The Sony MDR-EX51LP/EX71SL Maintenance FAQ

[Doug Gilmour]

Sony MDR-EX51LP/EX71SL Maintenance FAQ

Ok I have been on the "Ear/Headphones" Board a lot lately and have seen many asking about the Sony MDR-EX51LPs and the EX71SLs. Many iPod owners have these popular earphones as they are relatively inexpensive compared to other In-ear type headphones and they sound pretty good. Now as I have been browsing around on the iPodlounge I have seen a couple instances where people have been having troubles with the Headphones. This little Guide is made to help prevent users of these excellent Headphones form problems like this (http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=40028).

First off I would like to provide you with some info on the two different headphones:

Sony MDR-EX51LP (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=GEH65TlXCDf6iHhdoYHw7nZbYZsPdop0wAM=?Pro ductSKU=MDREX51LP&Dept=acc_Headphones&CategoryName=acc_Headphones_Fontopia%2e%2fEarbud)
Sony MDR-EX71SL (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=GEH65TlXCDf6iHhdoYHw7nZbYZsPdop0wAM=?Pro ductSKU=MDREX71SL&Dept=acc_Headphones&CategoryName=acc_Headphones_Fontopia%2e%2fEarbud)

As you can see they are almost identical. The only differences that I can gather are these:

-The EX51LPs come with a little plastic case for the earbuds while the EX71SLs come with a little "pouch".
-The EX71SLs have a shiny backing to the earbuds while the EX51LPs don't.
-The EX71SL have a little connector near it's plug that dettaches the plug from the rest of the wire.

As you can see these differences are extremely minor and do not matter. As for the $10 difference between the two, I am as puzzled as you are.

Now that you are acquainted with the two headphones I would like to start getting into the maintenance part of this FAQ. If you read the first link you will see that this person had a problem with his/her MDR-EX71SLs. The problem is actually quite common and has happened to me twice. What happened was one of the buds on the headphone actually stopped working completely and no sound was coming out of it at all on one side. Now if you're listening to your iPod and all of a sudden find that one earbud is receiving less sound than usual don't be alarmed yet as it may be something else. Check the earbud that you are having trouble with and check the little hole where the sound comes from. Since these are In-ears it is common that the earbuds will become filled with ear wax. If you can't even see a hole in the earbuds than there is definitely a wax build up. What you need to do is get rid fo that wax in there with an object with a very fine point such as a mechanical pencil or a Compass tool from math class (it's the instrument that lets you draw circles with precision). So basically just get the tool that you are using and poke a little hole very carefully into where you would normally see the hole, if indeed your earbuds are full of wax. This will allow sound to pass through it again.

Here (http://www.klobe.co.uk/sony.jpg) is a picture of a clean hole in the earbud, please excuse the blurriness, but it was the best I could do.

Now if you have checked your earbuds and you see that the holes are not plugged with wax your problem is most likely a bit more serious. This problem has happened to me twice and I have had to return my EX51LPs twice for the same reason. What usually happens is people yank the earbuds out of their ears once they are finished with them. Do not yank the earbuds out of your ear, if there is anything that you listen to in this FAQ make it that. I have discussed this with a Sony employee at the local Sony Store and he says that when you yank them out of your ear the wire inside the cord starts getting damaged. Eventually continual mistreatment of them will cause the wire to break, in turn ruining the circuit that goes to the ear. So in other words you will stop hearing sound in one of the earbuds. Now this is a really big pain as you will need to get a replacement pair.

From where I bought it (a Sony Store) the earphones were included with a 1 year warranty. (I am not sure if you bought yours from Audiocubes, etc. if they are covered) Now since the majority of you ordered your earphones online it may not be very convenient to replace them. This is why I recommend buying them from a retail store, so if you have this problem they will be extremely easy to replace. Trust me you will understand why, when you get a message from Audiocubes saying they won't be delievered for another week and all you have to wear for a week are the Stock earphones. So I went into the Sony Store. The man just asked me a few questions when I told him that they weren't working. He gave me a receipt to sign, punched some things into his PC, and within 5 minutes I had a brand new pair of EX51LPs.

Now that I have experienced this twice I take proper care of these great earphones. The first pair I had lasted about 2 months, as did the second pair. This third pair has lasted around 3 months so far, since I have been taking a bit more care of them. I wrote this FAQ basically to get people to realize that the Sony MDR-EX51LP and MDR-EX71SL can break quite easily, and let you guys know how to prevent it from happening. So remember just follow these steps if you experience that there is no sound coming from a earbud:

1. If you are using the EX71's with the extension cable, make sure that the two cables are connected properly (push very hard to connect).

2. Check if there is wax blocking the little hole in the earbud.

3. If there is wax clean it out with a tool with a very fine point

4. If there isn't re-check to make sure that there isn't any sound coming out of them.

5. If they're still not working than try to return it and get a replacement pair as soon as you can.

Remember though, even if your earphones are working absolutely perfectly, don't yank the earbuds out of your ear, just gently pull them out. Eventually if you continue to yank them you will run into problems.

I hope you found this little FAQ helpful. Please enjoy your earbuds because they are a great pair. If you have any questions PM me or email me at Jimmypage [at] gmail [dot] com

-Dan

[bench]

i've also heard that the ex71 are too short without the extension and too long with the extension. and that the ex51 are "standard" length, although not extendable like the ex71. is this true?

on the sonystyle site, it says that both earbuds have a cord length of 4 ft. but on amazon, they say the ex51 cord length is 4 ft while the ex71 cord length is: 1.5 feet (includes separate 3.3-foot extension cord) -- which would make the ex71 longer as a whole with the extension, making what i just described in my first paragraph to be true. yet i would think the sony site would be more accurate than amazon... strange.

and i think both earbuds come with some kind of carrying case? the ex51 with a hard case and the ex71 with a soft case?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by bench
i've also heard that the ex71 are too short without the extension and too long with the extension. and that the ex51 are "standard" length, although not extendable like the ex71. is this true?

on the sonystyle site, it says that both earbuds have a cord length of 4 ft. but on amazon, they say the ex51 cord length is 4 ft while the ex71 cord length is: 1.5 feet (includes separate 3.3-foot extension cord) -- which would make the ex71 longer as a whole with the extension, making what i just described in my first paragraph to be true. yet i would think the sony site would be more accurate than amazon... strange.

and i think both earbuds come with some kind of carrying case? the ex51 with a hard case and the ex71 with a soft case?

I am not sure about the cable length on the EX71 since I have never used it, but I think Amazon is right about it. The EX51 lenth is fine for me and I think it would be considered standard. As for the case, I didn't think the EX71 comes with a case, but I checked and it apparently ocmes with a "pouch". I do know that the EX51 comes with a cheap little plastic case, which I never use anyways.

-Dan

[squirrelly]

The 71s are to short, I just returned mine, might go with the 51s

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by squirrelly
The 71s are to short, I just returned mine, might go with the 51s

The 51s are an excellent length in my opinion. Not too long and not too short. They go perfectly from my iPod in my pockey to my ears with a good amount of slack left over to move comfortably.

-Dan

[dwchin]

Thanks for posting this faq......I've had my EX51's for about 5-6 months now without problems, but I admit sometimes I do tend to yank (albeit gently...they are in-ear so I wouldn't want to just rip them out). I think now I'll start pulling them gently out instead :)

I agree about the EX51's cord length.....it's pretty "standard," and a great length provided you don't use the remote. If I do need to attach the remote to it, then sometimes I find it's a bit long unless I'm actually putting my iPod in a backpack or something.

and i think both earbuds come with some kind of carrying case? the ex51 with a hard case and the ex71 with a soft case?

The "case" for the EX51 is actually a small little capsule which holds the buds pretty well. The problem? It doesn't hold the cord along with it. To me, that's kind of useless.....I almost never use the capsule thing and I've ended up sticking them in a case originally used for some Sennheiser buds. Not a perfect fit, but it's better than nothing. EX71's in black I *think* come with an actual hard case which accomodates the cord along with the buds. EX71's in white does not, as far as I know....I emailed a few people about it when deciding if I wanted a pair and no one told me the whites had a hard case.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by dwchin
Thanks for posting this faq......I've had my EX51's for about 5-6 months now without problems, but I admit sometimes I do tend to yank (albeit gently...they are in-ear so I wouldn't want to just rip them out). I think now I'll start pulling them gently out instead :)

I agree about the EX51's cord length.....it's pretty "standard," and a great length provided you don't use the remote. If I do need to attach the remote to it, then sometimes I find it's a bit long unless I'm actually putting my iPod in a backpack or something.



The "case" for the EX51 is actually a small little capsule which holds the buds pretty well. The problem? It doesn't hold the cord along with it. To me, that's kind of useless.....I almost never use the capsule thing and I've ended up sticking them in a case originally used for some Sennheiser buds. Not a perfect fit, but it's better than nothing. EX71's in black I *think* come with an actual hard case which accomodates the cord along with the buds. EX71's in white does not, as far as I know....I emailed a few people about it when deciding if I wanted a pair and no one told me the whites had a hard case.

I'm glad that you found this FAQ useful. And yes I totally agree that the earbud case on the EX51LPs are useless and pathetic, but still the earphones are a bargain so you can't really complain.

-Dan

[RedNewt]

Well, it looks like just about everyone here likes the EX51LPs, so I thinlk I'll pick a pair up sometime. I was a little wary because of the reviews complaining about bass and volume, but it sounds like those people may just not have them in right. Thanks for all the info.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by RedNewt
Well, it looks like just about everyone here likes the EX51LPs, so I thinlk I'll pick a pair up sometime. I was a little wary because of the reviews complaining about bass and volume, but it sounds like those people may just not have them in right. Thanks for all the info.

I'm glad to see that this FAQ helped you. I hope you like them. Get back to me when you get them and tell me what you think of them.

Enjoy!

-Dan

[RedNewt]

Ok, I just picked up a pair from Best Buy. First of all, I am very pleased by the degree of isolation they provide. They are a good deal more comfortable than the original one that come with the iPod. The bass is nice, almost too much sometimes. They are providing great clarity and allowing me to here mor details in the song. They should be great for travelling.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by RedNewt
Ok, I just picked up a pair from Best Buy. First of all, I am very pleased by the degree of isolation they provide. They are a good deal more comfortable than the original one that come with the iPod. The bass is nice, almost too much sometimes. They are providing great clarity and allowing me to here mor details in the song. They should be great for travelling.

Great to see that you're enjoying them. They do offer a lot of bass, some complain it's too much, although I like a lot of bass in my music. It does quite a good job isolating for only $40 or so. I was astounded at the amount of isolation even at a low volume, while listening to a generally quiet song (A Day in the Life - The Beatles) I could listen to them at a very reasonable volume even while my car radio was playing.

I was on a Road Trip two weeks ago and I listened to y iPod for around half of the drive (around 4 hours of listening) and they worked perfectly. I couldn't hear the radio at all while I cranked up some Zeppelin :D

One thing I haven't tried however is using them on a Plane. Last year I went to Cuba and used my Sony Street Style's. Absolutely horrid. I couldn't hear anything pretty much even at full blast. I am sure these will definitely improve on that!

They are definitely a great buy! And I hope they serve you well,

-Dan

[dwchin]

I recently used the EX51's on a plane trip, and I must say I was fairly pleased with the isolation. I listen to them on relatively low volume level when in a quiet environment since I understand people can hear the music coming out of them slightly when it's loud enough. Even at the low levels though, it still managed to block out most of the ambient noise. Nice to know I have a portable, affordable pair that keeps the noise out :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by dwchin
I recently used the EX51's on a plane trip, and I must say I was fairly pleased with the isolation. I listen to them on relatively low volume level when in a quiet environment since I understand people can hear the music coming out of them slightly when it's loud enough. Even at the low levels though, it still managed to block out most of the ambient noise. Nice to know I have a portable, affordable pair that keeps the noise out :)

Great. That's good to know as I will be going to Italy next year and the plane ride is around 8 hours, so it will be a welcome change from those Street Styles.

Thanks for the heads up!

-Dan

[cold aspiration]

I completely agree with you guys on how great sounding these headphones are, a major upgrade from the stock ones. However, speaking of that isolation, don't you guys get sick of listening to your own breath, hearing every sound your body makes when the cord rubs on you and when you try to talk with phones in, you have no idea how loud you actually are, or how quiet. I loved the isolation until it started to keep me from knowing what the hell is going on around me. For the plane I know I will be taking the sonys but for regular use, i'm sticking to the stock.

oh and the cord length for the the 71s are annoying. I have the white one from audiocubes and I don't like the neck chain design.. actually kind of useless and just a hassle to get it right. Plus the cord is too long and I don't like using the remote. I guess if you are willing to put up with all these imperfections then it would be a great earphone for every day use, but to me, it is important to know what goes around me and I am willing to sacrifice excellent sound for just mediocre for that. After a bit the stock ones don't really sound too terrible. Anyways I just wanted to know what you guys thought about the isolation

[dwchin]

For the isolation, I can't say I mind the "stethoscope" effect too much. I don't really hear my breathing all that loudly, especially when the music's on, and I almost never eat with the EX51's in my ears. It can be a bit annoying if someone's talking to me and I missed the first part of what they said, but then that's with any closed phones, and I usually slip these out of my ears when I answer back anyway.

That brings me to another point....I actually rather like the neck chain design :D (Is that really what it's called? heheh) I like having the cord behind my neck....I've always hated having huge lengths of cord in front of me and behind the neck/down the side is really good for putting the iPod in my pocket or reading in bed with music on. Plus, when I pop them out to talk to someone, they just dangle there around my neck, read to be popped back into my ears in two secs. I've seen some people wear these with the cord dangling by their chin...either because they didn't like behind the neck or they weren't sure how to wear them, and I think it looks really silly that way. Overall, they're not without their problems.....but they're a good value for the money :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by cold aspiration
I completely agree with you guys on how great sounding these headphones are, a major upgrade from the stock ones. However, speaking of that isolation, don't you guys get sick of listening to your own breath, hearing every sound your body makes when the cord rubs on you and when you try to talk with phones in, you have no idea how loud you actually are, or how quiet. I loved the isolation until it started to keep me from knowing what the hell is going on around me. For the plane I know I will be taking the sonys but for regular use, i'm sticking to the stock.

oh and the cord length for the the 71s are annoying. I have the white one from audiocubes and I don't like the neck chain design.. actually kind of useless and just a hassle to get it right. Plus the cord is too long and I don't like using the remote. I guess if you are willing to put up with all these imperfections then it would be a great earphone for every day use, but to me, it is important to know what goes around me and I am willing to sacrifice excellent sound for just mediocre for that. After a bit the stock ones don't really sound too terrible. Anyways I just wanted to know what you guys thought about the isolation

I never really notice that "stethoscope" effect ever so that doesn't bother me. Also it does kind of bother me that I can't hear what people are talking about and so I would yank the earbuds out, which may be why both pairs I had broke ;) As for the Neck-chain design it took a little to get used to at first, but eventually I learned to like them. It's kind of weird to put a wire behind your neck, but it's nice since nothing gets into your way like the stock design does.

