in the UK, 7 to 8 million people suffer from tinnitus. These whistling and buzzing sounds in the ears are partly due to listening to music for too long and/or too much. Less aggressive than headphones, wired headphones protect your hearing while you listen to your favorite songs. Our guide will help you find the right model for your needs.
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Our selection
"High-resolution sound is what this Philips wired circum-aural headset promises. If you're not convinced that music can touch the soul, you'll definitely be when you…"
"This headset with built-in microphone may be priced so affordably, but it excels in everything. The quality of the sound and the finishes will fully…"
"The 3 HD 650 wired headphones from Sennheiser are a quality accessory offering your ears optimal listening comfort."
"Are you demanding and precise in your choices? Then choose the Sennheiser HD 660 S. These wired headphones deliver exceptionally accurate sound with a wide…"
"After a timid start, OneOdio is beginning to make a name for itself thanks to the excellent quality of its range of wired headphones, both…"
High-resolution sound is what this Philips wired circum-aural headset promises. If you're not convinced that music can touch the soul, you'll definitely be when you use this Fidelio X2HR/00.
111 £ on AmazonThese on-ear headphones deliver detailed sound thanks to their 50mm drivers with neodymium magnets. Note that these tweeters were manually selected before being tuned, tested and installed in the headphone cavities. It's through this process that the Fidelio X2HR/00 is able to produce clear, balanced bass, crisp highs and smooth midrange. In short, everything a music lover needs to enjoy their favorite songs.
To ensure that the headphones fit the ears and reduce sound reflection as much as possible, the drivers have been pre-tuned. This is not a design flaw. Note that the adjustable headband is made of a breathable and flexible 3D mesh that does not oppress the head even after hours of use. Philips has really gone to great lengths to design a headset that is perfect in every way.
This headset with built-in microphone may be priced so affordably, but it excels in everything. The quality of the sound and the finishes will fully satisfy you.
18,39 £ on AmazonGood products are not necessarily bad products. This wired headset is a clear example of this. Indeed, this NRGSound CL750 has all the advantages of audio accessories categorized as high-end. Not only does it produce clear sound with powerful bass and balanced highs, but the materials that make it up are superbly durable. It's built to last for years. And because the headband is foldable, it can easily be stored in a case.
With built-in controls, you can use this headset to take calls or communicate with your partners while playing your favorite FPS titles. With a 3.5 mm jack, these on-ear headphones are compatible with all smartphones and many of the devices you use every day.
The 3 HD 650 wired headphones from Sennheiser are a quality accessory offering your ears optimal listening comfort.
340 £ on Amazon
Are you demanding and precise in your choices? Then choose the Sennheiser HD 660 S. These wired headphones deliver exceptionally accurate sound with a wide frequency range. Hours of intense musical enjoyment are yours!
348 £ on AmazonThe sound quality is obtained thanks to innovative transducers whose composition reduces the phonic distortion. Their low impedance of 150 ohms allows them to be connected with other devices. The connection with other devices is made with two cables reinforced by para-aramid fibers, as well as OFC copper ensuring maximum signal integrity.
The large earcups are covered in soft velvet, with an open-back silhouette to allow airflow. The cushioned headband fits snugly over the head, promising hours of free-flowing listening.
After a timid start, OneOdio is beginning to make a name for itself thanks to the excellent quality of its range of wired headphones, both in terms of sound and finish.
27,99 £ on AmazonThis headset may be made of plastic, but it is very durable. Only its expandable spacers are made of metal. These can be extended by 3 cm on both sides in several steps. The oversized earphones are of a fairly classic design, and just like the headband, they are protected with a leatherette cover for comfort. Since they swivel 90 degrees, you can free up one ear without unplugging the other, deejay-style.
You can be sure of one thing: the sound quality is top-notch with these wired headphones. The music is perfectly reproduced, both in terms of treble and bass. As for the isolation, it is excellent. The OneOdio Pro 10 comes with two jacks, 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm, and can be used with PCs, game consoles, mixers, stereos and TVs.
Although this headset is primarily intended for video game enthusiasts, many music lovers use it for the precision sound it offers.
82,40 £ on AmazonThe Razer Kraken Ultimate is a wired headset designed to last for years. To optimize user comfort, the manufacturer chose to use very strong, yet lightweight materials for its design. That's why they chose bauxite for the frame and stainless steel for the headband. The memory foam padding and breathable liner mean that this helmet applies just the right amount of pressure when placed on your ears. It won't be uncomfortable.
Whether you're playing games or listening to music, this product promises pure, crystal-clear sound with a rich range of tones. Since no sound escapes your ears, total immersion in your entertainment is guaranteed.
