In need of a new pair of headphones that can effectively block out ambient noise? Check out the new Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b Quiet Point active noise-cancelling over-ear headphones capable of blocking out approximately 90 percent of environmental noise.

The headphones feature Quiet Point active noise-cancellation technology which makes use of miniature microphones in each earpiece to detect environmental noise. The headphones then apply a sound-cancelling signal against the noise thereby blocking out 90 percent of the ambient noise.

A winner of a CES Innovations 2010 award, the ATH-ANC7b also come with padded earcups, adjustable headband, a 5.2 and 3.3 feet detachable cable, a 1/4 inch adapter, an airline adapter, and finally a hard carrying case.

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b headphones are available for a suggested price of $219.95.

Technorati Tags: Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b Noise-Cancelling Headphones

According to Lady Gag, “In the deepest hour of the night, I confess to myself three things; I would die if I was forbidden to write, forbidden to love, or forbidden to fashion. Heartbeats embody the trinity of my human being, with one additional vow: that SOUND matters. Wear heartbeats, love each other, and celebrate the art and lifestyle of music.”

Features of “Heartbeats by Lady Gaga” include:

• High performance headphone that doubles as a high-tech fashion accessory
• Multi-facted glossy surface and high tech build materials with a jewel inspired earpiece cosmetic
• Available in three separate cosmetic styles, including a metallicized body with a rose red jewel-shaped earpiece, metallicized body with an all chrome jewel-shaped earpiece and a black-on-black body and jewel-shaped earpiece design
• ControlTalk – advanced on-cable feature that provides users with full control of their “listening experience” when using an Apple device such as the iPhone 3GS, iPod shuffle, and other new iPods
• Monster ControlTalk headphone cable comes with integrated high-grade microphone and answer button

The ControlTalk remote and microphone is supported by iPod nano (4th and 5th gen), iPod classic (120GB), iPod touch (2nd gen), and iPhone 3GS and newer, but not all, Blackberry models. Remote is supported by iPod shuffle (3rd gen). Audio is supported by all iPods.

“Heartbeats by Lady Gaga” is available in several versions including:

• Basic Model without ControlTalk – available in three colors, metallicized body with rose red earpiece, metallicized body with all chrome earpieces and black-on-black body and earpiece design. MSRP of $119.95 and currently available for pre-order at BestBuy.com and in BestBuy stores on October 18th
• Basic Model wih ControlTalk – available in black-on-black body and earpiece design only. MSRP of $149.95 and available in late October 2009
• Heartbeats by Lady Gaga Haute Couture Ultra High Definition Headphones with ControlTalk – available in metallicized body with rose red jewel-shaped crystal earpiece design. MSRP of $179.95 and available this holiday season

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Monster Audio, Heartbeats by Lady Gaga, Lady Gaga

Sony Ericsson brings motion-activation to the world of headphones with the introduction of the new MH907 – the world’s first motion-activated headphones that actually sense the user. To listen to music, simply plug in both earphones; to stop listening, just remove one earbud.

Yup.. that’s it.

Better yet – the same techniques apply to answering and ending phone calls.  What makes this all possible is Sony Ericsson’s use of SensMe Control technology which means users don’t have to worry about pressing any buttons at all.

The MH907 measures 164 cm long, weighs 25.32 grams, and is available in two colors – Yellow/White and Titan Chrome.

Head on over to http://www.sonyericsson.com/putyourearsincontrol/ for more information (including a short film) about the MH907.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sony Ericsson MH907 Headphones

I wanted to give a quick shout-out to the guys of the Sennheiser Sound Tour who made an appearance on Sunday over at the Best Buy West Los Angeles location. For those of you unfamiliar with the Sound Tour, the Sennheiser Sound Tour is a 3 month long, 30+ city tour consisting of two teams (one team of six guys and one team of six girls) traveling across North America. While the guys are here in California, the girls are currently traveling around in New York City. Hmm.. California.. New York.. that’s a hard one but since I’m a New Yorker originally, I’d rather be in NYC

Together, the two teams are promoting the Sennheiser brand by visiting various events including concerts, festivals, video game events, and of course random locations like Best Buy. The guys had several booths set up in and around Best Buy showcasing several of Sennheiser’s awesome headphones.  If you want to check out where the teams are at, head to their website and see if they’re coming to a city near you.

Now along the way, these two teams will be pitted against one another through weekly challenges. Currently, the girls are apparently ahead but hey – I’m rooting for the guys to win. You can follow their escapades (and who’s winning the challenges) by watching their excellent webisodes which are posted over at YouTube. If you’re on Facebook, make sure to search for “Sennheiser Sound Tour” page and become a fan of the page!