-Dan

[Elithrar]

Note to self: be a tad more careful with earbud removal.

Got the EX71's yesterday -- ordered from Audiocubes on the 7/27, picked them up from the post office 8/2 -- the extension cable leaves a heap of slack, but it could be worse. Still getting used to the way they sit in my ears, but I'm slowly getting used to it. The isolation factor is great in regards to stopping any leaking, but not so good when I'm trying to listen to people talk. A compromise over the stock earbuds, but one I'm willing to make.

Bass is much more defined, like a lot of Sony's audio gear; no need for the preset EQ settings, as the distortion they give is now noticeable. Compression artefacts are as well, but mostly on low (128kbps) bitrate songs. 320kbps is aural bliss.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Elithrar
Note to self: be a tad more careful with earbud removal.

Got the EX71's yesterday -- ordered from Audiocubes on the 7/27, picked them up from the post office 8/2 -- the extension cable leaves a heap of slack, but it could be worse. Still getting used to the way they sit in my ears, but I'm slowly getting used to it. The isolation factor is great in regards to stopping any leaking, but not so good when I'm trying to listen to people talk. A compromise over the stock earbuds, but one I'm willing to make.

Bass is much more defined, like a lot of Sony's audio gear; no need for the preset EQ settings, as the distortion they give is now noticeable. Compression artefacts are as well, but mostly on low (128kbps) bitrate songs. 320kbps is aural bliss.

Glad that your liking them, and yes I agree that the bass is wonderful. I have just started using the "Dance" preset as it seems to have a good balance of treble and bass. Hope they serve you well, and am glad to see that you've looked over the FAQ :)

-Dan

[jPod (^-^)v]

well, i got my 71's (White) a few days ago...BIG improvement from the old stocks..little weird to get used to at first...they hurt after too long, but just today i noticed i was listening for a while and couldnt really feel them at all (then, by nature's law they started hurting again because i was thinking about it). LOL!! i noticed at first when i put them on that i could here my nose when i breathed!! LOL!! it was reeeaalllly strange!! lol!! but it doesnt happen too often now. The around-the-neck cord doesnt really bother me..i havnt actually taken them out on the town for a test run, but i had a really old cheap pair of sony neck chain headphones ages ago, so yeah...the sound isolation is good..dont know about the leakage although im sure its great. the 71's DO come with a SOFT little case which is super cool!! lol, like a little MD pouch..and they ALSO come with the little earcap capsule..its not for the cord. the length....weellll....somepoeple have had problems from pulling out there earphones..tugging on the cord..but i pull mine out properly..the cord lenght (doesnt bother me but) COULD be a bit longer...OFTEN!! i will by lying around.. and my ipod hasta stay really close to my head...but sometimes it will slide away or whatever and tug at the cord something horrid...so that sucks...if it was longer these would just be perfect!! with the extension cord...that little ear cap capsule is also a...errr...well...you can wrap your cord in it to make it shorter..the extension..so if you have problems with and can be stuffed wrapping it up..go for it! i think thats all i can help you with for now..hope it helps...OH! and i really like the bass! just right!! i tried it out on sum techno just before...really cool...ok bye

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
well, i got my 71's (White) a few days ago...BIG improvement from the old stocks..little weird to get used to at first...they hurt after too long, but just today i noticed i was listening for a while and couldnt really feel them at all (then, by nature's law they started hurting again because i was thinking about it). LOL!! i noticed at first when i put them on that i could here my nose when i breathed!! LOL!! it was reeeaalllly strange!! lol!! but it doesnt happen too often now. The around-the-neck cord doesnt really bother me..i havnt actually taken them out on the town for a test run, but i had a really old cheap pair of sony neck chain headphones ages ago, so yeah...the sound isolation is good..dont know about the leakage although im sure its great. the 71's DO come with a SOFT little case which is super cool!! lol, like a little MD pouch..and they ALSO come with the little earcap capsule..its not for the cord. the length....weellll....somepoeple have had problems from pulling out there earphones..tugging on the cord..but i pull mine out properly..the cord lenght (doesnt bother me but) COULD be a bit longer...OFTEN!! i will by lying around.. and my ipod hasta stay really close to my head...but sometimes it will slide away or whatever and tug at the cord something horrid...so that sucks...if it was longer these would just be perfect!! with the extension cord...that little ear cap capsule is also a...errr...well...you can wrap your cord in it to make it shorter..the extension..so if you have problems with and can be stuffed wrapping it up..go for it! i think thats all i can help you with for now..hope it helps...OH! and i really like the bass! just right!! i tried it out on sum techno just before...really cool...ok bye

Glad to see you enjoying them. I never feel any pain really in my ears. Maybe you should try a different size of the eartips? And could you take a pic of the little soft pouch, if you have a digital camera, if possible. I would like to see this thing.

Thanks,

-Dan

[dwchin]

I found at first they would hurt after a while, but I had the medium caps on because I had read that some people said you may think the small is good enough but it's just not the right size. As it turns out, the small was more comfortable (I've worn these for hours without any pain) and actually sound a bit better for me than the mediums because they fit deeper in the ear without much effort.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by dwchin
I found at first they would hurt after a while, but I had the medium caps on because I had read that some people said you may think the small is good enough but it's just not the right size. As it turns out, the small was more comfortable (I've worn these for hours without any pain) and actually sound a bit better for me than the mediums because they fit deeper in the ear without much effort.

I found that the Mediums were too small for me so I switched to large. They seem perfect now.

-Dan

[jPod (^-^)v]

Im on the smalls!!!! yeah, i have a really small head:p..(or ears?)....sure! i can take a photo! ..mmm...but it'll prolly take a while, but yeah! its just a square little drawstring, grey, soft pouch..but i'll still show ya! now i havta work out howta get piccies on here...

[bench]

ok i just got the ex51 delivered today and am wearing them now..
i guess the mediums are on by default. tried them.. noticed the seal right away as i inserted deeper into the ear. listened to ipod mini... sounded good but not as good as i was hyped to believe. not sure what eq settings are optimal.. was on 'jazz' for the entire time i've had my mini but i set it to 'off' now and i notice a very very very slight difference; enough to keep it on 'off' and be happy. i guess thats a good thing so that the battery doesnt drain as quickly.

however, i notice that i do have to turn the volume up a noticeable amount, which ought to conflict with the battery saving mentioned earlier. shouldn't this conflict with common sense? since sound is trapped and should not be able to escape (at least most of it), i should be able to set it on a lower volume setting and get the same results in terms of loudness as if i was using non-isolating earphones. but i guess this might mean that the ex51 have a lower output level than the headphones i was more used to wearing (i really dont have any tech knowledge on this so dont quote me!). they used to be ok at about 40-50% volume but now i have it set on about 50-60%

after about 10 minutes or so, i felt that the mediums may be a bit too tight feeling so i tried the smalls. i was afraid that pulling the piece off the buds would damage them (no instructions that i could see on the back of the package) but didnt know how else to remove them so just slowly pulled them off and, lo and behold, it worked. i've been using the smalls ever since (about an hour ago) and they feel ok.. wouldn't go as far as to say totally comfortable as i can feel them sort of tight in my ears (however not as tight as the mediums) but tolerable. i'm curious to see how long i can have them before any kind of fatigue.

now i wonder what the e2c are like and if i made a wise choice by saving money..

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by bench
ok i just got the ex51 delivered today and am wearing them now..
i guess the mediums are on by default. tried them.. noticed the seal right away as i inserted deeper into the ear. listened to ipod mini... sounded good but not as good as i was hyped to believe. not sure what eq settings are optimal.. was on 'jazz' for the entire time i've had my mini but i set it to 'off' now and i notice a very very very slight difference; enough to keep it on 'off' and be happy. i guess thats a good thing so that the battery doesnt drain as quickly.

however, i notice that i do have to turn the volume up a noticeable amount, which ought to conflict with the battery saving mentioned earlier. shouldn't this conflict with common sense? since sound is trapped and should not be able to escape (at least most of it), i should be able to set it on a lower volume setting and get the same results in terms of loudness as if i was using non-isolating earphones. but i guess this might mean that the ex51 have a lower output level than the headphones i was more used to wearing (i really dont have any tech knowledge on this so dont quote me!). they used to be ok at about 40-50% volume but now i have it set on about 50-60%

after about 10 minutes or so, i felt that the mediums may be a bit too tight feeling so i tried the smalls. i was afraid that pulling the piece off the buds would damage them (no instructions that i could see on the back of the package) but didnt know how else to remove them so just slowly pulled them off and, lo and behold, it worked. i've been using the smalls ever since (about an hour ago) and they feel ok.. wouldn't go as far as to say totally comfortable as i can feel them sort of tight in my ears (however not as tight as the mediums) but tolerable. i'm curious to see how long i can have them before any kind of fatigue.

now i wonder what the e2c are like and if i made a wise choice by saving money..

For your first comment:

I like to use the Dance EQ as it seems to have a good balance of treble and bass. I also use off at times and that's not bad either.

Second Comment:

I think I remember boosting the volume a bit as it was a bit low, but I could hear it more clearly since it blocked ou much background noise. The reason I can't remember is because shortly after I boosted the sound on the iPod from euPod, which I was going to do anyways even with the stocks. I like listening to my music loud so I boosted the volume, but this was a while ago and have been listening to a very loud iPod forever so it didn't really bother me.

Third Comment:

I think it happens to all users where you will feel the earbuds in your ears, but I found after a while I couldn't even feel anything once a good seal was made. I really don't knwo how long it will take for your ears to be fatigued, as all ear sizes are different.

Fourth Comment:

If you find that they are still uncomfortable after a couple days than maybe they just don't agree with your ears and perhaps you should try out Shure's models. Remember you should have a 1 year warranty and if you don't like them than go and return them.

Hope that helps, and thanks for reading my FAQ :)

-Dan

[bench]

actually, i did notice that the dance eq sounded best except for the distortion. not sure what it's called but it's like when the sound is too much or too high for a speaker and it creates a sort of static. like when something is too loud. do you ever notice that on the dance eq setting?

and about the year warranty.. the warranty that came with the packaging says it's 90 days. and i got it from amazon so i guess i have a 30-day period from them. didnt notice anything about 1 year unless you mean from a different store and not manufacturer?

great faq also! :)

[dwchin]

I believe you only get the 1 year warranty if you bought them from a Sony store. I bought mine from Best Buy and it came with the standard 90 day warranty.

About the static, it's a fairly common problem. I believe it's called "clipping." Basically, your music was mastered at really high levels and when it gets put through iPod, it clips some of the sound. If you run your mp3s through a program called mp3gain, you can adjust the volume level lower so that it won't sound full of static, but if you do that, it'll likely sound a little softer as well. I believe most people set it to 89 dB to make sure there isn't any clipping, but I find I do almost everything at 92 and it's quite fine.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by bench
actually, i did notice that the dance eq sounded best except for the distortion. not sure what it's called but it's like when the sound is too much or too high for a speaker and it creates a sort of static. like when something is too loud. do you ever notice that on the dance eq setting?

and about the year warranty.. the warranty that came with the packaging says it's 90 days. and i got it from amazon so i guess i have a 30-day period from them. didnt notice anything about 1 year unless you mean from a different store and not manufacturer?

great faq also! :)

I think it is a fairly common problem to have this distortion problem if the iPod is put on a high volume. I don't really ever notice it on the Dance one though, but if it is loud enough than I would. As for the warranty I think you only get a 1 year warranty with the Sony Store directly, but as for Amazon or Best Buy you still get a good amount of time still. So try it out for about a week. If you aren't satisfied still than go for the Shure's.

Hope that helps, and thanks for the feedback on the FAQ,

-Dan

[Elithrar]

Went back to the Rock EQ; I just tried the dance EQ and found it distorted the lower-quality tracks a bit too much for my liking.

I originally started on the the small seals, but went up to the mediums. They don't slide in as easily, but are a tad more comfortable. However, I think the smalls work better, as they go in that little bit deeper and provide a better seal. Decisions, decisions. But I think the small ones may be better after my ears get used to them.

[jPod (^-^)v]

HMMM...i have the 71's and i havta have my volume really low..otherwise it hurts after a while...i cant crank my iPod more than 60ish%!!! i have it on about 30% now..and im on the smalls and they still hurt a bit...but i really like these headphones..not as good as everyone made them out to be...at least not to my untrained ears..but still really nice..

[Xavier]

thats why u shoulda went with the shure E line.....

[dwchin]

I always keep my volume at 25-50% (depending on what type of music it is) and I've run most of my mp3's through mp3gain as well. And, since we're all sharing, I usually use no EQ, but when I do.....I like the acoustic setting :p

[Doug Gilmour]

I use a pretty high volume, it's around 70% I'd say since I have volume boosted mine. But 60 isn't bad I just like my music loud.

-Dan

[bench]

thanks for the suggestions! does mp3gain make it easy to convert all your mp3s or is it time consuming?

acoustic seems to be the best eq setting for the ex51, in my opinion.
there's a bit of clipping on certain songs but it's definitely not as bad as the dance eq setting which, although may sound more clear, causes a lot of clipping on many of the songs i have. i'm pretty happy with acoustic eq and at about 50-55% volume

what i wonder is how the e2c compares when using its best eq setting (if there's any clipping).. but i suppose that's not relevant to this thread :)

[dwchin]

Originally posted by bench
thanks for the suggestions! does mp3gain make it easy to convert all your mp3s or is it time consuming?

Well, it's not that time consuming for me, but I believe it does depend a bit on your cpu. On slower computers I've noticed it does take a little longer for it to analyze all the mp3s. I tend to do it in chunks....perhaps one or two albums at a time as I add them to the iPod. However, I know someone who did pretty much his entire collection all in one shot....he added his entire Music folder, hit gain and let it run overnight. You can do that if you don't feel the need to look at it beforehand. (e.g. if you find a setting you like and you want all your songs at that setting, you can just hit the Gain button and let it go) It is an easy process.....All you do is add your mp3s, and either hit Track (or album) analysis, then hit Gain later on (if you like to look at things before you change them) or you can go straight to Track (or album) Gain and do it all on one step, without looking at it yourself. The website you get the program from has a little faq and explanation that will make it clearer :) Hope that helps you.....I'm really glad I ran my mp3s through mp3gain, since I hated the static.

[GooseGoose]

Hello everyone!
Well I was the person who had broken Sony's EX71s in the original post (http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=40028)...

Well, i sent it back to audiocubes and they sending a brand new one as we speak....

