Modern manufacturers offer a variety of types of headphones, which have their own characteristics - constructive and functional. Structure, acoustic properties, sound quality, price - these are the main parameters on the basis of which we choose one or another model. Which headphones are right for you and what should you consider when choosing them?
Design features
Any type of headphones is a TRS connector (through which they are connected to devices), a cable and two cups with ear pads. The latter are made of various materials, but most often silicone, which is soft and comfortable. On-ear headphones have one more detail - this is a bow, or headband, which covers the head from above or at the back of the head. All models differ in the way they are attached to the head, of which there are four:
- Classical. The earmuffs are fixed with elastic supra-temporal arches connecting the cups. By the way, the arms themselves are also different: the most reliable ones are self-adjusting, they are a construction of arches and tape; sliding arms are easy to use; molded plastic arms do not need to be adjusted, as it is enough to move the cups themselves.
- Neck fastening. Some types of headphones are equipped with an elastic headband that connects the cups, only does it at the back of the head. This design transfers mechanical stress to the ears, so it is important when choosing to focus on the weight of the cups themselves.
- Ear mount. Headphones of this model are attached to the ears with clips or behind the ears.
- Without fastening. These models are just foam rubber ear pads that are located in the auricle.
How to connect?
Modern manufacturers offer various wired headphones. Their connection types are as follows:
- Unilateral.
- Bilateral.
The first option is suitable for overhead and In them, one wire goes from the plug to one cup, while the second cup is connected by a tap coming from the first cup. A one-way connection has one important disadvantage: in the area where the common wire joins the cup, the latter often breaks or breaks.
Some types of headphones have a two-way connection - these are in-ear and in-ear. With this method, the common wire that comes from the plug is divided into two, and they are brought to the cups. Users note that these headphones are not the most comfortable, as they often fall out of their ears, and the wires, which are long enough, are constantly twisted and tangled.
There are also different types of headphone jacks. There are two of them: 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm. In most models, the second connector, but the first is often found, so it is better to choose universal headphones that can support both types of connector.
Plug-in, vacuum or overhead?
Modern types of headphones are a variety in design and product design. And this serves as a guarantee that each buyer will find what he likes and is convenient for him. When choosing, you need to understand that the earbuds are inserted into the ear, while the overhead models are adjacent to the hearing organ. The degree of fit differs due to the ear cushions, soft cushions, which ensure listening comfort. Note that they are supplemented with circum-aural ear cushions, which exclude the spread of sound outward, and in overhead models - supra-aural ear cushions, which fit snugly to the ear, but do not wrap around it completely.
Plug-in models, which are otherwise called inserts, are very convenient due to their compactness. In addition, they often have an attractive design. For example, a stylish solution is headphones in the form of macaroons or other sweets that emphasize the flirtatiousness of the image. But in terms of sound quality and sound insulation, the ear cushions of vacuum headphones are much better than those of plug-in ones. We also note that in vacuum headphones the sound is much cleaner, so no noise from outside will prevent you from listening to your favorite music.
The difference between plug-in and overhead models is the size of the emitter membrane. In vacuum models, it is small, up to 12 mm, while on-ear headphones have a large membrane - from 30 mm or more, which affects the improvement of sound performance.
For phone
Where do we most often listen to music or an audiobook? That's right, on the road. And it is very important that the headphones are good, do not let in sounds from the outside and sit comfortably in the ear. Depending on the design, the following types of headphones for the phone are distinguished:
- In-ears: this is the most popular option, most often these models come with the device itself. They are cheap, but the sound quality and the level of sound insulation are not the best.
- Plug-in: they are called "droplets", or "plugs". They sit well in the ears, close them tightly, which affects the increase in sound insulation.
- Overhead: for a phone, this is not the best option, as they are too bulky, it is inconvenient to carry them with you in your bag.
Depending on the area of use, all headphones are either audiophile or special. The first ones are designed for the fact that sound reproduction will be at a high level, and special models are made for people with hearing impairments.