A circum-aural headset specially designed for gaming and chat, and especially for gaming professionals. Exceptional sound quality and luxurious design, that's what these high-resolution speaker drivers offer. All you have to do is concentrate on your game.
152 £ on AmazonThe first thing you notice is the luxurious design with steel on the headband and aluminum alloy on the earpads. The ear cushions are equipped with a soft AirWeave coating. The headphones deliver stunning sound quality up to 40,000 kHz, thanks to high-density neodymium magnets. Surround sound is provided by DTS Headphone: X v2.0 for maximum immersion, while the Arctis Clear Cast microphone provides voice clarity, as well as background noise reduction, while the USB ChatMix module allows you to adjust the volume between gaming and audio chat.
The JBL Tune500's round design, lightweight materials and soft on-ear cushions are just some of its strengths. Perfect for listening to music for hours without tiring your ears.
23,99 £ on FnacWith a frequency response between 20 and 20 kHz, the JBL Tune500 wireless on-ear headphones feature a pair of 32mm drivers. This design allows for total immersion, with accurate and impressive sound thanks to JBL Pure Bass. You'll feel like you're in a concert hall.
Use the remote to control music and calls. A built-in microphone lets you make calls audibly. This headset also has hands-free control. Foldable and with a flat cable, and weighing just 0.15 kg, JBL Tune500 is easy to handle and portable.
Any specific needs?
Best entry-level wired headphones
Best high-end wired headphones
Best wired headphones with two jacks
Your guide :
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| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | ALTERNATIVE | TOP OF THE TOP | EXCELLENT | 100% GAMING | COMFORTABLE | |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Philips Fidelio X2HR/00
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Artix NRGSound CL750
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Sennheiser HD650
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Sennheiser HD 660 S
|
OneOdio Pro 10
|
Razer Kraken Ultimate
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SteelSeries Pro Arctis
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JBL Tune 500
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High-resolution sound is what this Philips wired circum-aural headset promises. If you're not convinced that music can touch the soul, you'll definitely be when you use this Fidelio X2HR/00.
|
This headset with built-in microphone may be priced so affordably, but it excels in everything. The quality of the sound and the finishes will fully satisfy you.
|
The 3 HD 650 wired headphones from Sennheiser are a quality accessory offering your ears optimal listening comfort.
|
Are you demanding and precise in your choices? Then choose the Sennheiser HD 660 S. These wired headphones deliver exceptionally accurate sound with a wide frequency range. Hours of intense musical enjoyment are yours!
|
After a timid start, OneOdio is beginning to make a name for itself thanks to the excellent quality of its range of wired headphones, both in terms of sound and finish.
|
Although this headset is primarily intended for video game enthusiasts, many music lovers use it for the precision sound it offers.
|
A circum-aural headset specially designed for gaming and chat, and especially for gaming professionals. Exceptional sound quality and luxurious design, that's what these high-resolution speaker drivers offer. All you have to do is concentrate on your game.
|
The JBL Tune500's round design, lightweight materials and soft on-ear cushions are just some of its strengths. Perfect for listening to music for hours without tiring your ears.
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Jack
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3.5-6.3 mm
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3.5 mm
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3.5-6.3 mm
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3.5-6.3 mm
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3.5-6.3 mm
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USB 2.0 (2 m cable)
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3.5 mm / USB
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3.5 mm
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Noise reduction
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-
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Special features
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50 mm Neodymium HD drivers ( 5 - 40,000 Hz)
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Command Volume
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Broad frequency response: 10 - 41,000 Hz / 300 Ω
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Neodymium drivers (9-41,500 Hz) / 150 Ω
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Low dynamic range / Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
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Volume control / 50 mm with neodymium magnets ( 20 Hz - 20 kHz)
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Frequency response : 10 - 40000 Hz / Neodymium DTS magnet : X 2.0
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32 mm dynamic speaker / Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
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Built-in microphone
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Weight
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380 g
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-
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258 g
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426 g
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-
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390 g
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426 g
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148 g
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Wired headphones can be used for listening to music, playing video games or for work. But there's a headset for every purpose. Here are the criteria to consider when choosing.
Before investing in a wired headset, determine the places you usually frequent. In public transportation, active noise reduction will be crucial. Indeed, open-air headphones do not isolate or do not isolate well enough, and are therefore not suitable.
For those who are used to walking, open wired headphones are recommended to ensure their safety. After all, you need to hear the noise of cars and other road users! Some headphones even have ambient noise amplifiers.
