View Full Version : Noise cancelling headphones
Now I actually caught an episode of the gadget show tonight. They tested some headphones as part of a challenge. They were displayed for literally 10secs and cost £30. He had a stereo blasting next to him and couldn't hear it. Did anyone catch the name of what they were. They said it once and then never again. Not on the website either.
Something like "used by american helicopter pilots". Just curious really
edit:- found it
http://www.superfi.co.uk/index.cfm/page/moreinfo.cfm/Product_ID/4015
Are those the same? The ones on the show looked different and certainly had different inserts on them.
Sounds dodgy to me - don't know any noise cancelling headphones that are that good. :dunno:
Are those the same? The ones on the show looked different and certainly had different inserts on them.
Hmm you have me thinking now.... I was only half paying attention which is the problem. They claim its the one on the list here.
http://fwd.five.tv/gadget-show/blog/episode-2-sound-robot-dog-vacuum-cleaners-digital-picture-frames
Sounds dodgy to me - don't know any noise cancelling headphones that are that good. :dunno:
Indeed, which is why I was interested :)
edit:- blimey, bit advanced for Five
http://fwd.five.tv/videos/sound-challenge
7min 50secs. They are blue and have foam inserts. If he isn't lying about them then they might be worth a punt as I need a new set.
Could just be a different sleeve on the earpices, that's quite possible. I was dubious about the claim, that music playing was so loud that if it's cancelled it out completely then it's very impressive.
AboveTheSalt
17-03-2009, 11:15
There is a thread on some Goldring NS1000 Active Noise Reduction Headphones at £150 reduced to £50 HERE.
I bought a pair and I am not convinced either that they entirely eliminate noise or that they don't alter the quality of the sound you hear; certainly there is a definite difference in the sound you hear with the noise reduction switched on & off.
The Goldring GX-200 earphones referred to in this thread may be different in that they are may act like earplugs with embedded speakers?
Matblack
17-03-2009, 11:28
I'm going to get some of these for my CX300s
http://www.complyfoam.com/
Although I'm very pleased with the CX300s I feel they would benefit from better ear buds and these use the same foam as the better ear plugs on the market, basically the foam used in memory mattresses.
MB
There is a thread on some Goldring NS1000 Active Noise Reduction Headphones at £150 reduced to £50 HERE.
I bought a pair and I am not convinced either that they entirely eliminate noise or that they don't alter the quality of the sound you hear; certainly there is a definite difference in the sound you hear with the noise reduction switched on & off.
The Goldring GX-200 earphones referred to in this thread may be different in that they are may act like earplugs with embedded speakers?
It's important to note the difference between 'active' noise reduction and 'passive' noise cancelling. Those headphones will never likely create a great seal around your ear, hence having the active method.
With in ear phones, especially with foam buds you can almost eliminate outside sound altogether. Hell, they verge on dangerous at times, when I have mine in, at anything beyond quarter volume I can't hear a thing.
Over ear cans, IMO, won't manage to come anywhere near the sound isolation achieved by decent in ear phones unless they press so tightly against your head that they hurt.
The ones I use when I fly use ANR. They do cover the whole ear though, and were about £300. They work a treat, however I don't think I'd use a pair unless they were actually needed. Cutting out the background noise of a radio and the engine are fine, but day-to-day there are noises I'd like to hear.
I'm going to get some of these for my CX300s
http://www.complyfoam.com/
Although I'm very pleased with the CX300s I feel they would benefit from better ear buds and these use the same foam as the better ear plugs on the market, basically the foam used in memory mattresses.
MB
Ooh, they look good and they do them for my SE210s. $38 for 10 though, I think I paid about £13 for some foam tips on Ebay and I'm almost out. Let me know how you get on with them.
Edit: £17 for 10 on Amazon!
Ooh, they look good and they do them for my SE210s. $38 for 10 though, I think I paid about £13 for some foam tips on Ebay and I'm almost out. Let me know how you get on with them.
Edit: £17 for 10 on Amazon!
The SE210s come with 4 sets of foam tips, 2 in the normal size, how can you possibly have needed more? :huh:
Stan_Lite
17-03-2009, 14:11
I'm going to get some of these for my CX300s
http://www.complyfoam.com/
Although I'm very pleased with the CX300s I feel they would benefit from better ear buds and these use the same foam as the better ear plugs on the market, basically the foam used in memory mattresses.
MB
I got a set of CX500s a few weeks ago. I like the sound but the silicon buds are rubbish at keeping background noise out. I think I'll get some of these off Amazon.
Thanks Matt.
This might turn into a plan. Thanks Matt.
