What is the best ear-bud headphones that would best isolate outside noise so I don't have to turn up my headphones that is around or less than $50? (Noise-canceling, noise-isolating, etc)

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Not computer related. It might have stood a chance if it was connected to a computer but we have a few of those already, like superuser.com/questions/29095/… – hyperslug Sep 26 '09 at 0:29
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head-fi.org/forums might be better equipped to answer you, but be careful about using the word "best" with them. Hi-end audio can get ridiculous price-wise. – hyperslug Sep 26 '09 at 0:35
Ok thanks, sorry about the computer bit ;) – srand Sep 26 '09 at 5:27
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closed as off topic by hyperslug, Jeff Atwood Sep 26 '09 at 2:58

Questions on Super User are expected to generally relate to computer software or computer hardware, within the scope defined in the faq.

3 Answers

Etymotics - hands down.

Web site here

You are probably looking at the Isolator line here - more the fifty bucks though.

Though you can use the Etymotics noise isolator fittings on other brands of ear buds - take a look for "etymotic hybrid" on Ebay, a random example here - Less than fifty bucks.

(I am going have to figure out how to get images into these responses - sorry)

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i can only recommend Acoustibuds

The flexible fins create multiple reflective sound barriers for superior sound isolation while they hold the earphone securely in position. This gives a big boost in bass and conserves sound energy so your MP3 can be played at lower volumes while blocking outside noise.

... and well within your budget.

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Do you own it? How do you like it? Pro/cons? – srand Sep 26 '09 at 0:37
i do and i like :) pro: does what it says on the tin, using them with my Cowon S9, stock earbuds, excellent sound quality got even better and background noise is greatly reduced. Cons a bit pricey, you might get some clones cheaper, but i couldn't vouch for the quality. – Molly7244 Sep 26 '09 at 1:46
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I've tried many earphones, cheap and not cheap, including Shure, Etymotic, Sony, etc. They all underperformed.

That is until I bought Ultimate Ears Super Fi 5. It's above your budget, but considering I've had the same pair for 3 years now and they took care of all cord/bud wear problems at no charge, they're well worth it. I wrote a more detailed review here.

Seriously, don't knock it till you try them. Best earphones I've ever owned.

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i think, 250 bucks is a bit off the rocker :) – Molly7244 Sep 26 '09 at 2:07
They look nice, but as Molly said, quite expensive ;) – srand Sep 26 '09 at 2:40
Considering they come with a detachable cord, they'll pretty much last a lifetime. The cord rips - just ask them for a new one. It's quite sturdy though already. – Artem Russakovskii Sep 26 '09 at 20:01
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