As a convenient alternative to large headphones, Shure’s sound isolating earphones take some beating.
It seems as if the industry behind making music portable is ever expanding. Headphones have become fashion accessories, while phones and tablets now supplement players designed specifically to give you music on the move. High res audio is also becoming more widely available, although at a price.
One of the most successful recent developments has been the noise cancelling headphone. At the top end of the range, these eliminate a significant proportion of external sound while, at the same time, providing musical reproduction of a very high standard.
The leaders in this market tend to charge something like £270 and, judging by the numbers wearing them on the streets, people seem to believe that this is worth every penny.
The alternative route, which has been around much longer, is the earphone. Rather than a bulky unit that takes up considerable room, Shure’s SE425 Sound Isolating earphones come in two colours, can be slipped into a pocket and if you have a small MP3 player, that might even fit into the carrying case.
The methodology underlying the earphones has been developed from the company’s high-end items that were created specifically to allow rock stars to hear themselves think, sing and, as a by-product, delay deafness for a few years.
It works by providing users with different tips that fit right into their ears. These come in three sizes and three materials to ensure that everybody gets the ideal solution for their ears.
Rather than using white noise to eliminate other noise, the isolation operates by comfortably blocking the ear thereby preventing most external sound from getting past. The good news is that no batteries are required.
This can be a great boon in a noisy office environment as well as on the tube or at home while the family are watching Star Wars.
They are slightly fiddly to get used to but once you get there with so much choice, it is possible to find a fit that remains comfortable for hours of consecutive listening.
The main selling point here though is the exceptional sound quality, which has won the product numerous awards. As the manufacturers describe it the earphones contain “Dual High Definition MicroDrivers, dedicated tweeter and woofer for accurate and balanced sound.”
At a price that is currently under £200 if you shop around, it is possible to enjoy incredible detail with good bass and balance. This easily compares with the equivalent offerings from the noise cancelling manufacturers at rather higher cost, although the effect is rather different. Being an accountant rather than an anatomist, it is hard to explain why.
In addition, you will protect your ears to a degree because direct delivery means that the volume does not need to be as loud to create the same impact.
These quietly inconspicuous but attractive little units are also perfect for walkers and joggers who may struggle to survive with either normal earbuds or bulky headphones.
All in all, the Shure SE425 Sound Isolating Earphones are well worth a try in advance of the next business trip. If the price bracket sounds too high, there are three cheaper models starting at under £50, while for those looking for the ultimate in luxury the top of the range comes in not far short of £900.