The SE210s come with 4 sets of foam tips, 2 in the normal size, how can you possibly have needed more? :huh:
I bought some of the yellow foam tips as they gave a better seal with my ear. Unfortunately after a while they accumulate grease and wax and degrade (shrink). I've tried washing them with mild soap and water and while this does get them clean, they never regain their original size.
Ah, I use the black ones which I find give a perfect seal, they're still full size after a year of use and they've only needed cleaning one or twice. They're brilliant. The extension lead part however, has just broken on mine :(
Those look like regular ear canal sealing headphones, not noise canceling.
I have both, they are both different. The best in ear canal are made by etymotic, they start at around £70 ish to over £200. It's a strange feeling first, like putting your head under water but the sound quality is amazing. I broke mine :(
The danger of them is that with them on, you can't hear much from the outside world, and you have to pay double attention when walking on the streets.
The best in ear canal are made by etymotic
Hugely debatable...
Hugely debatable...
Hehe. I did consider a pair but ended up with the Shures. I've just had a warranty replacement actually, picking them up today!
I use Super.Fi 5 Pro's from Ultimate Ears, and they while they are noise isolating, they are also, as mentioned above rather dangerous - especially if you walk a lot, instead of drive. You could get creamed by a bus with these things on.
As for the gadget show in general, the show itself should be taken rather lightly. Their opinions are rather over glorified on various products lately.
Matblack
26-03-2009, 13:28
The Comply bud replacement I have recieved are great, not only are the increadably good at isolating sound but they fit the ear very snugly, the memory foam just applies enough pressure to keep them in without being painful in the slightest. My only quible is the colour being mid grey rather than black but its not an issue when you're using them :)
10/10
MB
Stan_Lite
26-03-2009, 15:03
I'll get some ordered when I get back then - thanks Mr Guinea Pig :D
LeperousDust
26-03-2009, 15:43
Obviously slightly off topic, but i tried the Shures recently, E2C's having heard about them for year thinking they were going to bow the socks of my silly CX300 II's (and the CX300), but tbh for the extra few quid i didn't notice that much at all. They didn't fit in my ears right after a load of fiddling even with the different sleeves. It just wasn't happening for me, and this was a pretty real world test with MY iPod replacing my own headphones there and then that i'd just been listening to for the last hour or so, and wandering round a shop with them. ust couldn't get on with them.
Depends what you're looking for. There should be far far far more mid and high clarity but the bass will probably feel fairly lacking in comparison.
CX300s and other headphones of their market often aim for a strong bass and strong high sound to give the music more 'kick', which is gradually removed as you move higher up the ladder and the sound is more balanced.
Flibster
26-03-2009, 16:19
I'm now on my 4th set of SE530's There seems to be a bit of a quality issue with more recent batches. :(
1st set has the old hard cabling which frayed, no problem. Sent them back and got the new softer cable. Now seems to be a issue with the internals. :( Had 2 sets have a driver in the left earpiece fail. :(
Shure's customer service is absolutely top notch though. Phone up monday to get an RMA, send off on monday. New set arrives this morning. Completely new set - metal box and everything. I now have 4 of them though... I only ever send the earpieces back in a padded envelope.
Still I have ACS T1's to use now which wipe the floor with the SE530's
Also, it may sound silly, but if you have an expensive set of IEM's, I can really recommend getting a set of custom sleeves made for them. Better at blockign out noise and more comfortable as it's a perfect fit. I got mine moulded by Audio Relief (www.audiorelief.co.uk) - who used ACS (www.hearingprotection.co.uk) to make them. Not cheap at £88 - but how much do the foam earpieces cost and how long do they last? £88 for 4 years of usage sounds alright to me.
Depends what you're looking for. There should be far far far more mid and high clarity but the bass will probably feel fairly lacking in comparison.
CX300s and other headphones of their market often aim for a strong bass and strong high sound to give the music more 'kick', which is gradually removed as you move higher up the ladder and the sound is more balanced.
I have some CX300, they are really unbalanced, bass is too strong, which i think why i prefer the ipod standard ones, they are not sealed but at least i can hear the midrange and treble pretty well.
I now have 4 of them though... I only ever send the earpieces back in a padded envelope.
You have 4 sets of 530s? Can I have some? :p
I need to get round to registering my SE210s actually, so I can get a new cable.
LeperousDust
26-03-2009, 17:00
Depends what you're looking for. There should be far far far more mid and high clarity but the bass will probably feel fairly lacking in comparison.
CX300s and other headphones of their market often aim for a strong bass and strong high sound to give the music more 'kick', which is gradually removed as you move higher up the ladder and the sound is more balanced.
