Good quality headphones are a must for many people while they work or play. Not just any headphones will do. It is important that headphones fit comfortably, provide great sound quality, and are durable enough to last through all activities. There are several models in the Sennhesiser line of headphones that have passed this test, as well as others, and have proven to be a great investment for the active listener.
Different people have different requirements as to what type of headphones suits them best. Depending on their personal preferences, as well as how and when they listen, Sennheiser also has that covered. There are several models and features that make them unique.
The PMX 80 model is extremely comfortable. The ear buds go in the ear, but a neckband wraps around the back of the neck to help keep these headphones securely in place while working out. They have a sweat proof coating to keep moisture away. The PMX 80 also clips to the shirt for added assurance. A single sided cable prevents distracting tangles while working out. PMX 80 has early morning or night runners covered as well as the neckband features reflective material to help others see them.
The CX 380 model is all about a superior fit, and great sound quality. These headphones fit comfortably in the ear, and include adapters to suit any size ear. The CX 380 features a noise isolation design to help keep out competing sounds. They also feature great bass to enrich the listening experience.
The CX 680 fits in the ear canal, and partly over the back of the ear for a secure fit. These headphones also block out a good deal of interfering noise. These headphones also feature a volume adjuster to easily adapt to artists with louder or softer sounds without missing a beat of a workout. Like many of the Sennheiser models, they are also sweat resistant, and carry a two year guarantee.
The MX85 has a twist to fit system that locks the headphones in place so users will not have to fight with them falling out during a workout. Adapters are also included so any size ear gets a perfect fit. Seinhessers Basswind system assures superior sound that makes these headphones well suited to more than working out. However, the sweat proof coating means the headphones will work as hard as the user.
Those tired of cheap, tinny quality headphones that fall out of the ears, leave them sore, and need to be replaced every few months may find it is time to upgrade to one of the Sennheiser headphone models. Whether at work, engaged in a workout, or both users will be able to enjoy a rich listening experience without worrying about headphones falling out or shorting out at some crucial moment. The Sennheiser two year guarantee assures that the investment will be well worth it. With all the time and bother that goes into constantly replacing cheaper models, users will save money in the end. They will definitely enjoy a better listening experience.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (9/10)
Listening to music while running or working out is common place these days. Rarely will you see a runner or someone in the gym without headphones attached to their ears. A great pair of headphones is essential for a maximum workout experience.
The Sennheiser PMX80 Eco friendly sport headphones
The comfort of the PMX80
The Sennheiser PMX80 sport headphones
Adidas MX680 and Sennheiser MX85 Sport Series II Twist to Fit Stereo For Sports Review
Recently Sennheiser has put out a series of sports headphones that greatly intrigued me. The two I was most interested in reviewing were the Sennheiser MX85 and the Adidas MX680. I picked up one of each and I have to say that both are a total score.
While doing my research, the first thing I wanted to know was if the Adidas MX680 was really comfortable for running. Indeed it is. Sennheiser collaborated with Adidas on this particular set of sport headphones apparently to change up the ergonomic design. Success. The earfin design is comfortable and stable. Two things that I had never found together in sport headphones before.
The Sennheiser MX85 sport headphones are a twist to fit design. They have size adjusters to make sure they fit when you secure them to your ear. A fairly ingenious design in my opinion. The comfort level is really stellar. They stay where I put them and, being a runner, they get jarred quite a bit.I really couldn’t be happier with functional performance of this set.
Both sport headphones have similar qualities since they are both in the same Sennheiser sport line:
- The sound quality is phenomenal. Sennheiser just knows how to do audio. No matter how hot or cool I run the volume, the tone stay smooth and never distorts.
- Both sets come with size adapters for the ear buds to ensure an accurate and comfortable fit.
- Best of all is the fact that both these sport headphones are made of moisture resistant materials. They draw sweat and water away from the ear canal, which keeps the ear buds dry and in place.
If I had to choose between the Sennheiser MX85 and the Adidas MX680, it would be a tough call, but I think the MX85 sport headphones wins on comfort. The twist to fit design just works really well and I hardly notice I’m wearing them. They’re probably the best value overall but both sets are a home run.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (9/10)
Adidas and Sennheiser got together and made sport headphone babies. I am so ecstatic I could buy balloons and pass out cigars. The Adidas OMX 680 Earclip Headphones with Volume Control and Adjustable Earclips combine the athletic ergonomics of Adidas with the audio brilliance of Sennheiser. Running just became something I could actually enjoy.
These active headphones are the answer to the question I didn’t even know I was asking. Made of a moisture resistant material that wicks sweat and rain away from the ear, the ear buds stay dry resulting in a more secure fit. The adjustable earclips are constructed of flexible materials that provide comfort, as well as reinforces the stability of the ear bud placement. For as jarring as running can be, I never have to worry about my jogging headphones falling off. It is also easier to keep track of what’s happening in the environment around me. The more external design of these sports headphones allow just enough ambient sound for me to be aware of cars and other hazards.