When I get it, I will take extra care of these... This FAQ was extremly helpful.... I do remember yanking it out alot so I guess thats why they broke...

As for everyones problem with the design of the cords, I am not a fan of it as well... I do put it behind my neck but it just dosn't have the same effect...

This may sound stupid but, you always know when someone has a iPod with the infamous white cords in a Y-shape... I live in Philly, and everone has an iPod now... You can tell with the white Y-cords comming out of everyones ears... When you see that you know that person is "cool" cause they have an iPod... With these you have just one cord going down.... I know, it sounds silly but I like the Y-shape for the look as well... It just screams out to everyone "Yea, that's right... I have an iPod!"

So... when I get my new Sony EX71's what I plan to do is just use WHITE electric tape and put them togther so I get the Y-shape back again... Don't get me wrong, I love the sound of the EX71s... There awesome... But I like Sound and "look" as well.....

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by GooseGoose
Hello everyone!
Well I was the person who had broken Sony's EX71s in the original post (http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=40028)...

Well, i sent it back to audiocubes and they sending a brand new one as we speak....

When I get it, I will take extra care of these... This FAQ was extremly helpful.... I do remember yanking it out alot so I guess thats why they broke...

As for everyones problem with the design of the cords, I am not a fan of it as well... I do put it behind my neck but it just dosn't have the same effect...

This may sound stupid but, you always know when someone has a iPod with the infamous white cords in a Y-shape... I live in Philly, and everone has an iPod now... You can tell with the white Y-cords comming out of everyones ears... When you see that you know that person is "cool" cause they have an iPod... With these you have just one cord going down.... I know, it sounds silly but I like the Y-shape for the look as well... It just screams out to everyone "Yea, that's right... I have an iPod!"

So... when I get my new Sony EX71's what I plan to do is just use WHITE electric tape and put them togther so I get the Y-shape back again... Don't get me wrong, I love the sound of the EX71s... There awesome... But I like Sound and "look" as well.....

Great to see that you are getting a new pair without much hassle online. It's also great to see that people are finding this FAQ useful. As for your comment on design the design isn't that bad, but it took a bit for me to adjust to I must say. What you would consider cool to wear in Philly would be thought of as potentially dangerous in other areas in the world especially in London, as the White earbuds would scream out I am using an iPod, which you could get mugged for. It really doesn't matter to me that I can show an iPod off to others as I bought the iPod for myself to listen to, not for others to look at.

In Toronto the iPod has exploded in popularity. Around 40 people at my school alone own one. Many iPod ads have been on display in Toronto recently. Take a look at these pics that were taken from Toronto's St. George subway station:

http://www.macminute.com/2004/03/11/toronto

-Dan

[bench]

thanks for the advice on mp3gain, i'll look for it and try it out
however, i've stopped using the acoustic eq already... the clipping even on that eq setting was starting to annoy me. i'm sticking with eq off and it sounds much better in terms of clipping, although the sound doesnt sound as 'spacious' or 'breathable' as acoustic or dance.

i think i might do a little reserach on the e2c and see if they're worth it. so far, from what i've read around here, it sounds like the ex51 might be more comfortable than the e2c's and i wont have to constantly buy new foams (not sure why i would have to do this.. do they wear out or something?) but the e2c supposedly has better quality sound.. maybe the clipping problem on acoustic & dance eq wont be a problem

[Xavier]

erm its a no brainer that I am trolling (Editted for content)

Doug Gilmour Edit: Don't Troll Again, especially in my FAQ Thread..

[Elithrar]

I'm getting used to the neck-chain design. It's great in the way that it allows the earphones to just dangle off your next when not in use.

For the poster who wants to tape the cables together; why not just have the neck chain go around the front of your neck? Anyway, from a distance, most people recognise white earphones as iPod earphones anyway.

[dwchin]

Originally posted by bench
thanks for the advice on mp3gain, i'll look for it and try it out
however, i've stopped using the acoustic eq already... the clipping even on that eq setting was starting to annoy me. i'm sticking with eq off and it sounds much better in terms of clipping, although the sound doesnt sound as 'spacious' or 'breathable' as acoustic or dance.

i think i might do a little reserach on the e2c and see if they're worth it. so far, from what i've read around here, it sounds like the ex51 might be more comfortable than the e2c's and i wont have to constantly buy new foams (not sure why i would have to do this.. do they wear out or something?) but the e2c supposedly has better quality sound.. maybe the clipping problem on acoustic & dance eq wont be a problem

:) I admit the static is annoying, and it's a bit annoying also having an extra step to finish before you can put the songs on the iPod. I can hear the static with my Sennheisers, though, so either way I was going to have to do it anyway, haha. Let me know how the Shure's work out if you do try them.....at the time, I couldn't really afford them (even though they're only about $60 more than what I paid for the EX51's) and if they're worth it I can save up and check them out.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Elithrar
I'm getting used to the neck-chain design. It's great in the way that it allows the earphones to just dangle off your next when not in use.

For the poster who wants to tape the cables together; why not just have the neck chain go around the front of your neck? Anyway, from a distance, most people recognise white earphones as iPod earphones anyway.

Yes, I agree the neck-chain design is a very simple and convenient design. You can just take them off while talking and hang them from your neck, than return to your music by puttig them back on.

-Dan

[bench]

Originally posted by dwchin
:) I admit the static is annoying, and it's a bit annoying also having an extra step to finish before you can put the songs on the iPod. I can hear the static with my Sennheisers, though, so either way I was going to have to do it anyway, haha. Let me know how the Shure's work out if you do try them.....at the time, I couldn't really afford them (even though they're only about $60 more than what I paid for the EX51's) and if they're worth it I can save up and check them out.

yea, its definitely a money issue keeping me from going with the shures. but i figure if the sony's can sound just as good to me (note: to me), then the shures wouldn't be worth it. starting to doubt it now mainly due to the clipping. i think i can notice that the mids aren't as clear without using eq but then there's the clipping when using eq..

and yes, the thought of having to go through mp3gain as one more step to putting songs on my ipod is pretty annoying. i guess i'll either have to live with eq off or using mp3gain and having eq without clipping... or get the shures but that's last on my list not only for the money issue but i've never used them so i don't truly know if they'll get rid of the clipping problem. anyone know?

on the bright side, the behind-the-neck design is great! i dont think they look any less cool. i can turn my head side to side just fine, dont even need a clip as some have talked about since they've had their buds pulled out of their ears by head turning (but i'm thinking this is mainly due to ex71 users who use the extension cord, adding extra weight). i havent really had much of a problem with it at all.. had a couple accidental cord tugs in which the left ear bud pulled out but that would've happened with any type of earbud regardless of "Y" or "L" design. since the cord is out of the way, i can brush my teeth while listening to music :D and also, i was pleasantly surprised at how lightweight they are. very very cool.

i realize this thread is entirely about the sony's so i apologize for getting too into the shures here. however, xavier seems to have nothing better to do than to make his bias for shures public through a couple rude posts. i dont think he's very convincing :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by bench
yea, its definitely a money issue keeping me from going with the shures. but i figure if the sony's can sound just as good to me (note: to me), then the shures wouldn't be worth it. starting to doubt it now mainly due to the clipping. i think i can notice that the mids aren't as clear without using eq but then there's the clipping when using eq..

and yes, the thought of having to go through mp3gain as one more step to putting songs on my ipod is pretty annoying. i guess i'll either have to live with eq off or using mp3gain and having eq without clipping... or get the shures but that's last on my list not only for the money issue but i've never used them so i don't truly know if they'll get rid of the clipping problem. anyone know?

on the bright side, the behind-the-neck design is great! i dont think they look any less cool. i can turn my head side to side just fine, dont even need a clip as some have talked about since they've had their buds pulled out of their ears by head turning (but i'm thinking this is mainly due to ex71 users who use the extension cord, adding extra weight). i havent really had much of a problem with it at all.. had a couple accidental cord tugs in which the left ear bud pulled out but that would've happened with any type of earbud regardless of "Y" or "L" design. since the cord is out of the way, i can brush my teeth while listening to music :D and also, i was pleasantly surprised at how lightweight they are. very very cool.

i realize this thread is entirely about the sony's so i apologize for getting too into the shures here. however, xavier seems to have nothing better to do than to make his bias for shures public through a couple rude posts. i dont think he's very convincing :)

I agree with you completely. And I would also like Xavier to stop with his comments. He is giving pretty much no reason or being productive at all on this topic.

-Dan

[dwchin]

I'd have to think that clipping might not be reduced with the Shures. The only reason why I say that is because I could still hear the distortion while listening with my Sennheisers, as well as with the Sony's. (Admittedly, my stock Apple buds are still in their packaging, hehe, so I've never tried them, and both the Sennheisers and the Sonys are a bit heavier on the base side than other head/earphones I've used.) I've read on other threads that the static is not really the fault of the phones you're using....but then I've never actually used the Shures so I can't say for sure. I'd be interested in learning if you hear any distortion if you do decide to go for them :)

I agree about the yanking out of ears....I almost never experience any yanking when I move my head, except if I'm leaning on the cord accidentally, of course. But when I first got them, I attempted to use that lame earbud capsule case thing to tie up some of the cord (as it was a suggested feature of that capsule....as if it made it any more useful) and it did tend to tug on the left side just a bit. I've since abandoned that little case, and no more tugging :)

[bench]

so thats what the capsule is for? it actually "goes on" the cord and lets you put extra cord into it? i thought it was for the rubber tips or something..

[Elithrar]

It's for both. You can keep your earphones stored in it, or you can wind any excess cable through it.

[jPod (^-^)v]

Xavier, i bought the 71's for alot of reasons....
I hadnt heard the Shures....they looked good but these looked better...didnt really fall inlove with the over the ear design (prolly would have got used to it though i admit)...THE PRICE...the convenience (just walked into the shop and bought these)..didnt really wanna shop on the net for them...im no audiophile..just wanted something better than the stocks..and a nicer fit...hhmmm..what else? it doesnt really bother me...i like these now..they dont hurt..i dont really care about the cord..(although it does 'tug' alot...getting caught on my watch and moving around and stuff etc.) lol....but these are really good...just what i need! OH!! and as for those that actually like these...i took mine out for a test run on the bus the other day!..WOW!! these are perfect for my needs!! i can barely hear the announcemnts over the bus speaker!! cuts out stax of noise!!

[bench]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
Xavier, i bought the 71's for alot of reasons....
I hadnt heard the Shures....they looked good but these looked better...didnt really fall inlove with the over the ear design (prolly would have got used to it though i admit)...THE PRICE...the convenience (just walked into the shop and bought these)..didnt really wanna shop on the net for them...im no audiophile..just wanted something better than the stocks..and a nicer fit...hhmmm..what else? it doesnt really bother me...i like these now..they dont hurt..i dont really care about the cord..(although it does 'tug' alot...getting caught on my watch and moving around and stuff etc.) lol....but these are really good...just what i need! OH!! and as for those that actually like these...i took mine out for a test run on the bus the other day!..WOW!! these are perfect for my needs!! i can barely hear the announcemnts over the bus speaker!! cuts out stax of noise!!

you ever get that clipping/static problem when you set the eq to 'acoustic' or 'dance'? what eq do you normally use, if any?

[awc217]

Hi, I have the Sony MDR-EX71SLs and overall I'm satisfied. However I still can't experience really good bass with it. When I use these headphones with a regular cd player, the bass is great! Really heavy. Is there a reason why I can't experience the same when I use it with the iPod? I use the largest cushions, make a good seal in my ear, use different EQs (Rock, Deep, Bass Booster, etc.) but none of them can match the heavy bass I get with a CD Player. Is there something I'm doing wrong or is it just that it's supposed to be that way because of the equalizer settings. Any help would be appreciated.

[dwchin]

Hm, I'm not sure, but I'd have to think differences in bass are just due to the device you're using the headphones with (as opposed to having an iPod with a bass 'problem'). For example, I use an Aiwa portable cd player, which happens to have tons of bass if you switch on the dsl bass boost feature. (It's so heavy that I normally only use the medium setting.) The iPod I've found, while it has adequate bass for me, can't deliver as much bass as the cd player without making the trebles sound all muddy. You might just be used to a cd player which really gives a lot of bass.

[gobugi]

is there a big difference in sound quality of the 71's and 51's?

[dwchin]

I haven't actually tried both, but my understanding is that they should sound the same. They both use the same driver, and the design if pretty much also the same, with the exception of the different cord design and some minor changes to how the 71's look. I've read several places that there isn't a sound difference....but maybe someone can tell you for sure who's actually owned both pairs.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by gobugi
is there a big difference in sound quality of the 71's and 51's?

No there is no sound difference between them. As for awc214: perhaps the CD Player you use offers lots of bass and the iPod doesn't as much. Another possibily is perhaps the quality of the music on your iPod is a lot lower than the CD Quality that you listen to from the CD Player. I have also heard that the iPod doesn't have the greatest audio output as compared to other portable players such as CD Players. Perhaps that is a contributor to your poblem.

Hope that helps,

-Dan

[jPod (^-^)v]

Originally posted by bench
you ever get that clipping/static problem when you set the eq to 'acoustic' or 'dance'? what eq do you normally use, if any?
i dont reeallly use the EQ..not those settings anyway..but if i do, i only have my iPod at less than 50%...now, i like my music quite loud...but i find these headphones just dont need it. I can have these on about 40% volume..when the stocks would sound the same at 60%. or whatever. understand? lol..i dunno...but no, i dont really know what you guys are talking about..i dont get any..(not that i know of)

[bench]

Originally posted by dwchin
I'd have to think that clipping might not be reduced with the Shures. The only reason why I say that is because I could still hear the distortion while listening with my Sennheisers, as well as with the Sony's. (Admittedly, my stock Apple buds are still in their packaging, hehe, so I've never tried them, and both the Sennheisers and the Sonys are a bit heavier on the base side than other head/earphones I've used.) I've read on other threads that the static is not really the fault of the phones you're using....but then I've never actually used the Shures so I can't say for sure. I'd be interested in learning if you hear any distortion if you do decide to go for them :)

I agree about the yanking out of ears....I almost never experience any yanking when I move my head, except if I'm leaning on the cord accidentally, of course. But when I first got them, I attempted to use that lame earbud capsule case thing to tie up some of the cord (as it was a suggested feature of that capsule....as if it made it any more useful) and it did tend to tug on the left side just a bit. I've since abandoned that little case, and no more tugging :)

i think i would go for the shures if i had the money... so since i don't, i guess i'm going to have to stick with the sony's :) dont get me wrong though, the sony's are great in terms of design & comfort.. but i can see how some people complain of quality not being too great. but still, it's not like they're terrible or anything, far from it. they offer good sound and are starting to feel more comfortable in my ears; exactly what i had hoped for, really. i mean, i knew that i wasn't going to be blown away or anything for 30 bucks. too bad there's no competition with these sony's that are in the same price range (e2c's don't really compete in terms of price).

however, the clipping is still a problem sometimes (im switching eq's frequently to avoid it and am considering just leaving eq off for convenience sake). and im not so sure i wanna try mp3gain... maybe. im not using the case either.. not even sure if i know how to use it :P

[dwchin]

I know a few people who only use mp3gain on the songs they know have clipping but which they wanted to use a particular eq setting. If you think you can get away with doing it only for a few unavoidable albums it might not be a bad idea....you can always undo it if you try it and don't like the result :) I can hear clipping out of my speakers too sometimes (though at the time I didn't know that's what it was....I just thought my speakers were going to blow) so it was worth it for me to do my entire collection.

