

• Plastic:

A lot of headphones are made from plastic as it is cheaply available.

• Foam:

The earbuds mold to the shape of the ears and the headbands provide a cushioning to the head.

• Rubber:

Apart from being more comfortable, they are also more scratch-resistant.

• Metal:

Denser and stronger and much more resistant to everyday wear, this is the choice for many high-end headphones.

Sound Quality:

• Frequency range:

The wider the frequency range, the better the sound.

• Impedance:

Lower the impedance, higher the volume produced for same electrical output. On the other hand, higher impedance headphones are much less susceptible to blow outs.

• Sound Pressure Level (SPL):

The Efficiency of conversion from electrical current to audible sound waves is known as SPL.

• Magnet Type:

Ferrite and Neodymium are the two types of magnets that are used. The Neodymium magnets are lighter and more comfortable to wear.