Motorola HX1 Bluetooth Headset Crystal Talk noise cancelation Review

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(More customer reviews)As a cyclist, I've been eager for *serious* development in Bluetooth headsets, but frustrated by just about everything I've tried. Either the headset was unstable in its ear-placement (always threatening to fall out in anything other than a vertical, semi-sedentary position) highly susceptible to external noises, or (usually) both at once. In addition, SO many headsets don't allow voice-dialing, which is rather weird given all the other touted benefits of wearing the things. Up to now, Motorola was hardly better at this than the other usual suspects, but with the HX-1, in my opinion, they've shot to the head of the class.

There are the practical-but-nice touches, starting with an on/off switch that's a *real* switch, and totally unambiguous in its operation and status. Volume control is via a rocker switch with up/down actuation easily discernible by touch. The Send/End and stealth buttons are both easy to actuate, but (at least as far as I'm concerned) offer just enough physical resistance to not be activated by accident.

In-ear fit is super-secure (finally!). Motorola offers four interchangeable earpieces, two each of two designs, which will likely cover most users' fitting issues; I've found that the "earspring" for the right ear works best for me. Comfort is very good, but (as I've stressed in other reviews regarding headphones and earbuds) the care with which you adjust the fit of the device will figure largely in how comfortable-or not-the headset will feel, both short- and long-term. (I read a short user-review of the HX-1 claiming the unit was all but unwearable in terms of comfort...after trying it on for a whole ten minutes. Not quite what I'd term "in-depth.")

Now, for the juicy bits: Cutting to the chase, the stealth (bone-conduction) mode absolutely, positively works. Cycling along at a decent clip, I've had headsets become totally useless without having to slow to a crawl and head for the curb, my words, even at a near-shout, being totally unintelligible to the other party. With the HX-1, I simply hit the stealth button, wait for the voice confirmation ("Stealth mode on"...wow, now all that's missing is a rocket-assist and retractable machine-guns;-), and the *only* sound heard on the other end is that of my voice, thanks to bone-conduction technology. True, my voice isn't as natural-sounding as through the normal CrystalTalk microphone, but highly intelligible. (One person commented that I sounded a bit like Stephen Hawking; although I'm not much of a gamer anymore, if you've ever played Counterstrike, you'll get an idea of the sound, but it's a bit better than that.)

Speaking of CrystalTalk: The default mode on the HX-1 is with the CrystalTalk mic activated. The reason is simple: under most circumstances, CT works just fine, even in relatively noisy environments. (On the bike, I've tested the headset in CT mode up to 15mph with no problems.) Stealth mode, then, is for those times when noise conditions get particularly hairy. You may end up not using stealth mode all that much, but when you need it, it's just a click away.

Other details: Battery life appears to be as advertised. The packaging of the headset is a bit of overkill (really, a cast-aluminum case? I think they need to learn a bit from Apple on this...it's about the candy inside, guys, NOT the wrapper!); Bluetooth Bonus: since the HX-1 can be paired with up to two devices at once, I also paired it with my BT-equipped PowerBook G4, which now allows me to use Skype both hands-free and untethered (as well as with a degree or privacy).

Conclusion: I think this is the best BT headset around at the moment. Yes, at its current selling price, it ought to be. Casual users of headsets probably won't be too interested in popping for this, but for those who spend a lot of time wearing a headset, *especially* while operating a vehicle, do yourself a big favor and check the HX-1 out. From a safety standpoint alone, it's absolutely worth it.

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Product Description:
The Motorola Endeavor HX1's bone conduction completely eliminates background noise when needed, while the CrystalTalk noise-cancellation technology works well in most everyday situations. It also has voice prompts and multipoint support. Fits snugly.

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VXI TalkPro USB-100 Headset with Noise Canceling Microphone for Speech Recognition and VoIP Parrott Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great usb headset.I've tried them all out and this is by far the most comfortable and best sound.And there's currently a [...] on it to boot.I use it as a phone for Skype calling, not for music, so I only wanted one earpad. What would have made it a 5 star review is if they had mentioned in the literature or on the website that it's essential to download and install the firmware update. Once I did that it worked without flaw on both my Mac and PC.They also have a bluetooth version which I tried, but returned because It entailed too much fiddling on each call.But looking back, I'll bet that might have been fixed with the firmware update as well.

