Id America Spark
The Sparks carry a list price of $59.99, but you can get them online for $49.99 and I've seen the silver version selling for less than $40. They get strong marks for design (unique look, good comfort) and performance. My only concerns are their durability and the build quality (and sharp edges) of the inline microphone. In all, though, these are very good earphones for the money, particularly if you can get them for less than $40.
The good: The Id America Spark earphones are lightweight, comfortable, have a unique, appealing design, and sound quite good for their price point. They also include an inline remote for making cell phone calls, and they come with a protective carrying case.
The bad: The build quality of the inline microphone button is suspect. There are no volume controls in the inline remote. The microphone works with the iPhone but may not work with other smartphones.
The bottom line: Though they have some small shortcomings, Id America's Spark earphones look sharp, are comfortable to wear, and sound good for the money.
October 31, 2012 2:20 PM PDT
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