Finally thanks to Po for showing me some of Sennheiser’s latest headphones (man – I am practically sold on the HD 238 headphones! Too bad Best Buy didn’t have any in stock). Best of luck to the guys and I can’t wait for the Tuesday videos which are sure to be a treat!

And finally – here are some of the webisodes! Enjoy!

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sennheiser Sound Tour, Best Buy

Want to use a headphone other than the one Apple provides for the current iPod shuffle? Now you can with the new Belkin Headphone Adapter for iPod shuffle. Not only can you use any headphone with the new adapter, you’ll also be able to control the functions of the shuffle since the player doesn’t come with any controls itself.

The Headphone Adapter will allow you to:

• Adjust volume
• Skip tracks
• Toggle between playlists
• Hear a song title

Belkin’s Headphone Adapter will be available at the end of July in North America and in the middle of August in Europe, Asia, and Australia for $19.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Belkin Headphone Adapter iPod shuffle

Audio-Technica announces today the introduction of their new ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint active noise-cancelling over-ear headphones which provides the same 85% noise-cancellation functionality of their previous model yet also incorporates improvements for “better sound quality, comfort, and convenience.”

Features and specs to the ATH-ANC7b include:

• Redesigned ear-cups for greater comfort. Ear-cups have cushioned padding and fit easily over any ear.
• Comes with 1.6m (5.2’) and 1.0m (3.3’) detachable cables
• Easier battery access
• QuietPoint active noise-cancellation technology eliminates approximately 85% of outside noise. Miniature microphone in each earcup detects the environmental noise and a corresponding sound-cancelling signal is applied.
• Large-aperture 40mm drivers with a frequency response of 10 to 25,000 Hz
• 109 dB sensitivity
• Can operate in a passive mode without batteries (no noise cancelling technology in operation)
• Folds for storage
• Comes with 2 detachable cables, 1/4 inch adapter, an airline adapter, and a hard durable carrying case

The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7b will be available in August for a price of $219.95.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Audio-Technnica ATH-ANC7b Noise Cancelling Headphones

V-MODA announced plans on releasing a “revolutionary headphone line with integrated controls” that are compatible with the new shuffle called the V-MODA Audio Volume Control (AVC) headphone line. Expect the first AVC headphones to be available in the second quarter.

And yes.. Monster also announced that their headphone lineup will soon come with integrated controls for the Apple iPod shuffle – including their Beats by Dr. Dre headset. Expect the new headsets to start appearing over the next few months Joy.

Technorati Tags: V-MODA, Monster, Apple iPod shuffle headphones

Logitech extends their gamer oriented G-series product lineup with the introduction of three new products – the Logitech G19 keyboard for gaming, the Logitech G35 surround sound headset, and the Logitech G9x laser mouse. Here’s what you need to know about the three new products.

Logitech G19 Keyboard for Gaming

• First Logitech keyboard to feature color GamePanel LCD
• 320 x 240 pixel display provides in-game information for over 60 games
• Screen can also show VoIP communication data, clock, CPU load, or other non-gaming specific information such as pictures or video
• 12 fully programmable G keys with three macros per key – resulting in 36 commands per game
• Multi-key input functionality allows you to engage up to 5 keys at the same time
• Game Mode switch which can disable the Windows key during game play
• Two USB 2.0 ports
• Available in March for $199.99

Logitech G35 Surround Sound Headset

• First Logitech headset to offer 7.1 surround sound
• Powered by second generation Dolby Headphone technology
• Reduces ambient noise thanks to proprietary ear-enclosing design
• Adjustable noise-canceling microphone
• Use included software to morph your voice with six options – cyborg, giant, mutant, space squirrel, troll and alien
• Includes three G keys on left earpiece for one-touch command over voice morphing
• On-ear audio controls for quick access to volume, microphone mute, and surround sound adjustments
• Three swappable headbands – thin, thick, and contoured designs
• Supports Dolby Pro Logic II
• Available in March for $129.99

Logitech G9x Laser Mouse

• Provides precision at any hand speed ( up to 150 inches per second )
• On-the-fly adjustable dpi from 200 to 5000 dpi
• Two interchangeable snap-on grids lets you choose the best fit and feel
• On-board memory for up to five ready-to-play profiles
• Weight-tuning system provides up to 28 grams of extra weight
• Custom color LEDs let you match the mouse to your personal preference
• Available in April for $99.99

