With an innovative new design these impressive fully open dynamic headphones will be one for the high-end that is for sure. Speaking about this new design, the ear cups have been designed with the sound waves coming in at a slight angle rather than straight on and flat like most. Sennheiser has also revealed their new ventilated magnet system design that will direct the airflow of the fully open cans in a way that will reduce distortion and present a cleaner sound.

The technology might be confusing for most but for the die hard audio fan this will surely be something you’ll want to look into. Essentially as the magnet delivers the sound the airwaves make their way out of the open design but it usually manages to find its way back around. The new magnet, along with the angled cup design allows for a flow that will direct this away from the cups and therefor give a better audio experience with less turbulence or distortion. In case you were wondering about the design of the cups, they are also designed all around the flow of air and soundwaves to keep things clean, clear, and crisp.

Enjoy a few photos below and hopefully we’ll have one in for review soon.

Sennheiser says that the headphones have a high maximum sound pressure level and a detachable one-sided cable. They ship with a carry bag and an adapter that allow use with 6.3mm audio ports. The headphones have a frequency response of 16-22000 Hz and a sound pressure level of 120 dB.

The cable is 1.5m long and the normal adapter is 3.5mm and will fit into most music devices like the iPod and iPhone. The headphones weigh 162g. If you want to pick up a set, you can get them online and in Apple stores for £224.99.

The first of which is the PC 360. Sennheiser created these new headphones to be the direct successor of the hugely popular Sennheiser PC 350. The headphones feature a “top-notch” noise-cancelling microphone, as well as Sennheiser’s Open-Air speaker technology. The ear pads are made of velvet, and cover both ears, but they’re designed with an open design, making sure that they prevent artificial sounds from slipping in and ruining the whole experience. You’ll also find a quick access volume control, and you’ll be able to mute yourself by just raising the boom. The PC 360 will cost you $299.95.

While Sennheiser is pushing the previous headphones as their flagship model, it looks like the company put just as much effort into the surround sound, 3D headphones as well. The PC 163D features 7.1 channel, 360-degree coverage, and also features a noise-cancelling microphone. It also features Dolby Headphone technology. The PC 333D features the same technology, including the 7.1 channel surround sound. It also features a “DJ Hinge,” which means you’ll be able to swivel up the right cup quickly and easily, which will automatically mute it, and keep you talking with your fellow gamers in a more streamlined fashion.

And finally, the PC 330 G4ME headphones feature a closed acoustic set up, making sure that no sound from the outside world interrupts your gaming experience. The PC 330 G4ME headphones feature the same DJ Hinge as the aforementioned model, as well. As far as pricing goes, you can pick up the PC 163D for $209.95; the PC 333D for $239.95; and the PC 330 G4ME for just $169.95. And all of them are available now. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Press Release

Sennheiser launches an arsenal of innovative gaming headsets

New flagship model and two surround-sound headsets for 3D gaming

OLD LYME, Conn. – October 26, 2010: Audio specialist Sennheiser Communications introduces a new line of headsets designed for hardcore gamers. Heading up the line is the PC 360—the new flagship headset for pro gamers featuring Sennheiser’s acclaimed Open-Aire™ acoustics and an innovative microphone mute control. For an even more intense gaming experience, the PC 163D and PC 333D are equipped with Dolby® Headphone technology for immersive 7.1 surround sound virtualization. Rounding out the line, the PC 330 G4ME delivers DJ-inspired performance and quality for enthusiasts who take LAN parties as seriously as the professionals.

The Sennheiser PC 360 gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 360: Designed for pro gamers
As the follow-up to the hugely successful PC 350, the Sennheiser PC 360 has a lot to live up to—and it doesn’t disappoint. Sennheiser Open-Aire speaker technology and a top-notch noise-canceling microphone deliver outstanding hi-fi performance. Although the velvety-soft ear pads and large ear cups fully cover the ears, their open design prevents the artificial sound that can take the shine off even the most intense session. The natural sound also enhances music, movies and internet telephony.

