The iPhone isa great multimedia device, but it's not perfect. One of the most glaringoversights for this music phone is the lack of stereo Bluetooth (A2DP)compatibility. As a result, you're limited to clunky adapters or wiredheadsets if you want to enjoy music and talk to the fullest. Now, youcan count on another wired option from Etymotic, the hf2 Noise-IsolatingHeadset + Earphones. These headphones will set you back $179, but theyoffer very good sound and a handy built-in mic. However, they won'tnecessarily work with another MP3 player you may have.
The Good
The Bad
The Bottom Line
The design of the Etymotic hf2 is fairly standard for a noise-isolatingset. One thing to note, though, is that these go even further into theear than many similar models. They come with three types of earfittings: two sizes of triple-flange tips and one set of extra-long foamtips. Each set requires insertion pretty far into the ear to achieve aproper seal, so if that sounds uncomfortable to you, steer clear. Fromthe thin, black earbuds, a black Y-cable descends about 12 inches, whereit joins and continues for another 34 inches--it's plenty long for mostportable applications. A lapel clip comes attached to the cable to helpposition the in-line mic to your liking. The mic features a singlebutton for answering and ending calls. Etymotic also includes a zipperedcase for storage and a handy (though gross) tool for cleaning ear waxout of the earbuds.
The Etymotic hf2s are capable of providing some great sound quality, soit's a bit of a bummer that they're not totally interchangeable withother MP3 players. They work fine with iPods and the Zune, but weexperienced various problems--from static to mids dropping out--when wetried to use them with a Sansa Clip and a Zen. It's an unfortunate sideeffect of the necessary mic channel on the headset plug. Music comingfrom our test iPhone sounded nice and clear, with tight, thumping bass.Mids were warm, and high-end details came through well with a decentamount of sparkle.