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Logitech G19 keyboard for gaming, Logitech G35 surround sound headset, Logitech G9x laser mouse

Are you worried about how high the volumes are with your kids headphones? Pick them up the “Safe Volume Headphones” from the folks at iHearSafe.com. The designed for kids headphones come with a built-in volume limiter that prevents sound levels from exceeding 80 decibels. Other features of the Safe Volume Headphones include:

• Lightweight adjustable headphone designs
• Generous padding around the earphones and on the headband
• Suitable for all ages
• Works on all audio devices

The “Safe Volume Headphones” are available for $24.99 at iHearSafe.com.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Safe Volume Headphones, iHearSafe

MS 400 Headphones:

• Carbon fiber enclosure
• Flexible “fold and go” design
• Studio grade 40 mm Electrodynamic Drivers
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 98 dB
• Max input power: 1,000 mW
• Weight: 6.5 oz / 185 g without cord
• Feature a unique design with hot red accents
• Adjustable headband and ear pads
• MSRP of $249

PS 200 Earphones:

• Sound isolating earphones inspired by a jet airplane’s propeller design
• Soft silicon tips come in 3 sizes
• Dual balanced armature drivers with passive crossover network
• Constructed with aluminum
• Impedance: 39 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 95 dB
• Max input power: 30 mW
• Weight: .176 oz / 5 g without cord
• MSRP of $249

MS 600 Music Docking Station:

• Designed for Apple iPod and other MP3 players
• Bass reflex structure delivers high definition and full bodied bass
• High performance D class digital amplifier
• Speaker is built with double shielded structure which prevents sound leakage
• Comes with easy to use remote control
• Max power: 25 W
• Dimension: 14(W) x 7.5(D) x 5(H) in
• Remote control and AC / DC adapter
• Weight: 4.8 lbs / 2.4 kg without cord
• MSRP of $349

PS 500 Headphones:

• Titanium Driver Technology
• Housing made of genuine leather
• 40 mm Titanium Drivers
• Closed ear type rear enclosure
• Studio grade 50 mm drivers
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 102dB
• Weight: 9.1 oz / 259 g without cord

Technorati Tags: Phiaton MS 400 headphones, PS 200 earphones, MS 600 music docking station, PS 500 headphones

IF (1) you’re in Los Angeles, (2) interested in the Beats by Dr. Dre high definition headphones, and (3) willing to spend more money than the standard $349 price, then you’ll be interested to know that Monster is offering limited edition versions of the Beats by Dr. Dre high definition headphones at the Ron Herman flagship store in Los Angeles for a cool $699.

What does the added cost get you exactly? Well.. a different color! The limited edition headphones are white (as opposed to the standard black Beats by Dr. Dre headphones pictured above and below). According to Ron Herman:

“Our Ron Herman boutiques are the quintessential environment where one can experience the unification of fashion, music and culture. Beats By Dr. Dre are more than just headphones, they are a fashion accessory.”

$700 dollars for a white version eh? Hmm.. not sure about that one

Technorati Tags: Ron Herman

Sony MDR-NC7 noise canceling headphones:

• Updated version of MDR-NC6
• Improved style and noise reduction
• Noise reduction reduces approximately 87.4 percent of ambient noise
• ear-cups that swivel flat and a foldable headband for easy storage and travel
• Batteries in the housing
• 30mm driver – closed type design for dynamic sound
• Includes carrying pouch and in-flight adapter
• Available in black and white versions
• MSRP of around $50 dollars

Sony SRS-M50 travel speakers:

• Compact light design
• Built-in battery compartment
• 39mm driver unit
• Available in black, pink, and white
• MSRP of around $50 dollars

Sony RM-VL610 universal remote control:

• Three swappable back plates in bright or neutral colors. Bright colors are Crimson Red, Chantilly Pink and Sky Blue; the neutral plates include Pearl, Champagne and Kilimanjaro Brown
• Handles up to 8 AV compatible components
• On-screen menus for many devices and includes learning function
• One-touch system with 12 macro functions
• MSRP of around $30 dollars

Sony MDR-EX36V EX style headphones:

• Features colorful metallic accents
• in-line volume control
• New hybrid silicone earbuds in three sizes
• Available in silver, red, blue and pink
• MSRP of around $30 dollars

Sony DR-BT160AS Stereo Bluetooth sports headphones:

• Wireless behind-the-neck design
• Built-in microphone for hands-free conversations via mobile phone
• Rechargeable Li-ion batteries
• A2DP Bluetooth Stereo support
• Adjustable earpiece shaft
• Water-resistant
• MSRP of around $130 dollars

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Sony, MDR-NC7, SRS-M50, RM-VL610, MDR-EX36V, DR-BT160AS

Monster rolls out new high end in-ear headphones today called the “Turbine In-Ear Speakers”. Designed by “Head Monster”, Noel Lee, the Turbine In-Ear Speakers feature 8mm drivers, sound isolating eartips in multiple sizes, and an advanced metal housing designed to minimize unwanted vibrations for clearer sounds. The ultimate goal? To provide big rich speaker sound in a compact headphone design.

