Audio-Technica ATH-CKX5 review: specs and price

Best

The in-ear device is ultracompact and lightweight, with little or no interference with earrings, spectacles, hats, or hairstyles. It is inserted in the ear canal itself and blocks out a lot of environmental noise. It has stronger bass tones and is unlikely to fall out of the ear.

Allows you to change ear pads without buying new ones.

The device comes with its own special case or pouch, which is useful for safe transportation.

An L-shaped plug is better if the jack is on the left or right side of the device, so that the cable isn't bent, and is less likely to break when the device is in your pocket.

A long cable ensures more freedom of movement.

Best

The highest frequency at which device produces audio. The higher the high-frequency response, the clearer and crispier the treble.

Best

The lowest frequency at which the device produces audio. The lower the low-frequency response, the stronger and juicier the bass.

Best

Devices with a higher sound pressure level are generally louder when supplied with any given audio source.

Best

Impedance is the device’s electrical resistance to the current being pushed through it. The lower the impedance, the easier it is to get higher volume and requires less power.

Best

The driver unit is the component that produces sound in the device. Bigger drivers are more powerful and can produce better bass.

Best

A standard 3.5mm male connector is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.

There is a control panel on the cable, so you can easily operate the device without having to interact with it.