If you haven’t noticed, many people nowadays spend way too much time wearing headphones or earphones while listening to music on the go, or even while talking on their mobile phones. Ear-buds that deliver sound directly to the ear canal have become increasingly popular. But hearing specialists are concerned that when turned up too loud, inferior quality earphones may cause permanent damage to young ears. While moderation in use is recommended in order to avoid hearing loss, they also recommend that it is best to rely on headphones and earphones from reputed brands who have spent years of research and development in the creation of their
audio devices.
Sennheiser, which has a long history of carrying out extensive R&D on its audio products before they are released in the market, is one such dependable brand when it comes to the purchase of good quality headphones and other listening devices. Recently, they sent their In-Ear headphone for a product evaluation. It is the newest member of the Momentum product family, which are designed for use with today’s mobile devices. Available at an attractive price point of R6,990, the In-Ear enables a user to enjoy pretty clear sound —with strong bass and good clarity—in a compact ear-bud design. It is available in two colour variants—black and red.
I have been using the In-Ear headphone (M2 IEG Black) for the past few days primarily with my mobile phone and a tablet and let me point it out that the true dimensions of these can be measured not only by their good sound, but also in a wealth of little details—from the nano-precise, stainless-steel sound tunnel to the three-button multifunction remote with integrated microphone.
Out of the box, the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear looks slick. With their ergonomic, adjustable angle of 15 degree, the In-Ear buds adapt so well to your ears that you’ll forget they are there. Thanks to the extra-small sound tunnel and a choice of four ear sleeves to fit any size ear, all you’ll experience is the pure sound.
Not only that, the design of the In-Ear speaks a clear, consistent language. Over 200 contrasting red stitches grace the black-lacquered zipper on the soft-covered case that safely protects your ear-buds. The black-and-red cable leads to a red, high-gloss housing. And the good design also extends to their fit, with comfortable tips that sit just right.
On the specs front, the In-Ear has an impedance of 18 ohm, frequency response of 100-10,000 Hz for microphone and 15 Hz-22000 Hz for the headphone, sound pressure level of 118 dB, total harmonic distortion of under 0.5 % (1 kHz, 100 dB SPL, while the pick-up pattern is omnidirectional. The device weighs just 16 gram.
In terms of the performance, the In-Ear delivers exciting sound with strong bass and good clarity. But to be honest, there is not much warmth in the mid-range. Therefore, I feel that it is certainly not a laid-back headphone. It is apt for listening to music while jogging, walking or working out in the gym.
In addition, it has an integrated inline remote and microphone for making mobile phone calls (both iOS and Android versions are available) and a nice carrying case is included.
The range of In-Ear accessories is as broad as the In-Ear itself is tiny. Including a sturdy hard-shell case, intuitive remote for iPhone and Android, elliptical cable that minimises tangling and sound loss, gold-plated jack and integrated hands-free microphone.
Nevertheless, the Momentum In-Ear has a lot going for it. It is ideal for those looking for a lightweight and comfortable headphone which has a strong bass and good clarity. What’s more, it won’t break the bank.
SPECIFICATIONS
Impedance: 18 ohm
Frequency response: 100-10,000 Hz (microphone); 15Hz-22000 Hz (headphones)
Sound pressure level: 118 dB (1 kHz/1Vrms)
Total harmonic distortion: <0.5 % (1 kHz, 100 dB SPL)
Pick-up pattern: Omni-directional
Weight: 16g
Microphone sensitivity:- 44 dB V/Pan
Estimated street price: Rs 6,990