Location and quality
When buying headphones, we strive to ensure that they are comfortable, that the sound is good, and the cord does not get tangled. Many models, including headphones in the form of laces or cat ears, seem beautiful, but in reality turn out to be not the most functional. When choosing, you should be guided by where the music will be listened to - indoors or out of it. In addition, the portable player itself plays an important role: the better it is, the better the sound will be.
Some headphone models are not quite suitable for those who listen to music for a long time. So, on-ear headphones begin to cause discomfort after an hour, as pressure is exerted on both the head and the auricles. In addition, overhead models are best worn at home. Compact earbuds are suitable for the outdoor version, in addition, they are equipped with ear cushions of different sizes. Consider the features of each type of headphones in more detail.
Plug-in: modern and compact
If you are for convenience and small size, then you will like in-ear headphones. Why are they good? Firstly, they are compact, so they can easily fit even in your pocket. Secondly, you can choose the size of the ear pads, which will ensure the comfort of wearing them. Thirdly, they are diverse in design. For example, someone will choose classic and concise models from Sony, and someone will like the original lightning-shaped headphones.
On the other hand, due to the design features of plug-in models, acoustic properties are greatly lost. In addition, not everyone likes when a foreign body is located inside the ears. Among the best brands that supply in-ear headphones are Philips, Shure, Sennheiser.
Vacuum: maximum comfort
Vacuum headphones are ideal for everyday use. They attract with lightness, good acoustic characteristics. Thanks to the silicone ear cushions that sit snugly in the ear, even when moving, the headphones do not fall out. Light weight and compact dimensions allow you to store headphones in your bag and pocket. Good sound insulation is another advantage that distinguishes these varieties. And the sound quality is also pleasing - it is powerful and voluminous, and therefore you can listen to your favorite music in excellent quality. Popular models of vacuum headphones are created by the brands Sony, AKG, Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic - while being effective, they attract at an affordable price.
On-ears: great sound
On-ear headphones come in different sizes, but they all have good sound, comfort and stylish design. These models can be open and closed, but the second type of models are popular. Users choose headphones that have much better contact between the membrane and the ear, so you can listen to tracks in high quality of any style - from rock to hip-hop.
You can use these headphones everywhere, but because of the size, many prefer to choose them for the home. A compromise option is semi-closed headphones, in which the cups are left open, but the holes are closed with a special grill or fine mesh. Popular on-ear headphones manufactured by AKG, JBL, Harman Kardon Soho, Denon .
Monitor: the best for the computer
Various types of headphones for the computer help you listen to music and play on your PC. They are large in size, so they are distinguished by a large headband and ear cushions that tightly cover the ears. As a result, such models are good for lovers of high-quality sound. But the weight of such models is quite high. The design features of the headphones are such that the sound is transmitted in all spectra without distortion. The salient features of monitor headphones include:
- wide stage and large membrane diameter, which improves the positioning of different sound sources;
- uniformity and balance of frequencies;
- a lot of resistance, due to which listening to music on weak devices will be uninteresting, since the sound will be quiet.
A variety of monitor headphones are studio headphones, which are designed to work with high quality sound. No less popular headphones, which are additionally equipped with a microphone. It is needed when working, for example, with Skype or online games. It is also noteworthy that many monitor headphones are used at home, for example, when watching movies. But due to the large weight, they create noticeable discomfort. Note that among the leading manufacturers of monitor headphones, brands such as AKG, Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser have proven themselves well.
Wireless
Modern technologies lead to the fact that various types of wireless headphones are becoming more and more popular. Their feature is the reproduction of high quality sound, and they work on the basis of a transceiver in the infrared wave range or in the radio range. Infrared headphones are good for excellent sound quality, mobility, and most importantly, the absence of wires that annoy many. When used in conjunction with a computer, wireless headphones work on the basis of Bluetooth, through which the connection is made. You can use them in this combination when working, listening to music, talking or playing games.
Stylish and modern wireless and for mobile devices, tablets appear, however, their cost is too high. Among the cheap models designed for a computer or TV, the following can be noted: LG HBS-730, Sven AP-B770MV, Plantronics BackBeat GO 2.
