They are called in-ear headphones or earbuds and are the de-facto sound system for smartphones and tablet computers. I go everywhere with mine but I don't necessarily use them to listen to audio. By keeping my in-ears in place at the office, I'm isolated from the outside world and can get my job done in peace. Earbuds have come a long way since they were introduced decades ago - although sometimes their tangling cords still make me crazy. But please don't send me suggestions for cord keepers. My experience with them is that I either lose the keeper in the first week or I find the keeper so annoying that I discard it within a few days. Harman Designs has just come out with its K323 XS Ultra-Small In-Ear Headphones, which offer quality sound without breaking the bank. The earbuds were built using specially-selected 5.6 mm drivers and an enclosed back design. Harman claims that the secret of the AKG K323 XS's listening experience is in its innovative ear-tip technology. The tip is shaped to maximize the fit between the headphone and the ear, creating sound isolation that makes for an immersive listening experience. Add to that the comfort that comes with the choice of four sizes of ear sleeves, and the result is a snug fit with studio-quality sound that's comfortable enough to wear all day without fatigue. Another great thing about the AKG K323 XS is that the earbuds were crafted with a straight cable that tangles less. The earbuds provide control options, too. Choose a one-button in-line control microphone, for Android users, or a 3-button control microphone cable compatible with Apple iOS devices. Take calls and control the music without removing the in-ear headphones. With the carrying pouch the Harman earbuds retail for $39 - $59. While I find the Harman earbuds a good overall sound system, a couple of specialty headphones are worthy of notice. If you are a swimmer or a fitness fanatic, then waterproof earbuds are a necessity. WaterDawg Aqua Buds in-ear headphones deliver premium sound, powerful deep bass and there's no need to worry if they get wet. Aqua Buds are sweat and waterproof, can be submerged in water up to five meters and used with compatible waterproof devices or cases. Three different sizes of silicone earbud tips help keep them secure and they retail for just $40. And for the person who has everything, consider bidding to win the ultimate personal sound system. Jony Ive, Apple's senior vice president of design, has contributed a one-of-a-kind set of 18k solid rose gold classic Apple EarPods to an auction celebrating “masterworks of design and innovation” to benefit Bono's Project (RED) charity. Proceeds from the November 23 sale at Sotheby's New York will benefit The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. And while right now headphones and earbuds are the standard for personal sound systems, change could be coming in just a few months. The Sound Band from Hybra Advance Technology is being promoted as the next-generation personal sound system. The Sound Band is a wireless headset that doesn't use speakers, so it doesn't block the ears. Earbuds rely on magnetic drivers and speakers to send sound waves in front of the eardrums. The Sound Band uses surface sound technology to send tiny vibrations through the backs of the ears, bones and tissues to reach the inner ear. This means that the ear canals are left open. There's no need to remove the Sound Band to have a conversation and it's much safer to use when outdoors. The team behind the Sound Band introduced the concept to the world in 2010. Now they're on their fourth version of the product and have funded production through a Kickstarter project. The original target to begin manufacturing had been $175,000 and they have now achieved nearly $500,000 in funding. The first devices are scheduled to ship in December. See the future of personal sound at soundband.com