But it’s the open acoustics and intuitive controls that will really get gamers’ pulses racing. The open design creates a more lifelike soundscape by allowing sound waves to expand and contract as they would in nature, and ensures continuous airflow to keep users cool. A quick-access volume control is integrated onto the right ear cup, allowing gamers to make volume adjustments quickly without breaking their concentration. To mute the microphone, just raise the boom.

The Sennheiser PC 163D gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 163D: A new dimension in 3D gaming at home
Sennheiser Communications’ PC 163D headset thrusts players headfirst into an extraordinary home gaming experience. The combination of powerful Sennheiser sound and Dolby® Headphone technology enables gamers to distinguish aural cues from all directions- not just left and right. The virtual 7.1 channel, 360-degree coverage allows players to hear footsteps behind a wall or detect the opponent’s position—allowing them to stay steps ahead of the competition.

Sennheiser Communications brought in professional gaming team mTw to fine-tune every last detail of the PC 163D—and it shows. Professional gamer Christoffer Sunde explains the benefits of 7.1-channel surround virtualization: “Thanks to the fantastic multi-channel experience, we can now pinpoint the in-game competitor just by the sound.”

The PC 163D is equipped with a noise-canceling microphone, ensuring your voice comes across clearly. An adjustable boom offers more comfort and flexibility during the game. The design, too, makes the PC 163D comfortable to use. The open build keeps players aware of what’s going on around them and guarantees continuous airflow to the ears. An integrated volume control allows gamers to adjust volume levels on the fly.

The Sennheiser PC 333D gaming headset (click on image for hi-res)
PC 333D: The new dimension in 3D tournament gaming
The PC 333D could be a game changer. For Sennheiser Communications, it’s certainly a statement of intent: to take professional-standard gaming and 3D movies to a new level of realism using high-end multi-channel technology. The PC 333D aims to bring the virtual soundscape alive with 7.1-channel surround sound simulation powered by Dolby® Headphone technology. For FPS enthusiasts used to the basic sound orientation of two-channel headsets, it’s a huge sensory jump.

The ultra-realism of multi-channel audio is not only enhanced by the closed-acoustic design, but also the excellent quality of the PC 333D’s speakers. The overall effect is a much more intense and immersive gaming experience. The PC 333D helps gamers register crucial sounds, and gain a better impression of where and how far away opponents are, and which way they are moving. Movie lovers will appreciate the extraordinary sound, which catapults them right into the action. It’s no exaggeration to say that the PC 333D takes the gaming and movie experience to a whole new level.

Sennheiser Communications’ tie-in with the world-class gamers at mTw clearly had a big influence on the professional look and feel of the PC 333D. One ear cup is fitted with a clever “DJ Hinge” that users can single-handedly swivel up to talk to people around them. The microphone automatically mutes when the boom is raised. In-game communication with teammates is just as comfortable and intuitive. The volume control is located directly on one ear cup for easy access, and a professional standard noise-canceling microphone delivers Sennheiser-grade calls and chats, even at raucous LAN events.

PC 330 G4ME: A high-performance headset designed for your G4ME
The noise of mass gaming sessions is always a challenge, but Sennheiser Communications has designed a great solution: a clever ear-cup design that strikes the balance between immersion and communication. The PC 330 features closed acoustics, so gamers can completely shut out their surroundings for full-on action. To talk to neighbors directly, just flip up the right ear cup like DJs do in a club. Other convenient features include automatic microphone mute, which is triggered when the boom is raised, and a volume control built right into the right ear cup.

Of course, the PC 330 features trademark Sennheiser stereo sound quality and a high-end noise-canceling microphone that makes it easy to chat uninterrupted online.

Pricing and availability (click links below to view hi-res images)

The PC 360 ($299.95), PC 163D ($209.95), PC 333D ($239.95) and PC 330 ($169.95) are available now. Visit www.sennheiserusa.com for stores.

