JBL Roxy Reference 250 earphones with mic review (yellow)

Descending from each of the Reference 250 earpieces is a thin, rubber-coated Y-cable that terminates in a silver-plated straight plug. The cord is quite tangle-prone and may not be long enough for tall users, as it measures just less than 4 feet long. The right cable features a cute, square module that is stamped with the Roxy logo and contains a mic and call-answer clicker for using the earphones with a music phone. The package also includes a stylish, zippered carrying case that has two internal pockets and is large enough to fit most flash-based MP3 players and the earphones. We're surprised that such a nice case comes standard with a set of earphones in this price range; it's definitely a pleasant touch.

The Reference 250's audio quality is also not bad for a $40 set, though these 'phones are not going to satisfy truly picky listeners. There's a good amount of bass that doesn't muffle or overpower other sounds, but it's not as tight and thumpy as what we get from the Klipsch Image S4 (keeping in mind those cost twice as much). High frequencies come through clear and are reasonably bright and detailed, but they may not twinkle enough for some. Vocals, especially of the French male persuasion (a la MC Solaar), sound particularly smooth and warm, and the midrange in general has a nice richness to it, though it seems overly forward in certain tracks. All in all, however, we're impressed with the Roxy Reference 250's style, features, and sound quality for the price. These earphones are a solid buy.