For
standard use, any wired headset will do. For video games, it is better to opt for microphones. In the office, a nomadic headset with a hands-free kit or microphone would be more practical. There are even special headsets with good quality microphones for this purpose.
For professional use (DJ, music industry or audio-visual production), there are studio headsets that provide a very neutral sound and a flat audio spectrum. These models allow for good tuning and better sound balancing.
Not
all
music genres have the same audio rendering and signatures. R&B, classical, jazz, or other music all have different levels of treble, bass, and midrange. You'll easily find headphones that accentuate bass. In fact, models that reproduce both low and high frequencies generally offer the best listening experience.
In any case, headphones that are accurate and rich, with little distortion and a stereo effect are recommended. It is also important to note that the quality of your headphones alone does not determine the smoothness of your tracks. There is also the quality of the audio file, the nature of the music player and of course your headphones which must be in synergy to offer a better definition of the sound.
Headphone cushions can be made of rubber, leather, foam, etc. But the majority of manufacturers offer leather models. Some rare models are made of fabric or velvet, comfortable but also warm, so suitable for not too long listening sessions.
In addition, some headsets for video games or open space have mesh cushions, which limit perspiration. Either way, genuine leather offers great durability. Otherwise opt for headphones with removable cushions that can be replaced when worn.
Wired headphones, there's something for everyone: from the most classic to the most futuristic. In particular, you can customize some models to your liking. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, some parts like the capsule pads can be removed and replaced according to the desired style.
As helmets are nomadic equipment, it is better to choose foldable models for easy storage. Some can even be bent without risk. Generally speaking, style, performance, sturdiness and price will be the factors to consider when you, as audiophiles, make your choice.
If you use headphones, see an ENT doctor every year. Do the same in case of persistent ringing or whistling in the ears after listening to music at high volume. Sudden hearing loss, even in one ear, makes it difficult to follow a conversation and to hear surrounding noises (cars, machines, etc.).
When you listen to music on your smartphone or walkman via your headphones, remember to take a 10-minute break every 45 minutes of listening. On the other hand, for a listening time of 2 hours at 90 dB, it is strongly advised not to exceed 15 minutes of listening at 100 dB and limit to 20 hours per week, listening at 90 dB.
Listening in a noisy environment unconsciously pushes the headphone wearer to turn up the volume in order to better enjoy the musical experience. This behavior contributes significantly to the onset of tinnitus symptoms. In order to protect your ears as much as possible, you should listen in quiet places and not be exposed to loud ambient noise.
Wired headphones come in several types with their own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a closer look at them.
The lightweight, sound-isolating in-ear headset fits directly into the ear canal through soft rubber ear cups. It is perfect for sports enthusiasts and normally comes with several sizes of ear tips to fit your ears. Despite its performance, it cuts us off from the outside world with its excellent sound-isolation capability, which could lead to accidents and any other mishaps in public places.
Circum-aural headphones completely surround the ear and provide a comfortable feel. The sound can be richer and the device offers a good level of isolation despite its large size which makes it bulky and therefore less portable. This model is actually less sensitive than a supra-aural so it will have trouble fitting with a low-powered walkman especially when its impedance is high.
These
headphones are compact and easy to carry. It does not cut you off completely from the outside world, an advantage in the street but a disadvantage in a crowded enclosed space. The headphones will stay in place at ear level, which is ideal for mobile people or DJs but often less comfortable than supra-aural since a feeling of pressure could be felt in the ears. Moreover, we can find over-ear headphones in hoops behind the head and ears.
Headphones or more precisely headsets with a microphone are more often used in the office. They allow you to chat (via Skype or other), play on a network, listen to music or movies or work on your own voice with specific software. So, very useful for people who learn foreign languages. Despite these advantages, they do not generally offer better sound quality unless you pay a high price.
The wired headphones are connected to the audio source by a cable with a double sheathed copper wire inside. The signal is then routed through this 1 to 3 m long wire, depending on the use. The quality of the copper (OFC copper or PC-OCC copper) constituting the conductors determines the sound quality, i.e. the levels of distortion and loss of the original signal.
The majority of wired models are extremely powerful, reaching a frequency of 20,000 Hz. The sound they offer is more stable and they do not suffer from electromagnetic interference. Wired headphones are best used in disturbed environments. That's why DJs love these headphones.
The disadvantage of wired headphones is that the cable limits the listener's movement. In case of bad handling, the cables and connections become fragile and the equipment may be out of order. Finally, wired headphones are less aesthetically pleasing than wireless models because of the dangling cable.