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Product Description:
Item number 29097-45, Grading is cover/record: EX using Goldmine standards. 195?-6? Please see seller profile for abbreviation descriptions.

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25 Foot 3.5mm Stereo Headphone Extension Cable Review

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(More customer reviews)Look, it was three bucks, so I can't complain.But after a few months the female end no longer makes contact with the headphone.

Leaving the obvious jokes aside, I suspect that some will be longer lasting than others.

>>Edit:Well, it's a couple of days later, and now it's working again.I stand by the review. But in the interests of completeness, I thought I'd update.This is fine for casual use.

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Product Description:
Extend the reach of any MP3 player, CD player, computer or audio device with this 3.5mm stereo headphone and auxillary extension cable.

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Skullcandy SC-HESH Headphones Review

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(More customer reviews)For a while I had been wanting to retire my apple earbuds and, under the recommendation of many friends, I went to skullcandy. Not only do their products look cool, but they are also great quality. For me it was between the HESH and the Skullcandy SCS-SCM Skullcrusher Subwoofer Multimedia Headphones Black. Lucky for me, I had friends with each. First I tried the Skullcrushers. While the bass was excellent when the subwoofers were on (you turn it on by a switch attached to the cord), it was too overpowering and I couldn't hear the treble. For me, being a guitar player, it was heart-breaking to be able to barely hear the guitar parts and solos to my favorite songs. But, when the subwoofers were off, the bass was almost nonexistent and the cans adopted a tinny noise.
I went to my next friend and he let me try on the HESH. The first thing I noticed was the comfort of the leather pads and headband and the fact that I couldn't hear a word of what he was saying. But that didn't matter, because when I turned on a song, I was treated with a nirvana of screeching guitar distortion, booming bass, thundering drums and mellow acoustics. For the remainder of a song, my friend was inaudible under the music. Not only do they have excellent quality, but they go LOUD. The HESH also look cool with sick silver skulls on the cups and band. The moment I got home I ordered a pair of the black ones.
If I had one complaint it was that the cups could not rotate 90 degrees, but then again, headphones aren't supposed to be heard by a party, thats what speakers are for.
All in all, these headphones are pretty sick. If your a bass afficianado or don't care about your treble, by all means, go with the Skullcandy SCS-SCM Skullcrusher Subwoofer Multimedia Headphones Black, but realize that you won't be able to hear Clapton playing his heart out in Sunshine of Your Love. Alternatively, if you can't stand the over-the-ear style of the HESH, go with the Skullcandy SC-SBB3.5 Smokin' Earbud Black.

Hopefully I helped you make your decision.

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Product Description:
As if the 50mm drivers inside the Skullcandy Hesh headphones didn't provide a big enough sound, the parabolic backing of its ear cups further focus and intensify your choice of music.
Hesh features a thick, black-leather padded, over-the-head band with metal outer studs and the Skullcandy logo. The silver ear cups are decorated with logos and skull artwork. The ear pads are made from a soft material called Leather Touch and are designed to fit comfortably around the ear to reduce outside noise. A convenient in-line volume control makes it easy to turn down or totally mute your music without having to fumble for the knob on your music player.The Skullcandy Hesh headphones come with a 6.3mm adapter plug designed to fit most home stereo systems and a headphone travel bag.

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Sennheiser PMX80 ECO In-Ear Eco Friendly Sport Headphone (Grey/orange) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a newer model of the PMX80 which has 10 reviews elsewhere on this site.Based on those reviews and reviews of several similarly priced items, all of which were extremely helpful, and the fact that this was a newer model, I selected this item.I am very pleased with it. I have tried several different kinds of headphones during cardio and other workouts all of which were dismal failures.They fell out on their own, ormy hands would catch the cord and yank them out, or the seal was so weak that I had to pump the iPod volume up to max to get the music to a level that I could hear during a workout. These headphones suffer none of those problems.They stay in during both cardio and weightlifting workouts. They seal very well and block out other noise decently so that I could have a more appropriate volume.

