Interesting concept that needs work
Written: Jan 23 '02 (Updated May 09 '02)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Cool look, good bass, clear treble
Cons: Sound quality VERY dependent on fit in ear, uncomfortable, poor fit.
The Bottom Line: I could only recommend these if you do not walk, turn your head, or anything of that nature while you use them.
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| andrewkchen's Full Review: Sony MDR-EX70LP Consumer Headphones |
I recently decided to replace a pair of earbuds that I grew to love (Sony MDR-848LP) after I somehow managed to lose them. After much searching on the internet and B+M stores, I decided I would try the MDR-EX70LP as an upgrade. I ended up buying a pair from a local store, with the idea that I could easily return them if I disliked them (it's always a good idea to try before you buy, but in this case, I could not find a display pair to try). So without further ado, let us delve into the review of these earphones.
Ergonomics
These buds are not your average earphones--they're tiny with rubber earpieces. Sony includes 3 sizes of the earpieces so as to accommodate ear canals of all sizes. I eventually wound up sticking with the medium sized ones. At first, I did not know how they were supposed to fit in my ear, so I had to fiddle with them as I played music through them. By the time I got the music to sound half-way decent, I had the rubber pieces jammed deep into my ear canals. Not too pleasant, but it wasn't too bad while I was just playing around with them. As I brought them to the gym (pretty much the only place I use earphones) the first time, I had a horrendous time keeping the earpieces in place. During my 5 minute warmup of walking on a treadmill, I had to push them back in my ear at least 8 times. Ultimately, I got fed up with it, and wrapped the cord around my neck so the 'phones would stay in. It would have been fine except even then, the earpieces fell out. The remainder of my workout consisted of pushing earphones in my ears and secondarily, lifting weights. This is only made worse due to the fact that as you sweat, the rubber slips even more readily. I rate the ergonomics a 1 out of 5.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the earphones can be very good if you sit motionless while listening to them. The bass is powerful (a little overboosted, but you can cure it by pulling the buds out a bit), and the treble is clear without being tizzy or hot. Midrange is so-so, but better than any stock earphones you will encounter. Unfortunately, I do not use these earbuds while I am sitting motionless. As such, I frequently have issues with the sound quality dropping off dramatically. The sound is highly dependent on the tight fit of the earpiece into your ear. If it is loosened in the least, bass disappears at an exponential rate. I rate the sound quality when the fit is correct 4.5 out of 5...when the buds are loose, 1 out of 5. Average: 3/5
Durability
The construction is excellent. The buds should last indefinitely so long as the rubber earpieces stay soft and pliable. I would anticipate these to last at least several years with regular use, even if you work out with them.
Overall
These earphones could be very good if you use them while you sit still on a train or study. However, as soon as you throw physical activity in the mix, these buds can't hang with more conventional designs. If Sony could create a more secure fitting design, these earphones would be significantly improved.
Recommended:
No
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Epinions.com ID:
andrewkchen
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Reviews written: 6
Trusted by: 0 members
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