These headphones are an amazing invention.They are designed to both hear sound and not to hear it. In the modern (and far from silent) world, this invention has become necessary even in everyday life. And any computer owner sooner or later still buys headphones. And then wonders: how did I manage without them before? If you are reading these lines, then you are probably also going to get this necessary device. But you do not know how to choose headphones for your computer. Getting to know the structure of headphones and their main characteristics will help you make the right choice. So, headphones for a computer: how to choose what will suit you best. Let's find out what types of headphones there are. How they are arranged. And what you should pay special attention to when choosing headphones for a computer.
Types of headphones
The range of modern headphones is sois so diverse that it is easy to get confused in all these models, types, kinds and groups. There are headphones for a computer, for a TV, for a mobile phone, for a player. And the price range is quite large. What do tech stores offer us? Types of headphones by design:
- plug-in inserts are convenient, hardly noticeable, but do not give a high-quality sound;
- In-channel or vacuum (gags) are more used as mobile headphones;
- overhead and full-size (monitor) - what you need for a home computer.
Types of headphones by mounting method:
- without fastenings - the cups are inserted directly into the auricle;
- with an arch that connects the cups of headphones through the top of the head or on the back of the head;
- with BTE mounts.
Depending on the method of connection to the computer, headphones are:
- wired - connect to the computer with a wire, provide excellent sound quality;
- wireless - connect to the computer via radio signal (via Bluetooth), the sound quality in them is inferior to wired headphones.
Wireless headphones are convenient to useat some distance from the computer. For example, you can listen to music while moving around the apartment or dancing. They are often more convenient when connected to a laptop. But for working on a computer (especially a stationary one), you can choose wired headphones. Wired headphones should also be preferred if sound quality is important to you. According to the method of connecting the cable (wire), headphones can be:
- one-sided, where the wire is connected to the headphones only on one side;
- two-way, the wire is fed to the headphones on both sides.
By the design of the emitter (sound reproducer):
- dynamic;
- isodynamic;
- electrostatic;
- orthodynamic.
The most common type of headphones are dynamic. By type of noise isolation:
- open type (let outside noise);
- semi-open (semi-open) type (provide higher sound insulation);
- closed type (do not let outside noise).
Open-type headphones give a more effective effectnatural sound. Closed-type headphones are designed for use in noisy environments. Good noise insulation cuts off external sounds. Allows you to hear only what is played on the computer. The quality of noise insulation is also important so that others do not hear the sound in the headphones.
Headphone device
The earcups are the main component of the headphones.They contain all the electronics and are the ones that primarily determine the sound quality and performance of the headphones. The headband connects the earcups and holds them on your head. It can be self-adjusting, sliding or cast. When choosing, you should give preference to headphones with strong headbands and a simple design. This will ensure a longer service life. Ear pads. These are special soft pads that fit around the ears. Ear pads can be circumferential or overhead. Contour pads are the most comfortable. They are made of leatherette, velour, fabric and foam rubber. Overhead ear pads fit directly to the auricle. Their comfort level is quite debatable. Some people like them, while others find them unpleasant. Cable (wire). A good cable is a guarantee of good sound and durability of the headphones. The wire in the headphones can be single- or double-sided, twisted or straight. A single-sided cable is more practical and convenient. A twisted cable is similar to a telephone cord. Its main advantage is that it does not get tangled and does not dangle under your feet. It is very convenient if the cable is removable - it can be easily replaced if necessary. With the device of headphones, everything is more or less clear. But what if you like online games or do not mind chatting via Skype. Or for other reasons you need to buy a microphone along with headphones? You can buy a microphone on a stand or a microphone that is clipped to your clothes. But most often there is a need to use headphones and a microphone at the same time, and it is also desirable that your hands are free. Then you have no choice but to choose headphones with a microphone for your computer.
Two in one
When choosing headphones with a microphone, decide onpurposes. Headphones with a microphone are intended either for simple communication or for professional recording. If you need a microphone for Skype communication, a simpler and more compact model will do. For professional recording, you need a microphone that clearly records speech and headphones with good sound quality. It is desirable that the headphones with a microphone are equipped with an automatic sound adjustment function and have good noise insulation. Considering all of the above, we can try to imagine the most optimal model of headphones for a computer. These should be overhead headphones with a microphone, with a strong adjustable headband, with soft ear pads that cover the ear, with a durable cable. But, of course, the final choice is yours. It will depend on your goals and (importantly) tastes. And in conclusion, a few tips.
Advice to buyers
When choosing headphones, consider not onlytechnical characteristics, but also design features and comfort level. Don't be tempted by too low a price and give preference to recognizable manufacturers. To prevent headphones from rubbing your ears, choose only on-ear or monitor designs. To avoid ruining your hair, choose headphones with a headband behind the neck. Give preference to lighter models. Heavy headphones can cause unpleasant or even painful sensations. Pay attention to the ability to adjust the headphones to the size of your head, the presence of a volume control on the wire and other important details. Before buying, be sure to try the headphones in action. Try them on yourself, evaluate the comfort. And if you feel that this is exactly what you need, then feel free to buy! Have an easy choice and successful purchases!