These new in-ear headphones will be rolled out in limited production beginning this month for a price of $149.95 a pair. The Turbine In-Ear Speakers join the recent introduction of the Beats by Dr. Dre headphones which were co-developed by Dr. Dre. Stay tuned for pics. UPDATE: we now have a picture!

Technorati Tags: Monster, Turbine In-Ear Speakers, in-ear headphones

V-MODA introduces their new Vibe II with Microphone headphone/headset for all Apple iPhone and iPod models. According to the company, the Vibe II features stainless steel alloy headphones which are one of the first consumer electronic pieces to be handcrafted via an environmentally friendly metal manufacturing process. Features of the Vibe II include the following:

• Fabric cable with in-line hands-free microphone, call/music controls, and removable sport earhooks
• Available in Nero black, and Chrome Rouge
• Stainless Steel Alloy earbud designs
• 8mm V-MASQUE dynamic driver
• BLISS (Bass Level Isolating Soft Silicone) technology reduces outside noise for rich bass
• 45 degree flexible plug design

According to V-MODA, “each headphone comes with unique accessories, including four pairs of black and clear medical-grade silicone fittings (XS, S, M, L) to ensure the perfect fit for any size ear. The two pairs of extra-small silicone fittings are new additions to V-MODA’s product line. Also new to the included accessories are lightweight, minimalistic, detachable sport earhooks that feature ACTIVE FLEX, a unique technology that allows the headphones to independently adjust to each ear regardless of the earhook’s position… Customers also receive a VIP card as a unique added bonus that provides access to V-MODA Musique podcast downloads, music, fashion, and event previews.”

The Vibe II with Microphone will available for a price of $128 dollars.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: V-MODA, Vibe II with microphone, Apple iPhone, iPod, earphones

• Compatible with iPhone and other handsets
• High fidelity hands-free headset
• Highest noise isolation of any earphone available on the market
• 3.5mm stereo jack with premium in-line microphone placed closer to the mouth than other headsets
• Mic pod houses the end/send/track-fwd button
• Music mutes and pauses automatically when there is an incoming phone call and starts up again once the call ends
• Assorted eartips
• Compatible with both iPhone 2.5 and 3G versions

You can purchase the hf2 for $179.95 a pair.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Etymotic Research, hf2 headset earphones

• “Thick 35 m Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) diaphragm improves rigidity and strength needed for better lower frequency response.
• PET material used in the diaphragm also helps to dampen unwanted resonance.
• Wide frequency response with high clarity and detail results from a large 50mm driver, ideal for all types of music.
• Closed “over-ear” design with ear pads that seal the wearer’s ears
• “Protein Leather” Wrapped Pads – provide durability while making long use of the headphones more comfortable.
• Low-rebound memory foam – used inside the ear pads and head pad, contouring to the shape of the head and maintaining a snug fit.
• Magnesium alloy components – used in the main body components to achieve both a lightweight and durable design to minimize stress on the user’s head and ensure comfortable DJ play.
• Headphones fold for portability and storage
• Ear cup turns 90 degrees for more convenient single-ear or on-shoulder monitoring use
• Ear cups and hinges gently click into place to prevent inadvertent rotation or folding of the headphones during use“

Specs include:

• Frequency range:  5Hz – 30kHz
• Impedance:  36 ohms
• Maximum input:  3,500mW
• Output sound level:  107dB/m
• Unit type:  50mm dome
• Plug: 3.5mm 3P mini plus (Gold-plated, Screw-type)
• Weight:  290g / 10.23 ounces (excluding cord)

The HDJ-2000 will be available in December for an MSRP of $450.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Pioneer HDJ-2000, Professional DJ headphones

Onkyo announced a new wireless headphone designed with the Apple iPod in mind called the MHP-UW2. Featuring Bluetooth support, the MHP-UW2 comes with a separate Bluetooth transmitter that hooks right into an iPod dock connector. For those of you without iPods, the MHP-UW2 also comes with a 3.5 mm jack allowing you to connect other media players.

iPod model support includes the iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod, iPod Photo, iPod nano, and iPod mini media players. Unfortunately the press release is in Japanese so the only bits of info I could make out are:

• 30mm driver
• 50Hz ~ 20kHz frequency response
• Headphone weighs 105 grams

Meanwhile the transmitter measures 46 x 90 x 17 mm  and weighs 35 grams. According to Akihabara News, the MHP-UW2 will be available in November for a price of 150€.