About Sennheiser Communications
Sennheiser Communications is the result of a joint venture between the electro acoustics specialist Sennheiser Electronic GmbH & Co. KG and the hearing healthcare specialist William Demant Holding Group. Decades of experience in pro music and hearing healthcare has helped the seven-year-old company produce award-winning, innovative headsets.

About Sennheiser
Sennheiser is a world-leading manufacturer of microphones, headphones and wireless transmission systems. Established in 1945 in Wedemark, Germany, Sennheiser has grown into a global brand represented in over sixty countries through wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term distribution partners. Sennheiser is proud to be affiliated with Georg Neumann, purveyor of world-leading studio microphones, and joint venture Sennheiser Communications, which brings its award winning technology to headsets for gaming, mobile phones and PCs. Sennheiser’s pioneering advancements in technology has rewarded the brand with numerous awards and accolades including an Emmy, a Grammy and the Scientific and Engineering Award of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. For more information, please visit www.sennheiserusa.com.

That means the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and the latest iPod Touch, each of which have Voice Control, though the rest of the controls will work with most recent models.  That includes the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPad, iPod Shuffle (3rd and 4th generation), iPod nano (4th and 5th generation), iPod Touch (2nd generation), iPod classic (120 GB/160 GB), and 2009 models of Macbook, Macbook Pro and Mac Pro.

More details on each in the press release below; pricing kicks off at $79.95 for the HD 218i Closed, and climbs all the way up to $449.95 for the IE 8i in-ear reference headphones.

Press Release:

Made for iPhone: Sennheiser presents headset versions of six popular portable headphones

The Sennheiser HD 238i Open mini headphones with in-line microphone. (click on image for hi-res)

Old Lyme, Conn. – September 27, 2010 – Listen to music and have conversations using six new Sennheiser headsets specially designed for the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and other Apple products*. All six versions—the MM 70i, IE 8i, PX 100-IIi, PX 200-IIi, HD 218i and HD 238i—are based on Sennheiser’s successful “Portable Entertainment” series. The microphone and smart remote control unit are integrated into the cable and allow the Apple product to be controlled at the push of a button or by voice commands.

“The new headsets complement the design and user-friendliness of the iPhone—including the new iPhone 4—and other supported Apple products with top-quality Sennheiser sound and intuitive control functions,” explained Eric Palonen, senior product specialist for consumer electronics at Sennheiser’s US headquarters. The headsets automatically pause the music when a phone call is taken, allowing the iPhone user to switch easily and quickly between music and calls without the risk of missing any incoming calls or favorite tracks.

Compact control unit, high functionality
A wide range of functions can be controlled with a single button. Depending on how often and how long the button is pressed, music tracks and videos can be played, paused or skipped to the next/previous song. The same button can also be used to receive and end phone calls and to activate the voice control function. This Apple function makes it possible to use voice commands to retrieve songs or phone numbers on the latest iPod Touch version and the iPhone 4 and 3GS. The volume can be conveniently controlled using the plus and minus button.

The Sennheiser IE 8i High-end ear-canal earphones with in-line microphone.

Sound precision for professionals: IE 8i
The IE 8i headset features extremely lifelike sound reproduction and also allows individual bass adjustment to suit different listening needs and tastes. The precision and clarity of its sound will delight even the most demanding music lovers. Various adapters are included to ensure a comfortable, snug fit just inside the ear canal.

Sound with style: MM 70i
The eye-catching MM 70i ear-canal earphones are perfectly designed for mobile use, combining clear stereo sound and rich bass. The headset comes with six ear adapters made of silicone to provide an ideal fit for every user, and to effectively seal out ambient noise.

