So my Apple In-Ear headphones (the newer $80 model with two drivers per bud) finally died today after two years of quality service. They were fine yesterday and today I wasn't getting any sound out of the left ear. I unscrewed the little cap and cleaned it out. It was kinda dirty, but even after that it was still quiet and a little distorted. So they're no good now.
I liked them but the fit was never quite right (actually had to use the medium sleeve on my right ear and the small sleeve on my left ear). I've been through a couple different types of ear-buds over the years (basic apple buds, the original apple in-ears, the entry level in-ear Shures, and these current Apple in-ears). I liked the Shure pair a lot, especially since their foam tips ensured they never fell out -- but unfortunately they got uncomfortable after awhile because of the tight fit.
I've decided that I want my new pair to be regular headphones. I'm tired of buds falling out while jogging, or being uncomfortable over time, and what-not.
I'm looking for a pair that cost around $100-$125 (I'd go as high as $150 if I was getting a bargain on a better, higher-priced product). I use headphones almost exclusively with mobile gear so I don't really want to bother with an amp. Based on the OP I don't think this will be an issue since amps aren't really necessary until you get into the really high-end cans. I need them to be easily portable (so I guess folding models are preferred) and I'd like them to do a good job of isolating me from outside noise (so I guess they should be over-ear).
I'm not a bass freak and don't listen to a ton of hip-hop or rap, so they don't need to have super awesome bass response. I listen mostly to indie rock, 90s alternative, pop-punk/ska, and classic rock. I also listen to a ton of podcasts but since they aren't music podcasts I don't think this will factor into what headphones I get.
I'm going to use them with my iPhone a lot, so I would prefer that they have in-line 3-button controls & a microphone. If necessary, I can get an adapter cable for that, but I would prefer it be integrated so the cable won't be so damn long (which means the mic will be too low to pick up my voice). The other option would be that the headphone wire be detachable from the headphones so it can be swapped out for one with controls & mic.
And it'd be nice if they looked cool.
