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How to choose good headphones by technical specifications. What is the best headphone sensitivity?

2018 was marked by the appearance on the market of models with a new digital audio technology for transmitting high-quality sound - “aptX”. Of course, before the advent of "aptX" the sound was also good, then this technology is a huge step forward compared to devices of past years.

Another improvement is that in 2018, battery life of a full-sized device has become the norm - 20 hours or more. For vacuum wireless "Bluetooth" earbuds, this figure is eight hours or more.

Wireless technologies used to transfer data between a PC and a wireless device

Data transfer between wireless headphones and a personal computer can be carried out using three technologies:

  • Bluetooth– the most common data transmission technology;
  • radio channel 2.4 GHz- experts say that this technology is able to transmit better sound. Moreover, the range of the radio channel is 100 m, which is much more than the radius of "Bluetooth". One of these technologies include "DECT", which operates at a frequency of 1880-1900 MHz;
  • IR sensor- the technology showed itself very well when transferring music files. The sound is soft, pouring, without distortion. However, there is one drawback - the range. Devices must be within line of sight to ensure normal transmission.

Wireless headphones for computer "Bluetooth" and "DECT"

The problem with Bluetooth technology is its vulnerability. For a long time there have been softwares that allow not only to intercept information passing through this channel, but even to introduce their own. Of course, this may not happen on all devices, but only on those who have not changed the factory password settings.

Dekt technology is devoid of such risks. Each module has its own unique encoding code, which means that neither interception nor, moreover, the introduction of "left" information is not terrible for him.

Proprietary Wireless Technology Standards

Many manufacturers use independently developed wireless technology standards to reduce the cost of the final product. Most often they are used to listen to music (naturally, in stereo format) and are characterized by very good sound quality. The only disadvantage of such standards compared to the Dekt technology is a shorter range of 10-20 m.

The most important characteristics of wireless headphones for computer: what to look for

When choosing such a device, you should pay special attention to some parameters, namely:

  • sound quality, support for Aptx codec;
  • ease of operation, duration of operation on a single battery charge;
  • ease of use, expected service life.

First, let's figure out what kind of codec it is called Aptx.

The sound quality of wireless headphones for a computer, support for the Aptx codec

The Aptx codec is used to compress music files and decompress them, allowing high-quality sound to be transmitted via Bluetooth. However, the quality depends not only on the specified codec. An important role in organizing good sound from headphones for a computer is played by its presence not only on the receiving, but also on the transmitting device. In addition, the headphones must be able to accept a high quality format. That is why, if you come across cheap low-quality headphones on store shelves, and “Aptx” is written on the box, do not rely on high-quality sound. It's not that the seller is misleading you (the codec may well be installed). The problem is in the device itself: it will not be able to play the audio file as Aptx dictates to it.

Ease of use and battery life of your wireless PC headset

Very important indicators. Ease of control and convenient location of the command buttons is a guarantee that you will not be disappointed in your choice. Some manufacturers (mainly China) do not think about how important this is. For example, you play on the network, a situation arises when you need to listen. Will you be up to the search for command buttons on the body of the "ears"? Agree, it is much better when the control is at hand. Of course, you can get used to everything, but before buying, ask yourself the question - do I need it? Why tailor a purchase when you can buy a device that's customized for you?

Battery life is another major factor. Why buy a device that lasts only 3-4 hours on a single charge when you can choose a headset for your computer that can work 18-20 hours without a break? Draw your own conclusions, ladies and gentlemen.

Ease of use and long service life

The operation of a wireless device should be comfortable. If you use the headset 20-30 minutes a day, this parameter is not essential for you. But many do not part with such a device all day, night or even for days. These are either avid music lovers or gamers. For these categories, operating comfort comes first.

HELPFUL INFORMATION!

If you spent more than three hours in headphones and did not feel any discomfort, then the model is perfect for you.

The durability of devices is quite simple to determine. We refrain from buying devices made of obviously cheap, low-quality plastic, with play at the joints. Another good way is to grab the speakers and spread/reduce them. If you hear a creak or feel that there is some kind of backlash, refrain from buying.