[Shadow Skill]

I got the 71's and I love the behind the neck style, I don't think I can go over to another pair of earphones.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Shadow Skill
I got the 71's and I love the behind the neck style, I don't think I can go over to another pair of earphones.

Yes I feel the same. As for all this clipping stuff I don't quite understand how it is so common. I use euPOD and go to full boost and listen to my music at a very high level and experience no clipping whatsoever even without Mp3gain.

-Dan

[Mediahound]

a question then a comment:

is it possible to make the middle hole (where earwax fills in, that you have to clean with a little pin) too big? after i cleaned mine, i noticed the hole seems bigger than it was when brand new. is this a problem? they sound fine but i was just curious.

comment about bass: i usually use the bass boost EQ setting but on some albums that are bass heavy, it will sound clipped so then i turn the EQ off. example, Maroon 5 has a lot of bass and doesn't even need the bass boost on and it still rocks.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mediahound
a question then a comment:

is it possible to make the middle hole (where earwax fills in, that you have to clean with a little pin) too big? after i cleaned mine, i noticed the hole seems bigger than it was when brand new. is this a problem? they sound fine but i was just curious.


I don't think it's a problem. Mine are somewhat bigger as well and there haven't been any problems in the 3 months now or so that I've had this pair. Also if anything I suppose it would make the volume louder I suppose as the hole is bigger.

-Dan

[addersop]

I jumped in and bought a pair of the 71's at lunchtime and so far... well, it's like having a new iPod, the bass is simply gorgeous :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by addersop
I jumped in and bought a pair of the 71's at lunchtime and so far... well, it's like having a new iPod, the bass is simply gorgeous :)

Yep, agreed. Switching fromt eh stocks to the EX51's for me was a worlds of difference. The stocks would clip and buzz and such. I couldn't stand being in high noise areas or areas that had a radio on as I would need to put it on full blast, which in turn caused everything to clip. I am very pleased to own these buds :)

-Dan

[Lt_Core]

FYI: Amazon has some good deals on the EX51s and EX71s. Don't know how long the sale is on. Besides the different cord lengths, there's no difference right? Make sure you add the EX71s to your cart to see the $33.95 price.

EX71 for $33.95 w/ free shipping: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000092YQW/qid=1092862792/sr=1-2/ref=sr_1_2_etk-electronics/002-0779435-7612802?v=glance&s=electronics&n=172282

EX51 for $24.94: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000095SB6/qid=1092862792/sr=1-3/ref=sr_1_3_etk-electronics/002-0779435-7612802?v=glance&s=electronics&n=172282

[ZippZopp]

I just got the EX51's from Fry's. the bass is really nice, nice highs, very clean sounding. cord is good length. my question is about the difference in cord lenghts between the 51's and 71's. with the extension cord on the 71's does anyone know how long it actually is compared to the 51's or even the stock Ipod phones??

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ZippZopp
I just got the EX51's from Fry's. the bass is really nice, nice highs, very clean sounding. cord is good length. my question is about the difference in cord lenghts between the 51's and 71's. with the extension cord on the 71's does anyone know how long it actually is compared to the 51's or even the stock Ipod phones??

Apparently the extension is 3.3 feet. So without the cord it is 1.5 feet and with it, it's 4.8 feet. This is according to Amazon. I believe the EX51LPs are 4 feet long . Again this is all according to www.amazon.com and I am aware that www.Sonystyle.com gives different info. As for the iPod stock buds, I find they are about the same as my EX51LPs, perhaps a bit shorter.

-Dan

[Lt_Core]

The other difference seems to be that the EX51 has 2 different sizes and the EX71 has 3 different sizes. Can anyone confirm this?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Lt_Core
The other difference seems to be that the EX51 has 2 different sizes and the EX71 has 3 different sizes. Can anyone confirm this?

Nope, not true. The EX51LPs come with small, medium, and large covers. This is the same was the EX71SLs.

-Dan

[Lt_Core]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Nope, not true. The EX51LPs come with small, medium, and large covers. This is the same was the EX71SLs.

-Dan

Thanks, Doug. If all things are equal except the cord length, I might go with the EX51s at $24 but I doubt Best Buy will match Amazon's price. Great thread, by the way. Very informative.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Lt_Core
Thanks, Doug. If all things are equal except the cord length, I might go with the EX51s at $24 but I doubt Best Buy will match Amazon's price. Great thread, by the way. Very informative.

Yep, I would agree with your logic there. I don't quite understand why there is a price difference...

Thanks for the feedback! Glad I could help you.

-Dan

[Lt_Core]

One more question...do the EX71s offer more isolation than the EX51s?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Lt_Core
One more question...do the EX71s offer more isolation than the EX51s?

Nope, they are the exact same. Go to www.sonystyle.com and search for any one of the two buds. Than check what the other looks like. You will notice the difference is nill. The only thing I can see is that the EX71SL's are are shiny at the back of the earbud while the EX51LPs aren't.

-Dan

[Asli]

Well I guess I'll go with the ex51s. the only reason i would buy the ex71s is that they can be bought in white, but recently i noticed how noticable white earphones are, and i don't really care too much about it matching up. These headphones are way cheaper than the in-ears and from what I hear they're better.

[Wilder_K_Wight]

I was gung-ho for white, but I'm seeing a lot of people here in the lounge who have had their iPod stolen. Makes me nervous! I went with the EX51, but I'm also getting some Sennheiser PX100 headphones for those times when I don't want to be completely blocked off from the outside world. The 51's are nice- I had the Apple in-ear, but they didn't fit my ears very well and they were uncomfortable and sounded bad (because I couldn't get a decent seal with them). It's not Apple's fault I have small ears!

The EX51 sound great and cost little. I'd recommend them to anybody looking to upgrade from the iPod buds. Just be aware that they really do block sound very well, and they're not practical for bike riding or slacking off at work. They might as well be earplugs for all the outside sound you'll hear.

[Pairaka]

I got the ex71s the other day and I love them. I'm going to have to try wearing them "correctly" (ahem, behind the neck), but I like the shorter cord length because I want to use it with the Apple remote. Between the remote and the length of the cord on the '71s, I get exactly the length I need.

I was leery of buying earbuds at first because I wasn't sure of how comfortable in-ears would be, but these are amazing. I put them in, felt the medium covers were just a little too big, swapped them out for the smalls, and all was well. I wore them all morning while cleaning up and heard things in my music that I'd never heard before. It was wonderful. :)

Thank you so much for posting this FAQ. Now I know how to take care of my ear buds and how to wear them properly. :) Hopefully they'll last me a good long time.

Cheers.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Pairaka
I got the ex71s the other day and I love them. I'm going to have to try wearing them "correctly" (ahem, behind the neck), but I like the shorter cord length because I want to use it with the Apple remote. Between the remote and the length of the cord on the '71s, I get exactly the length I need.

I was leery of buying earbuds at first because I wasn't sure of how comfortable in-ears would be, but these are amazing. I put them in, felt the medium covers were just a little too big, swapped them out for the smalls, and all was well. I wore them all morning while cleaning up and heard things in my music that I'd never heard before. It was wonderful. :)

Thank you so much for posting this FAQ. Now I know how to take care of my ear buds and how to wear them properly. :) Hopefully they'll last me a good long time.

Cheers.

Great to hear that you are enjoying them like I and many others are. The first experience I had with them was exiting the parking lot from where I bought them. My mom had some poor radio station on and so I put the EX51LPs to the test. Normally this is where the iPod stock earbuds would falter, under noisy conditions. Well I put the Sonys in and put on "A Day In the Life" by the Beatles, which for those that have listened to it know it is a low and soft song. The seal worked so well that I had to lower to the volume in the song :)

Glad that you are happy with them. Also I am glad you found the FAQ helpful. If you ever run into any problems with them, don't hesitate to ask me about it.

-Dan

[byronface]

great thread, i wish i had come across it before i bought my ex51's. it would have saved me a great deal of insecurities of what earphones to buy.

i bought my pair off of eBay used (i know, its kinda wierd to buy something used that has been literally inside someone elses ear).. but saved a lot as i only paid 12 dollars with shipping included, great deal if you ask me..

although in its original package, one of the small-size eartips was missing, but it didn't bother me as i use the mediums. of course, i gave the tips a very thorough washing having no idea who used them or where they have been.

i read on epinions.com that a lot of people were complaining about no bass response, which were contradicted by others saying that you have to wear the plugs just right. they suggested putting the plugs in farther into the ear.

to compensate, i literally shoved these babies as far as they could go before i'd feel pain.. and lo and behold, bass was HORRIBLE... then i noticed that i had pushed them too far into my ear to the point that the silicon would shape oddly and break the vacuum seal. realizing i didn't have to probe my ears, i gently placed them as if they were just regular earplugs, resulting in perfectly balanced bass/treble response and great noise cancellation.

as for the many who find no point in the flimsy case for the 51's, they have helped me in the sense that my cords dont tangle as much in my pocket when they are in the case. it also gives me security that i wont lose the tips as i have lost many of those styrofoam earphone covers (like those included with the stock phones).

they've also taken quite a beating. coming home one night i noticed our pet had knocked over a plant.. the vase, now on its side was empty, when it had been previously full of water. i lift the plant to find the earbuds swimming in a puddle of water.. but after a quick drying, to my surprise, they worked as if nothing had happened

these earbuds are treasures.. and i admit that there are better ones out there, but for the price i paid, i'm quite happy

[Lt_Core]

Should the cord for the EX71s or the EX51s go behind your ear and over? Or just directly into the ear?

[dwchin]

The cord goes behind the neck and the earpiece itself just goes straight into the ear without looping over or anything. I've known a friend who likes to loop it up and behind the ear, and he claims it keeps them from popping out while running, but I've never really had problems with them popping out the standard way of wearing them, and in fact I thought they came out more if you looped it over the ear.

[Pairaka]

I just wanted to mention that wearing them behind the neck (ie, the proper way) is much nicer than wearing them "in front." The difference in cord length of the two different ear buds isn't nearly as apparent and is quite comfortable, and if I have to take one or two buds out for some reason, they don't get lost or tangled.

Also, I just wanted to mention, in case it never got cleared up, the 71s come with the earbud case and a hard case to store the headphones in while not in use.

[jPod (^-^)v]

hey Dan, would you still like a picture of the little pouch? i just got my camera software onto the computer..so if your still interested...

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
hey Dan, would you still like a picture of the little pouch? i just got my camera software onto the computer..so if your still interested...

Ya sure. Send it as soon as you can.

Thanks,

-Dan

[Justin from T.O]

I'm planning to get some replacement earphones over the stock ones and I wanted to know, if you had to choose, which would you get, either the ex51/71 or the shure e2c's... I would want to know which ones are better in :

Comfort
Bass
Isolation
pros and cons about the shure's going 7mm into your ear and sonys going about 3mm in your ear.

I listen to mostly hip-hop and R@B

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Justin from T.O
I'm planning to get some replacement earphones over the stock ones and I wanted to know, if you had to choose, which would you get, either the ex51/71 or the shure e2c's... I would want to know which ones are better in :

Comfort
Bass
Isolation
pros and cons about the shure's going 7mm into your ear and sonys going about 3mm in your ear.

I listen to mostly hip-hop and R@B

I have never tried the Shure's, but I think the Sony's are great. They combine great quality with an awesome price.

Comfort:

The Sony's comfort are awesome. They stick in your ear nicely and don't fall out, they also come with 3 different ear tip sizes so you can adjust the seal and fit according to the size of your ears.

Bass:

Many say the bass on the Sony's are incredible and very deep. Some complain that they have too much bass for their likes. Since I love bass I enjoy them very much. If you don't like bass don't get these as you may not like it, and since the iPod EQ makes very minute adjustments that won't help to turn down the bass.

Isolation:

I find the isolation is great. They fit deep and snugly into your ear and as mentioned before they come with 3 different ear tips to maximize the seal for you. I find they are great. They block out a ton of sound from outside and I find that they are do a great job letting you enjoy your music experience.

Remember if you don't like them you could return them with a warranty I would imagine, check the return policy fromt he store first. The worst that can happen would be that you dislike them and you return them for the Shure's, which isn't bad.

Hope that helps,

-Dan

[Lt_Core]

Ok, I've been following this thread for awhile and finally bought some EX71s at Circuit City. I am very dissapointed. There is almost no bass at all, even with bass booster turned on. I was prepared for alot of bass, as I've heard that these offer tons of bass. The Apple stock buds have more bass, as well as my Koss PortaPros.

I'm sure I have a good fit. I tried all 3 sizes and no bass. Do they need to be burned in? I also have to crank the volume compared to the Apple stock buds and my Koss PortaPros.

I'm flying to Phoenix on Sunday and was hoping these were the earphones for me. Am I doing something wrong? How do I get the bass reponse that everyone talks about?

[byronface]

you're probably wearing them wrong, they have to have the acoustic seal.. and if you pull them out of your ears rapidly (not using the cord as this may damage it) you should hear a slight "pop" signifying you actually had that seal.. or at least for me it does

in comparison to the stocks, these have much deeper/fuller bass in my opinion (and so seems many others)

[Lt_Core]

Hmmm....I don't hear or feel a pop at all when I remove them. I'm pushing them deep into my ear and don't feel any type of seal. I have relatively small ears and I've tried all of the different sizes.

Very frustrating! I really want to like these earphones!

[dwchin]

Lt_Core: Perhaps you're attempting to cram them in too far? I find trying to push them in too hard will actually make the seal worse. I can obtain an adequate seal with both smalls and mediums, but I will say that for me, the smalls not only provide a better seal, but also are more comfortable. You may just not have an ear shaped well for these, I suppose. You should definitely be getting some sort of "pop" or a slight suction feeling when you pull them out if you've gotten a good enough seal. I think there is a "burn-in" period for these, but you should be getting good base right out of the box.

[Lt_Core]

I appreciate the help. I spent alot of time trying to get a good seal and hear the bass. The shorter left cord also drove me nuts. When it was attached to the iPod remote, the remote was above my waistline which constantly pulled on the left earphone.

