Sony MDR-EX71SL Fontopia Headphones
Sony MDR-EX71SL Fontopia Headphones
I recently picked up a pair of these in the ear earphones.
For me the standard in the ear earphones don't stay in my ear due to genetics. The Antitragus and Tragus areas are spaced too far apart on my ear, otherwise known as headphone holders. Therefore in the ear headphones fall out constantly. Forget about walking much less running.
Ear reference
http://health.allrefer.com/pictures-images/external-and-internal-ear.html
These new Sony headphones actually sit in the ear canal, those of you who have a problem with this shouldn't buy these. Since I am accustomed to wearing ear protection when mowing the lawn and other loud places, these headphones didn't feel uncomfortable.
When first placing the headphones in your ear, you will notice a slight suction sensation. This is normal since it is creating a complete barrier to the outside world. I am not sure of the noise isolation measurements, but these headphones are at least as effective as my musicians ear protection ear plugs.
Some negatives are if you are a heavy walker or runner you will be able to hear the low rumbling of your feet. Additionally the extension cord should have some kind of retractable mechanism. I am using a wire tie to make it shorter. I suppose if I owned the remote for my ipod, I wouldn't have to use the extension cord.
In areas where you really want to concentrate on the music or audio content and the distractions of conversations or background noise bothers you, these are great in the ear headphones. Another plus is that it isn't as expensive as some of the noise canceling or custom in the ear ones, while performing the same job.
- Alex