Of course Sennheiser totally delivers on audio quality. Keeping the ear buds in is even more desirable when the sound coming out of them is better than any home stereo I have ever owned. It really doesn’t matter what volume I am pumping through them, the OMX680 sound great. The bass bumps without distorting and I find that the smooth tone doesn’t tire my ears.
These lightweight headphones have held up against everything I have thrown at them. Running, lifting weights, cycling, even skiing haven’t fazed them. They have become a standard part of my workout gear.
Adidas provides the design to move and flex with the unpredictable movements brought on by athletic training while Sennheiser has everything wired for really amazing sound. In my opinion, a completely successful partnership. Buy the Adidas OMX 680 here.
Pros
- Audiophile-level sound quality thanks to the high-performance dynamic driver systems for powerful, bass-driven stereo sound;
- Excellent noise canceling features (passive attenuation of ambient noise);
- Waterproof and sweat resistant. Easy to clean as well;
- Excellent ergonomics, ideal for running;
- Asymmetrical cord doesn’t get in the way;
- Nice reflective yellow color.
Cons
- The Adidas PMX 680 may be slightly more comfortable for some.
I’m not really sure if it’s a case of truly stellar research and development or divine intervention but however it happened, I’m stoked. Sennheiser has put out a series of sport headphones that not only sound amazing but also stay where they belong while managing to be comfortable in the process. Deciding to use their audio super powers for good, Sennheiser has partnered with Adidas to create the most athletically user friendly headphones to hit the market. The collection includes the Sennheiser PMX680, Adidas CX680, Adidas MX680 and the Adidas OMX680.
Each pair of sport headphones have certain qualities that are consistent throughout the whole line. Those are:
- Moisture Resistant Materials. Now, this is where I get really caught between whether it’s smart design or God breathed. It makes complete sense so it should have been an obvious component for sport headphones (smart design) but why didn’t anybody think of this before? The moisture resistant material draws sweat and rain away from the ear canal and ear bud. This not only keeps the area dry and the ear bud from slipping but also protects the electronics of the headphone to preserve the lifespan of your earphones. Being able to rinse them off under running water is a huge bonus, as well.
- Size Adjusters. Sennheiser and Adidas offer 3 different sized adjusters with all of their headphones to ensure a comfortable and accurate fit.
- Dupont Kevlar Reinforced Cable. A tough workout requires tough equipment. Clearly skimping on durability was not an option for the design team. Bless their brilliant hearts.
- Sennheiser Audio. From standard use headphones to recording studio quality, Sennheiser is a leader in listening technology. The tone of these sports headphones is on par with the finest audio technology on the market today.
- 2 Year Warranty. Parts and labor. End story.
Here is how each set differs:
- Adidas PMX680: Although this particular set of athletic headphones was made prior to the courtship with Adidas, they have been kept in the line because Sennheiser got it right all on their own. These neckband headphones are lightweight and designed for over-the-ear comfort. An excellent option for cyclists.
- Adidas CX680: These are an earfin design that fit snugly on the front of the ear but are nearly unnoticeable. A great choice for weight lifters and those who rock the elliptical. Being able to block out up to 20db of gym racket, they are also highly effective at noise cancellation. Which means don’t wear them outside. You need to be able to hear the UPS truck that is about to hit you.
- Adidas MX680: This set is considered high performance audio headphones. And for good reason. These are also earfin design but without the noise canceling feature which makes them great for runners.
- Adidas OMX680: The OMX680s are a classic over-the-ear design. These are also high performance for the audiofile who likes to rock the indoor or outdoor workout.
Overall, I think this is best line of sports headphones available. Finding one that works for you should be a breeze.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (10/10)
I have been looking for sports headphones that I could depend on to last longer than 4 months, sound amazing, stay put and be comfortable. The Adidas CX 680 sport headphones give me everything I wanted and threw in noise cancellation. Sound quality is critical to me and when I realized the CX 680 were part of the Sennheiser sport headphone line, I knew I was on the right track. The sound is outstanding. No matter how loud or soft I run my volume, the clarity remains pure with no distortion. The low end sounds like they have some how managed to stuff a subwoofer in the ear buds and the mid-range allows me to hear detail I didn’t even know some songs possessed. Classic Sennheiser delivery.
Fortunately the CX 680 also have a noise canceling system that works so well, wearing them outside could be dangerous. The manufacturers even caution against using them outdoors. However, isolating up to 20db of gym noise comes in handy when I’ve got a killer workout mix going on my iPod.