Long story short, the EX71s were just not for me. I returned the EX71s and picked up a pair of Philips HN050 noise cancelling headphones for my flight tomorrow morning. They are a sports style wraparound headphone that fit great and the noise cancelling is pretty good. Maybe I'll try the EX51s sometime or the new Etymotic ER-6i earphones.

[jPod (^-^)v]

Hey Dan!

ok..so i have the picture..now how do i get it on here? lol..sorry...

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
Hey Dan!

ok..so i have the picture..now how do i get it on here? lol..sorry...

Ok just follow the code I use below and remember to make the ( )'s into [ ]'s

(IMG=URL of the image goes here)(/IMG)

If you don't know how to get a URL of the image just host it at www.imageshack.us and get that URL.

Thanks in Advance!

-Dan

[shabbs]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Ok just follow the code I use below and remember to make the ( )'s into [ ]'s

(IMG=URL of the image goes here)(/IMG)


Actually, the correct representation would be like this (in this case, the URL for the image is http://test.com/image.jpg):

(IMG)http://test.com/image.jpg(/IMG)

Replace the ( )'s with [ ]'s. As Dan mentioned - you'll need a site on the internet to host your image file.

Cheers.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by shabbs
Actually, the correct representation would be like this (in this case, the URL for the image is http://test.com/image.jpg):

(IMG)http://test.com/image.jpg(/IMG)

Replace the ( )'s with [ ]'s. As Dan mentioned - you'll need a site on the internet to host your image file.

Cheers.

Nope Shabbs. Up until a few weeks ago I would try to use the (IMG)URL(/IMG) and it would not work for some strange reason. Others have also been telling me how it doesn't work for them either. So unless this has been fixed it may not work...

-Dan

[shabbs]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Nope Shabbs. Up until a few weeks ago I would try to use the (IMG)URL(/IMG) and it would not work for some strange reason. Others have also been telling me how it doesn't work for them either. So unless this has been fixed it may not work...
Let's find out. If it's fixed, then a pic of an iPod should be right below this text, done using (IMG)URL(/IMG):

http://images.apple.com/ipod/images/indexipod_20040719a.gif

If it's the other way (IMG=URL)(/IMG), then a pic of an iPod should appear below this line of text.



And from previewing my message, it's clear that the other way is the way it works. Using the IMG button to generate the vB Code generates the wrong vB Code.

I stand corrected.

Mmmm... my sneaker tastes good.

;)

Cheers.

[jPod (^-^)v]

oookaaay...err...thanks guys..

[jPod (^-^)v]

yay i did it! danm! its big! sorry 'bout that...anyway to make it smaller? the colour is a bit off...its more a ..lighter (maybe), grey..i have another here...

[jPod (^-^)v]

http://img64.exs.cx/img64/2475/DSC116.jpg

this should be a lil smaller...this is more the right colour

EDIT: oh ok..so its a link..oh well...hope this helps Dan!

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
http://img64.exs.cx/img64/2475/DSC116.jpg

this should be a lil smaller...this is more the right colour

EDIT: oh ok..so its a link..oh well...hope this helps Dan!

Ah great stuff. Thanks jPod (^-^)v. Still doesn't justify a $10 difference between the EX51LPs and the EX71SLs though. Would you mind if I out that picture into my FAQ to add onto the differences list?

Thanks,

-Dan

[jPod (^-^)v]

yeah, i dont actually use it...if it was about half an inch bigger (maybe even less) it would make the best digital camera holder (MY digital camera)...but otherwise i dont reeaally need it...SURE!! go right ahead!!!:D (you get the little capsule with the 51s dont you?)

[dwchin]

Yep, there's a black capsule with the 51's. I'm pretty sure the black 71's come with a hard case instead of the pouch....but I can't confirm that, since I don't own those.

[shabbs]

Originally posted by dwchin
I'm pretty sure the black 71's come with a hard case instead of the pouch....but I can't confirm that, since I don't own those.
Nope - the 71s come with the same dark capsule, the same soft pouch and two sizes of ear bud replacements to accomodate different sized ear canals. The 71's also have a 1m extension cord that the 51s don't have, and the shell of the earpiece has a slightly different design - sleeker than the 51s.

[jPod (^-^)v]

errr...my 71s came with the clear capsule...THAT soft pouch a few posts back (because its my picture)...and 3 ear bud replacements..i thought thats what everbody else had???

[shabbs]

Originally posted by jPod (^-^)v
and 3 ear bud replacements
Strange - mine only came with two other sizes (small and large) - that's not including the medium-sized ones that were on the unit when I bought it.

[jPod (^-^)v]

lol, oohhhh that would be it then...yeah..same...:P

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by shabbs
Nope - the 71s come with the same dark capsule, the same soft pouch and two sizes of ear bud replacements to accomodate different sized ear canals. The 71's also have a 1m extension cord that the 51s don't have, and the shell of the earpiece has a slightly different design - sleeker than the 51s.

But do you really feel that warrants a $10 USD difference in price? They are basically the exact same really...Many don't like the extension as they feel with it in it is too long but without it it's too short...

-Dan

[shabbs]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
But do you really feel that warrants a $10 USD difference in price? They are basically the exact same really...Many don't like the extension as they feel with it in it is too long but without it it's too short...
That is the all important $10 question. Personally, I prefered the look of the 71s over the 51s. Technically, they are the exact same - the same hardware is inside those ear buds. Personally - I like the extension cord as I keep my iPod in my cargo pants pocket when I go out and the length is just right. At work, I can take off the extension cord, switch it for the iPod remote cord, hide the iPod in my bag nearby and control the iPod without having to take it out of the bag. That works well for me, and you could easily do that with the 51s as well.

So, is it worth the $10 increase? Probably not. For those that are looking to buy a set of 71s or 51s - go to your nearest Sony Store and take a close look at them. If you can persuade them to let you take a closer look at both of them out of the packaging, then you'll be able to make a better decision.

Cheers.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by shabbs
That is the all important $10 question. Personally, I prefered the look of the 71s over the 51s. Technically, they are the exact same - the same hardware is inside those ear buds. Personally - I like the extension cord as I keep my iPod in my cargo pants pocket when I go out and the length is just right. At work, I can take off the extension cord, switch it for the iPod remote cord, hide the iPod in my bag nearby and control the iPod without having to take it out of the bag. That works well for me, and you could easily do that with the 51s as well.

So, is it worth the $10 increase? Probably not. For those that are looking to buy a set of 71s or 51s - go to your nearest Sony Store and take a close look at them. If you can persuade them to let you take a closer look at both of them out of the packaging, then you'll be able to make a better decision.

Cheers.

Well said Shabbs :)

Which Sony Store did you get yours from (if you got it from one) I went to the Hillcrest Mall one in Richmond Hill.

-Dan

[bench]

can everyone who owns the ex51 go to this thread and help me out with something..

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=45807

thank you!

[shabbs]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Well said Shabbs :)
Thanks.
Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Which Sony Store did you get yours from (if you got it from one) I went to the Hillcrest Mall one in Richmond Hill.
Sherway Gardens.

Cheers.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by shabbs
Thanks.

Sherway Gardens.

Cheers.

Hmmm I don't believe I have ever been to Sherway. What town and intersection is it at?

-Dan

[shabbs]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Hmmm I don't believe I have ever been to Sherway. What town and intersection is it at?
Right at the bottom of Hwy 427 in Etobicoke at The West Mall and The Queensway. Not a bad mall - it's got a Music World which usually has very good CD prices.

[bench]

i found two different pairs of ex51's

check them out in this thread:

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/sh...&threadid=45807

i've got pictures comparing the two, etc
please reply in that thread and let me know what you think :)
thanks!

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by bench
i found two different pairs of ex51's

check them out in this thread:

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/sh...&threadid=45807

i've got pictures comparing the two, etc
please reply in that thread and let me know what you think :)
thanks!

Seems that the link isn't working...

This one seems to be the correct one:

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=45807

-Dan

[shabbs]

Originally posted by bench
i found two different pairs of ex51's

check them out in this thread:

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/sh...&threadid=45807

i've got pictures comparing the two, etc
please reply in that thread and let me know what you think :)
thanks!
That link you posted does not work, but I take it you mean this thread (by matching on the thread id in your link):

http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=45807

I saw that. I don't have a set of EX51s so I can't really contribute. I suspect they've just made some minor changes to the housing and the cord. They may have changed suppliers for those parts in question - you never know.

If you really want to know what's up - go to your nearest Sony store and ask them to check it out. But I doubt you'll get too far.

I suspect it really means nothing.

Cheers.

[bench]

oops yea, thanks!

[MaxBoost]

FYI:

Buy.com has a sale:
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90121727&dcaid=1688

the EX71SL's for under $35 shipped!

I bought a pair of 51's from Sony last month and they're :)

[SDEEDY]

Originally posted by MaxBoost
FYI:

Buy.com has a sale:
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90121727&dcaid=1688

the EX71SL's for under $35 shipped!

I bought a pair of 51's from Sony last month and they're :)
Yea you can get 71's within that price (don't know about shipping but I'm sure one of those vendors has free shipping):
http://reviews.cnet.com/Sony_MDR_EX71SL/4014-6468_7-30520512.html?tag=ob_50&orderby=50&sort=asc

Funny thing is I just went to Best Buy and omg the 51s are 40 bucks. Of course online they will be cheaper. I see at 24 bucks.

So bottom line...does the 51 sound the same as the 71s?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by SDEEDY
Yea you can get 71's within that price (don't know about shipping but I'm sure one of those vendors has free shipping):
http://reviews.cnet.com/Sony_MDR_EX71SL/4014-6468_7-30520512.html?tag=ob_50&orderby=50&sort=asc

Funny thing is I just went to Best Buy and omg the 51s are 40 bucks. Of course online they will be cheaper. I see at 24 bucks.

So bottom line...does the 51 sound the same as the 71s?

Yes, as has already been determined in this thread. The only differences are the aesthetics of them. The insides are the exact same.

-Dan

[SDEEDY]

Well thanks Dan all I needed to know. I was reading up to page 3 when my eyes started getting tired.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by SDEEDY
Well thanks Dan all I needed to know. I was reading up to page 3 when my eyes started getting tired.

No problem. And yes this thread has a lot of reading in it :)

-Dan

[plagued]

how are you guys storing these things? I use the capsule to minimize tangling, but the rest of the cord is still, well, there... (those without the pouch) do you just shove the whole thing in your pocket?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by plagued
how are you guys storing these things? I use the capsule to minimize tangling, but the rest of the cord is still, well, there... (those without the pouch) do you just shove the whole thing in your pocket?

Well I have another pair of earphones that came with a nice little velvety black pouch with drawstrings. So for about 2 weeks now I have been using that to keep my cord safe.

-Dan

[Doug Gilmour]

EDIT: Can a MOD/ADMIN please delete this post here as it was a double? Thanks!

-Dan

[ubernoober]

what's a good pair of arbuds to get??? the ibuds..a.re OKAY....buttttt...when u pound music with bass...the buds get wrecked and they begin to get that staticy sound....i heard the "shure ec3's" were good...but..$180 cnd for then -__-...anyone else have anything earbuds in mind??

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
what's a good pair of arbuds to get??? the ibuds..a.re OKAY....buttttt...when u pound music with bass...the buds get wrecked and they begin to get that staticy sound....i heard the "shure ec3's" were good...but..$180 cnd for then -__-...anyone else have anything earbuds in mind??

Well I would obviously have to say the Sony EX51LPs as I made an FAQ on them. They cost are 60 Canadian in stores (Sony Store) and online only around 35 or so from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000095SB6/qid=1095603808/sr=8-1/ref=pd_csp_1/103-5177499-1280638?v=glance&s=electronics&n=507846

Very low price, great bass, very comfortable, huge step up from the Apple Stock's. I'd go for it.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Well I would obviously have to say the Sony EX51LPs as I made an FAQ on them. They cost are 60 Canadian in stores (Sony Store) and online only around 35 or so from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000095SB6/qid=1095603808/sr=8-1/ref=pd_csp_1/103-5177499-1280638?v=glance&s=electronics&n=507846

Very low price, great bass, very comfortable, huge step up from the Apple Stock's. I'd go for it.

-Dan

well....i want something for my moneyt's worth and i heard that any kind of earphones over $150 is well worth your money..but the thing is...$150!! haha but yeah...i was thinking of going for the shure e3c's..but...i'm kinda jobless right now..haha so i might just hit up those sony ones....if u had the money would u get e3c's?? or even e2c's? or whatever? haha

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
well....i want something for my moneyt's worth and i heard that any kind of earphones over $150 is well worth your money..but the thing is...$150!! haha but yeah...i was thinking of going for the shure e3c's..but...i'm kinda jobless right now..haha so i might just hit up those sony ones....if u had the money would u get e3c's?? or even e2c's? or whatever? haha

Well I have a job so I could afford them, but I have better things to spend my money on. To me the Sony's are great. To some they aren't. The same can be applied to anything material in the world. If you have a Sony Store near you buy them there or from Amazon (I don't know their return policy though) and if you don't like them, return them. It's a Win-Win Situation!

Let me know how it works out,

-Dan

[Elithrar]

Originally posted by plagued
how are you guys storing these things? I use the capsule to minimize tangling, but the rest of the cord is still, well, there... (those without the pouch) do you just shove the whole thing in your pocket?

Used the capsule, began to think it's annoying. I just shove the excess into the coin pocket of my shorts or jeans. Regretting buying the variant with the two-piece cable.

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Well I have a job so I could afford them, but I have better things to spend my money on. To me the Sony's are great. To some they aren't. The same can be applied to anything material in the world. If you have a Sony Store near you buy them there or from Amazon (I don't know their return policy though) and if you don't like them, return them. It's a Win-Win Situation!

Let me know how it works out,

-Dan

so....would u personally buy the e3c's?? i might jsut buy them from amazon..sony store in canada is so expensive...it's prolly gonna end up being like 70-80..i just checked the sony.ca site haha yeah i think i'm just gonna buy them on amazon..if i dont' like em...i can always give them back to sonystore as store credit. con artist.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
so....would u personally buy the e3c's?? i might jsut buy them from amazon..sony store in canada is so expensive...it's prolly gonna end up being like 70-80..i just checked the sony.ca site haha yeah i think i'm just gonna buy them on amazon..if i dont' like em...i can always give them back to sonystore as store credit. con artist.

I have never tried the Shure's so I wouldn't be able to judge them. They are $180 USD though so that's a bit steep. Try the Sony's first see if you like them, the thing that's great about them is that they are comfortable and offer tremendous bass. If you don't like them, return them and get a pair of Shure's.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
I have never tried the Shure's so I wouldn't be able to judge them. They are $180 USD though so that's a bit steep. Try the Sony's first see if you like them, the thing that's great about them is that they are comfortable and offer tremendous bass. If you don't like them, return them and get a pair of Shure's.