Yeah i know my CX300 are bass'ed up to the hills, its far to pronounced and obvious. But i just expected something warmer, or more, and tbh i didn't really get it. I didn't test them in the quiet at home to be honest, i was in a busy shopping centre. Maybe thats where the problem lies, but i feel i got a fairly good real world go out of them, and couldn't justify the extra.
Flibster
26-03-2009, 17:07
You have 4 sets of 530s? Can I have some? :p
I need to get round to registering my SE210s actually, so I can get a new cable.
I've got 4 of the metal boxes they come in and all the accessories. I only ever send the earphones back in a padded envelope - they send a completely new set of earphones back.
Matblack
26-03-2009, 17:11
The only issue I have with my CX300s and I suspect any ear bud is what I can only describe as 'swish', this seems to be due to the air cutting past the cable and being transmitted through the headphones, its more obvious on a windy day.
I've always hated earphones in the past, they always fell out of my ears when I was walking but I LOVE the ear buds they stay in and the sound is great to my ears, I'd be tempted to trade up as you are right they are a bit bass heavy but as I only wear them in places with ambient noise and disttractions I quite honestly couldn't give a toss. I was going to wear them in bed or whilst working them maybe I'd be more bothered but thats what speakers are for
http://www.kef.com/France/history/1990_1/images/model103.jpg
:)
MB
Yeah i know my CX300 are bass'ed up to the hills, its far to pronounced and obvious. But i just expected something warmer, or more, and tbh i didn't really get it. I didn't test them in the quiet at home to be honest, i was in a busy shopping centre. Maybe thats where the problem lies, but i feel i got a fairly good real world go out of them, and couldn't justify the extra.
Musical warmth is not something the E2cs were known for really. I initially felt a little disappointed with my SE210s coming straight from my EX71s (very bass heavy like the CX300s) but after living with them for a week or so and switching back, the difference was night and day.
I've got 4 of the metal boxes they come in and all the accessories. I only ever send the earphones back in a padded envelope - they send a completely new set of earphones back.
I see. I'm wondering whether to send mine back just for a new cable, or just see if I can buy one from somewhere for a couple of quid.
As a vaguely related side, i've been doing stuff about active noise control for my acoustics module at uni, it's incredibly interesting stuff.
LeperousDust
26-03-2009, 17:27
The only issue I have with my CX300s and I suspect any ear bud is what I can only describe as 'swish', this seems to be due to the air cutting past the cable and being transmitted through the headphones, its more obvious on a windy day.
:)
MB
I use to get this ALL the time with the CX300's really annoying. But its incredibly hard to replicate. So far after a month or more of use of the CX300 II's apart from a much better build i haven't had this yet. So i'm guessing they might have tweaked the aerodynamics outside, because they do look different.
Flibster
26-03-2009, 17:32
The only issue I have with my CX300s and I suspect any ear bud is what I can only describe as 'swish', this seems to be due to the air cutting past the cable and being transmitted through the headphones, its more obvious on a windy day.
MB
It's partially the design and partially the cable they use. I believe it's called microphonics *I think anyway* CX300's are notoriously bad for this. Especially when rubbing against something.
Generally is the cable is heavier then it doesn't happen as much.
My Shure something or others suffer terribly from microphonics (that's the right term) and it annoys me no end :(
Flibster
26-03-2009, 17:48
My Shure something or others suffer terribly from microphonics (that's the right term) and it annoys me no end :(
The E2C's I had did to an extent. The E3 and E4C's were much better. The SE530's have almost none of it - I just wish they would last longer than the 6 weeks the last set lasted. :(
OK, so now the obvious question...
Is this a good deal? http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sennheiser-CX300-Eco-Headphones-Black/dp/B000S8EUNM
Is there anything else in the price range people would recommend (preferably that are compatible with the replacement foam MB posted and not quite so bass-laden).
You won't find much to compete with CX300s for £16
LeperousDust
26-03-2009, 19:06
I paid just under £30 for my CX300's but i wanted them right away (as in, at that shopping centre :p) And tbh, i'd still pay £30 over and over again. Well worth it, if i could get them for £16 i'd be more than happy! :D
Flibster
26-03-2009, 19:13
£16?
As long as you get genuine ones, thats fine.
Just spotted this:
Usually dispatched within 1 to 3 months.
Items for dispatch to UK will be sold by Amazon's Preferred Merchant.
...i'd pay the extra and just get a proper set of CX300 IIs
LeperousDust
26-03-2009, 19:40
As i said i'd still easily pay £30 for them and i'm ****ing stingey...
I didn't read down far enough to spot the 1-3 months. Oops. Sorry. Never mind then. :o
CX300-IIs are £29.99 at Play. Amazon have only white and pink (excluding the 'con artist' who wants double the price everyone else is asking).
