Sony DR-BT22IK Wireless Headset w/ Transmitter
Starting at: $384.46

CNET Editors' Review
CNET Editors' Rating
- Reviewed by: Jasmine France
- Reviewed on:
The good: The Sony DR-BT22 offers useful features such as a multifunction call button and a track shuttle rocker. The headset is easy to use and offers good range.
The bad: The Sony DR-BT22 is pricey and its construction feels rickety.
The bottom line: The Sony DR-BT22 Bluetooth headset offers an effective way to cut the cord from your cell phone or MP3 player, while still enjoying stereo audio.
Who says advancement in cell phones can't benefit MP3 players as well? As stereo Bluetooth (otherwise known as A2DP) becomes the standard variety on more and more handsets, we continue to see an influx of stereo Bluetooth headsets. The latest from Sony is the DR-BT22, a portable set with a collapsing headband. It comes in two versions, one without any sort of Bluetooth transmitter ($129) and the IK model, which comes with an iPod-ready adapter ($149). The headset doesn't offer wired quality audio, and it doesn't seem particularly durable, but it has redeeming features.
To picture the ... Expand full review
Who says advancement in cell phones can't benefit MP3 players as well? As stereo Bluetooth (otherwise known as A2DP) becomes the standard variety on more and more handsets, we continue to see an influx of stereo Bluetooth headsets. The latest from Sony is the DR-BT22, a portable set with a collapsing headband. It comes in two versions, one without any sort of Bluetooth transmitter ($129) and the IK model, which comes with an iPod-ready adapter ($149). The headset doesn't offer wired quality audio, and it doesn't seem particularly durable, but it has redeeming features.
To picture the Sony DR-BT22 headset, imagine the old Sony cassette Walkman and the plastic, over-the-ear headphones that came with it. Then, take away the wire. Truly, the construction of the unit feels pretty cheap and seems as though it won't hold up in the long run. This may be partially because of the completely collapsible headband, which gives the headphones a rickety feel. The band terminates in two foam-covered earphones that measure 1.7-inches in diameter. The left side has a DC power input for charging via the included adapter. The IK model also includes an iPod-ready power adapter; if you want to use the headset with a different MP3 player that doesn't offer built-in A2DP capability, you'll need to provide a Bluetooth transmitter.
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Compare selectedSince 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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"Best one I've found yet. Still need to try Jaybird tho." By Jouten_Za
Pros: Excellent sound range (20hz-20khz standard range).
Speaker drivers put out decent sound (after 2+ years of 'breaking in').
Durable (I've had this headphone set for 2+ years now).
Easy access remote controls (the layout can't be beat).
Cons: They are Bluetooth headphones. Basically, if you are one of them 'Audiophiles', don't get your hopes up for 'audiophile' quality 'sound'.
Loose fit around the head.
On ear headphones 'leak' sound.
Summary: Wikipedia states this about the human ear, "...In humans the audible range of frequencies is usually said to be 20 Hz (cycles per second) to 20 kHz (20,000 Hz)..."
I know that is not the be all-end all standard for sound quality, but what this means is that unless ... Expand full review
"Awesome! Great for using at gym or running!" By sandrabryant
Pros: Streams music from iphone as well as itouch, easy to use, Can accept or deny calls with a touch, buttons very accessible, light weight, so easy to pair and opperate! Headset holds charge for long time.
Cons: Transmitter uses battery from phone. Headset:for a larger head, looks like the 1980 headphones! Transmitter sticks out at bottom and can be a problem at times if you workout with an armband holder.
Summary: Bottom-line, despite the cons that I have mentioned, they are minor for me compared to the benefits of this product. As long as you are aware of the battery situation just make sure you start with a full battery, after about an hour workout you will use about half of ... Expand full review
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Specifications
See full specsQuick Specs
- Headphones Type: Headphones - Binaural
- Product type: Headphones
- Design: Semi-open