Pocket size: PX 100-IIi and PX 200-IIi
The PX 100-IIi and PX 200-IIi models show that big sound doesn’t need much space. After use, the two particularly lightweight on-the-ear headsets can simply be folded up

The Sennheiser PX 100-IIi open, foldable mini headphones with in-line microphone. (click on image for hi-res)
into a pocket-sized package. The PX 100-IIi, with its open-back design, offers lifelike sound reproduction and powerful bass. The PX 200-IIi is particularly suited for use in somewhat noisier environments. Its closed design effectively blocks out exter-nal noise, allowing you to listen to music in peace—without being disturbed and without disturbing others.

Sleek design, rich sound: HD 218i and HD 238i
The HD 218i and HD 238i on-the-ear headsets feature an attractive, sleek design. Sennheiser’s proven acoustic systems ensure that both models offer powerful sound. The HD 238i is more balanced, while the HD 218i features stronger low-end response for bass lovers.

The remote control function on all six models is compatible with iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPad, iPod Shuffle (3rd and 4th generation), iPod nano (4th and 5th generation), iPod Touch (2nd generation), iPod classic (120 GB/160 GB), and 2009 models of Macbook, Macbook Pro and Mac Pro. Voice Control is supported by iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and the latest iPod Touch. The new product range is available world-wide through Sennheiser’s dealer network and at Apple Online and in Apple Stores.

Product overview (click links to view hi-res images):

IE 8i High-end ear-canal earphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $599.95 Street price: $449.95

MM 70i Balanced ear-canal earphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $129.95 Street price: $99.95

PX 100-IIi Open, foldable mini headphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $119.95 Street price: $89.95

PX 200-IIi Closed, foldable mini headphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $139.95 Street price: $109.95

HD 218i Closed, mini headphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $99.95 MAP: $79.95

HD 238i Open mini headphones with in-line microphone
MSRP: $169.95 MAP: $129.95

The company known for their high-profile headphones has just officially announced the new 500-series. And while there’s plenty of features that sound familiar, Sennheiser is promoting one feature that’s new to these ‘phones. It’s called EAR, and it’s short for eargonomic Acoustic Refinement. Yes, eargonomic. The new addition to the feature list is designed to make your listening that much more clear and defined. You’ll also find neodymium magnets, as well as Duofol diaphragms.

The 6.3mm audio jack is gold-plated, and you’ll find a frequency response that ranges from 12, all the way up to 38,500 Hertz. More specifically, the HD598 features a frequency response all the way to that 38,500 Hertz range; while the HD558 goes up to 28,000 Hertz, and the HD518 makes it up to 26,000 Hertz. The headphones themselves definitely look unique. There’s no word on pricing quite yet, but the ‘phones are supposed to reach UK stores by teh end of September, so it shouldn’t be too long before that little missing piece reveals itself.

[via TechRadar]

The PC-333D makes use of the higher model number, by featuring just a little bit more — even if it is just a means to an end, versus the lower model numbered 163D. Both headsets feature 7.1 surround sound, which means you’ll be perfectly capable of hearing from which direction someone is running up on you, and can react accordingly. Additionally, both headsets feature an adjustable mic boom, along with the now standard noise cancellation.

The differences come next. For the PC-333D, your volume control is actually integrated into the left ear cup. Additionally, you can mute the microphone by raising it, instead of having to worry about an extra button or slider. As for the PC-163D headset, the volume control and mute option are on the actual headphone cord. The 163D is also open style headset, meaning you won’t have your ears completely covered by them. While the 333D are over-the-ears, so you should be plenty immersed in whatever it is you’re playing. Both headsets aren’t available right now, but are scheduled to release later this month, or by early September. No word on pricing quite yet.

[via GearLog]

The promise is that having been developed in parallel, the soundcard and headphones will bring out more detail than “random audio card/headphone combinations”.  Whether that’s true or not remains to be heard; what we do have are hard specs.