Gaming
Computer games have taken over the world, the number of gamers is growing every day. And users simply have gigantic requirements:
- They must convey the entire gamut of the sound of the game, so high-quality models allow you to select sound modes, have a built-in sound card and allow you to adjust the equalizer.
- Headphones should be comfortable, as the game can drag on for more than one hour. Comfortable headband, lightweight design, comfortable ear cushions - all this is worth paying attention to when choosing.
- Convenient use is a guarantee that during the game you can easily adjust the sound or microphone without interrupting the gameplay.
- The microphone in the headphones must be of high quality - a real gamer simply cannot do without it!
Monster Beats: an overview of popular models
Probably everyone knows that high quality, reliability and stylish design attract the attention of buyers of Beats headphones. The types of these accessories are presented in a wide variety, and each novelty is met with delight. Comfortable listening will provide Monster Beats Tour, which are compact, fit well in the ear, so you can listen to music in high quality. Active lifestyle lovers will appreciate the Monster Beats Powerbeats, which can be adjusted to fit your ear as much as possible. An inexpensive model of monitor headphones is the Monster beats Solo HD, which have good sound and compact size. Among the professional models include the Monster Beats Studio model, which are compatible with any musical devices and gadgets and are of high quality, two wires and versatility. Among the headphones of this popular brand, it's easy to find something that matches your ideas about comfort, functionality and aesthetics.
original models
Modern manufacturers offer innovative solutions that are reflected in the accessories that we use every day. For example, special types of luminous headphones have appeared, created by the Glow brand. They are equipped with special fiberglass, which is embedded in the wire. He, in turn, pulsates to the beat of the music. The uniqueness of Glow is that these are headphones that are ideally combined with Android devices. The exclusive headphones let you not only listen to music, but also take pictures or use a range of applications. Well, it is impossible not to note the purity of the sound and its excellent quality.
To create a flirty image, headphones in the form of cat ears will help. Such models were released in Japan and appealed to those who love both cats and music. The shape of the cat ears is stylish and bright, besides, they glow in the dark. Color solutions are planned very different, so you can easily choose what is in harmony with your image. And if ear-shaped headphones do not suit you, choose others, original and fashionable.
Everyone who has to work with headphones for a long time knows firsthand everything that will be discussed in this article. Definitely, one thing is that the growing popularity of this accessory is associated with the ever-growing market for mobile devices. This trend is clearly visible on the streets of the city, especially in public transport, cafes and the like.
There are many varieties of headphones, and they all have their own specific purpose.
Headphone classification
All headphones can be divided into several classes:
Emitter types:
— dynamic. They are equipped with mini-speakers, the sound in which is transmitted from the amplifier to the coil.
— rebar type. Such emitters are most often installed in more expensive models of sleeve-type headphones.
— Isodynamic (planar) and electrostatic. These two types of transducers are famous for their light sound membrane, which allows you to eliminate almost all distortion, resulting in a clear sound at the output.
Acoustic design
In their acoustic design, headphones are also divided into two types. These are closed and open.
Closed-back headphones the sound emitter can be located either in the body or in the cup itself, being hermetically sealed.
When open type headphones, the outer part of the cup is covered with an acoustically transparent grille (perforation, fabric, etc.). They certainly sound better, but the problem is that others are forced to listen to your repertoire.
Configuration
By type of configuration, headphones are multi-band and single-band. Accordingly, it is not difficult to guess that in a single-sideband case, sound is created through one emitter. And in another case, there can be more than two such emitters, and at the same time, they have different types that are responsible for their frequency range.
In addition, there is a separate type of surround sound headphones, in which one cup has several single-band emitters. In this case, the effect of surround sound is created.
Functionality
The classification of functionality implies a division into headset and simple. The headset provides the ability to listen and talk. The average consumer uses a similar headset for mobile devices, in particular phones. It's called hands-free headphones. But besides the most ordinary headset, there is a specialized one, which is used by announcers, operators, disc jockeys, and so on. Each specific case has its own specifics, which can be either “one-eared” or “two-eared” with a microphone located in the headphone case.
