Fingers (not cables) crossed
My iPhone’s earbuds are crap. I suspect your iPod/iPhone buds are just as bad. They really don’t fit in my ears, the sound quality is leaving a lot to be desired, they tangle mercilessly and they aren’t particularly durable. Most of these things will be fine for the casual listener since they are free and replacements are only $19. But not for me.
It’s always been this way. Ever since I got my first portable music player back in junior high, I’ve been on a quest for the best, most affordable, longest lasting and stylish listening devices. It’s what I do.
I thought my compulsive searching had finally paid off when I chose a pair of V-Moda Vibe Duo earbuds for Xmas 2007. They were super swanky, the sound was terrific and the fabric-covered cords seemed to be ideal for preventing spaghetti. However, six months in and the cable feeding the left channel started to fray. V-Moda replaced them (though I had to pick up the shipping) and I was able to keep on listening for another few months.
Fast forward to last week and the left channel cut out on me mid-walk. No amount of futzing seemed to bring back half the music, so I contacted V-Moda to secure yet another replacement. I was informed that my earbuds were out of warranty and that, lucky me, I could instead ship them back (again, my money for shipping) and receive a 50% off coupon for the V-Moda store. Joy of joys!
Personally, I don’t think $100 earbuds should last less than a year. If you know me, you know I treat all of my stuff with kid gloves. I Scotchgard my jackets, I polish my door handles, I’ve been known to darn my socks. There’s no reason for these Vibe Duos to be falling apart this quickly.
So, the hunt was back on. And, much to my surprise, I’ve found something that I’m actually rather excited about: Pipe Headset CMYK by AIAIAI. Not only is this set of earbuds supposed to be well sound balanced (thanks to tuning by C4 Studios,) they are also delightful to look at and reviewed as durable with thick cable construction. Reviews are favorable, the price was right at $54 and the only complaint I’ve heard is that the colors are loud – which is a plus for me.
So, AIAIAI, the challenge has been set. Will you impress me? Surely only good things come from Denmark?