The only issue I have with my CX300s and I suspect any ear bud is what I can only describe as 'swish', this seems to be due to the air cutting past the cable and being transmitted through the headphones, its more obvious on a windy day.
It's called Microphonics, and yes the CX300's and the Creative equivalents (forgotten their names) suffer from it due to the thin cables. You can hear your heart beating, teeth mashing etc as you walk - especially if the cable is within your shirt and touching your chest. Even my pos E2C's have them.
Drove me nuts until I got my Super.Fi 5 Pro's. Haven't looked anywhere else since.
I bought a set of CX300 IIs on eBay for £15 plus three quid postage - Item number 250392304850 so I hope they're genuine. Feedback is very high so I'm feeling positive. I'm also hoping that the IIs aren't as susceptable to microphonics as the others from what LD said.
Which are the buds on Amazon to grab to fit them?
Think it's these...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Comply-Ultimate-Metro-fi-Super-fi-earphones/dp/B001D82YMA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1238175067&sr=8-3
Someone else best confirm first though.
Matblack
27-03-2009, 19:38
yep, got mine direct though :)
MB
Right, I've been caught out. The seller is no longer a registered eBay user (despite a huge positive feedback) and the auction was cancelled. I've filed a dispute with Paypal so I expect to get my money back but it leaves me without any new cans.
Which High Street store am I likely to get a set of CX300-IIs from tomorrow morning?
I've been caught too then because I've been after some and did the same. Oh well. My first dispute I guess. At least the 7010iX I grabbed at the same time turned up today.
Matblack
02-04-2009, 17:46
I can get you some tomorrow but they will be full RRP from the Apple Store in Maidstone.
MB
I'm sitting in work and could have dived into the Apple Store at Lakeside if I'd realised earlier but I'd quite like them for tomorrow afternoon. I see Comet list the CX300 but no indication if they're the -IIs or not. Grrr.
LeperousDust
02-04-2009, 19:22
Most places i'd imagine would be the II's now Feek, but no guarantees, i actually bought mine in one of those booth seller things that sell general tat and mobile phone covers, and even they had them!
Not true. I checked Currys.digital on our local high street. They had CX300s (no II).
Flibster
03-04-2009, 11:15
Shure SE530 update.
Well - set number 4 failed during burn-in :mad: Right earpiece has lost a driver or two.
I am NOT a happy person right now. Shure seems to have some serious quality control issues at the moment.
4 failures in a year is unacceptable!
So - buy the Shures for their sound quality, but you're probably going have to use their RMA services - bloody good job they are the best RMA services I've used.
LeperousDust
03-04-2009, 13:12
Haha i couldn't give a monkeys how good they are, i'm not someone who'd be RMA'ing something 4 times a year... :p
Ouch
Have you considered moving over to try someone like Ultimate Ears?
I'd imagine the triple.fi would be the competition to the SE530
Flibster
03-04-2009, 13:31
Ouch
Have you considered moving over to try someone like Ultimate Ears?
I'd imagine the triple.fi would be the competition to the SE530
They may well be - I found them uncomfortable. I'd need to get custom moulded sleeves for them. They also stick out a long way, the Shures fit very nice in the curley bit of the ear *I'm sure it has a proper name, but I've no idea what it is. :D*
Still have my ACS T1's for everyday usage though. :D
SE530's are mainly for the gym or when I head to London.
Still have my ACS T1's for everyday usage though. :D
I googled, are they really that price? :shocked:
Flibster
03-04-2009, 13:39
Haha i couldn't give a monkeys how good they are, i'm not someone who'd be RMA'ing something 4 times a year... :p
To be fair - the first set lasted 9 months roughly and it was a known issue that I was living with until I got my T1's made.
They used to use a less flexible cable which could split exposing the copper wires.
The other 3 have been driver failures - they have also had the new flexible wire... hmmm...
Flibster
03-04-2009, 13:43
I googled, are they really that price? :shocked:
For the basic ones. Yes.
I have coloured shells *extra few quid* and a couple of extra tweaks, *different connector, shorter cable and an extension lead* Also have had the gel impressions made so they don't need to recast my lugs if I have any issues.
Made me wince when I paid for them. I was thinking of the T2's but the T1's were released and what went though my mind was essentially "What the hell, it's only money!"
Stupid? Yes.
Worth it? Yes!
For the basic ones. Yes.
I have coloured shells *extra few quid* and a couple of extra tweaks, *different connector, shorter cable and an extension lead* Also have had the gel impressions made so they don't need to recast my lugs if I have any issues.