The ASUS Xonar Xense One has 7.1 channel surround sound support (with a splitter cable included in the box), analog and digital inputs, and connections for front-panel audio ports.  Meanwhile the Sennheiser PC350 headphones support a  10 – 26,000Hz frequency range with less than 0.1-percent distortion and have a boom microphone.  No word on pricing; we’re waiting to hear back from ASUS.

Update: ASUS tells us the bundle of both Xonar Xense soundcard and PC350 headphones will retail for around £210 ($320).

Press Release:

ASUS and Sennheiser Deliver World’s First Total Audio Solution Optimized for First Person Shooters — Xonar Xense

Perfectly Matched Combination Revolutionizes Immersive Sound
for Serious Gamers

The new ASUS Xonar Xense One and Sennheiser PC350 Xense Edition package is the result of cooperation between ASUS and premier personal audio maker Sennheiser. Xonar Xense is a perfectly matched combination of cutting edge audio card and superior quality headphones that reinvents immersive sound for serious gamers. The gaming audio set creates unbeatable sonic experiences in PC gaming that are sure to be appreciated by hardcore gamers keen on competitive online play.

Working Together to Produce Immersive Acoustics
The Xonar Xense audio card from ASUS and the Sennheiser PC350 headphones were co-developed and tuned to augment each other¡¯s strong suits. During the year-long tuning period for Xonar Xense, ASUS engineers tried some 1,000 headphone combinations in pursuing the best match for the new audio component, and the Sennheiser PC350 proved perfect. Unlike random audio card/headphone combinations, Xonar Xense features a holistic design from the ground up, crafting a balance of the two components. There is no quality gap between audio card and headphones, so no quality is lost in transition.

Spatial Awareness with Precision Sound
Gamers experienced in first person shooters know the importance of accuracy, as auditory cues are vital in getting the jump on opponents. This is something Xonar Xense addresses with first person shooter-optimized surround that amplifies even minor ambient effects. Xonar Xense provides listeners with excellent noise reduction and accurate positioning of audio, and these advantages can make or break a successful play session.

Geared for Action with Uncompromised Quality
Xonar Xense boasts meticulous EMI shielding that protects the audio card from nearby PC components and other electronic devices. Sound remains consistent and full-bodied. Likewise, the heavy duty 6.5mm studio jacks offer better conveyance than standard 3.5mm plugs, further ensuring gamers get full spectrum audio. Both card and headphones offer complete support for Dolby Headphone 5.1 as well as ASUS¡¯ own Xonar GX2.5 audio engine. On top of that, the ergonomically-designed headphones allow gamers to fight to the end without experiencing any fatigue.

No longer do PC gamers interested in privacy and considering the peace and quiet of others need to compromise their enjoyment — Xonar Xense makes personal game audio exciting.

In the box there’s the headphones themselves, an AC adapter with interchangeable plug inserts for travel use, a USB to microUSB cable for charging, a zip-case, printed instruction guide and an “animated manual” on a CD. You also get a 3.5mm to 2.5mm stereo cable, for using the PX 210 BT as a set of wired headphones instead.

Physically, there’s little to fault the Sennheiser design or build quality. Lightweight and made from a combination of sturdy matte black plastic, brushed stainless steel and faux-leather, the PX 210 BT’s fold in on themselves for easy transport; they’re not exactly pocket-sized, true, but it’s certainly easier to drop them into a bag that way. As well as extending to suit larger heads, each earcup has a small amount of twisting adjustment so as to sit on the ear fully; they’re comfortable though they do grip quite tightly.

All of the controls are on the right-hand earcup, with a five-button cluster on the outside face – power together with pause/play in the centre, surrounded by volume up/down and skip/back – and a small Bluetooth pairing button on the lower edge. There’s also the 2.5mm input jack for the included cable. On the right-hand earcup, under a small rubber flap, is a microUSB port for recharging; you can either use Sennheiser’s bundled AC adapter or a USB port on your laptop. An LED next to the port shows charging status.

