Earphones you push down your ear canal are popular, but not for everyone. Neither, too, are full-size over-the-ear cans when it comes to use on the go. We've been listening to a great new set of little on-ear headphones from AKG -- the AKG K 430s.
These are a really dinky, foldable set of headphones that rest on the ear itself rather than around it -- ideal for tiny people, travellers, and tiny travellers. They seem well-constructed and very comfortable, with soft ear pads that don't induce an uncontrollable waterfall of bothersome sweat to cascade from your external auditory meatus.
As performers, these £60 mini-cans are impressive. They're not going to please the hardcore dance fans with their gentle bass, but at this price point we're happy to report they're clear, nicely balanced and pretty loud.
They've got quite a bright voice, with a good deal of punch. Rock and metal sounded good, as did pop and R 'n' B. Just keep in mind you're getting clarity and a small size here, at the cost of booming bass.
The K 430s are on sale now for between £50 and £60.
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Anonymous 3 August, 2010 02:45
You hear the deep lows of your music, the warm mid tones and shimmering highs. Whatever your musical tastes, Bose on ear headphones faithfully reproduce the subtle nuances and powerful choruses.
Anonymous 6 August, 2010 04:32
Unlike most headphones, Bose on ear headphones are designed to be worn comfortably for extended periods of time.
Anonymous 8 September, 2010 15:25
my k430 cable died after about 9 months. Not many headphones have easily replaceable parts, and i think that's unacceptable with so much plastic being thrown away every years because manufacturers want your money. I'm going for Sennheiser DJ headphones. OK, the initial cost is quite a bit (min. £75) but you won't end up throwing away perfectly good parts because one tiny thing perishes after half a year.
Bose? Rip-off!
Anonymous 9 November, 2010 02:15
I love my K430, but I have had the reliability issues that are reported elsewhere on the page. luckily, the 'phones come with a 24 month warranty, and most hifi shops will replace over the counter. This is my third pair in the 2 years i've owned them, but I'm happy with the model.