First, let me briefly introduce the four contenders.
The Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones
Unlike the other headphones I’ll be discussing in this roundup, the Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones are designed for use with any audio device with a 3.5mm audio-out jack. While this makes the FreePulse a more universal choice, it also limits its functionality when used with an iPod. For example, because the FreePulse transmitter attaches via the 3.5mm headphone jack rather than the Dock Connector, the headphones have no remote control features.
The FreePulse headphones are a standard behind-the-neck design with small silicone-feeling rings to grip your ears. The headphones utilize Bluetooth v2.0 +EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), and support any device with the A2DP Bluetooth profile. Logitech states the FreePulse has a 33-feet range.
In the box Logitech includes the FreePulse headphones, the FreePulse transmitter, a wall charger, two replacement ear pads and snap-on adapters for the FreePulse transmitter to better hold to select MP3 players.
Wi-Gear iMuffs
Originally released in 2005, the iMuffs wireless headphones were one of the first on the wireless audio scene. The first iMuffs shipped with a patch adapter much like the FreePluse, but the current iMuffs include a Bluetooth transmitter that connects to and works with any Dock Connector iPod. By connecting to an iPod via the Dock Connector, the transmitter not only has the ability to input commands to the player, but also draws its power from the iPod battery, making it unnecessary for the transmitter to be charged separately. Of course, by using the iPod’s battery, the iMuffs transmitter also reduces the playback time of the iPod.
Like the Logitech FreePulse, the iMuffs use a behind-the-neck design, but the iMuffs have a much freer feel. Their design is looser, and could even be described as a bit floppy. The iMuffs are available in black or white, utilize Bluetooth v2.0 and support any device with the A2DP Bluetooth profile. The iMuffs also have a built-in mic, and can be used with a Bluetooth-enabled phone as a headset. Wi-Gear states the iMuffs have a 30-feet range.
In the box Wi-Gear includes the iMuff Bluetooth headphones, the iMuffs transmitter and a USB charger (wall and PC).
AnyCOM BSH-100 Stereo Headset
There’s a good chance you’ve never heard of AnyCOM, but if you’re a Bluetooth fan, it’s a company worth your attention. Based in Germany, AnyCOM produces a wide range of wireless Bluetooth products including headsets, transmitters, speakers, GPS receivers, car kits and more. Like the iMuffs, the BSH-100 Stereo Headset pulls double duty as both wireless headphones and a hands-free headset. Just attach the included boom microphone and enjoy wireless conversations on your Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone, even if the phone’s in your pocket or across the room.
Using the BSH-100 with an iPod requires the AnyCOM iPod Bluetooth Adapter, which is called the BluNa. The BSH-100 is also a behind-the-neck design, but is the only headphone system in the roundup that folds for storage. The BSH-100 is Bluetooth 2.0, but the BluNa is the older version 1.2. The BSH-100 has an effective range of 33-feet according to the product literature.
In the box Wi-Gear includes the BSH-100 Bluetooth Stereo Headset, a snap-on miniUSB microphone, a USB charger and a removable, replaceable battery pack. The BluNa is often sold separately and is available in black and white.
Etymotic ety8 Bluetooth In-Ear Earphones
The ety8 is the oddball of the group. First, the ety8 are not headphones at all, but a pair of earbuds, the only true Bluetooth earbuds I could find during a quick Google search. Rather than a behind-the-neck design found on the other three contenders, the ety8 earphones are connected by a cloth-covered wire, with the guts stored in rectangular blocks attached to each bud. The design is a bit strange, but also interesting, and is without question a conversation starter.
Created by Etymotic, a company whose name is synonymous with quality audio, the ety8 includes a Dock Connector iPod Bluetooth transmitter with a stated range of 33-feet in open space. The ety8 also uses Bluetooth 2.0 and supports any device with the A2DP Bluetooth profile. Unlike the other headphones in the roundup, the ety8 provides intentional sound isolation. Another quality that sets the Etymotic ety8 apart is its price; at just under $300, the earbuds are double the cost of the iMuffs.
In the box Etymotic Research includes the ety8 Bluetooth In-Ear Earphones, the 8-Mate Dock Connector iPod transmitter, a leather pouch case, a USB charger and assorted ear tips.
Part 3: Design & Construction >>>