[Check it out via Akhihabara News]

Technorati Tags: Onkyo MHP-UW2, Bluetooth Wireless Headphones

Not only did Audio-Technica announce new headphones designed specifically for women, Audio-Technica announced a new lineup of high performance headphones designed for consumers. The new lineup consists of ATH-ON3A, ATH-ES3A, ATH-FC700A and ATH-ES7 on-ear headphones, ATH-SQ5A over-ear headphones and ATH-CK6A, ATH-CKM50A and ATH-CK7A in-ear models.

Here’s an excerpt from the press release about the new headphones:

“The ATH-ON3A, ATH-ES3A, ATH-FC700A and ATH-ES7 on-ear headphones are all ultra-lightweight, compact and durable, with sleek, stylish designs that offer total comfort. All incorporate high-performance driver technologies to deliver exceptional sound quality. (SRP: ATH-ON3A, $59.99; ATH-ES3A, $79.99; ATH-FC700A, $99.99; ATH-ES7, $169.99.)

The ATH-SQ5A over-ear model has a unique design with rectangular-shaped earpads and advanced-technology drivers that deliver studio-quality sound. (SRP: $149.99.)

Although highly compact, Audio-Technica’s ATH-CK6A, ATH-CKM50A and ATH-CK7A in-ear headphones deliver richly detailed, expansive full-range sound. All models come with three sizes of eartips, for a comfortable fit with maximum acoustic isolation. Like all Audio-Technica headphones, they are ideal for use with any music source including portable music and DVD players, laptops and other devices. (SRP: ATH-CK6A, $79.99; ATH-CKM50A, $79.99; ATH-CK7A, $169.99.) ”

Technorati Tags: Audio-Technica, ATH-ON3A, ATH-ES3A, ATH-FC700A, ATH-ES7 on-ear headphones, ATH-SQ5A over-ear headphones, ATH-CK6A, ATH-CKM50A, ATH-CK7A in-ear models

ATH-CK1W

• MSRP: $49.99
• in-ear headphones which are ultracompact and light
• Available in green, orange, pink, purple, white and yellow, all with matching decorative, durable metal carrying cases
• Comes with three interchangeable eartips
• Comes with a cord wrap.

ATH-ES3W

• MSRP: $79.99
• On-ear headphones
• Available in blue, green, pink and silver
• Cushioned earpads and soft headband
• Ear cups fold flat for portability.

ATH-ON3W

• MSRP: $59.99
• Slim, ultralight on-ear design with fold-flat portability
• Available in dark gray, pink, teal blue and white.

ATH-CK6W

• MSRP: $79.99
• In-ear headphones
• Available in metallic silver, blue, green and pink
• Comes with three interchangeable loop support pieces for a custom fit.

ATH-CK52W

• MSRP: $59.99
• in-ear model
• Comes in a color choice of blue, black and white.

The new headphones are now available.

Technorati Tags: Audio-Technica, ATH-CK1W, ATH-ES3W, ATH-ON3W, ATH-CK6W, ATH-CK52W

If you’re looking for an alternative to conventional headphones and earphones, then you might want to check out the newly announced Audio Bone 1.0 headphones by GameChanger Products. Audio Bone 1.0 headphones leverage bone conduction technology to bypass the inner eardrum and deliver sound directly to the inner ear. This results in the following:

• You get a more comfortable experience because you won’t have to position headphones in or on top of your ears
• You get a safer experience because you can hear the sounds around you which is ideal for joggers, bicyclists, pedestrians etc
• You also help prevent potential damage to the eardrums by wearing standard headphones or earbuds

Now if you’re wearing headphones for the sole purpose of canceling out the outside world, then these headphones might not be the right ones for you. However if you’re looking for a more comfortable and safer listening experience then these headphones could be the right solution. The Audio Bone 1.0 is available in a wide variety of colors and goes for $189. 

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Audio Bone 1.0 Headphones, GameChanger Products, bone conduction technology