How to choose wireless headphones for your computer: editorial advice site

When choosing computer wireless headphones, decide for yourself for what purposes it will be used. If only for listening to music, you can find an inexpensive model without a microphone. For conversations over the network, you should also not overestimate the bar for performance requirements so as not to overpay for unnecessary parameters. But gamers for games should be more careful in their choice. The impedance (resistance) of the speakers must be ≤32 ohms and the sensitivity ≤100dB.

HELPFUL INFORMATION!

When purchasing a similar device for a PC, you should not pay attention only to eminent brands. It is clear that they are more trustworthy, but there is a double-edged sword here. For this trust, you will have to pay a decent amount, which may seem unbearable to someone. Good gaming headphones with a microphone for a computer can be cheap, and at the same time high-quality, and their characteristics are sometimes even better than those of well-known brands.

Let's deal with the main parameters for the areas of application of wireless headphones for a personal computer.

Computer wireless headsets for online communication: features

To communicate on the network, headphones can be of two types: mono devices (bracket or ear hook with one speaker) or classic (stereo for 2 speakers). The first option is slightly cheaper, however, many users note that it is more convenient. When using a mono-device, a person is not turned off from everyday life. When talking on the network, he perfectly hears not only the interlocutor, but also everything that happens around. A stereo headset in this regard muffles a little what is happening around, although sometimes this has its advantages - you can escape from everyday life and devote yourself completely to a conversation, for example, with a classmate whom you have not seen for 20-25 years.

Wireless devices for communicating over the network are quite diverse.


Wireless headphones for PC: choose the right ones, enjoy high-quality sound

Headphones for listening to music on a personal computer have one rather important difference from devices for gaming or communication - the lack of a microphone. Their focus is high-quality, rich sound. If the choice is made correctly and all the necessary characteristics are taken into account, you can catch the sound of each instrument in the audio file you listen to. This is very important for musicians who break down a composition into instrumental parts. However, ordinary music lovers, far from notes and scores, will also appreciate the volume, the beauty of the sound of the compositions of their favorite groups.

According to the characteristics, you should pay attention to the sensitivity of the device's speakers. The higher it is, the better. You should not buy headphones with an indicator below 90 dB - in this case you simply will not hear the quality. The optimal frequencies that the device is capable of issuing can be called the range from 16 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The minimum impedance of such devices is 16 ohms.

Gaming wireless headphones with a microphone for a computer: features of parameters

Such devices are almost similar in terms of the minimum required characteristics to the previous version (with slight deviations): frequency - 20-20000 Hz, impedance (resistance) - 32 ohms (against 16), sensitivity - ≤100 dB. However, they have another need - a high-quality microphone that can pick up even a whisper. When purchasing such equipment, ask the sales assistant to create an opportunity to check not only the speakers, but also the microphone. Large consumer electronics stores have this option.

Wireless headphones for a computer: the best models according to the editorial site

It is quite difficult to understand the huge range of similar products presented on Russian shelves. That is why the editors of the site decided to provide for review some of the best headphones for a computer of various types (with and without a microphone), with prices and user reviews.

At what price can you buy wireless headphones for a computer with a microphone: a gaming device model

Such equipment has a higher cost than other types. However, experienced gamers are not advised to save on gaming headphones. After all, the main thing is high-quality sound and the convenience of continuous use, sometimes for 10-15 hours in a row. One such model is the Logitech G G933 Artemis Spectrum. The advantage of the model is the possibility of a wired connection when the battery is low.

"Logitech G G933 Artemis Spectrum" - a little pricey, but the model is worth it

Review of Logitech G G933 Artemis Spectrum

Read more on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3402391.html

Logitech G G933 Artemis Spectrum

It's amazing how some people manage to repurpose an expensive device designed for online gaming instead of a cheaper option for listening to audio files.

Computer wireless headphones for music lovers

One of the best PC headphones in this segment can be called "Bluedio T3 Plus". Their cost is relatively low, but the characteristics are more than acceptable.

frequency Hz Impedance, Ohm Sensitivity, dB connector Data transfer Battery operation, h
15-25000 16 116 3.5mm Bluetooth 4.1, 10 m 18

Read more on Yandex.Market: https://market.yandex.ru/product/1733189037/reviews?track=tabs

One of the best wireless headsets for online communication

The unique device "defender FreeMotion B085" is distinguished, along with good performance, by a rather ridiculous cost. The battery life is short compared to gaming devices, but no one will talk for too long. At least for a full day of work, the charge is enough.

