JVC Marshmallow headphones (violet)
As shown: $19.95
See manufacturer site for availability
CNET Editors' Review
CNET Editors' Rating
- Reviewed by: Jasmine France
- Reviewed on:
The good: The JVC Marshmallow headphones are very inexpensive. They offer a secure, comfortable fit and good audio quality. They come in a wide variety of colors to match any recent iPod Nano.
The bad: The top part of the cable seems fragile, and the shallow earpiece design may not work for all users.
The bottom line: The JVC Marshmallow headphones are an exceptional value thanks to an ultralow price tag combined with solid audio quality, noise isolation capability, and a secure fit.
The first thing you're likely to do upon obtaining a new MP3 player is load it up with all your favorite music. Once that's done, the next best step is to replace the shoddy earbuds that came packaged with it. Of course, not everyone wants to drop a wad of cash on a new pair of headphones, which is where sets like the JVC Marshmallow come in. These comfy and colorful earphones have an MSRP of just $20 and often list for much less than that, and in addition to providing a more secure fit than stock 'buds, ... Expand full review
The first thing you're likely to do upon obtaining a new MP3 player is load it up with all your favorite music. Once that's done, the next best step is to replace the shoddy earbuds that came packaged with it. Of course, not everyone wants to drop a wad of cash on a new pair of headphones, which is where sets like the JVC Marshmallow come in. These comfy and colorful earphones have an MSRP of just $20 and often list for much less than that, and in addition to providing a more secure fit than stock 'buds, the Marshmallows offer a significant improvement in sound quality.
The JVC Marshmallow headphones are typical of in-ear models in design. A small earbud features a protruding aperture onto which you attach an eartip. In the case of the Marshmallows, the included sleeves (two sets) are the compressible foam variety, which tend to offer better passive sound isolation and a more comfortable fit for most users. We were able to wear the set for a couple hours without discomfort, and they stayed put with some light tugging on the cable, making them a good choice for gym-goers. (However, because of the sound isolation, these are probably not optimal for runners.)
Hide ReviewSince 2003, Jasmine France has worked at CNET covering everything from scanners to keyboards to GPS devices to MP3 players. She currently cohosts the Crave podcast and spends the majority of her time testing headphones, music software, and mobile apps.
User Reviews
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Most recent user reviews
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"Great value for picky people" By evennumbers
Pros: Comfortable (conforms to your ear shape)
Inexpensive
Colorful
Appropriate cord length
Cons: Not for the long-term investor!
Cord will wear out within approx. 2-3 years
"Marshmallow" buds get cracked and very dirty with only one replacement - can't buy the coverings individually and must replace the whole set.
Summary: I was looking for a pair of buds to replace the terrible free iPod ones. My primary criteria were comfort, price, and retention (as I exercise with them). I found that they are extremely comfortable; you just stick the bud in your ear and after it has warmed up a ... Expand full review
Specifications
See full specsQuick Specs
- Headphones Type: Headphones - Binaural
- Product type: Headphones
- Design: Ear-bud
