Moshi Keramo in-ear headphones review: Polished look, polished sound

Moshi is probably better known for its stylish iPhone and iPad cases, but it also makes several different models of earphones with intriguing designs -- and names. The midrange Keramo model, which retails for $120, features sculpted ceramic earpieces that are not only eye-catching but feel more substantial than your typical in-ear headphones. And while their sound isn't exceptional for their price class, it's quite good, though their flatter sound profile probably won't appeal to you if you're looking for a more bass-heavy earphone.

Design and features
The earpieces themselves have a glazed finish to them and they look like polished onyx. They're a little bigger and slightly weightier than some earpieces, but they fit comfortably and securely in my ears. The build quality seems good.

The cord isn't particularly thick but it is covered in cloth, which makes it less prone to tangling up -- or at least it's easier to untangle.

An Apple-friendly inline remote/microphone is onboard for making calls, and the earphones come with a stylish case that holds each earpiece in its own little protective compartment. Like other earphones, this model comes with a few different-size silicone eartips. I went with the largest size to get a tight seal, which is imperative for achieving maximum bass out output.

Performance
When I first put the Keramos in my ears I'd come from listening to a few pairs of full-size, over-the-ear headphones, as well as the bass-heavy V-Moda Remix Remote earphones, so the bass initially seemed a little slim. But as I played through my array of test tracks, I warmed up to their sound.