Made me wince when I paid for them. I was thinking of the T2's but the T1's were released and what went though my mind was essentially "What the hell, it's only money!"
Stupid? Yes.
Worth it? Yes!
And they're your "everyday" 'phones. Whaddya use when you're giving your ears a treat? ;)
Flibster
03-04-2009, 13:48
And they're your "everyday" 'phones. Whaddya use when you're giving your ears a treat? ;)
Custom moulded earplugs that filter equally across all the frequencies.
That is because I'm at a live show though and want to preserve my hearing. ;)
LeperousDust
03-04-2009, 14:11
Custom moulded earplugs that filter equally across all the frequencies.
That is because I'm at a live show though and want to preserve my hearing. ;)
I really wish i'd want to wear earplugs, love my music loud and its such a stupid young thing to do, and now working everynight we've got the DJ on full volume which i know is probably a massive killer... Hmmmm
Going to struggle to hear customers with earplugs in I'd have thought. :dunno:
Custom moulded earplugs that filter equally across all the frequencies.
I imagined you nestled between two pillow like breasts with T1's on ;)
Going to struggle to hear customers with earplugs in I'd have thought. :dunno:
Eh? Speak up!
Flibster
03-04-2009, 14:33
I imagined you nestled between two pillow like breasts with T1's on ;)
I tried once. She said the cable was cold.
:(
I tried once. She said the cable was cold.
:(
Get on to them to do heated cables?
LeperousDust
03-04-2009, 14:42
Going to struggle to hear customers with earplugs in I'd have thought. :dunno:
Apparently not, because we're meant to wear these earplugs that are named shrek ears (being green and sticking out strange). I've been told they seem to work really well, that said no-one wears any though because they look so stupid. Oh to be young hey? Hmmmm two minds, right now i'm thinking yeah i might try them, i'll get to work tonight and i'll not bother...
*update*
Against all odds, the CX300-IIs arrived. The sound is excellent from them, noticeably better than my knackered old Shures but I'm still not 100% sure that they're not fakes! Alex, can you do me some nice macro shots of yours including the headphone jack so I can compare please.
Also, they're very microphonic which is why I'm not sure as to whether they're legit or not. Realistically I bought these because I didn't expect them to be as microphonic as they are so if they're genuine, then I'm disappointed.
LeperousDust
06-04-2009, 21:02
Will do some when i get a chance tonight. Errrrm i've got something to tell you too... I definitely did notice some microphics the other day walking across the meadows. But i swear this is the first time i've noticed it. In my experience it seems much better than it used to be, and since i do a lot of walking across the medows (which as you should know is pretty damn windy most of the time!) i like to think i've got a fair go out of them...
Alex! *poke* :p
Looks like mine are waiting for me at the Post Office. Totally unexpected given the circumstances and I hope they are legit. Even if they aren't I'm hoping they'll be plenty good enough for me, but it would be good to know.
LeperousDust
07-04-2009, 14:52
Ok ok, i'm on it :p I fell asleep in the living room last night totally shattered and no sleep and spent the rest of the night up awake in my bed due to a "small" mouse problem we seem to have :p
LeperousDust
11-04-2009, 13:24
About a week later than planned, kept leaving my iPod in work and i use other headphones (the originals) as well. But her are some macro shots of the II's and originals for good measure. Micro-phonics are still there, but i can definitely say they've been vastly improved, i wouldn't really say they affect music unless its turned right down or quiet. Its obviously noticeable when you're not playing anything but surely they can't completely eliminate it?
CX300-II's
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30002.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30003.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30004.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30005.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30006.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30007.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30008.jpg
Originals
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30009.jpg
http://www.twobeds.com/upload/./userfiles/LeperousDust/CX30001.jpg
Interesting, very interesting. Mine look different to yours, but the same as the ones pictured on the Apple store!
The ones on the Apple site (im guessing standard promo pictures) have been photoshopped. Look at the wires down by the splitter part, the cables that go to the buds don't both connect to the splitter :p
Mine are not just subtly different to LDs, they're very different.
http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/uk/icm.nsf/root/products_sennheiser_headphones_portable_cx_series_ 500831_20090213
http://www.sennheiser.co.uk/uk/icm.nsf/root/products_sennheiser_headphones_portable_cx_series_ 20090213
if that helps
It does help, the body colour is the main difference! I didn't realise they came in different colours.
However. I found a good guide to spotting fakes of the CX300 and one of the big things is the headphone jack. It says that the CX300 headphone jack is not gold plated and that's a big tell. Now admittedly that's the 300, not the 300-II but I notice the pictures on the Senn site don't have a gold coloured/plated headphone jack but both LDs and mine are that colour.