"defender FreeMotion B085" at a rather ridiculous price

Connecting wireless devices to a personal computer

Frequently Asked Question - ? Most often, modern ones are already equipped with a Bluetooth or radio communication module. All connection manipulations boil down to the fact that you need to connect the module via USB or a 3.5 mm jack plug to the system unit of a personal computer or laptop, turn on headphones or a headset, and you can enjoy sound, chat or games (naturally, after charging the battery battery).

The PC does not see the connected device - what to do

Most often, the problem lies in the carelessness of the user. If switching takes place via a Jack plug, follow the correct connection by color. Here, the red (microphone) and green (sound) plug and the corresponding color of the socket will be involved. If there is an additional USB plug, this must also be connected. Check that the plugs are fully inserted into the sockets.

Another ridiculous mistake some users make is a dead battery. A newly purchased device must be immediately put on charge, regardless of what charge the indicator shows. If these tips did not help, check the device on another device, then it will immediately become clear whether it is working or not.

Summing up

Undoubtedly, they give freedom from PC attachment and extra cables.

frequency Hz Impedance, Ohm Sensitivity, dB connector Data transfer Battery operation, h
20-20000 32 116 USB Radio channel, 10 m

2014-02-16T01:32

2014-02-16T01:32

Audiophile's Software

Prologue

Headphones usually have an impedance in the range of 16 to 600 ohms (and some even more). So what is the best headphone impedance value? The answer largely depends on where you are going to connect them.

Which is better?

Are low impedance headphones better than high impedance ones? What is the optimal impedance value? Here are some important guidelines (albeit in a somewhat simplified form):

  • If you are looking for headphones to use with your portable player or laptop, you should look for headphones with an impedance of 16 - 32 ohms and a sensitivity of at least 100 dB/mW. There are also high impedance headphones, up to 80 ohms, that are sensitive enough to work with some portable devices, especially if you don't need too much volume. But in fact, the lower the impedance, the better the compatibility with battery powered devices.
  • If you don't know the output impedance of the source device, it's best to refrain from using armature headphones, as they can interact undesirably with the high output impedance, resulting in frankly bad sound.
  • If your source complies with European maximum volume guidelines (many modern phones, even those sold outside of Europe) do so, it is all the more important to choose headphones with an impedance of 16 ohms and a sensitivity of 100 dB/mW or more. European Directive compliant devices have lower output levels than most other portable devices.
  • If you are using a dedicated headphone amplifier or DAC, check their specifications or instructions for recommended headphone impedance ranges.
  • If you are looking at headphones with a sensitivity of less than 100 dB / mW, check out at least the first five paragraphs of this article.

Different headphone impedance

The impedance of almost all non-professional acoustic speakers lies in the range of 4 - 8 ohms. This simplifies the work of designers of amplifiers, receivers, etc., as they know almost exactly what the load impedance will be. But with headphones, things are a little different. There are several standards, so the impedance varies widely, depending on the designer, as well as depending on the devices for which these headphones are designed: portable devices, consumer, studio / professional equipment. Range - from 16 to 600 (40 times more) ohms. This is the cause of a significant number of compatibility issues.

Why Impedance Matters

Sources designed for headphones, for the most part, give completely different power levels with different headphone impedances. For example, a Clip+ portable player can deliver 16 mW into 16 ohms and as little as 0.8 mW into 300 ohms. The FiiO E7 can deliver over 100 mW into 16 ohms, but only 2.8 mW into 600. Some sources - e.g. Mini3, FiiO E9 - are generally incompatible with low ohm loads.

Sufficient volume

Most sources provide at least 5 mW of power into 16 ohms. For headphones with a sensitivity of 100 dB/mW (recommended minimum for a portable) this will give 107 dBSPL (sound pressure), which is in the range of 105 dBSPL - 115 dBSPL, which for most people corresponds to a sufficient volume level. See More Power.

What is considered high impedance?

I haven't heard of any hard limits, but in most cases 100 ohms and above is defined as "high impedance". These headphones are most often not designed for portable use. Also, 32 ohms and below can be safely called "low impedance", such values ​​are suitable for application anywhere. Thus, there remains an indefinite region between 32 and 100 ohms, in which other factors determine the suitability of headphones for one purpose or another.

