OK few months down the line, but following on from my post below I've finally got round to replacing those travestys that Apple call headphones.
[DOD]Asprilla;12132363 said:
Not demoed them yet, but I expect I'll be looking at the following:
Etymotic hf2
Ultimate Ears Super.fi 4vi
Ultimate Ears Super.fi 5vi
All have remotes that will work with the iphone although I can't find the hf2s anywhere and the 5vis aren't out yet.
I've finally managed to get hold of some hf2s and I've got to say that if you don't buy some then you are completely wasting the potential of your shiny new iPhone.
Integrated mic / remote (same as the standard, same location just slightly bigger) which works great. The button is easier to press correctly that the standard and the mic is just excellent, doing a fantastic job of blocking out background noise and it doesn't pick up 'cable slap' either. The extra weight of the mic / remote certainly isn't noticable when they are in your ears.
These are in ear (deep in ear) type of phones and they come with a number of different end options; two sets of rubber gromets and some foam ones. Not tried the alternate ones yet, I jsut used the ones that were attached when they arrived and the fit was perfect.
They are very comfortable, I've not had any soreness and I've barely noticed the are in.
Since they are positioned in your ear canal and they do an excellent job of deadening background noise I've yet to have my iPhone past half volume. That includes listening to films, podcasts and music on the Waterloo & City line (very loud for those that don't know it). I don't know if this will have an appreciable impact upon battery life, but it means I'm not broadcasting my music to everyone else and becoming one of those inconsiderate tube travellers I despise.
The sound itself is also very good. If you want thumping base then you might want to look elsewhere, but I tend to want to hear my music as it was recorded and that's exactly what the hf2s give you; everything is clear, sharp and well managed, there is no wallowing boom and certainly no distortion.
I'm very, very happy with them and I'd recommend everyone looks at getting a pair. They look expensive, but compared to the price of the phone or your enjoyment of listening to music I think they are well worth saving up for.
....
Temper and patience is nearing its limits now because I am just losing so much with this damn thing. It's great when it actually works.