Signal processing
Now about the principle of signal processing. Relatively passive- everything is extremely simple. Just plug in the right connector, and you can enjoy the sound. Relatively active- everything is a little more complicated. They are equipped with a built-in amplifier, and this indicates autonomous power supply. That is, such devices can be powered either by batteries or by means of a power cord. The advantage of active headphones is that they can support wireless communication, have a noise reduction system, a DSP processor and much more, and can also play the role of passive headphones.
Design and decoration
As for the design of this type of product, there is no limit to fantasy. However, at least approximately, we can consider the following sequence:
- Monitor, or over-ear headphones. Such products can be either closed or open type. These headphones have a headband and are intended for listening in stationary conditions.
- Lightweight models "Straight". These headphones also have a headband, but they are more resistant to the external environment. In addition, most of these models are active and have a hands-free function, work via bluetooth and perfectly suppress noise.
- Miniature street headphones. They also have a headband, but today they are quite rare. These products can be equipped with a miniature transducer that sits just next to the ear canal, foam pads that put sound directly into the ear, a horizontal rear-mounted headband, and so on and so forth.
- On-ear miniature headphones without headband. In another way, they are called a sports option. These headphones have a special ear mount, making it almost impossible to rip or lose them just like that.
- Channel plugs(inserts). These are the simplest passive models that are in great demand today. Although among them it is likely to meet three-way options.
- Earbuds. This type of headphones is a close relative of the previous version, with the difference that not every ear is able to hold them.
Purpose
There is not much to say about the purpose of the headphones. They can be either professional or ordinary, consumer. Of course, each professional version has a specific purpose, while a regular headset is used at the request of the owner.
How to choose headphones
In order for a thing to be useful, it must be chosen correctly. And the choice of headphones is not such a simple task as it might seem at first glance. In order not to make a mistake with the choice, you need to decide on some aspects. Namely:
- Where to listen?
- in a stationary room (studio, home);
- outside the stationary premises (home, studio).
For the first option, it is necessary to choose a stationary version of a closed type and with a possible wireless connection. For the second option, a model with ear buds is perfect, and best of all, a street model. Of course, if you have bluetooth, you can opt for a wireless model, but those who often find themselves on the subway just need a noise-canceling headset.
- What to listen? They do not argue about styles, and everyone chooses his own “repertoire”. The source is another matter. For stationary listening, the source has an impedance of hundreds of ohms, which is exactly what stationary sound amplifiers are for, they give you much higher sound quality. For mobile devices - dozens of Om, but this does not mean that there are no high-quality ones among these headphones. The best option is if you have a good portable player, then the sound will be better than from any phone, because. The player uses special mobile DACs with amplifiers. They are small in size, but they give a much better sound than a phone.
- How to listen? The first is the question of duration. Many on-ear headphones can cause discomfort after just an hour of listening, because. they can either put pressure on the auricles, or on the head, or both at the same time. The most important thing is to choose the right model that suits your head and ears shape. Again, over-ear headphones are best for listening to music at home rather than outdoors. If you want to listen to music outdoors, then you'd better choose earbuds. It should be noted that when using headphones that are inserted into the auricle, you should understand that the shape of the ears is different for everyone. For some people, they sit like a glove, they don’t bother at all, for others they just fall out of the ear for absolutely no reason. Therefore, you need to empirically make sure that the in-ear headphones fit you anatomically. If not, then in this case, it is better to give preference to "street" - headphones with a headband.
- How to listen?
- Of course, everything is relative. But, it is human nature to strive for the best. And therefore, depending on the situation, everyone wants to achieve maximum harmony. If you stop at the highest price category, in the range of $ 400 and above, then, therefore, the sound source must be appropriate. This may be a specialized amplifier, the price of which is in the same line as the headset. In other words, in this case we are talking about professional headphones, such as beyerdynamic monitor products with a dynamic emitter, electrostatic, STAX type, or planar (orthodynamic).
- Next in the criterion of prestige are modern street models. They are designed for their specifics, but at the same time, among them you can choose a model with a decent level of sound reproduction. In the event that you plan to use such headphones at home, provided that the source is of high quality, it is better to take the “street” model without raising the low frequencies. Because, it is provided by the player settings.