Balanced armature in-ear headphones

Many high-end in-ear monitors use balanced armature technology. Examples include in-ear models from Shure, Etymotic, Ultimate Ears, etc. These headphones usually have an impedance between 16 and 32 ohms, but their actual impedance is highly frequency dependent. The 21 ohm Ultimate Ears SuperFi 5, for example, changes its impedance from 10 to 90 ohms. Such impedance deviations often result in an undesired interaction with the output impedance of the source.

Why does headphone impedance vary so much?

There are many reasons for this:

  • Historical Preferences- Before the advent of the first good-sounding portable devices, most high-quality headphones were connected either to a home stereo system or to professional studio equipment. For reasons of simplicity and cheapness in the 60s and 80s, such devices had a high output impedance. They simply used high resistances to create a voltage drop from the outputs to the speakers (so you could connect headphones to these outputs).
  • Outdated 1996 standard- In 1996, the headphone output standard was introduced - 120 ohms - obviously more than would be convenient for the developers of the corresponding equipment. Subsequently, Stereophile expressed his opinion on this standard: “Whoever came up with this is clearly living in a dream world.”. The low output impedance offers many benefits, but the ill-conceived standard still continues to influence the development of high-impedance headphones.
  • High impedance is welcome for high-end headphones- In this case, there may be several weighty arguments in favor of high impedance headphones. High impedance allows more turns to be used in the speaker's voice coil. This can improve the efficiency of the moving system and reduce the amount of compromise needed, improving the overall sound. Also, high-impedance headphones require less current to drive, which often leads to a decrease in various kinds of distortion. High impedance makes the sound of the headphones less dependent on the output impedance of the sources, including less sensitive to the length of the three-wire cable and the quality of the connector (jack, mini-jack, etc). Amplifiers almost always produce less distortion with higher impedance headphones.
  • The iPod Revolution Brings Impedance Down- In 2009, more than 200 million iPods were sold. Before the iPod, there were other portable devices. You could even say that, given the music mobile phones, we have over one billion portable devices in use. This is important as battery operated devices cannot work properly with high impedance headphones. Thus, the development of suitable low-impedance headphones was accelerated. But this goes against the first three points; thus we have advantages for high-end and leftovers against the huge marketing potential of a billion portable devices.

What headphones can I use for my device?

This is the main question most people ask. To answer it, you need to decide on three things:

  • Power Requirements- Does the source have enough power to drive this pair of headphones to a sufficient volume level? The 100 dB/mW recommendations mentioned above will likely help answer this question. In the event that the headphones have a lower sensitivity (or it is not indicated), see the More Power article.
  • Device output impedance- Finding it is problematic, since the output impedance of most devices is unknown. But the idea is to respect the 1/8 rule described in the article on output impedance. If you multiply the source impedance by eight, you will get the minimum load impedance that is recommended for use with this device. The FiiO E9 amplifier, for example, has an output impedance of 10 ohms. Thus, if you want to be sure of the maximum quality, it should be used with headphones with an impedance of 80 ohms and above.
  • Source distortion- Some sources have problems with low impedance loads. Tube amps without output transformers, for example, give significantly more distortion with low-impedance headphones.

Is it possible to damage something by mistake?

Using headphones that are not suitable for this device will usually not damage anything other than the sound. However, some sources are capable of outputting very large values ​​and therefore can really damage highly sensitive headphones. But this will only happen if you increase the volume level far beyond reasonable limits, i.e. most likely this can only happen by accident. Some headphone amps have a gain level switch to prevent this from happening.

When do you need a headphone amp or DAC?

Finally

TECHNICAL PART

Voltage and current

To understand what impedance is, it is important to have at least a general idea of ​​voltage and current. Voltage is analogous to water pressure, while current is analogous to water flow (eg gallons/minute). If you run water out of your garden hose without a nozzle, you will get a lot of water and you can quickly fill a bucket with it, but the pressure at the end of the hose will be almost zero. If you use a small nozzle, the pressure (voltage) will be much greater, but the flow of water will decrease (it will take more time to fill the same bucket). These two quantities are inversely related. High pressure usually corresponds to low flow and vice versa. The same is true for voltage/current.