We paired the PX 210 BT headphones easily with various Bluetooth devices, including a MacBook Pro and an iPad. The default PIN is 0000, and it was simply a case of holding down the Bluetooth button until it flashed red. Of course, the PX 210 BT headphones will work with any regular Bluetooth source – as long as it supports the A2DP stereo profile – but you can’t expect the higher-quality apt-X sound unless the device has that too. Sennheiser provided us with their BTD 300i apt-X Bluetooth dongle for Apple’s dock connector, which not only supports the higher-quality audio but adds remote AVRCP track skip control too. That profile is missing from Apple’s portable devices (iPod touch, iPhone and iPad) so with a direct Bluetooth connection the Sennheiser’s track controls are non-functional.

Paired directly – i.e. without using the BTD 300i dongle – the PX 210 BT headphones performed as we’d expect from any regular Bluetooth set. Audio sounded decent, though not up to wired standards (or indeed what we’re used to from Kleer headphones, which use a proprietary 2.4GHz wireless link), with some mild distortion or hiss at times and obvious compression. Bass and treble clarity particularly suffered.

Switching over to the apt-X dongle, however, brought about a welcome boost in quality. Free of hiss, and with better delineation of high and low end frequencies, it was all but indistinguishable from using the cord to physically plug in the PX 210 BT’s. The limitation then becomes the headphones themselves, which we found lacked sparkle in the treble range, and the maximum volume is still on the low side. It’s not audio-related, but the constantly blinking – and surprisingly bright – blue LED on the side is something we could do without too.

So, how does apt-X compare to Kleer? Both technologies offer significant audio advances over regular Bluetooth, and of course both are predominantly restrained by the quality of the hardware they’re paired with. CD-level wireless is no use if the headphones you’re listening to it through aren’t up to scratch, after all. Kleer offers some advantages in terms of multi-listener support – you can pair up to four receivers with a single transmitter – whereas the Sennheisers can at least be used with regular Bluetooth A2DP if apt-X isn’t available. Like with Kleer there’s a regular 3.5mm transmitter for apt-X use (handy if you don’t have an iPod), but Sennheiser also offer a USB transmitter for use with a PC.

Battery life is worth considering too; Sennheiser reckon a full charge will see the PX 210 BT headphones running for up to 12 hours, though in reality we managed more in the region of 8 to 10 hours. Kleer systems we’ve used have generally managed similar times.

In the end, while we prefer the audio quality of the high-end Kleer systems we’ve tried, the flexibility of both regular Bluetooth and apt-X in the Sennheiser PX 210 BT headphones makes them appealing to users who regularly switch audio sources. We’d like an option to shut off the blinking LED, a microphone would be handy for making voice calls, and the absence of multipoint Bluetooth support for maintaining pairing with two devices would be a nice addition, but as they stand the PX 210 BTs offer above-average audio in the Bluetooth pack. With an MRSP of £149.95/$149 they’re not cheap, though, and you have to factor in the roughly £59.95/$129 of the BTD 300i transmitter, too. For the money we’d probably opt for a set of Sleek Audio SA1 in-ear headphones with the Kleer wireless adapter, but if Bluetooth is your connection of choice then apt-X is an impressive step up from the default.

All three sets of headphones are wireless and designed to connect to TVs, stereos, and DVD players. They all sport padded ear cups for long wear comfort as well. The RS 160 has a 20 meter wireless range, the RS 170 goes for 80 meters, and the RS 180 is good for 100 meters, all within line of sight from the transmitter.

The frequency response from the headphones is 18 to 21.00 Hz and all three have a sound pressure level of 110 decibels. The entry-level RS 160 uses a closed design and offers good bass. The RS 170 also has a closed design, but ups the ante with switchable surround sound. The high-end RS 180 is an open design that promises a natural listening experience. The headphones will all ship in October at unknown prices.