- If you choose from the class of miniature earbuds, then reinforcing headphones will be the best solution, since they operate with a different sound extraction method and are in a more expensive price category. Well, those that are much cheaper should be chosen carefully "listening". That is, try each specific option.
Moreover, when choosing headphones, be sure to pay attention to how they sit. In the event that there is a feeling that they are "out of size", you should look for another alternative. There should be no extraneous sounds, such as clicks, creaks, and extraneous sounds when touching the headphones with your hands. Pay special attention to whether the sound changes if you press down on the headphones a little. It should remain the same, just push the earphones in front and behind so that they move a little on the ear. The sound should not change. Also listen to music at a low volume and start increasing the volume. Throughout the sound should not change much. But be that as it may, the most important parameter is the sound. If you do not trust your hearing, you can take with you a proven standard, those musical compositions that you know well and understand how they should sound, and when choosing, compare it with a certain option. This actionable tip will definitely come in handy, because in the store you may think that new headphones sound great, however, very often what seemed much “better” turns out to be far from the ideals drawn. Well, if you do not want to carry extra details with you, then just be careful, because it is rather difficult to assess the true state of affairs on an unfamiliar soundtrack.
Did you buy headphones?
After the long ordeals are over, and the headphones are bought, the first thing to do is to evaluate them in action. You put on your headphones and listen. All perfectly! Add sound. Yes, that's even better. Having enjoyed the first minutes, there is an irresistible desire to add a holiday and release the sound to the fullest. Why is that? Because hearing gradually adapts to a given sound pressure, and it becomes not enough. As for you, as an individual, this is good, but being in a public place, you should not forget about others.
For example, in Berlin, having been in the subway, you will definitely stumble upon a sign that, by its appearance, prohibits sounding the car with headphones. We don't have it. Therefore, nearby people are forced to share with you the joy of a new acquisition.
Now for some serious numbers. The hearing of a normal person is able to recognize a difference in volume level of at least three decibels. In other words, these are amplitude changes with an interval of one and a half times. So, when the range increases up to four times, it becomes really loud, but ... After about a month of such activity, it will be possible to safely talk about the first stage of hearing loss. In youth, this is not very noticeable, just acquaintances will have to repeat everything several times. But over time, this can worsen and go into an irreversible stage.
To prevent hearing loss, follow the proven advice. Tune the sound to the desired level, and then slow down a bit and listen like this. And in no case do not touch the regulator at the first extraneous sound. It will disappear in just a minute, and your native hearing will remain healthy and unharmed.
In parallel with the growing popularity of portable devices for listening to music, the demand for devices that transmit sound is also growing. Today, their market is so wide that anyone will find a headphone model suitable for technical requirements and finances.
Devices are divided according to technological features that affect both the quality of the sound received at the output and ease of use.
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Varieties of design
Headphones are available in 5 form factors:
Overhead
According to the name, they are superimposed on the ears from above. Since the speaker does not penetrate directly into the ear canal, a lot of sound wave power is required for comfortable audio listening. These headphones are produced either with behind-the-ear arches or with one wide arc-shaped jumper located on top of the head.
5 best on-ear headphones 
Intracanal
The variety is now popular, especially among smartphone users. In-ear (or vacuum) headphones penetrate the ear canal as much as possible, eliminating the ingress of extraneous sounds from the outside. In addition, this eliminates the vibrations of the membrane, and hence the distortion of the sound.
6 best in-ear headphones with enhanced bass 
Plug-in
They are also inserted into the ears, but do not penetrate deeply into them. The cheapest type of headphones, they are often bundled with a smartphone or MP3 player. Such models have been known to users since the 1990s.
5 best in-ear headphones 
Monitor
Their speaker cups cover the entire area of the ears. Models are usually very massive, with a thick cable and powerful sound. They are also distinguished by a considerable price, since they are used for professional work with sound, and not for domestic needs.
5 best over-ear monitor headphones 
full size
They also cover the entire ear, providing noise isolation. Premium devices manufactured today have a compact (often foldable) form factor and a not-too-long cord. Quite convenient to use with mobile gadgets.
