The Aesthetics of Audio

Without a doubt, the constant use of iPhones and iPods is everywhere and not going away soon; whether listening on a bus ride, a walk, while working, or just trying to ignore the world around you. Thanks to this audio-revolution, the accessories that correspond have become just as crucial, especially in the metropolitan world where nothing can be more crucial than the ability to ignore the rush of crowds or traffic, and look damn fine doing it. Headphones are the most eye-catching and beneficial way to make a visual impact with your style, and a listening impact, improving the music experience.

Skullcandy & RocNation’s Aviator

STREETFSNAviators are Jay-Z’s answer to Dr Dre and his Beats. The Skullcandy headset is a stylish look for the a variety of crowds, depending on the color chosen. The opaque ear-caps are always a point of interest and fascination, with a variety of colors available. The sound may not be as bass-heavy and bold as Dre’s sound. They still offer a great everyday quality, but may not be your best DJ-ing choice. The choices of color, (including build your own online), the sleek style, and tangle-less chord all make these a winner for the reasonable price and daily use.

Beats by Dr Dre

This has become the standard for high-end designer headphones. Now with a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to choose from, there is a pair of beats for everyone at varying price points. I went with the standard Studio Beats a few years ago, and although I’ve gone through a few wires and more batteries than I’d like to think of due to the battery juice needed for the subwoofer. How many headphones have a subwoofer though? And more importantly, how many have one that do not over-power or distort your listening experience. They are still my go-to headset for high-end listening, maybe just not my everyday use due to battery-use, a little clunky, and easily damaged (screws, cords, etc). Although picking up a different version, like the mixr Beats for instance, may be a smart choice.

Parrot Zik by Starck

aa-3Parrot Zik are the most interesting and contemporary set of headphones out right now. There sleek but maximized design allows them to be used by anyone, anywhere with ease. A simple black puck on either side with a discreet band attaching it all together. What really makes the the flyest choice? No wires. Now I know there are other wireless options, but these are by far the best. Whether using the touch controls directly on the headphones that are invisible to the eye, the strong and clear bluetooth connection for audio clarity, or the fact that to hook them up, you simply touch your phone to the headset. bam. done. These are the kind of headphones Apple should’ve released years ago; clean, simple, and effective. They are the future of listening.

Bowers & Wilkins P5 Mobile Headphones

A clean, and beyond-comfortable, pair of headphones that offer quality sound, but just do not have the same niche of design or sound that other pairs seem to offer. They may offer the mature image of a professional for some though, and if drawn to the look, you won’t be disappointed.

Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones

Bose may be one of the best when it comes to audio in regards to maximizing quality sound, the newest wireless speakers are works of art. When it comes to headphones, they just have not found a design that works, in my opinion. The plastic looks cheap, the look has no style to it, and it simply states to those around that you that looks don’t matter, it’s all about the quality of your listening… frankly you can have both now a days, no excuses.

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Andrew Carter is a well renowned entrepreneur with an extensive background in marketing and specifically, trendsetting. He founded antidote magazine in 2001 and has been Editor in Chief since it's conception. This position allows him to sustain creative control, while still engaging in areas of design, photography, all the while ensuring a high caliber of journalism for the benefit of our readers. As Editor in Chief, his sole mission is to continue to provide you with the most dynamic, smart and compelling national magazine.