Just picked mine up (finally). I have experience with known genuine Sennheiser headphones (admittedly they cost £70) and the packaging 'feels' all wrong to me. The quality that I'd have expected just isn't there.
I'd have been willing to live with a little microphonics if they do what I need them to (and it looks like they would) but the microphonics on these is bad enough that even walking with them is at risk of causing problems. :(
As a result, I'm really not sure what to do. I could claim but not sure how I'd prove it and even if I did there's no guarantee of money at the end. :/
Obviously it may not be entirely practical but visiting a well known shop (ie. the Apple Store) that will have 99% guaranteed genuine articles and comparing directly would be a good idea?
You're right in my case - not practical - and in any case there's only so much you can do without opening a box. They look reasonably close to the genuine CX300s I've seen from the outside but there's enough that isn't right to lead me to think 'fake'.
LeperousDust
14-04-2009, 17:53
Wait glanced over what you've just written, and if i've bought fakes i'll be gutted :p
//Edit: Right yeah my 300's are silver, and II's are gold, i do still think they're real although i did buy them off a stall, but this stall was in a massive shopping plaza, now i'm doubting it. But they're bloody good if not better than the old "originals" so i'm happy :p
I have to say, considering yours don't even have logos on them, i'd be inclined to say they were fake. However, yours do have some usual signs of genuine items such as a properly recessed mesh etc.
Christ, all this makes the extra money on less commonly faked models seem worth it alone :p
One issue that plagues the CX300 in particular though is that afaik, Sennheiser effectively buy in the case design and it's not exclusive, so in theory anyone can legitimately get those shells and use them for whatever they like.
LeperousDust
14-04-2009, 18:17
Yeah i'd never even noticed that i'm missing the logo's Thing is the place i bought these from were selling £100+ Shures which i was debating. I really can't imagine they'd be fake :(
Boooooo
Shure used to have issues with fake E2c and E3c etc. though I don't know if they suffer so much with the SE range. If I was selling decentish fakes, i'd probably sell them quite expensive. Too cheap just arouses suspicion.
Wait glanced over what you've just written, and if i've bought fakes i'll be gutted :p
Given the price and the fact I'm not expecting them to last particularly long, fake or not, it doesn't bother me. If I'd wanted Sennheiser for the brand, I could see your point, but I didn't. One thing I didn't want though was microphonics but I don't think I have it in me to argue the toss, so I'll use them if I can and put it down to experience if I can't.
Not sure what you mean about the 'recessed mesh'. Gold/silver plugs isn't a guarantee until someone comes along with a pair of known-genuine CX300-IIs. My Sennheiser OMX70s have a gold plug and I'm 100% sure they're genuine (came direct from the Apple Store).
Matblack
14-04-2009, 19:49
I'm tempted to upgrade mine soon, have been looking at the Zagg Z buds
MB
While you're about MB, I'm on the smallest size of the supplied plugs (great to get some that actually fit at last, fake or not), so are the Comply foam thingies still likely to fit?
Ta.
Matblack
14-04-2009, 20:01
The Comply foam buds should fit anyones ears as they are memory foam and compress down and then gradually expand within the ear canal until they form a seal :)
MB
Not sure what you mean about the 'recessed mesh'.
http://www.anythingbutipod.com/images/forum/dfkt/fake_cx300/distinguish4.jpg
See how the mesh on the genuine article has a lip and so looks recessed, where as the fakes are just stuck on the end.
SidewinderINC
14-04-2009, 22:40
So many fakes of everything on the market nowadays :(
I've given up trying to save a few quid here or there, and just forked out the prices at good reputable sellers.
Given up buying electrical stuff on ebay, had 3 fake microphones so far, all gone back with a letter of complaint.
Thanks divine - my eyesight isn't good enough for that but looks closer to the real example to me. Still far from convinced.
One for the experience files though - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is - and a half-price auction on eBay sadly counts. Oh well. Going to sleep on it but at this point I'm inclined to close the PayPal dispute and have done with it.
If you can't see well enough, I should imagine taking off the silicon bud part and running your finger over it you would feel the lip or lack of.
These are fakes, I'm sure.
Look.
http://ocukroguesgallery.com/feek/temp/central-20090417-234723.png
The photo isn't quite straight on so it's accentuated slightly but the logo isn't central. I think that's conclusive enough.
Yeah, I'm 100% convinced they're fakes. That'll be why eBay cancelled the auction.
Shame.
Dispute is still open so I've left a message.
I did the same, but he didn't reply so I've now changed the dispute to an 'item significantly different to described'. There's an option there specifically for fakes.