Adidas got the job of coming up with a design that would keep the ear buds in place while listening to Sennheiser’s awesome audio. Their skill at ergonomics translates perfectly to sport headphones. Three different sized ear adapters make it simple for anyone to find a snug, comfortable fit. With an earfin design that uses high end materials, the CX680 headphones flex and conform in a way that makes them stable enough for the most extreme workouts.
These lightweight headphones also have a moisture resistant coating that draws sweat away from the ear canal; a feature that I can no longer live without. Because of the moisture resistance, the ear buds can be rinsed off under running water to get rid of the funk they are sure to collect.
I am nothing but happy with the Adidas CX 680 headphones.
Pros
- Audiophile-level sound quality thanks to the high-performance dynamic driver systems for powerful, bass-driven stereo sound;
- Personalised fit in the ear canals due to ergonomic design and different sizes of ear adapters (included in the package);
- Excellent noise canceling features (passive attenuation of ambient noise);
- Waterproof and sweat resistant. Easy to clean as well;
- Excellent ergonomics, ideal for running;
- Asymmetrical cord doesn’t get in the way;
- Nice reflective yellow color;
- Very good value.
Cons
- One needs to be careful when using them outside of controlled environments. They are perfect for indoors use though (no more radio and TV distractions at the gym).
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (9/10)
The Sennheiser CX 380 Sport Series II Noise Isolating Earphones had me at sweat resistant and noise cancelling. These two features alone make the Sennheiser CX 380 sport headphones worth every penny. Toss in amazing tone and comfort, and I found a winner. The Sennheiser CX 380 even come with a carrying case that keep the chord in order and the ear buds protected. No more crushing my headphones with my cross trainers.
The Sennheiser CX 380 is the kid brother of the Adidas CX680, which I totally recommend if you can make the slight jump in price range.
Working out is sweaty business if I do it right. Having ear buds that stay put while I’m at it is a godsend. Sennheiser created these sport headphones that are not only sweat resistant, but come with 3 different sized ear adapters to make sure the fit is comfortable and secure. Focusing on my workout is so much easier now that I can just listen to my tunes without hassling with my headphones.
The Sennheiser CX 380 ear buds have a sweat-proof coating that allow these sport headphones to wick sweat away as I exercise. This makes them easy to clean and also prolongs their lifespan. It just makes sense. Sweat resistant and durable are two features most of us expect from our workout gear. Sennheiser gets it. Which is why these sport headphones come with a 2 year warranty.
Sennheiser has always been a leader in audio quality and the CX 380s sound stellar. They have plenty of low end and no buzz in the mid-range no matter how much you crank it. The noise isolating feature is phenomenal and only enhances the tone of the headphones. Noise cancellation blocks out external sounds and makes for a less distracting workout. It also means that I don’t have to blow out my eardrums to cover the sounds in the gym.
I wouldn’t wear them outside though. The noise canceling is so effective that it could be unsafe to have them on while outdoors. This was a can’t-go-wrong purchase for me. Complete thumbs up.
Pros
- Audiophile-level sound quality thanks to the high-performance dynamic driver systems for powerful, bass-driven stereo sound;
- Personalised fit in the ear canals due to ergonomic design and different sizes of ear adapters (included in the package);
- Excellent noise canceling features (passive attenuation of ambient noise);
- Waterproof and sweat resistant. Easy to clean as well;
- Excellent ergonomics, ideal for running;
- Asymmetrical cord doesn’t get in the way;
- Nice reflective orange color;
- Very good value.
Cons
- One needs to be careful when using them outside of controlled environments. They are perfect for indoors use though (no more radio and TV distractions at the gym);
- The Adidas CX 680 is a newer, better model.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (8/10)
A few weeks ago I bought a pair of these Sennheiser PMX 70 Sport Line Neckband Headphones. I could not be happier. It was probably the only desperate move I ever made that totally paid off. Being a cross-country runner most of my life, I have always wanted to be able to listen to music while I train. These sport headphones finally made it possible.
With the creation of MP3 players, running with music became a reality but the ear buds were still a problem. They would fall out. Then I found these sports headphones from Sennheiser. The price was right and I was willing to give it a shot. It changed my world. Having the headphones mounted on a neckband keeps them in place while I run. I haven’t found a terrain yet that is jarring enough to knock them loose. No more falling out or sliding down my neck. The design with the neckband and ear buds is lightweight and comfortable. With the chord mounted on a single side, I no longer have to swat at wires around my face. Brilliant.
This particular set is the less expensive version of Sennheiser PMX 80. I decided to go with the older, but lower cost to try out the quality and functionality of the headphones and am more than satisfied with the results. Chances are very good that I will upgrade to the Sennheiser/Adidas PMX 680 on my next purchase.