If you are interested in sport headphones, you may be also interested in exercise clothing that facilitates wearing them and I recommend the Scottevest Tshirts which have a zippered shoulder pocket that held my iPod and enabled me to keep the headphones cord short so that it did not get caught by any arm movements. These two items in combination eliminated a number of workout-related nuisances and boosted my enjoyment considerably.

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Product Description:
The PMX 80 Eco is part of a series of sport headphones from Sennheiser that is packaged in bio-degradable materials to minimize the carbon footprint of the user. This marathon and gym favorite uses a verticle transducer system on a neckband that floats to keep the headphones in place during a strenuous workout. A single sided cable can eliminate cable tangles while the supplied clothing clip keeps the cable secure. The PMX 80 is sweat-proof and rinsable under running water for the ultimate in usability and durability. The rear side of the neckband is coated with a reflective stripe only visible in low-light conditions for your safety. How do they sound? You may just forget that you own home audio speakers. The Basswind system delivers clean, clear bass and the verticle transducer system channels high quality audio to the ear for an optimum listening experience. They are cold-weather tested for use indoors or out. Built-tough with a 2 year warranty.

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Sennheiser PMX80 In-Ear Sport Series II Behind the Head Earphones Review

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(More customer reviews)Great sounding headphones for jogging, ultra light weight over-the-ear neckband (16g), very secure fit, rinse clean with water. Instructions and 'manual' are a bit hidden, though.

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Product Description:
The PMX80 Behind the Head Ear Speakers uses Vertical Ear Speakers and pumps rich audio comfortably into the ear.They are compatible with MP3, iPod and other portable devices with a 1/8 inch connector.The neck band system floats the ear bud for long lasting comfort.Sweat-proof coating wicks moisture, enhancing durability.Neck band features a reflective rear for safty when running at dusk.All Sennheiser Sport Series carry a 2 year warranty.

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VXI BlueParrott Roadwarrior B250-XT Bluetooth Wireless Headset for Cell Phones/Computers with AC and Auto Chargers Review

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(More customer reviews)Recently bought a Blueparrott 250XT and was worried about the battery, as others have had problems with that. I charged mine up the full time (and more) as they say in the instructions. I initially had problems, but they were my fault.I didnt read the instructions completely and when the light flashed red, I thought it was a battery problem.As it turns out, it indicated that it had disconnected from my cellphone's bluetooth system. I reconnected and it worked really well. My cell has disconnected a few times, but lately, it works well, I'm at a loss when I dont have it on.The noise cancelling works really well. The amplication on the earphone is great and compensates for my age-related hearing loss. A really great unit, feels good wearing it, not sure I'd wear it in the food store, but is it any worse than any of the earpiece units you see being used now?If I lost it would I buy another one?Yes...100% yes.

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Product Description:
Amazing sounding calls even in noisy environments. We call it the Roadwarrior (TM) because some of our biggest fans are long-haul truckers. Unlike most over-the-ear headsets, the B250-XT features a professional grade, noise canceling microphone to effectively block out road and engine noise. High grade components ensure professional audio quality. If it works for an 18-wheeler driver, it'll certainly handle the road noise in the average car. An enhanced version of our popular B150 Wireless headset for Bluetooth enabled cellular phones and computers now with increased talk time: 10+ hours! Professional grade wireless Bluetooth headset for cellular phones and computers. Simply pair the headset to your Bluetooth enabled cellular phone or computer and you'll be handsfree and wirefree! The "gooseneck" microphone boom stays in place to ensure precise positioning. The concave ear cushion helps block out the sounds around you so you can hear your caller better. You also get an optional leatherette ear cushion, if you prefer that style. Say goodbye to wobbly over the-ear headsets! The over-the-head styling is stable, lightweight and comfortable. The ear cushion is slightly cupped for a better fit and the adjustable headband won't slip out of place. You'll get 16+ hours of talk time out of a full charge. Up to 150 hours standby time. Volume, mute, call answer/end buttons on headset. Includes both Auto (DC) and AC charging cords. 128-bit secure digital encryption for privacy.

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