Emitter device
The sound quality directly depends on this parameter:
Reinforcing
They are not used everywhere, but only in the most expensive in-ear headphones. They have limited sound at low frequencies, but excellent performance. At the same time, they are sensitive, accurately reproduce the small details of the sound track.
8 Best Reinforcing Headphones 
Iso- and orthodynamic
They have two powerful magnets, between which there is a complex emitter made of a special sputtered film. Thus, it was possible to achieve high power and clarity of sound. As a rule, this technology is used in a full-size form factor.
Electrostatic
Such models are rarely found on the free market. The emitter in them is a thin membrane located between a pair of electrodes. This design is able to completely get rid of sound distortion, but for connection you will need a special docking station (a device with connectors for various electronics).
dynamic
The most common option, but not the best. It consists of a membrane placed in a housing, to which a magnet and a coil are connected. The electric field created in this way acts on the membrane and creates sound. Due to its simplicity, such a device can be placed in a variety of headphones.
Signal transmission method
This factor affects the usability of the headphones.
Wired
Devices of this kind still hold the position of the most popular and cheapest. Professionals also note the improved sound quality compared to wireless. Connection is via a standard 3.5 mm mini-jack (newer models may also have a USB connector or a 6.3 mm jack).
6 best wired headphones 
Wireless
A variety that saves the user from constantly tangled wires. Sound transmission technology can be infrared, radio (these options are almost out of use).
Bluetooth-enabled models are at the peak of popularity, but WiFi-enabled headphones may soon become leaders - they are able not only to play music at an impressive distance from the source, but also to do it directly from the Internet. Wireless devices are powered by a battery.
Sealing acoustics
This setting affects whether the sound coming from your headphones will be heard by the surroundings:
open
The cups of such headphones have perforations on the outside, through which part of the sound comes out (and external noise can also enter the ears).
Closed
The cups are not perforated, so the sound is completely directed to the wearer's ear, while ambient sounds are not heard.
Microphone mount
Many headphone models are equipped with a microphone, which is used for telephone conversations, video calls, or audio recording. Headphone microphones are of the following types:
built-in
Helpful Hints
Any music lover, computer scientist and ordinary student today uses headphones, which have already become part of everyday life. But you need to know how to choose the right headphones, which could provide high-quality sound.
The very first thing you need pay attention is the type of headphone. Many people immediately look at the price and purchase headphones based on this parameter, which is a big mistake.
It is the type of headphones that determines not only the sound quality, but also how comfortable you will be wearing them.
It is also very important when choosing headphones to know about some useful features. For example: noise reduction, Bluetooth, digital optical input. But let's start in order and put everything on the shelves so that it is clear.
Types of headphones - which headphones to choose
Most headphones that are sold in stores today can be divided into four main types:
Inserts ("tablets");
Plug-in ("plugs");
overhead;
Closed type ("monitor").
The first two types of headphones ("pills" and "plugs") are worn directly on the ears themselves, which is why they are also called Intra-aural (inside the ear). They are comfortable to wear and can provide good sound. They are also very compact and can be worn with a headdress without any problems, making them the most popular. Most often, these types of headphones are used for a mobile phone, player, tablet and other portable devices.
How to choose good headphones
Now let's take a closer look at each type.
in-ear headphones
This type of headphones is usually supplied with players and phones in the kit. But they have several serious drawbacks:
These headphones are very easy to pass noise, which means in public transport, for example, people around you will hear the sounds coming from your headphones.
Small earbuds are not able to fully reproduce low purities (bass) due to the small diameter of the membrane.
The shape of the "pills" is almost always the same, while the human ear is different for everyone. This means that not every user will have such headphones comfortably. In addition, if you touch the wire a little, they will simply fall out.
The most significant advantage is the very low price.
In-ear headphones
These headphones are somewhat similar to earbuds, the main difference is the narrower shape and silicone tips (sometimes they can be rubber). A narrower shape allows you to insert "plugs" deep into the ear, and silicone or rubber nozzles serve as good sound insulation.