Wireless headsets use three types of connections: Bluetooth, infrared and radio frequency (RF). The bluetooth allows a bidirectional exchange of signal at very short distance via UHF radio waves on a range of 2,4 GHz. Finally, the radio frequency wireless headphones allow you to listen to your system at the other end of the house or in your garden without having to worry about partitions.
Thanks to the technology used in wireless headphones, the listener and the source are not interdependent. This makes it easier to use, especially for sportsmen and women and people who work while listening to music. Moreover, recent wireless technologies offer impeccable sound quality and do not have to suffer from jack connectivity problems.
However, these headphones weigh more because of the battery. In addition, wireless headphones are still susceptible to electromagnetic interference. In addition, wearing this type of headset contributes to increased cellular stress and may even cause more serious health damage. Finally, you cannot use them to listen to FM radio because the smartphone will not allow you to use them as an antenna.
In conclusion, wired headphones are less limited than their wireless counterparts, and their sound quality is much better than that of the wireless models. In any case, you can switch between the two models according to your needs. If wired headphones bother you when you're working out or doing yoga, go for the wireless version. But if you're more interested in ergonomic, comfortable and high-performance devices, you'll want to go with the wired version. There are even types of headphones that can act as both wireless and wired models.
Clear sound
Wired models are generally more powerful. In fact, most of them are extremely powerful with a frequency of 20,000 Hz. The sound is more stable, which makes for a more interesting audio experience. A good wired headphone plays world-class sound quality all the time. The latest technology of wired headphone port produces clear sound and one can enjoy every note of the music. These headphones have a better sound stage than the cheaper ones. So, before opting for any headphones, make sure to check the sound as well.
Comfortable on the skin
While buying wired headphones, the first thing that comes to your mind is its comfort to wear. Wired headphones fit comfortably on your ears and head. For example, if you're a gamer and like to hear the sound of the game, a comfortable wired headset is essential. A headset is something personal and worn for long periods of time.
Better productivity
Improve your productivity. We all want to be productive when we work, and having the right tools to help us maximize our efficiency is a plus. Wired headphones fall into the category of productivity tools. The productivity benefits become clear when you compare a corded headset to using a traditional desk phone with a handset.
More freedom
A wired headset will free your hands and, to some extent, free your inner mind as well. Normally, it is available in a comfortable and convenient version.
No unwanted background noise
These wired headphones usually come standard with a noise cancelling system. This system helps filter out that unwanted noise. If you are like most people, you want your phone calls to be clear and loud. A wired headset is designed to combat noise.
The right gestures to adopt to preserve the helmet.
Always keep your hands and ears clean and dry when handling your wired headphones before wearing. Remember to clean your headphones regularly and remove them before bathing, showering, or swimming. Do not expose them to direct sunlight, never leave them near heat sources, and handle them as gently as possible.
Clean your helmet properly.
To
do this, use a cloth dampened with window cleaner to clean the hoop. Make sure the cloth is well wrung out before each cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals and alcohol. It is better to use soapy water on a microfiber cloth to clean the rubber and plastic. Nooks and crannies can be cleaned with a moistened cotton swab, and the pads can be cleaned with a cloth soaked in soapy water or cotton soaked in make-up remover.
Protect your ears effectively.
Don
't turn your volume up or listen to music for too long as this can damage your eardrums. The maximum sound power level of your music player should follow the 100 dB standard. If your ears are ringing or buzzing, take a break for a few days and lower the volume the next time you listen.
Adopt the right habits to store your wired headphones.
Above all,
avoid
wrapping your wires around your headphones or your walkman, although very practical, this wrapping technique risks damaging the cables because it multiplies the stress points especially at the level of the knots. Instead, use the scouting technique, i.e. wrap the wires around your index and ring fingers and tie a knot in the middle at the end. Also be aware that there are headphone storage shells found on the market that are more convenient for preserving your wired headphones.
Replacing the ear cushions of a wired headset.
Just
pull
the old pad
out until
it comes off the outer edge of the headphone without removing the cover. Then insert the flange that holds the new cushion onto the outer edges of the earcup. Make sure the flange fits smoothly and evenly around the edge of the earpiece, then use your fingers to gently press it into place.
The best wired headphones depend on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.
Don't throw them in the bin, send them to Darty, Carrefour, etc. as they can recycle them.
In general, no. Children's helmets are smaller and must be equipped with a volume limiter: the recommended limit is 85dB for a child.
Make sure your headphones are not damaged, check that your music player is not connected to another Bluetooth device at the same time and clean your jack.
Two criteria should be taken into account: the size of the jack, which is generally 3.5mm, and a gold-plated plug which provides good sound transmission.
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