CNET editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 10/21/2008
In the realm of sub-$100 headphones, audio quality can vary significantly from model to model. It can be a challenge to find a pair that's music to your ears, though there are quite a few in the price range that offer good-to-excellent sound. One such set is the Audio-Technica ATH-CKM50A In-Ear Headphones, an $80 model that comes in a choice of three colors: black, white, or red. The name may not be catchy, and the plastic design leaves something to be desired, but if you can get a good fit, you'll be rewarded with exceptionally rich and balanced audio with a surprising amount of bass.
As noted, we're not all that keen on the design of the ATH-CKM50A earphones, though we do appreciate the color choices--the red version offers a pop of color to distinguish it from the same old, same old. The main issue is the plastic design, which gives the 'buds a bit of a cheap feeling. Also, it may cause discomfort for some users, as the earpiece is in the form of a disc, which then has a tiny arm jutting out to angle the eartips into the ears. This type of design is not ideal for all ear shapes. Although the earphones were not uncomfortable for us, we were constantly adjusting to get the optimal sound quality.
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