Yup, noticed that but didn't do it. I'll kick it over to that tomorrow (I did say I'd give fair chance).
Just had the refund terms through from PayPal and it has to be in original condition, which obviously isn't going to happen. I would assume the same is true for you as well, Feek.
I'm inclined to think the hassle isn't worth the £18 (less postage, fees, etc.).
These are fakes, I'm sure.
Look.
http://ocukroguesgallery.com/feek/temp/central-20090417-234723.png
The photo isn't quite straight on so it's accentuated slightly but the logo isn't central. I think that's conclusive enough.
That logo is definitely wrong, the "gaps" between the lines is much closer in mine.
Just had the refund terms through from PayPal and it has to be in original condition, which obviously isn't going to happen. I would assume the same is true for you as well, Feek.
I'm inclined to think the hassle isn't worth the £18 (less postage, fees, etc.).
I've returned them, Mark along with a note saying that the packaging had to be opened to determine the condition. First class recorded isn't expensive and Paypal have already found in my favour.
I've also read reports of people buying through Amazon marketplace and being sent fakes as well, it's an absolute minefield.
So today I went to what I hope is a reputable shop and paid full price for a pair of CX400-IIs. I shall report back.
I did as I said I'd do and cancelled the dispute. Not going to buy anything new either. If I can't keep the microphonics under control, that's too bad.
If I ever decide to buy any more in future, I won't be getting them from eBay, or Amazon Marketplace, or Playtrade, or anyone else of that type. Same goes for Sandisk memory cards which are also prone to this.
I'd still be interested to know if you do get a refund though.
Looks like I've got a 2nd pair of failed SE210s :( . The left hand cable seems to be failing at the 'junction' - its not on the extension side either so no getting around it if I couldn't be bothered to return them. Not so sure I want another pair to be honest, might have a shop around.
Shure quality control seems to be non existent. I've just had my third pair of SCL3's go tits up so I'm back to using to ER 6i's which have had a tough life but still work perfectly.
Wow, I just dipped back into this thread for a quick read and I can't believe when I'm seeing :shocked:
I sort of feel lucky that my Sony MDR-EX70 in-ear ones from about 2000 are still going strong.
http://tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:iSXvCiQWGqNZiM:http://i.pbase.com/u13/lllau/upload/41567809.SonyMDREX70.jpg
My EX71s have been solid as a rock despite reputations of shoddy cabling when I bought them.
I did as I said I'd do and cancelled the dispute.
That's a shame - Paypal have already said that I'll get my refund when he gets them back. Yes, it's only £20 or so but that's still £20 (minus the postage) that I've hopefully not lost.
If I can't keep the microphonics under control, that's too bad.
I've been doing some research. Earphones that go in the ear all suffer from microphonics to some extent, that's just the nature of them.
The CX400-IIs I've now got still suffer a bit, they're a lot better than the dodgy fake 300s and also better than my old Shures. I've just been for a walk and they were great. No microphonics from wind blowing over the cables and I routed the wires under my top with the supplied clip holding the cable in place so that there was no chance of them being pulled out.
If I ever decide to buy any more in future, I won't be getting them from eBay, or Amazon Marketplace, or Playtrade, or anyone else of that type.
Yes, I feel the same now.
I'd still be interested to know if you do get a refund though.
You'll be among the first to know :)
My EX71s have been solid as a rock despite reputations of shoddy cabling when I bought them.
Mine split and then i put tape on them which extended their life for a month or so and then it just keep splitting...
The EX71 were at one time though horrific for counterfeiting, much like CX300s. I always did wonder how many of the poor cable issues were from dodgy copies that people bought entirely innocently.
Anyone have a pair of the Etymotic ER-6i headphones? I've looked around and they still seem to be the main competitor to the SE210 (I nearly bought them originally).
Anyone have a pair of the Etymotic ER-6i headphones? I've looked around and they still seem to be the main competitor to the SE210 (I nearly bought them originally).
I do/did, but it broke, a connection to the 1/8 jack is loose and i cba to fix it.
As for sound quality, it is brilliant, worth the £70 price tag. Excellent seal, good top, mid and bass. Not too over powering bass like the CX300, and it comes in white :p
Yep - I've had a pair for a couple of years. In my opinion they're the best headphones I've used. My only gripe is that I had to replace the little plastic filter things a bit too often for my liking but apart from that I think they're great.
Anyone have a pair of the Etymotic ER-6i headphones? I've looked around and they still seem to be the main competitor to the SE210 (I nearly bought them originally).
Other than them, the other place i'd be looking is at what Ultimate Ears offer for the money. Super.fi 3 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ultimate-Ears-Super-fi-Studio-Headphones/dp/B000B5XU06)
Same as what I paid for my SE210s so I imagine that's about the cost you're looking at.