Usually high-quality in-ear headphones come with several nozzles of different sizes. This is so that the user can choose the best option that will allow the earpiece to sit firmly in the ear.
The quality of these headphones is an order of magnitude higher than that of the earbuds. However, the small diaphragm diameter also brings some limitations in low frequency reproduction.
It is also worth mentioning that in-ear headphones are divided into two types: reinforcing and dynamic, but about them a little later.
Overhead headphones
They are also called Supraaural (above the ear). Due to the large size of the membrane, these headphones provide good sound quality that any music lover will appreciate. They also fit well in the ears and are comfortable to wear.
To provide good sound insulation, manufacturers use special pads, which can be made of foam rubber or similar material.
Another plus is its low weight, and this is despite its rather large volume. They can be used both at home and with a portable device (mobile phone, player) on the street.
On-ear headphones can have different mounts. They can be attached to the headband, the back of the head or on each ear separately (which is very convenient for walking, because you can wear a baseball cap, for example).
Monitor headphones
Headphone makers sometimes write Circumaural (around the ear) on the box to characterize the species.
Monitor headphones are used both at home and in professional environments (in recording studios, for example). They have special cups that cover the entire ear, which does not allow noise from the outside to penetrate.
The diameter of the membrane is quite large so that it is possible to reproduce sound with all possible frequencies. This captivates big fans of high-quality sound.
Perhaps the only drawback is the size of the monitor headphones, they are quite large and take up a lot of space, which means that it is better to forget about mobility.
Types of headphones - which headphones to choose
Headphone types depend on their design. To date, all headphones can be divided into:
dynamic;
Reinforcing;
Electrostatic.
Isodynamic headphones
Orthodynamic headphones
Headphones dynamic
Most of the headphones you see in stores come in the dynamic type. This type is so called because the headphones that belong to it are based on the electrodynamic principle of transformation.
The design of dynamic headphones includes a membrane (emitter), a coil and a wire. When an alternating current is started, a magnetic field is formed around the coil - it then transmits vibrations to the membrane.
This type of headphone has become very popular due to its low price. To this day, the design of dynamic headphones is being improved - new materials are added to it, which raises the level of quality of the reproduced sound.
Armature headphones
The name of this type comes from the armature emitter (Balanced Armature). These headphones work differently than dynamic ones. Their design includes a plate made of a ferromagnetic alloy, having a U-shape.
The oscillations generated by the plate appear due to the influence of a permanent magnet and an alternating field emitted by the coil. The sound comes from the armature to which the diaphragm is attached. Due to very slight distortion, the sound in these headphones is quite clear.
Most often, it is musicians who purchase reinforcing headphones, as they are ideal for performing on stages and radio stations.
It is worth mentioning that such headphones are classified as IEM (In-Ear monitor), that is, in-ear monitor headphones. Unlike dynamic headphones, reinforcing headphones have a rather high price.
Electrostatic headphones
In order for these headphones to create a clear sound, they use the thinnest membrane installed between two electrodes. A constant voltage is applied to the membrane while an intense high voltage signal from the audio system is applied to the electrodes.
The voltage between the electrodes determines to whom it will reach, and from whom it will repel. As a result, the vibrations of the membrane will clearly repeat the shape of the transmitted electrical signal.
The main advantage of these headphones is the high sound quality. But the price for them is very high, since they have a complex design, and you also need to use a special high-voltage amplifier. Experts recommend using these headphones only with Hi-End and Hi-Fi class audio equipment.
Isodynamic and orthodynamic headphones
These types of headphones allow the user to get a balanced, smooth and clear sound reproduction. The difference between these types is mainly their design, while using the same technology. This is the reason why both of these types are included in the same group.
These headphones produce very high quality sound. But there are a couple of disadvantages: firstly, it is a high cost, and secondly, in order to achieve the best sound, you will need to connect an amplifier, which in turn means not only that you can forget about mobility, but also extra financial costs.
How to choose wireless and wired headphones
You also need to know the type of headphone connection to the sound source. Two types are known:
Wired;
Wireless.
If you need freedom of action (say, you drive a car or just move around the office often), then it would be natural to purchase wireless headphones.