Along with getting the practical use side of the sport headphones right, Sennheiser also gets high marks for sound quality. I have owned two other pairs of Sennheiser headphones before, so my confidence level when buying these was already pretty well established. I knew I was not going to have to worry about sound quality. I was right, because they’re great in every way. They might be sport headphones, but they’re still Sennheisers when it comes to sound quality. Highly recommended.
Pros
- Great audio quality;
- Waterproof and sweat resistant. Easy to clean as well;
- Excellent ergonomics, ideal for running;
- Single-sided cord doesn’t get in the way;
- Nice reflective green color;
- The cheapest model available for the high level of quality offered.
Cons
- At this stage there are newer models by Sennheiser which are better, like the Adidas PMX 680.
Great swimming headphones are hard to come by. I learned this the hard way after permanently damaging my iPod Shuffle. But first let me explain why it’s hard to get swimming headphones right. There are a number of specific conditions that need to be met when looking for headphones geared towards water related activities. Swimming headphones are supposed to be:
- Entirely waterproof headphones;
- The headphones’ cord cannot get in the way of your body when you’re swimming – as doing so could potentially cause you to get tangled up in the cord;
- The sound quality needs to be good, even when there is water in your ear canals;
- You can’t just hook them up to your iPod and go, you need a special protective case for your device. Sadly however, most of these cases just plain suck (using an inferior one is how I damaged my iPod).
So are there any good choices out there? I’m far from being an olympic swimmer, but I do enjoy swimming, and my research on the topic led me to try out a few different pairs of swimming headphones. My conclusion is that there are only two combinations that worked well for me, and it took me a while to find these.
1) FINIS SwiMP3.1G Waterproof MP3 Player
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (8/10)
This solution requires you to get the best waterproof MP3 player on the market, the FINIS SwiMP3.1G Waterproof MP3 Player. This MP3 player holds 1GB of data (240 songs, which should be plenty for even an endurance swimmer) and is specifically designed to clip onto your swim goggles. As stated by the manufacturer, this pair is really ideal for swimmers, triathletes, surfers, synchronized swimmers, and anyone else involved in water related activities.
The audio quality is very good, and I love how this system doesn’t get in the way, even when swimming rapidly through the water (there are no cords attached to your arms, which essentially makes this pair wireless).
If you do decide to go this route, I recommend you get a good pair of swim goggles that stay solidly in place (my favorites are the Speedo Air Seal Tri Goggle, Mirrored) and earplugs (such as Etymotic Research ER20 High-Fidelity Earplugs or Mack’s AquaBlock Earplugs), to reduce the amount of water and external noise that may potentially get in your ears (I know it sounds weird, but Finis’ technology is amazing and works well with earplugs).
The Finis SwiMP3 is a very, very good all-in-one (MP3 player and headphones) option . Check out the video below:
Our second option is from H2O.
2) H2O Interval 3G Waterproof Headphone System for iPod shuffle 3rd Gen and 4th Generation with Swim Goggles
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (8/10)
OK, let’s say that you don’t want to give up on using your iPod when you’re swimming. The second option is to use H2O’s Interval headphones. This pair of headphones was developed by a company that specializes in waterproof headphones for swimmers (they even consulted gold medal swimmers Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin, when designing this perfect pair of swim headphones).
This pair delivers great sound, fits comfortably (they include five different sizes of earplugs to ensure you get the very best fitting pair for your ears), and above all, they won’t break your iPod like the cheap knock-offs I initially bought. This system includes everything, right down to a really good pair of swim goggles, is water resistant (naturally!), and certified up to depths of 12 ft.
The choice between these two reliable options really comes down to whether you already have – and want to use – an iPod Shuffle or not. Either pair will provide you with countless fun hours of swimming accompanied by your favorite tunes (or you could use the time extra productively, if you wanted, and pair your swimming season with a great audiobook!).
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (9/10)
In my experience, these are the most popular sport headphones with athletes. You can consider these beauties as the predecessor of the Adidas PMX 680, and just like those, these ones sound amazing! They’re conformable, waterproof (you can wash them after use), fashionable, and very easy to listen with. Furthermore, they’re very eco-friendly headphones.
The Adidas PMX 680 (read our review) has an edge in terms of sound, being a newer model that was just released. While they’re a bit cheaper (on sale now for less than $35 on Amazon) they’re still top quality headphones. Prior to when the Adidas ones were released, I’d used them as my main pair of sports headphones since 2008. Again, Amazon has a great deal on them. Grab them while you can.
Pros
- Great audio quality (audiophile-level);
- Extremely rugged earphones and cable;
- Waterproof and sweat resistant. Easy to clean as well (washable under running water);
- Excellent ergonomics, ideal for running;
- Single-sided cord doesn’t get in the way;
- Very inexpensive for the high level of quality offered.
Cons
- The newer model, Adidas PMX 680, performs slightly better.