The two headsets are the PC 11 and PC 100. The PC 11 is a single sided headset that has a mic and ear hooks to allow it to be worn on the right or left ear. The PC 11 needs only one hand to operate is compact for easy transport. The mic is an omnidirectional unit that offers excellent quality and picks up everything you say.

The PC 100 is more like a set of ear buds for your iPod than the typical set of headphones for a computer. The compact in-ear design allows for long term wear with comfort. Sennheiser also designed the PC 100 headset to be usable with MP3 players and other devices with 3.5 mm headphone jacks. The PC 100 is set to hit stores in October with the PC 11 coming in November.

Both headsets also come with the ability to lose the Bluetooth 2.1 functionality, as the bundled cables and adapters allow for the user to pug directly into their device for when it’s not feasible to be wireless, like on flights, or even if you just want to save some battery. Controls like play, track selection, volume and power. Considering that the Sennheiser 400 and 450 are designed for travelers, the headsets can fold flat in their molded cases, and the headband is reinforced with some good old metal to prevent snapping.

The MM 450 Travel comes with Sennheiser’s NoiseGard 2.0 background noise-cancelling technology. And, for those of us who hate taking off our headphones to talk to people, it also comes with a TalkThrough feature, which allows the user to listen to outside sounds without going through the hassle. Just a simple press of a button actives the external microphone, and subsequently mutes anything that may have been coming through the in-line speakers. Both sets can be charged through a standard USB port, and also with the included charger that comes in the box, with adapters for USA, UK, Europe, and Australia. And both sets are set to start shipping in September, but there isn’t any word on pricing yet. We think we can safely assume though, that these won’t be inexpensive, yeah? But, are they worth it?

[via iPodnn]

Each earbud is completely independent from the other, though they do work in conjunction. Each features a 2.4GHz wireless receiver. Plus, they can stay charged for up to 10 hours at a time. They also feature a “twist-to-fit” design, making it so the earbuds stay in your ears securely. Four earbuds are included, so two people can listen through the same transmitter at a time.

One potential problem here, however, is that though wireless and bandless earbuds might seem like a great convenience, what happens if they do fall out of your ears? It seems they would be lost much easier than if they had been attached by a wire. The price is considerable at $630, putting them way out of the price range of many. What do you think about the wireless design? Good idea, or no?

[via Gadget Review]

These headphones use Kleer technology to make the difference between these wireless Sennheisers and a wired pair as close to transparent as possible, even to the keenest of ears. Furthermore, I personally like the design due to the fact that there isn’t a strap or some other dumb contraption connect both halves of the headphones, they are truly wireless.

One thing I was wondering about is if they were Bluetooth enabled, and they are not, because apparently the Kleer technology handles the wireless transmission on its own RF band making it sound far superior to Bluetooth. Furthermore, according to the reviewer, they fit extremely comfortably and they are one of the best sounding headphones the reviewer had ever heard.

[via PCMag]

Using a proprietary form of wireless connection, up to four individual earbuds (i.e. two stereo sets) can connect to each dongle; or, assuming the Kleer format is picked up by PMP manufacturers and built into future models, bypass the dongle completely and connect straight through.  Audio is apparently CD-quality, extremely low-latency and interference-free, and trips to the mains adaptor are minimised thanks to a built-in battery in the dongle that can fully recharge the earbuds three times before it must be replenished.

The MX W1 set is estimated to reach the US in May 2008, although no price has been indicated.

Sennheiser

The mid-range IE7 boasts a frequency response of 10 to 19,000 Hz and attenuation up to 20 dB, while the IE6 relies on passive attenuation up to 20 dB and a slightly reduced frequency response of 10 to 18,000 Hz.

Both the IE6 & IE7 come with a carrying case, while the IE8 has a special transport case with humidity control built in.  Multiple ear adapters are supplied in varying sizes.

The Sennheiser IE6 and IE7 will be available in March, with the IE8 following in April 2008.