But there is one minus of such headphones - the loss of the sound signal.
The best choice, for those who want to get high-quality sound, will be wired headphones.
Types of headphones by cable connection method
Bilateral - the connecting cable is brought to each cup.
One-sided - the connecting cable is connected to one cup, and that, in turn, is connected to the second outlet, hidden in the bow.
Headphone connectors
Before you buy headphones, you need to know about the connectors, otherwise you will have to buy an adapter.
Mini-jack 3.5 mm - the most popular, as it is present in almost all devices - suitable for a player, or a mobile phone, and for a computer.
Jack 6.3 mm and micro jack 2.5 mm - in order to connect headphones with such connectors to a smartphone or computer, you will have to purchase an appropriate adapter.
USB is gaining popularity and is used in newer headphones, which are usually released for those who like to chat on Skype.
How to choose headphones for your computer
Headsets are a separate type of headphones. Most often, you can find a model with one or two headphones and a microphone.
Like conventional headphones, headsets are wired and wireless.
By design, headsets are classified in the same way as headphones - invoices(open, closed) plug-in, liners.
headset arms
Headphone temples can be divided into three categories: molded, self-adjusting and sliding.
cast - reliable, but they cannot boast of great demand.
Self-adjusting - help to evenly distribute the weight of the headset, reliable, durable.
Sliding - evenly moved apart on the sides to adjust the desired size.
Since headsets are the same headphones, but with a microphone, all their characteristics are the same as those mentioned earlier, and we need to talk about the microphone separately.
Microphone in headset
It is worth paying special attention to several important characteristics of the microphone in the headset. For example, the microphone mode - mono or stereo, sensitivity, frequency range and the presence of noise reduction.
Microphone mounts
On the wire - usually found in headsets for mobile phones, headsets, plugs and earbuds.
Fixed - the position of the microphone does not change and the microphone is attached to the ear cushion on a small plastic holder.
Movable - you can adjust the position of the microphone, which is attached to a swivel or flexible element.
The built-in microphone is inserted into the body of the headset, which makes it hardly noticeable, but at the same time all extraneous noises are heard from the outside, which is naturally not very convenient.
Headsets are available for mobile phones to communicate via Skype.
How to choose the right headphones - terms in the description of headphones
If you have visited a store (real or virtual) that sells headphones and / or headsets, then you should be aware of some of the terms that manufacturers often use in product descriptions and what these terms mean.
Frequency
Simply put, this term characterizes the sound quality. The larger the headphone membrane, the better the sound quality. Simple and medium headphones have a range of 18 to 20,000 Hz. More professional headphones can register a range from 5 to 60,000 Hz. But it is worth noting that the human ear is able to make out sound waves at a frequency of 20 to 20,000 Hz.
Sensitivity
This is the maximum volume at the specified value of the signal supplied to the headphones (from 30 to 130 dB). With the same signal level and with the same impedance, more sensitive headphones will produce a louder sound. The standard is usually an electrical signal with a power of 1mW. If you are in a noisy place, then the desired sensitivity threshold should be at least 100 dB.
Resistance (impedance)
Nominal headphone input impedance. This indicator depends on the technology to which you connect the headphones. For example, for players and smartphones, you can choose headphones with an impedance of 16 to 40 ohms. If you are going to connect headphones to a sound card without a special amplifier, you can choose headphones with an impedance of 120-150 ohms. Headphones with a higher impedance are usually used by professionals who use them with special equipment that has a high level of outgoing voltage.
Power
This setting controls the headphone volume. You can find models with power from 1 to 4,000 mW. It is important to know here that listening to sound in headphones at maximum volume for a long time can adversely affect the hearing organs.
The best/popular headphone companies
The companies mentioned in this list have taken their high places in the ratings of users. Some have become famous exclusively for their quality, others for their quality-price ratio. But do not forget that in addition to the manufacturer, you should also pay attention to all of the above characteristics.
Let's summarize
Armed with the right knowledge, first decide what you need headphones for.
Choose a manufacturer by comparing several headphone options.
Now you know which headphone model you need. Successful purchases!