-Dan

how much are the fontopia headphones?? the white covered ones?? i kinda want a pair that will go with my ipod... =p

[Elithrar]

http://www.audiocubes.com sells white EX71's for US$45, plus shipping (~US$9). I've got a pair in white, and they match nicely.

[narin]

I just got my EX71's..too short without the extension and way too long with the extension :( capsule thing is kinda useless and so is the case included.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by narin
I just got my EX71's..too short without the extension and way too long with the extension :( capsule thing is kinda useless and so is the case included.

Ya, that's a very common problem many people have the the EX71SLs. I have never tried a pair myself so I couldn't judge the length, but many find the EX51LPs are a good medium for the EX71SLs, with the extension and without them.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by narin
I just got my EX71's..too short without the extension and way too long with the extension :( capsule thing is kinda useless and so is the case included.

so...would u say the l;enght of the cord is THAT bad??? how long's the cord?? between that and the black ones would u still keep the white ones?

[ubernoober]

Elithrar, i went to that site u gave me and those sharp md33's seem pretty good as well...93% rating. 5 out of 5 stars...hmm..interesting...haha

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
so...would u say the l;enght of the cord is THAT bad??? how long's the cord?? between that and the black ones would u still keep the white ones?

According to Amazom, the EX71SLs are 1.5 feet without the extension, and 4.8 feet with the extension. The EX51LPs I believe are 4.2 feet, which is a nice average between the two.

-Dan

[narin]

Do the EX51LP's also have the behind the neck cord style? I have the 71's and I like them but the cord is too long and I'm hoping to get the 51's.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by narin
Do the EX51LP's also have the behind the neck cord style? I have the 71's and I like them but the cord is too long and I'm hoping to get the 51's.

The EX51LPs also have the Behind-The-Neck Style, which I prefer over the iPod Stock style as they don't get caught in objects in the way and are tucked away.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

the EX51LPs and 71's the same thing?

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
the EX51LPs and 71's the same thing?

They are basically the exact same, only the EX71SLs have a shinier backing, a little cheap cloth case, and an extension. The insides are the exact same so don't let the $10 price difference fool you. If you don't like the length of the EX71SLs than go for the EX51LPs.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
They are basically the exact same, only the EX71SLs have a shinier backing, a little cheap cloth case, and an extension. The insides are the exact same so don't let the $10 price difference fool you. If you don't like the length of the EX71SLs than go for the EX51LPs.

-Dan

basically just buying it because it's white and it'll go with my ipod...i don't like blank black ones..just makes it look like i have some cheap disman...haha hopefulyl i can find it for cheap on ebay or something...

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
basically just buying it because it's white and it'll go with my ipod...i don't like blank black ones..just makes it look like i have some cheap disman...haha hopefulyl i can find it for cheap on ebay or something...

I like having black headphones. I don't like people knowing I have an iPod, not for security reasons, I can handle myself, but I just don't like others to know that I have an iPod as its getting annoying with the huge number of iPods in my school now. If you want the white Sony's you'll have to get the EX7SLs, unfortunately there are no EX51LPs in white...

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
I like having black headphones. I don't like people knowing I have an iPod, not for security reasons, I can handle myself, but I just don't like others to know that I have an iPod as its getting annoying with the huge number of iPods in my school now. If you want the white Sony's you'll have to get the EX7SLs, unfortunately there are no EX51LPs in white...

-Dan

i prety much just want the white headphones just because i like to be color coordinate, and to have some style, yeah sure ipods are growing within my school but whatever. as long as no one tries to jack me up then it's all good.....but it's all the same stuff with the 51's and 71's right?? just that the cord is to long with the extension and too short without right? haha

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
but it's all the same stuff with the 51's and 71's right?? just that the cord is to long with the extension and too short without right? haha

Basically yes. I haven't tried the EX71SLs so I really don't know personally about the different lengths and how they feel, I just hear they aren't the best when it comes to length.

-Dan

[ubernoober]

it's okay. i'm kind used to them when i use my MDR-500's. 3 meter cord curled up into something as long as 30 cm. but when it's hanging it prolly stretches to like 1 meter bend in a parabola shape. haha so i gues it wouldn't be that bad.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by ubernoober
it's okay. i'm kind used to them when i use my MDR-500's. 3 meter cord curled up into something as long as 30 cm. but when it's hanging it prolly stretches to like 1 meter bend in a parabola shape. haha so i gues it wouldn't be that bad.

They will probably be fine for you than. When you get them let me know how they are.

Enjoy!

-Dan

[ubernoober]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
They will probably be fine for you than. When you get them let me know how they are.

Enjoy!

-Dan

haha yea for sure man. what other headphones u got??

[iLive4this]

I'm new on this board and i got ex5, but does anyone hear the hardrive spinning in theirs when a knew song begins

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by iLive4this
I'm new on this board and i got ex5, but does anyone hear the hardrive spinning in theirs when a knew song begins
First off, Wellcome to the Lounge! Enjoy it :)

Now as for your question,

Do you mean you are just listening to the iPod through the EX51's and you basically start hearing the spinning of the iPod HDD through them when you change the song? Is this a loud noise or is it just the same soft noise you hear when you connect it to the PC or pt your ear against the iPod...? I don't think there should be a loud noise coming through the actual jack into your ears... I am guessing it's just a bit of outside noise perhaps.

And ubernoober I have the iPod Stocks of course, the Sony Street Styles and not much else... Perhaps I will check out those Er6i's next year, but for now I am quite please with the MDR-EX51LPs :)

-Dan

[iLive4this]

yeah, but just for 2-3 seconds, it was weird because using my apple stock phones there was nospinning sound through the earphones just from the ipod unit itself

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by iLive4this
yeah, but just for 2-3 seconds, it was weird because using my apple stock phones there was nospinning sound through the earphones just from the ipod unit itself

Sounds odd, but very simor so I wouldn't pay it much heed. I was listening with mine last night and could only hear music through the earphones. No spinning at all...

-Dan

[ubernoober]

hmm....yeah...the er6i's or whatever. i dunno if i should go with the "shures" ne more...my ear is kinda small so i don't think it'll fit in that well and i'm gonna have to get a pair off the net so i i won't be able to return them if i had problems...haha so i guess the 71's or/and 51's will have to do ;)

[iLive4this]

That's the only thing i have to complain about the EX5's, overall they are a great set of earphones

[dwchin]

Originally posted by iLive4this
yeah, but just for 2-3 seconds, it was weird because using my apple stock phones there was nospinning sound through the earphones just from the ipod unit itself

I believe hearing your hard disk whirring through your earphones might be that 4G audio defect some people were talking about. iPodlounge summarizes it here (http://www.ipodlounge.com/articles_more.php?id=4776_0_8_0_M) . I'm not really sure if what you are describing is actually this problem, but I think it's worth checking out.... There shouldn't be any noise coming out of your headphones in terms of hearing static or whirring/spinning noises....

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by dwchin
I believe hearing your hard disk whirring through your earphones might be that 4G audio defect some people were talking about. iPodlounge summarizes it here (http://www.ipodlounge.com/articles_more.php?id=4776_0_8_0_M) . I'm not really sure if what you are describing is actually this problem, but I think it's worth checking out.... There shouldn't be any noise coming out of your headphones in terms of hearing static or whirring/spinning noises....

That could just be it. If he has a 4G than most likely that is why...

-Dan

[iLive4this]

thanx for the info

[swanton84]

Sony EX71 is a cool in-ear earpiece for my ipod!~ bot it at $80 at funan sony retail shop 2 wks ago...been indulging in the quality music ever since...hehez

[ubernoober]

what u guys think of the pioneers hd-1000?? or something? i can't remmeber the letter's but yeah. haha

[Jackus]

Nice FAQ's Dan! I'll follow your guidelines as much as I can :) I have the EX71's.

[podio]

Well my EX71's right bud went out,I called sony about getting them repaired and I need to ship them in soon,so Im back to the horrid stock buds.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by podio
Well my EX71's right bud went out,I called sony about getting them repaired and I need to ship them in soon,so Im back to the horrid stock buds.

They will most likely not be able to be repaired.. Expect to get a new pair. As long as you are under warranty than you are safe. Now do you see why I said it is much better to get them at the actual retail "Sony Store"? None of this "waiting on Sony" garbage.. You just go in, tell them the problem, they test it for themselves, and they give you a brand new pair! Unfortunately not everyone has one near them...

And yes it is quite horrid to use those stocks after using the Sony's...

Good luck,

-Dan

[cpn.luckycharms]

anyone know where i can buy or get for free the medium sized head/cover for the 51's

[stonehhh5]

alright, heres my story on how my earbuds went out.
i bought my white 71s from Hong Kong last Xmas, i started having problems when them within serveral months. i would temporarly lose sound for a mere split second on my left side. I ignored the problems and now my left side wont work at all. on rare occasions, it will work when i twist and turn the cord and find that "spot". This probably means the wire inside my headphones have broken or something. I am guessing the part right above the jack (not the extension cord). I am a very heavy duty listener. I sleep with these buds on at night. I would just curl them up and stuff them in my jean pocket when im not listening to it. I would pull the jack out of the extension cord recklessly. I think sleeping with them at night was the primary reason of why it died. I would wake up in the morning and find my cord all knotted up! i have no clue how it got that way, but it just is. I did however, looked into my friends american black 71s and noticed his cord was a lot harder and seems to be more stronger than my cord.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by stonehhh5
alright, heres my story on how my earbuds went out.
i bought my white 71s from Hong Kong last Xmas, i started having problems when them within serveral months. i would temporarly lose sound for a mere split second on my left side. I ignored the problems and now my left side wont work at all. on rare occasions, it will work when i twist and turn the cord and find that "spot". This probably means the wire inside my headphones have broken or something. I am guessing the part right above the jack (not the extension cord). I am a very heavy duty listener. I sleep with these buds on at night. I would just curl them up and stuff them in my jean pocket when im not listening to it. I would pull the jack out of the extension cord recklessly. I think sleeping with them at night was the primary reason of why it died. I would wake up in the morning and find my cord all knotted up! i have no clue how it got that way, but it just is. I did however, looked into my friends american black 71s and noticed his cord was a lot harder and seems to be more stronger than my cord.

My best guess would be that basically the wire inside the cord gave out, essentially the circuit was broken and sound isn't being sent properly.. Same reason why constantly yanking them out of youe ears after finishing with them will damage them.

-Dan

[williamIpodMini]

I live in the UK and have just ordered some white 71's from:

http://www.ipodx.co.uk/categories/just_in.shtml

Not especially cheap but peace of mind for me as the alternative was buying them from Ebay and having them shipped from HK.

As a great fan of Vaja cases I can't help notice that earphones universally acclaimed by Ipod users cost about the same as a Vaja case?

Or do you all prefer the Shure brand?

William

[dwchin]

I actually prefer Etymotic over Shure. But it's all personal taste, and I guess you'd have to try it to know. Etymotics are usually $100 and up, I think, unless you can find them used someplace. I believe $70 is a popular price range because at that price, it's still affordable but you can find at least decent sound.

[stonehhh5]

ah, i just got my black version after the white ones broke, Musical Bliss right now.... mmmmmmmmm

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by stonehhh5
ah, i just got my black version after the white ones broke, Musical Bliss right now.... mmmmmmmmm

Great to hear! I know how much of a pain it is to switch back to the stocks... I've had to do that twice...

Enjoy them! And try to follow my FAQ now :D

-Dan

[Jackus]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
They will most likely not be able to be repaired.. Expect to get a new pair. As long as you are under warranty than you are safe. Now do you see why I said it is much better to get them at the actual retail "Sony Store"? None of this "waiting on Sony" garbage.. You just go in, tell them the problem, they test it for themselves, and they give you a brand new pair! Unfortunately not everyone has one near them...

And yes it is quite horrid to use those stocks after using the Sony's...

Good luck,

-Dan

I have a Sony store near me, they have never stocked or apparently had in stock the X71's so I got them from amazon... As i have done before, i am planning on just taking them inot the Sony Store and asking to get thme repaired there, even though I didn't buy there... The people are nice, and are willing to do all they can. because of my other large purchases at the Sony store... :) So thats my plan... ;)

[Elithrar]

Lost *another* silicone cap. Lost both my grey ones, now, but traded my mediums for a friends set of EX51 smalls.

I've had these canalphones for a few months now, and am starting to sour towards them. Finding them a little too boomy and muddy for my tastes. It's weird; loved them at first, but I'm now seeking something more accurate. Tempted to buy some Shure E2c's or E3c's.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by arsenalmad10
I have a Sony store near me, they have never stocked or apparently had in stock the X71's so I got them from amazon... As i have done before, i am planning on just taking them inot the Sony Store and asking to get thme repaired there, even though I didn't buy there... The people are nice, and are willing to do all they can. because of my other large purchases at the Sony store... :) So thats my plan... ;)

Good luck with that... Don't know what to expect though, as you wouldn't have a receipt, so don't get your hopes up.

-Dan

[Asli]

Hey I just got some 71s, and I am very happy with them. The only complaint is the length of the cord, which I won't bother explaining.

It came with a small hard care about half the size of my ipod and also another capsule thing hat seems pretty useless. The big case is too small to fit everything. if it was like a pouch maybe it wouldn't be so bad but the only thing it's good for to me is for holding the different pieces you're not using. It would be good if it was a little thicker or maybe if it was like a pouch.

Sometimes, when I'm not using my new earphones, i put the buds in the capsule thing (as it says so in the box) and wrap the cord around it. I was wondering if this could damage the cord??

[jwc110869]

I agree with the case not being too functional. I could make everything fit, but not in under 15 minutes, so no thank you. I only use the capsule for chord control. Being the cord is a bit too long, giving 5 or 6 loose wraps around the open capsule, then a snap shut has made the length ideal.

[Jackus]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
Good luck with that... Don't know what to expect though, as you wouldn't have a receipt, so don't get your hopes up.

-Dan

It worked before... They seem to think if its a sony product, then its ok for them to fix it... They're really nice people there. ;) Anyway, no problems yet, and I'm following the FAQ's, so I should be fine. :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by arsenalmad10
It worked before... They seem to think if its a sony product, then its ok for them to fix it... They're really nice people there. ;) Anyway, no problems yet, and I'm following the FAQ's, so I should be fine. :)

Good stuff, that probably wouldn't work around here. The guy seemed very picky when I tried returning them...

Good luck with them, also don't get the impression that they will break easily, they will break if you don't treat them properly, but keep in mind since following and making this FAQ I have not had a single problem.. These ones I own now are about 5-6 months old, much better than 2 months that I used to have...

