JayBird JB-100 Bluetooth Stereo Headset

The category of stereo Bluetooth earbuds is still growing, so it's nice to see a newcomer to the market focusing on just that. JayBird debuted in 2007 with the JB-100 headset, a compact stereo earbud set, as well as complementing adapters for the iPod and other audio devices (sold separately). At $129.99, the JB-100 falls comfortably between two close competitors: the Etymotic Ety8 and the Plantronics Voyager 855. This headset has its pitfalls, but if you can get a comfortable fit, it's a worthwhile consideration.

One thing is for certain: the JayBird JB-100 offers a nice, low-profile design--especially compared with the Etymotic Ety8. The bulk of the earpieces is contained in the two crescent-moon-shaped units that curve behind the ear when worn. Passersby probably won't even notice them, particularly if the user has long hair. To keep the bulk to a minimum, JayBird elected to not offer playback controls on the headset. Instead, you get a Call/Power button and volume up/down controls on the right ear piece. A thin cable, meant to be worn behind the head below the hair line, connects the right to the left ear piece. The left unit features a small battery contact panel, which connects to a corresponding section on the included charging dock.