What are some really good inexpensive earphones to buy?

Question

I saw that Target has some good earphones but I dont know exactly which brand is really good with a clear sound. I dont necessarily like the in, in-ear type which brand do you recommend?

Answer 1

Sonys are good, Philips are also pretty decent, and a bit cheaper.  Higher-end Koss 'phones are also pretty nice.  Unfortunately, you really get what you pay for with headphones.

Check the specifications listed on the back of the package.  You'll want 'phones that have a frequency response of about 6-23,000Hz (good bass and crisp highs).  That will give you a nice sound range.  Most cheaper 'phones have a frequency response of about 20-20,000Hz, which means very little bass response and slushy highs--they're almost all midrange.  In a pinch, you can slum it with about an 16-20,000Hz range for $12, but I doubt you'll really enjoy the sound as much.

I've also had good luck with the higher-end JBL headphones, and my fiancee likes her SkullCandy Skullcrushers.  I've been less than impressed by the SkullCandy 'phones: too much style, not enough sound.

If you don't like the in-ear headphones (though I do recommend the Sony MDR-EX51 'phones; Philips makes a good similar 'phone for $10 less), get something with a good headband instead of the clip-on 'phones.  Clip-ons are a neat idea, but they always sound a lot better when you press them to your ears--something that's just not practical for everyday use.

Try hitting your local Radio Shack.  Their headphones are made by Koss, and they usually have some demos you can try.  I have an old pair of Pro-25 headphones that still work and sound great after 12 years, and my brother's Pro-35s are awesome--and they're usually on sale for about $20, down from $40.  Even at full price, they're worth it.