Sennheiser

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer back when I was still in college. It was a difficult times for our family especially me as I was away in boarding school. She had mastectomy followed by chemotherapy, but she survived thanks to the effective medical treatment and continue research dollars support on innovative cancer treatment. If you ran out of Christmas gift ideas, get the Sennheiser earbuds for a good cause. Sennheiser announced the release of pink-colored version of CX 300 ear-canal headphones to support Susan G. Komen’s cancer research. The limited version headphone costs $89.99 and they will donate 10% of the sale directly to the breast cancer charity group. I know, pink doesn’t looks too manly for a guy. We’ve seen what happened to Tony Romo with Number “9” pink jersey televised on national TV. Get it for your mom, aunt or GF, they will love it!

Sennheiser CX 300 Pink to help Susan G. Komen for the Cure [via krunker]

It’s an interesting review because, rather than many others I’ve seen, it doesn’t over-egg the pudding. Noise-cancelling headphones, as any sound engineer will tell you, can’t work miracles; if you’re sat near the wing on your next flight then they’ll do a decent job of masking the engine noise, but if you’re more keen to block out the random shouts of passing sea-lions then think again.

The Sennheiser’s magic comes from that unwieldy 5-inch long tube, containing all the NoiseGuard circuitry and enough battery life for 50 hours or so (short of the 80 hours the company boasts). Tests with different types of music round out what is a very thorough review, and well worth reading if you’ve been thinking of binning your current cans and upgrading to something a bit more special.

Sennheiser PXC-300 Noise Cancelling Headphones Review [TabletPCReview]

Three new models, each distinctly different in design but sharing their high-performance underpinnings, comprise the new Style Line, offering ideal sound delivery for music listeners using iPods, other personal MP3 players, portable CD players, and the full range of mobile music electronics. All employ Sennheiser’s latest, miniaturized driver, which incorporates a specially tuned damping system optimized for ear-canal operation to yield smooth, detailed response while delivering all the clarity and impact that experienced listeners rely on from any Sennheiser model.

Leading the trio is the MX 90 Style, a unique design making use of an altogether new “Twist-to-Fit” system that ensures a secure, comfortable fit under even the most active conditions. While the earbud containing the transducer nestles into the ear canal, a secondary stabilizing pad rests against the outer ear; the wearer simply gently twists each earpiece to find the most comfortable and secure position. This innovative layout maintains proper positioning for full fidelity and unattenuated bass response while biking, hiking, or even jogging—or just battling the crowds on the subway platform. The MX 90 Style is equipped with an in-line volume control, and supplied with two sizes of soft-rubber ear adapters and three sizes of Twist-to-Fit pads to ensure personalized comfort and fit, as well as a carry-case.

The OMX 90 Style uses the same high-performance driver set in a “clip-on” design. Soft, individually adjustable behind-the-ear clips hold the drivers securely in position over the ear canal, while an in-line volume control provides always-available adjustment. The OMX 90 Style also includes ear adapters in two sizes, which combine with its ultra-light, flexible construction to ensure long-term wearing comfort and stability. A carry-case is also supplied.

Completing the Sennheiser Style Line is the LX 90 Style, an innovative headphone that combines a unique, self-coiling ultra-lightweight neckband with the Style line’s superior transducer and materials. The LX 90 Style also includes ear adapters in two sizes to permit individualized fit, as well as a carry-case.

The Sennheiser Style Line headphones are available immediately, at suggested retail prices of $69.95 (MX 90), $89.95 (OMX 90) and $79.95 (LX 90).

About Sennheiser
Established in 1945 in Wedemark, Germany, Sennheiser is the acknowledged world leader in headphone-transducer and microphone technology, RF-wireless and infrared sound transmission and, most recently, the development of active noise-cancellation. Sennheiser’s products and technologies support worldwide the aviation, telecommunications and professional recording industries, as well as the personal listening needs of consumers everywhere. Sennheiser Electronic Corporation is a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, headquartered in Old Lyme, Connecticut.