(with Brian Dixon)
Altec Lansing has a long history in advanced audio and, as a division of Plantronics, has expanded its consumer electronics line to include home audio and home theatre, computer speakers, docking audio for portable devices, and a broad line of earphones, including with mics and Bluetooth.
Altec Lansing also is transitioning its earphone line from the Muzx name to the Backbeat brand, now available with your choice of four levels of performance, all for under $100:
- Classic - $29, Basics for everyday listening, with noise isolation
- Plus - $49, Enhanced bass, neodymium speaker, balanced high & mids
- Plus Mobile - $59, with mic
- Titanium - $79 - For "discerning music enthusiasts," titanium-enhanced micro-speakers
- Pro - $99, Reference earphones, balanced armature speakers, superior noise isolation
We tried out the Altec Lansing BackBeat Pro earphones, which are positioned as designed to satisfy the demands of studio engineers and professional musicians by providing high-definition audio in a small package, with superior noise isolation and exceptional comfort.
They feature balanced armature micro-speakers, with up to 16 dB noise isolation and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
These Backbeat earphones include three sizes of neoprene ear tips (S, M, L) for your comfort fit. The Pro & Titanium add a fourth set of dual flange tips for extra noise reduction (with a double flange design). They also include a soft carry case.
The BackBeat Pro earphones live up to the promise. They light and comfortable, with a 46" cord. The base was particularly explosive, and the sound was clean and punchy, with the kick drums coming through clearly. These are quite good earphones for $99, and even better for a street price of around $60.
See the Portable Audio Accessories Gallery for more on earphones and headphones.
Find the Altec Lansing BackBeat Pro Earphones on Amazon.com