Hose nozzles

Roughly speaking, the impedance is similar to the size of a hose nozzle. High-impedance headphones are like a narrow nozzle. To get more water, higher pressure (voltage) is needed. Low-impedance headphones, on the other hand, are more suitable for filling a bucket without a nozzle, requiring more flow and not too high pressure. Most of the headphone outputs work well or for the first or for the second case, but not for both. That's why it's important to know what you're dealing with and choose your headphones accordingly.

Load impedance (headphones)

Headphone impedance - why it is important, what it depends on and what it affects. How to choose headphones with the optimal impedance value.

Whoever has a computer or laptop at home, who likes to stay up until midnight, listen to music, watch movies, does not need to talk about the role and importance of headphones. Listening to music at night through external monitors or watching the next TV series is unlikely to appeal to family members or neighbors living behind the wall. But in headphones, the sound volume will not bother anyone.

So, the functional role of headphones is extremely clear. Let's talk about choosing the right headphone model for you. It should be said that it will depend on how and when you are going to use them.

Since this article will focus on how to choose headphones for a computer, we will not consider such a type as “droplets” or “gags”.

It so happened that the above options are the standard for mobile phones and MP3 players with their own advantages and disadvantages.

For example, earbuds have poor sound insulation, and a small membrane does not give good sound quality. However, their main advantage is compactness and lightness.

Earplugs, despite the complete immersion of the listener in the sound, are not recommended to be used for a long time, as they create a load on the ear. This is a good mobile option, but not for stationary and long-term use.

Of course, earbuds and plugs can easily be connected to a computer, and yet overhead or full-size headphones are more often used for PCs. About them and will be discussed further.

On-ear headphones

To further narrow down the range of models available on the market, let's decide for what purposes on-ear headphones are best suited.

The very word "overhead" tells us that this type includes those that are superimposed on the ears, but do not completely cover them.

Such models have a beautiful design, "ear-buds" fit well to the ear. They are often used at home and on the street. They go well with the player.

In these headphones it is good to walk around the park, make morning runs, as they have a fastening in the form of an arc-headband. In them, a person does not look like an alien and, in general, they are quite comfortable.

On-ear headphones are used for a computer: in Skype conversations, for listening to music. This is a generic type that will suit many occasions, but with a single copy, you will have to switch between the player and the computer very often.

Agree that this is inconvenient. It is better when there are “ears” for each device and for certain tasks.

Therefore, speaking about the choice of headphones for a computer, it makes sense to talk in more detail about full-size or, in other words, monitor headphones.

Over-ear headphones

Full-size - differ from all the others in that they fit very tightly to the head. They have the best sound quality due to the large diaphragm, among them there are those that are designed for professional sound work.

In terms of acoustics, full-size headphones are divided into open and closed. How is the difference between them?

  • Closed headphones on the outside do not have holes, therefore, they have good sound insulation. They are designed to work with sound, track various artifacts, and therefore are used in professional recording studios. Their disadvantage is the following: they, like intracanal ones, create a load on the human hearing aid. The ear gets tired, a person needs to take breaks in work.
  • Open headphones have small holes on the outside. Because of this, a person does not have a feeling of complete isolation from the outside world. The ear does not tire as much as closed-back headphones, which is why this type is most commonly used by gamers and computer audiophiles.

What the specifications say

Let's talk about the technical characteristics of headphones for the computer. I want to say right away that all head monitors can be conditionally divided into 2 more classes: budget and premium.

The difference in their sound will depend not only on the technical parameters, but also on the quality of the sound-reproducing parts.

What do you need to know to make your choice meaningful? Perhaps it would not be superfluous to know at least a little what is:

  • sensitivity;
  • frequency response;
  • headphone impedance.

Let's look at this with a specific example. At the same time, we will see other characteristics of the headphones.

Let's say we buy headphones for the Sennheiser HD 202 II computer. These are not the best on the market, we just consider them as an example. What can we read about them on the webshop page?

Headphone type

So, regarding the type, we already know what "closed" means. No holes, good insulation is a plus

Minus - if you sit all day in these headphones, by the evening you will have a "square head". If you plan to use them 2-4 hours a day, this option is for you.

