Verizon Wireless
CNET editors' review
- CNET editors' rating: stars OK
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 03/27/2008
Audiovox-owned brand Acoustic Research, a company best known for producing low-cost speakers and turntables, is trying its hand at headphones. On the portable side, the new line includes the ARE05 Noise-Isolating earphones. This inexpensive set may not be the most comfortable or best-sounding earbuds we've laid ears on, but with a list price close to $40, they're not exactly the worst option out there. Budget-conscious frequent-fliers with limited carry-on space should consider the ARE05s worthy of a look.
The Acoustic Research ARE05 earphones are clearly designed with travel in mind--the company even includes a hard-shell carrying case for storage during transport. There are also six different eartips--three sizes in silicone and three sizes in compressible foam--to help ensure a proper seal with the ear, which is necessary in order to take advantage of the noise-isolating quality of the earphones. Unfortunately, the earbuds themselves are rather large and the eartips rest flush, so it can be difficult to get a proper fit unless you really shove them into the ear. As you might imagine, this is not the most comfortable scenario for many people; our ears started to get sore after about an hour of wear.
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Where to buy
Acoustic Research ARE05 Noise-Isolating Earphones: $25.22 | store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com Marketplace | $25.22 | Yes |  |