Other than them, the other place i'd be looking is at what Ultimate Ears offer for the money. Super.fi 3 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ultimate-Ears-Super-fi-Studio-Headphones/dp/B000B5XU06)
Same as what I paid for my SE210s so I imagine that's about the cost you're looking at.
Looked at those too but they don't seem to fit in the ear like the SE210s. They stick out of your ear as opposed to sitting inside them.
Bargain ! CX 500 for £18.
http://www.play.com/Electronics/Electronics/4-/3509717/Sennheiser-CX500-Headphones/Product.html?source=9593
LeperousDust
15-05-2009, 00:40
Yeah just bought those myself for £18 cant hurt to have another pair around...
Makes me want to :'( knowing that's how much I paid for fakes.
/ponders - I wasn't going to buy another set but that price looks rather tasty
A very good price, I've ordered those. The 400s will become spares and I'll use the 500s.
I'll update more on the return of the fake 300s in due course. It's still in progress.
They are a bit of a bargain - I've ordered myself a set.
Matblack
15-05-2009, 09:33
Ordered, will compare with current set and decide on which to keep as spares.
MB
All gone.
Mine arrived today and if I'm honest, I'm still struggling to tell the difference between real and fake from visual inspection. No doubt it'll smack me in the face once I rip open the packet. :)
LeperousDust
20-05-2009, 18:27
Using mine for two nights now, and i can't say i see a massive difference between the 300's if i'm totally honest, but they are good no doubt about it :)
I'm noticing a huge difference between these 500s and the dodgy 300s and a noticeable difference between the 400s and the 500s. The 500s are now my earphone of choice with the 400s as spares.
I shall be giving mine a try when i get home tonight.
Got another no-fuss return from Amazon, I must say I'm impressed with their customer service. Went for the ER-6i's in the end, I think I will appreciate the way these sound more than the SE210s, I just hope they don't break!
LeperousDust
22-05-2009, 02:35
They are good feek no doubt about it. I'm still trying to work out what ear pieces fit best though, always find that difficult ;D
Matblack
22-05-2009, 09:03
Get some Comply ones Alex then you don't have to worry about fit they expand to exactly the right size and give excellent noise reduction :)
MB
LeperousDust
22-05-2009, 13:04
Does that mean spending more money mb :p? At this rate, i've paid for CX300-II's (probably fake i really don't know) and 500's (definitely real :D) and i'm not in the mood for anymore now ;D I've got a choice of 6 different styles of ear piece and i know my right ear is slightly different to left because it always "feels" different, so its just a matter of picking the right ones :)
Are Play taking the piss with their packaging? I finally got hold of my CX 500's (I had them sent to the office and haven't been in for a couple of weeks) and was kinda surprised when I got to my desk this morning and had a cardboard box that was A3 (I'm not joking) size and about 3 inches deep.
I assumed that Sennheiser were being silly with their packaging meaning that Play had no choice to do the same, but no, the Sennheiser box is the size you'd expect some headphones to be in.
I'm really not sure what that was about either. I've never had that happen before with them even with similar-sized (or bigger) items. It wasn't even that the big box offered any protection (the contents were just rattling around inside).
LeperousDust
26-05-2009, 13:15
Mine came in a blister bag, i think it just depends what monkey wraps it really... Although the packaging on the earphones themselves, it of the impossible to break into kind, almost had to take bolt clippers to mine ;D
Yeah, the packaging for the headphones themselves put up a fight but my scalpal showed it who is the boss.
That sort of packaging is such a pain! A few years ago I bought a pair of headphones from and airport somewhere so that I could listen to my iPod on the flight and could I open the damn packaging? No. Would any of the staff in the shop help? No.
Flibster
26-05-2009, 16:28
Are Play taking the piss with their packaging? I finally got hold of my CX 500's (I had them sent to the office and haven't been in for a couple of weeks) and was kinda surprised when I got to my desk this morning and had a cardboard box that was A3 (I'm not joking) size and about 3 inches deep.
Quite a common thing that. I've had DVD box sets *the same size as the old double width dvd cases* arrive in them. Still - lots of that huge bubble wrap to jump on. ;)
Mine came in a blister bag, i think it just depends what monkey wraps it really... Although the packaging on the earphones themselves, it of the impossible to break into kind, almost had to take bolt clippers to mine ;D
I hate that stuff. Normally end up losing skin on several fingers trying to get into it.
Still - lots of that huge bubble wrap to jump on. ;)
Not in my box there wasn't - it was just the headphones rattling around in a behemoth sized box.
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