Connection type

These headphones are wired. It should be noted that there are also wireless headphones on the market. Their advantage is that you are not tied by a "rope" to the device transmitting sound.

But, if you have a laptop in your hands that can be moved, or you are stationary, sitting at a computer, you do not need wireless headphones. Choose wire type.

By the way, looking ahead a little, you can see that the length of the cord is 3 meters. Think about whether this length is enough for you, for example, to move away from the computer if necessary.

Also, if we are talking about a cable, then there is also such a thing as a “connection interface”. In our case, this is a mini-jack with a standard 3.5 mm jack.

I am sure that the laptop has a mini-jack output and it will fit any computer. But if you want to connect headphones to an external sound card, you should pay attention to what output it has. If for a large jack, then you will have to use an adapter.

Reversible cable - this means that the cable is led to both ears and will be in the center, and not to the left or right, as is the case with a one-way connection. Here, consider whether it will interfere with you if you often type text from the keyboard. But I assure you, it is not critical. It's all a matter of habit.

Noise suppression

The Sennheiser HD 202 II does not have active noise cancellation. But you don't need this system if you'll be using the Sennheise HD at home rather than on a noisy street.

Noise cancellation is the technical process of detecting extraneous noise, which is converted into an electrical signal mixed in antiphase with the music in the headphones.

The result is "anti-noise" that a person cannot hear. In general, if in optics there is a deception of sight, then in acoustics there is a deception of hearing. There is noise, but you can't hear it. So in the Sennheiser HD 202 headphones there is no noise reduction.

Frequency range

The headphones we are using as an example have a frequency range or frequency response of: 18 - 18000 Hz This means that these head monitors will only reproduce the above sound range. If our ear hears up to 20,000 Hz, then Sennheiser HD will not give out anything above 18,000.

But then again, this is not critical, unless you are a music fan and you definitely need to hear all the super high frequencies. Therefore, for an ordinary user, this characteristic will not be archival.

Resistance, impedance

This is where you need to pay attention to the numbers, because headphones with high impedance will need a powerful sound source. But in this case, we are dealing with computer headphones, and 30 ohms will be enough for them.

Although, if the impedance were large, then perhaps we would have a better sound, since the greater the resistance, the greater the suppression of electrical noise.

Sensitivity

The sound volume depends on this parameter. In this case, the sensitivity is slightly more than the standard 100 dB.

A characteristic such as weight is important to imagine how hard it will be for you to wear such head monitors.

Summarize. When choosing headphones for a computer, you always need to first decide what tasks you are buying them for.

Maybe your choice is headphones with a microphone, because you will spend most of your time in Skype conversations. Then you need to pay attention to the microphone itself, to its parameters. Does it have noise cancellation, what is its frequency response, etc.

Of course, if sound quality is important to you, then the best way to choose headphones is to put them on and listen to music, but in this case, you need to go to a nearby store. On the Internet, the choice will always be based on the brand, technical characteristics and the ratio of the expected quality and price.

Not only work is connected with computers and laptops, but also a significant part of leisure - watching movies, listening to audio recordings, chatting and learning via Skype. Therefore, choosing the right headset for your PC is very important. Today we will talk about how to choose headphones for your computer. How to understand the sea of ​​offers from venerable manufacturers and new brands?

Basic selection principles

First of all, decide: what type of product you would like to purchase. There are two types of models - full-size and portable:

  • Of course, in terms of characteristics, full-size headphones are the best headphones for a computer. The speakers cover the ears completely. And the bow mount ensures a good fit. This design provides a kind of “sonic vacuum”. You are listening to the recording, and no extraneous sounds interfere with you. And thanks to the large diameter of the membrane, you get a great sound.
  • Portable headphones are more compact, but, as practice shows, they are better suited for a player or phone.

Headset attachment method

There are such types of fasteners:

  • On the head (arc-shaped fastening).
  • On the back of the head.
  • On the ears (on the same principle as the temples of glasses).

The choice in favor of one or another option depends only on your preferences. According to the principle "as it is more convenient for me".

How to choose headphones with a microphone?

This is a necessary device for those who, for example, communicate on Skype. Depending on the method of communication with the headphones, microphones are distinguished:

  • Wired. This option is for those who use headphones not very often.
  • Embedded. Such microphones are convenient for constant access, but they do not protect against extraneous background sound. This is a significant disadvantage.
  • Fixed mount microphones. They are suitable for those whose work involves the constant use of microphones. For example, call center operators.
  • Movable mount. Allows you to change the position of the microphone.