Good luck,

-Dan

[xtreme1sound]

Originally posted by stonehhh5
ah, i just got my black version after the white ones broke, Musical Bliss right now.... mmmmmmmmm

THAT WOULD LOOK REALLY WIRED
If i were you i would get the white one again
EX71SL (http://www.audiosprings.com/product_info.php?cPath=45_26&products_id=28)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by xtreme1sound
THAT WOULD LOOK REALLY WIRED
If i were you i would get the white one again
EX71SL (http://www.audiosprings.com/product_info.php?cPath=45_26&products_id=28)

I personally prefer the black. I just don't see the need to try to point out the fact that you have an iPod or try and keep a "white theme"... They do look pretty nice, but don't see the need for the colour, not a big deal. Also seeing that I have not found any retail Sony Store that sells them as of yet, I am not about to give up hassle free returns and a good warranty for a different colour...

-Dan

[Mikitty]

Hey guys. I just got myself an iPod 4G and was out around town (after work) last night looking for a good pair of earphones. The top of my list was of course the appropriately priced Sony earphones discussed in great detail in this thread. ;)

I just have a question guys. I'm looking to buy either one of them, so is there any info as to which earphone actually produces a better sound? If it's a tie with sound quality then i'm pretty much going with the 51LP as i'm not very fond of long wires hanging around - it just makes you all the more liable to hook onto something as you are walking. =/

Tim

[jwc110869]

I'm going with a tie because they both have the same 9mm driver in them. The EX71s have a case, some chrome, and a 2 piece cord. Both come with a very small case (capsule) designed for cord control, so I wouldn't be too worried.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
Hey guys. I just got myself an iPod 4G and was out around town (after work) last night looking for a good pair of earphones. The top of my list was of course the appropriately priced Sony earphones discussed in great detail in this thread. ;)

I just have a question guys. I'm looking to buy either one of them, so is there any info as to which earphone actually produces a better sound? If it's a tie with sound quality then i'm pretty much going with the 51LP as i'm not very fond of long wires hanging around - it just makes you all the more liable to hook onto something as you are walking. =/

Tim

I would go with the MDR-EX51LPs, they cost less and are the EXACT same earphone in terms of sound. They just with the chrome backing, a little case, and capsule, as well as the connector, which bothers some people as it adds too much length...

Good luck,

-Dan

[Mikitty]

Well thanks guys for the speedy responses. Since both have (about) the same sound quality then i'm going to have to go with the 51LPs. The price difference coupled with the fact that the wires aren't too long nor too short are what does it in for me.

Once again, thanks. :)

Tim

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
Well thanks guys for the speedy responses. Since both have (about) the same sound quality then i'm going to have to go with the 51LPs. The price difference coupled with the fact that the wires aren't too long nor too short are what does it in for me.

Once again, thanks. :)

Tim

Good to hear, enjoy them :)

Remember to follow the FAQ and you should be fine.. Also where are you thinking of purchasing it from?

-Dan

[Mikitty]

From one of the Sony shops in town. In fact, i'm planning to go to one today to have a look-see.

Tim

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
From one of the Sony shops in town. In fact, i'm planning to go to one today to have a look-see.

Tim

Oh great, sounds good. Make sure to ask what the warranty is on them in case they crap out on you, it should be 1 year. I prefer retail to online for the simple ease of return if there is ever a problem..

Good luck and tell me how it goes :)

-Dan

[Mikitty]

Well i got my EX71SLs today. The Sony Shop salesman told me that both the 71SL and 51LP had equal length cables (50cm) and an extension cord. The 71SLs looked really good in all white, so i opted for them eventually.

In all, i must say i am very pleased with the earphones so far. Great sound for the price. :)

Thanks Doug for the help today.

Tim

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
Well i got my EX71SLs today. The Sony Shop salesman told me that both the 71SL and 51LP had equal length cables (50cm) and an extension cord. The 71SLs looked really good in all white, so i opted for them eventually.

In all, i must say i am very pleased with the earphones so far. Great sound for the price. :)

Thanks Doug for the help today.

Tim

That was quick!:eek: Glad that you got them!

Your welcome and enjoy! If you ever have any questions you know who to ask :) Also remember to follow my FAQ to keep them running properly. Just out of curiousity what was the warranty you got on them in Singapore?

-Dan

[Mikitty]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
That was quick!:eek: Glad that you got them!

Your welcome and enjoy! If you ever have any questions you know who to ask :) Also remember to follow my FAQ to keep them running properly. Just out of curiousity what was the warranty you got on them in Singapore?

-Dan
Yep, it took me all of a minute to decide once i realised the cords were exactly the same length. ;) Anyway, the warranty i have in Singapore is 90 days for shipping costs and a year for parts. I think that's pretty much the standard for most places.

And thanks for the FAQ, it should keep our Sony 'buds in great shape. Oh and, i also wanted to point out that my EX71's came with the small plastic capsule to secure the earbuds as well. :)

Tim

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
Yep, it took me all of a minute to decide once i realised the cords were exactly the same length. ;) Anyway, the warranty i have in Singapore is 90 days for shipping costs and a year for parts. I think that's pretty much the standard for most places.

And thanks for the FAQ, it should keep our Sony 'buds in great shape. Oh and, i also wanted to point out that my EX71's came with the small plastic capsule to secure the earbuds as well. :)

Tim

Nice, sounds good :)

Same warranty I get here. I am thinking of returning my pair for a new one actually, not because of the sound, but because the cord is ripped on the spot where it goes behind the neck. I could just use elecrtical tape, but I suppose a new pair would be better.. I'll try the tape first to see if its worth the trip..

Oh and regarding what came with your earphones: The MDR-EX51LPs also come with the black capsule, but do the EX71SLs also come with a small cloth bag?

Good luck,

-Dan

[Mikitty]

Speaking of getting the cord ripped, i almost stepped onto my cord today - if i did, i would have killed my Sony earphones on their first day of use. :D

Anyway, this is the entire package that came with the EX71SL:

- EX71SL earphones (50cm cord)
- Extension wire (60cm)
- White translucent capsule for the earbuds
- Pocket pouch
- 2 replacement buds in 2 sizes

Tim

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by Mikitty
Speaking of getting the cord ripped, i almost stepped onto my cord today - if i did, i would have killed my Sony earphones on their first day of use. :D

Anyway, this is the entire package that came with the EX71SL:

- EX71SL earphones (50cm cord)
- Extension wire (60cm)
- White translucent capsule for the earbuds
- Pocket pouch
- 2 replacement buds in 2 sizes

Tim

Ok, sounds right to me. Oh and I like your new sig :D Quick update with the headphones.

Good luck, you should love them :)

-Dan

[rob7897]

Anyone know where i can get ex71 whites in the UK?
If not, shipped to the UK?

[Havo]

The reason why the ex71's r short w/o the extension is because they were made like that to be used with remotes. They were originally designmed for MD players. People just used them with ipods cuz they r good for the money and are white. The entension makes it equivalent to the length of reg ear buds.

[rockon83]

Hey Everyone,

Awesome thread you guys got here! Very informative. I read a lot about the EX-71's elsewhere and was convinced enough to buy them. I got em on ebay. I then found this thread, and realized I wanted the EX-51's. So I bought those on ebay, planning to sell the EX-71's, which I did, but I kept the hard case from the EX-71's :) (Yes my ebay listing mentioned that)

Anyways, I've always wished I could carry earbuds as headphones, but they never stay in, and I was hopeful but wary about these. I'm using the small rubbers that came with it, and the right one fits in AMAZING and doesn't budge. The left one goes in, but doesn't even feel as proper as the right one. If I move around a bit, the left one seems to move somewhat. I took them to the gym today, and went on the eliptical trainer which I always use. The right one was PERFECT, and the left one kept falling out.

I just took the little clip from a nokia headset to clip onto your shirt, and put it on the EX-51's. I thought I was going to destroy the wire getting it into the little clip, but it's in. It seems to be a little better with the clip on your shirt, as the weight of the cord isn't pulling on the left ear, which I believe is the main issue. As soon as I took off the clip I felt it pull somewhat. However, I do believe the left doesn't fit as proper as the right anyways. I wonder if I need an even smaller rubber for the left ear.

Anyone else have any issues of the wire weighing down the left earbud and causing it to fall out? Or with one ear being different from the other? Or feel they need an even smaller rubber piece?

Thanks guys :)

[rockon83]

Hey Everyone,

Awesome thread you guys got here! Very informative. I read a lot about the EX-71's elsewhere and was convinced enough to buy them. I got em on ebay. I then found this thread, and realized I wanted the EX-51's. So I bought those on ebay, planning to sell the EX-71's, which I did, but I kept the hard case from the EX-71's :) (Yes my ebay listing mentioned that)

Anyways, I've always wished I could carry earbuds as headphones, but they never stay in, and I was hopeful but wary about these. I'm using the small rubbers that came with it, and the right one fits in AMAZING and doesn't budge. The left one goes in, but doesn't even feel as proper as the right one. If I move around a bit, the left one seems to move somewhat. I took them to the gym today, and went on the eliptical trainer which I always use. The right one was PERFECT, and the left one kept falling out.

I just took the little clip from a nokia headset to clip onto your shirt, and put it on the EX-51's. I thought I was going to destroy the wire getting it into the little clip, but it's in. It seems to be a little better with the clip on your shirt, as the weight of the cord isn't pulling on the left ear, which I believe is the main issue. As soon as I took off the clip I felt it pull somewhat. However, I do believe the left doesn't fit as proper as the right anyways. I wonder if I need an even smaller rubber for the left ear.

Anyone else have any issues of the wire weighing down the left earbud and causing it to fall out? Or with one ear being different from the other? Or feel they need an even smaller rubber piece?

Thanks guys :)

[jwc110869]

I work while using them (painter) and all the moving aroud gets the cord wedged in my shirt from time to time causing tugging. I tend to have less of an issue if the cord goes over the back of my shoulder to my iPod which I now keep in my left pocket.

I wonder if the new EX81s, with the ear clips, would help prevent tugging of the cord?

[Jackus]

EX81's eh...? Have you got a link or any info...?

[jwc110869]

Jack,

Just brouse the lounge more..............................

From the front page...... (http://www.ipodlounge.com/reviews_more.php?id=5545_0_6_0_C)

[Jackus]

ehhhh.. ;)

I dont go there enough... :) Thanks Jeff.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jwc110869
I work while using them (painter) and all the moving aroud gets the cord wedged in my shirt from time to time causing tugging. I tend to have less of an issue if the cord goes over the back of my shoulder to my iPod which I now keep in my left pocket.

I wonder if the new EX81s, with the ear clips, would help prevent tugging of the cord?

Hmm, that is a possiblity, the clips may prevent damage to the cord...

I want to get a new pair this summer along with a new iPod. I am contemplating going with the MDR-EX81SLs, but for only $40 more or so I could get a nice pair of Shure E2Cs.. I'll have plenty of time to decide though..

-Dan

[rockon83]

ARGH!!! I was so psyched about these earbuds, but I went to the gym again today with them, this time with the shirt clip so they wouldnt weigh down the left earbud, but it falls out constantly anyways. the right one is great, the left one wont stay in.

I'm really wondering if the EX-81's would stay in my ear because of the loop over the ear, but am thinking it will still move out from being in the ear, and just end up sitting outsde the ear, and not falling down, causing me to still having to push it back in.

damn... i guess it's back to my aiwa swoops... i just find the ex-51's so comfortable, and love how they block out so much sound...

[jazmaan]

Just got my 81's today! Man do these babies sound sweet! Sorry I can't compare them to 51's or 71's but they sure beat the heck out of Koss "The Plugs".

From what I've read here, they have the same storage issues as 71's. Its exactly the same design except for the over-the -earpiece which certainly does keep them in place and secure. But the earpieces also make them even more difficult to store in your pocket.

The little plastic budcase is slightly redesigned from the 71's but is essentially the same: not too useful. Same cloth bag too.

I think the best solution for the too-long cord is just to keep the extra length wrapped up with the supplied white twisty.

Again, compared to Koss' "The Plug" these sound crystal clear while "The Plug" sounds muddy by comparison. Also with "The Plug" I was constantly readjusting their position, never quite sure if they were in too far or not far enough. But with the 81's it "set'em and forget 'em" and "setting" 'em is a no-brainer as the earpiece seems to help position them perfectly.


So to conclude my mini-review:

PRO's: Sound GREAT! Easy to position. Stays in Place.

CON's: Awkward storage. And almost impossible to share one earpiece with a friend.

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by jazmaan
Just got my 81's today! Man do these babies sound sweet! Sorry I can't compare them to 51's or 71's but they sure beat the heck out of Koss "The Plugs".

From what I've read here, they have the same storage issues as 71's. Its exactly the same design except for the over-the -earpiece which certainly does keep them in place and secure. But the earpieces also make them even more difficult to store in your pocket.

The little plastic budcase is slightly redesigned from the 71's but is essentially the same: not too useful. Same cloth bag too.

I think the best solution for the too-long cord is just to keep the extra length wrapped up with the supplied white twisty.

Again, compared to Koss' "The Plug" these sound crystal clear while "The Plug" sounds muddy by comparison. Also with "The Plug" I was constantly readjusting their position, never quite sure if they were in too far or not far enough. But with the 81's it "set'em and forget 'em" and "setting" 'em is a no-brainer as the earpiece seems to help position them perfectly.


So to conclude my mini-review:

PRO's: Sound GREAT! Easy to position. Stays in Place.

CON's: Awkward storage. And almost impossible to share one earpiece with a friend.

Good to hear you're enjoying them.. They are an awesome budget pair of earphones without having to spend $100+ for Etymotics or Shures... Sure you won't be getting the same sound quality, but you do get strong bass, and a very comfortable pair for $60.. Good luck with them, and remember to follow my FAQ :)

Good luck,

-Dan

[greenbirds]

Originally posted by rockon83
ARGH!!! I was so psyched about these earbuds, but I went to the gym again today with them, this time with the shirt clip so they wouldnt weigh down the left earbud, but it falls out constantly anyways. the right one is great, the left one wont stay in.

I'm really wondering if the EX-81's would stay in my ear because of the loop over the ear, but am thinking it will still move out from being in the ear, and just end up sitting outsde the ear, and not falling down, causing me to still having to push it back in.

damn... i guess it's back to my aiwa swoops... i just find the ex-51's so comfortable, and love how they block out so much sound...

I have the exact same questions. I'm hesitant to blow $60 on headphones that sound about the same as my 71's but still exhibit the fall out problem. Does anyone know if they work their way out of your ear while jogging/running?

[rockon83]

Originally posted by greenbirds
I have the exact same questions. I'm hesitant to blow $60 on headphones that sound about the same as my 71's but still exhibit the fall out problem. Does anyone know if they work their way out of your ear while jogging/running?
Well as much as I wasn't sure about getting the 81's, I was searching for a good pair of headphones, loved the 51's comfort, sound, and noise blocking, so I took the dive. Ordered a black pair of the 81's from audiocubes. It says backordered 2 weeks or something. It shipped like the next day. lol. I just got it today, they're awesome.