In general, the final choice is up to the buyer, however, the most practical of the above list are models with a movable mount, and the least - headphones with a built-in microphone.

Connection type

Depending on the connection method, there are wired and wireless headphones:

  • A wireless headset is handy when you need to move around a lot. However, a model with a good range is much more expensive than a wired kit.
  • A wired headset provides good sound quality and a stable signal, but requires connection to a PC. In case this suits you, then the wired model is the best solution.

Important! Depending on when and with which device you plan to use headphones more often, we also suggest that you familiarize yourself with the ratings of different models:

What are the best headphones for a computer? Accounting for technical characteristics

When choosing the best headset for your computer, pay attention to the following characteristics:

  • Impedance.
  • Frequency range.
  • Sensitivity.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity refers to the available volume. Your comfort and well-being depend on it.

Important! The allowable rate in the best models is 100 dB. If this indicator is exceeded, and you did not pay attention to it, then there is a risk of hearing damage.

frequency range

The frequency range of good computer headphones is 18Hz-20MHz. This is the range of sounds perceived by the human ear. If the frequency range is narrower - draw your own conclusions.

Impedance

The indicator with the beautiful name “impedance” determines the sound quality. It cuts off all extraneous sounds, leaving only the “necessary” one. The minimum impedance value is 30 ohms. At a lower value, it is unlikely that you will be able to get a good sound.

Overview of the best models

Razer Hammerhead Pro

These are vacuum headphones with an aluminum case. Outwardly, they resemble a 9mm bullet. The design is made in such a way that the headphones are completely isolated from extraneous noise.

Advantages:

  • The case from aluminum guaranteeing durability and reliability of the device.
  • Good sound quality.
  • Excellent performance and ergonomics. The headset does not cause any discomfort during operation.

Disadvantages:

  • There is no volume control panel.
  • Too bright design. As they say, for an amateur.

Razer Kraken Pro

Monitor gaming headphones that guarantee good sound quality and stylish design. There are 2 colors - neon green and black. The headband and cups are padded for a good fit.

Advantages:

  • Good quality wire.
  • Comfort (no fatigue from prolonged use.
  • Excellent sound quality.
  • Soft fastening.
  • Good microphone.
  • There is no volume control.

Important! Some users note that the case creaks when put on. But this does not affect the working quality.

Steelseries 9H

Headphones for the real gamer, focused primarily on comfort. The ear cushions are stiff, the ears are completely covered. The headband is soft. There are adapters for standard sockets.

The external sound card supports 2 sets of headsets.

Important! Special software allows you to adjust the device, set up noise reduction or turn on stereo sound.

Advantages:

  • Premium quality.
  • Convenience.
  • The presence of an external sound card.
  • Clear and rich sound.
  • Hard ear pads.
  • Lots of wires.

Meizu HD50

Foldable design with metal mounts and ear cups. The cups on the inside and the head are covered with leatherette.

Important! The ear cups are filled with memory foam on the inside, which quickly conforms to the shape of the ear and minimizes pressure on it.

Advantages:

  • Quality build, good materials.
  • Beautiful appearance.
  • Good control panel.
  • Excellent sound quality.
  • Low cost.

Sony MDR EX650AP

Lightweight brass in-ear headphones. Headphones have a domed shape, somewhat narrowed towards the base. This avoids overlapping sounds. The material of the earbuds is hygienic silicone. They fit perfectly in the ears and provide isolation from external sounds.

Advantages:

  • Unusual beautiful design.
  • Excellent soundproofing.
  • Solid brass body.
  • Good quality cable.

Sennheiser HD380-Pro

Ergonomic comfortable headphones with ear cushions and headband, upholstered in soft leather. The device is equipped with the Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement sound system. The cups are closed, so sound transmission occurs without distortion.

  • Quality build.
  • Convenient cord.
  • Good sound quality.
  • Included is a carrying bag.
  • Low cost.
  • The arc is fixed too high.
  • Large amount of cable.