I put them on and turned on the radio (getting my muvo2 tuesday!) and my initial impression was that the sound was superior to the 51's. I didn't try to switch back and forth and judge, it was just an initial impression.

So... the big test. I went to the gym tonight, where my 51's previously would fall out from the left ear, even with a shirt clip holding the wire from tugging. They DID NOT fall out. I will say the left ear felt like it slid out slightly while I was working out on the eliptical trainer, but not much at all. I was getting a lot of tugging on the left ear from the wire bouncing up and down. I put the shirt clip onto my 81's now, and will go the gym again tomorrow, and see how it works. I held the wire in my mouth for a minute, and it appeared to take away all the pulling on the left side, so I'm assuming the shirt clip will fix that.

I also noticed when I took them off after the work out that the left ear had quite a bit of earwax on it, and that could have helped it slide out, as the right one did not have earwax.

So this was a MAJOR improvement over the 51's which would constantly fall out. I'll clean my ears :) and use the clip, and hopefully it will be perfect. I will let you guys know tomorrow :)

Here's a pic of my 81's with the shirt clip (taken with a nokia 6230). They do have the smaller cord on the left, and the behind the neck to the right.
http://members.verizon.net/~vze24phq/sony.jpg

[Super Steve]

yo
are the 81s comfortable enough to sleep in?

let us know....
which one would you rather fall to sleep listening too, the 51/71 or the 81?

thanks again
-Steven

[rockon83]

the 81's are VERY comfortable, and sound amazing. i love em. except i can't wear them at the gym anymore. i wore em again just now, and they kept falling off. they're great until i start to sweat. then they just slide out and entirely off my ears.

so these are going to be my primary earphones for anytime EXCEPT the gym, unfortunately. i'll be using my aiwa swoops there.

[Super Steve]

rockon83,
which one would you rather fall to sleep listening too, the 51/71 or the 81?

[rockon83]

Originally posted by Super Steve
rockon83,
which one would you rather fall to sleep listening too, the 51/71 or the 81?
honestly i never fall asleep listening to earphones. i either take them off before i fall asleep, or fall asleep with a pillow speaker. i would imagine if you turn over at all the 81's would stay in better, but that the extra part by the ear may be bothersome. i'll wear em in bed tonight if there's anything to listen on the radio. once i get my mp3 player (tuesday) then i'll end up wearing them in bed for a while, and will be able to see how comfortable it is.

i'll be keeping these 81's over my 51's for sure, even tho they're useless at the gym. if anyone is interested in my 51's, they're here: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=5735042866

[Super Steve]

rockon83,

that was what i was wondering about too...
If you sleep sideways (one ear on pillow) will the ear around piece feel bad?

Also, that piece goes behind the ear, right?

[rockon83]

Originally posted by Super Steve
rockon83,

that was what i was wondering about too...
If you sleep sideways (one ear on pillow) will the ear around piece feel bad?

Also, that piece goes behind the ear, right?
yeah, it goes behind the ear, and the wire is built into the plastic-y behind the ear thing, and comes out from behind the ear. The plastic over the ear piece is pretty strechy, which is convenient for putting them on and taking them off.

[rockon83]

Hey Super Steve,

I wore them in bed last night, and they are quite comfortable. I tried laying on one side, the other, and however else and they were very comfortable indeed. Laying on one ear, they didnt push into you at all. Very comfortable.

I personally wouldn't want to fall asleep in them tho, bc I'm worried I'll ruin them somehow.

[weezer0321]

I just purchased the EX71's tonight. I hooked them up and popped them in and....and.....and.....nothing in the right ear. Nothing at all. I fiddled with it and found out that there is a short in the extension cord. Without the extension it works great, other than that, a good nice sound. So tomorrow they are back to the store for another pair. Hopefully they will work fine. Maybe I will look for the 51's...

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by weezer0321
I just purchased the EX71's tonight. I hooked them up and popped them in and....and.....and.....nothing in the right ear. Nothing at all. I fiddled with it and found out that there is a short in the extension cord. Without the extension it works great, other than that, a good nice sound. So tomorrow they are back to the store for another pair. Hopefully they will work fine. Maybe I will look for the 51's...

That's unfortunate... And they were brand new..? Odd.. Good luck with the new pair though...

-Dan

[weezer0321]

Yes they were brand new. I was rather disheartened. I wanted to get a taste of the fabled EX series sound, but it wasn't to be. Oh well, better luck tomorrow.

[weezer0321]

My patience is wearing thin....

So yesterday I get the EX-71's (brand new) and plug them in and there is no sound in the left ear when using the extension cord. Without it, full sound in both ears (See previous posts). Well today I went and exchanged them for another brand new pair which had the same problem. I had to go to straight to work from there so I didnt have time to return them before they closed, but I will definitely return them tomorrow and will check them before I leave the store.

What are the odds that two sets would both have the same malfunction??? Has anyone else had this problem or is it just me? Its rather odd. The good news is that since the earphones were just going to be sent back to the manufacturer, I was able to keep the medium set of silicone plugs. At least I'm getting something out of the hassle of multiple returns....

[allenf]

weezer0321,

This one has been raised before.
Are you pushing the short lead plug *right* into the female socket on the extension?
It should snap into place.

If you are, you have been really unlucky - like you say the odds of something like this happening twice with something this simple/mass produced goods coming off the line @ gazillion per second etc.

I like my white 71s, great vfm etc, but have a nagging feeling I should just have bought the Shure E3Cs in the first place - as it is just a matter of time...



:)

[-James]

Well i went ahead and order the EX71s in white last night, and am waiting longingly for them to be delivered.

[Super Steve]

I am waiting for my MDR-EX81sl to be deleivered...
the stock earbud quality is kiiiiilllllllllllllllllling me...

[Jackus]

Originally posted by allenf
weezer0321,

This one has been raised before.
Are you pushing the short lead plug *right* into the female socket on the extension?
It should snap into place.

If you are, you have been really unlucky - like you say the odds of something like this happening twice with something this simple/mass produced goods coming off the line @ gazillion per second etc.

I like my white 71s, great vfm etc, but have a nagging feeling I should just have bought the Shure E3Cs in the first place - as it is just a matter of time...



:)

Ha ha, can't believe how many new ones you have got... :)

Hold the extension bit in one hand, and the normal socket in the other. Push REALLY hard. You won't damage it. Push it REALLY hard. :p (What does that sound like...:rolleyes: )

It will click, and you'll have full sound!

[weezer0321]

Wow....I feel like an idiot. That worked. Im glad I read that before I went and got ANOTHER pair. But another pair of silicone bud's wouldn't have been too bad. I guess I didn't push it all the way in because I never try to strongarm electronics. Well thanks for the help. They work great.

[Jackus]

;) I did the same thing, took it into the sony centre... :)

They told me.. :)

[allenf]

Aah!

Don't ya love a tale with a happy ending!
:D

[weezer0321]

And they all lived Happily Ever After :)

[-James]

I know this question has probably been asked and answered countless times during the course of this thread's existence, but anyways, just to clarify - do the EX71's need to be burnt-in? And if so, how long for?

[allenf]

james_shadow07,

Yes - they definitely need running in.
Leave 'em overnight at a comfortable volume or just use them and live & learn a little. :)

(Long-winded rant follows..)

I bought my white 71s (one pair left hidden amongst a rack full of black ones lol) from the Dixons shop @ Waterloo station, opposite platform 4.
:)
First impressions on the train home were of heavy and ponderous bass, with a curiously "airless" and "notchy" mid + highs.
:(
Excellent @ blocking out the noisy old-rolling-stock train noises tho', just a bit of low-end rumble.

Then I did an extended session with the 71s plugged into the hi-fi, probably drank too much new-world red wine to be objective about it, but they sounded ok.

A few weeks later, with daily use they actually sound pretty respectable; the heaviness + airlessness is gone; and this is not a question of just getting used to them as I listen to a few different sources + combinations daily.

Cheers!

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by allenf
james_shadow07,

Yes - they definitely need running in.
Leave 'em overnight at a comfortable volume or just use them and live & learn a little. :)

(Long-winded rant follows..)

I bought my white 71s (one pair left hidden amongst a rack full of black ones lol) from the Dixons shop @ Waterloo station, opposite platform 4.
:)
First impressions on the train home were of heavy and ponderous bass, with a curiously "airless" and "notchy" mid + highs.
:(
Excellent @ blocking out the noisy old-rolling-stock train noises tho', just a bit of low-end rumble.

Then I did an extended session with the 71s plugged into the hi-fi, probably drank too much new-world red wine to be objective about it, but they sounded ok.

A few weeks later, with daily use they actually sound pretty respectable; the heaviness + airlessness is gone; and this is not a question of just getting used to them as I listen to a few different sources + combinations daily.

Cheers!

I'm not too sure about that.. The Sony's do not have professional drivers in them, and from my experiences with my 3 pairs in the past year, I have not really noticed either a physical burn-in or a mental burn-in... Burn-in is not normally needed for earphones, but some high end Etymotics and Shures may make good use of it. They are mainly used for big over the head, headphones, which have large powerful drivers.

Either way it can't hurt to give it a try if you want...

-Dan

[-James]

K, thanks for the info Doug and allenf.

[allenf]

Sure, they don't have "professional" drivers in 'em, but I noticed the difference - chalk & cheese.

Define "Professional Driver" please.

Not being aggressive - we could spin a whole new thread with this debate :)

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by allenf
Sure, they don't have "professional" drivers in 'em, but I noticed the difference - chalk & cheese.

Define "Professional Driver" please.

By professional driver, I mean a better, more precise driver, with better sound output. In the three pairs I had, I notice absolutely zero change.. I think it's more of a "princess and the pea" situation..

-Dan

[Jackus]

I didn't notice any difference in the sound of my ex71's after, say, a month, when they should have been burnt in...

[allenf]

Hah!

Edited reply after you posted.

I ain't gonna pretend that a pair of ??30 Sony buds represent the last word in audio reproduction, but...

better, more precise driver,

Ok, ok, received wisdom etc...and define "better sound output" (joke).

The internet is packed full of people expressing opinions as hard fact;
I know what I hear, and that is that.

Cheers.

[allenf]

Double post

[allenf]

Originally posted by Jackus
I didn't notice any difference in the sound of my ex71's after, say, a month, when they should have been burnt in...

Jeez, get yer ears syringed whydontcha!

:D :D

[Doug Gilmour]

Originally posted by allenf
Hah!

Edited reply after you posted.

I ain't gonna pretend that a pair of ??30 Sony buds represent the last word in audio reproduction, but...



Ok, ok, received wisdom etc...and define "better sound output" (joke).

The internet is packed full of people expressing opinions as hard fact;
I know what I hear, and that is that.

Cheers.

That's fine with me, I don't believe in it, and I think it's a placebo, but as long as you are enjoying them it doesn't really matter.. I'll be getting my Shure E3c's soon and will test this "burn-in" on them and see how they compare to the non-existent (for me that is) one on the Sony's..

-Dan

[allenf]

Originally posted by Doug Gilmour
That's fine with me, I don't believe in it, and I think it's a placebo, but as long as you are enjoying them it doesn't really matter.. I'll be getting my Shure E3c's soon and will test this "burn-in" on them and see how they compare to the non-existent (for me that is) one on the Sony's..

-Dan

Indeed.

Earlier in the thread I mentioned that I should "have just bought the E3C's in the first place"!

No placebo - like I said, I hear what I hear - no deficiency implied in the rest of the population - I hear what I hear.

Enjoy!

[jwc110869]

I think there alot of poeple, who visit this forum, who want to progress up the ladder of earphone quality. But I also think we can all agree that these Sony earphones are a great starting point.

[allenf]

jwc110869,

Yes, civilisation!

Cheers.

[Doug Gilmour]

Agreed, they are good earphones, especially for the price! Of course the Shures and others will sound better, but that's at a price...

-Dan

[LinkTree]

Originally posted by jwc110869
I think there alot of poeple, who visit this forum, who want to progress up the ladder of earphone quality. But I also think we can all agree that these Sony earphones are a great starting point.

Yep Yep Yep..
Its good to know that some ppl in the " The Sony MDR-EX51LP/EX71SL Maintenance FAQ" can say that they are OK...
I know that the others are better and I guess I'll be moving up someday - but for the starting point - I think they are better then the pair shipped with the POD...

[[zerophase]]

if you say they break so easily should i still bother buying them? i want them to last like at least a year... are there any better ones that are comfortable, nice sound, and last long that aren't over 100 or so? thanks

[dwchin]

Mine never broke and I'm not especially careful with earphones that don't cost me more than $50. I'm going to say that as long as you don't just yank them out of your ears (which you shouldn't do with any headphones/earphones to begin with) then they should be fine.

[xtreme1sound]

Originally posted by rob7897
Anyone know where i can get ex71 whites in the UK?
If not, shipped to the UK?
hey I bought mine here
Ex71 (http://www.igearbox.com/product_info.php?products_id=28)

[xtreme1sound]

Originally posted by rob7897
Anyone know where i can get ex71 whites in the UK?
If not, shipped to the UK?
hey I bought mine here
Ex71 (http://www.igearbox.com/product_info.php?products_id=28)

[Super Steve]

i got ex81sl finally

SO MUCH BETTER SOUND QUALITY then the pos stock...

I've read they are adjuastable...
how do you adjuast them?
do you have to loosen the screw?
there are 2 visible screws per earphone, which one do you fiddle with?

thanks so much guys

[rob7897]

Ended up getting them for ??24.99 at www.unbeatable.co.uk
(well, the wife did - my xmas pressie!)

[rob7897]

correction, ??25.99 + ??1.50 P&P, and they are shown as awaiting stock as the apparently order them on demand.
http://www.unbeatable.co.uk/CatalogueItem_23302.html

[Super Steve]

Originally posted by Super Steve
i got ex81sl finally

SO MUCH BETTER SOUND QUALITY then the pos stock...

I've read they are adjuastable...
how do you adjuast them?
do you have to loosen the screw?
there are 2 visible screws per earphone, which one do you fiddle with?

thanks so much guys
ttt
anyone know?

[-James]

My EX71's got delivered today. Can someone tell me how far you're actually meant to insert the earphones into your ear. Is the entire end bit meant to be inside? Or just half of it? I just want to be careful not to insert them in too far and have the tip get stuck in my ear canal or something. Thanks in advance.

[weezer0321]

I have never taken a look at how far in my ear they go, but they go until they stop. Dont force them in too far, but when you feel them stop....stop. I'm sure there is a better way to describe how far they are to be put in, but that is how I do it... Dont worry about the tips getting stuck in your ears. They are on there good.