Beyerdynamic MMX2

This is almost ideal for video conferencing and listening to music. The case is made of durable plastic, the ear pads are trimmed with soft velor. The microphone features a high directional sensitivity. The speakers are based on a neodymium magnet and provide excellent sound quality.

Advantages:

  • Good build quality.
  • Great sound.
  • Noise cancellation is not the best.
  • There is no adapter.

KOSS KEB15i

Stylish unusual headset is sold in 3 colors. Additionally, the headphones are equipped with 3 pairs of silicone ear pads. Soundproofing is not the best. The sound is rich, the volume margin is sufficient.

Advantages:

  • Stylish appearance.
  • Low price.
  • Equipped with additional ear pads.
  • The presence of a built-in microphone.

Philips SHM1900

Stylish, comfortable headphones with a perfect fit on your head. There is a volume control with a special wheel. The sound is clear, but the bass quality is weak. Soundproofing is good.

Important! Skype is a very good option for communication.

Advantages:

  • Low price.
  • Good sound quality.
  • Good microphone.

Disadvantages:

  • The need for a good sound card.
  • Excessively thin wires.

Philips SHB9150

Wireless headphones made of high quality plastic that does not deform or creak. Soundproofing quality is average. The sound is good, with clear bass and high frequencies.

Important! Through the Bluetooth connection, the sound quality is reduced.

Advantages:

  • Ergonomic control unit.
  • Good sound quality through the wire.
  • Long battery life.

Sennheiser RS ​​180

Among wireless models, this is the benchmark for sound quality. To transmit sound, a special Kleer technology is used here. The sound is rich and clear. It is possible to adjust the volume.

Important! The battery life is approximately 20 hours.

Advantages:

  • Ideal for wireless use.
  • Impeccable sound, not distorted during transmission.
  • Not very convenient control buttons.

Bose QuietComfort 35

The headphones are equipped with a noise canceling function. The “smart” headset independently monitors and cuts off extraneous signals, so the sound is perfectly clear.

Important! One battery charge is enough for 120 hours of battery life.

Advantages:

  • Can be used in wired and wireless modes.
  • Now the right choice of headphones for your computer is a reality for you. Do not neglect the reviews and advice of sales consultants, but try to independently analyze the technical capabilities and design features of a potential purchase. A little attention to detail, patience, and a successful purchase is guaranteed!

Headphone impedance is their input impedance. Many of their technical and operational characteristics depend on it.

If the impedance in the headphones is low (25 ohms or less), then they require less power to provide high quality sound. These headphones are well suited for use with devices such as music players, mobile phones and other portable devices.

And if the impedance of the headphones is more than 25 ohms, then they require more energy for a high level of sound. This resistance protects them from possible damage caused by overloads. These headphones can be used with a wide range of audio devices. For example, these include models used for djing, the nominal resistance of which is about 25-70 ohms.

If the headphone impedance is low, they become more susceptible to damage when more powerful amplifiers are used. If you plug low-impedance headphones into a DJ setup, for example, and use it at full power, you'll probably blow them up.

So what is the optimal impedance? Headphones that will be used to listen to audio from a portable player or laptop should ideally have an impedance of about 16-20 ohms and a sensitivity of at least 100 dB / mW. If your device meets European standards for maximum volume, it is best to choose headphones with an impedance of 16 ohms, since in such devices the maximum power is even less than in others.

It is important to consider the impedance of the headphones, as all models have to work with different amounts of electrical energy and impedance. Each headphone model is specially calculated and calibrated to match specific volumes of loads. This not only ensures the safety of the use of equipment, but also prolongs its lifespan.

Earlier, in the 60-80s, high impedance headphones were often used, since the output energy of the devices of that time was extremely high. After that, resistors began to be used that lower the output voltage. In 1996, the standard for headphone impedance was set at 120 ohms. This had a significant impact on the production and development of high impedance models, but at the same time hindered further development in other directions. In 2009, the mass sale of iPod players began, as a result of which equipment with low resistance gained high popularity. Therefore, the development of low-impedance headphones has received a new impetus.

So, impedance is one of, if not the most important, but still important characteristics of headphones. The model you select should match the audio technology you use in order to achieve maximum sound quality and ensure stable normal operation. Therefore, you should pay attention to the impedance when buying headphones and select the most suitable model in order to avoid rapid wear and deterioration in performance.

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