[Matsu]

Since my wife got an iPhone, I repo'd her nano (6th gen). OMG, this thing sounds like crap. Tinny and harsh, and next to no low frequency response to go along with the brittle MP3 sound. I'm hoping there's an inexpensive set of earbuds than can alleviate this condition. Recommends?

[screensaver400]

The Meelectronics line has some nice options at good prices. I have the M9, which are pretty cheap, but they have some higher end products too.

[Eugene]

How inexpensive?

$13

Too many IEMs compared

[Elysium]

Originally Posted by Eugene How inexpensive? Too many IEMs compared

I have the previous version of the Monoprice 8320 (MEP-933) $7.11

I can say that the review that Eugene posted is pretty spot on. Good comfort in the over the ear style and good range for the sound.

[Brad]

Originally Posted by Elysium I have the previous version of the Monoprice 8320 (MEP-933) $7.11

Really? I got that one and it was utter garbage. Right into the bin. Bad, muddy, bass-heavy sound. Uncomfortable fit. Terrible noisy cloth cable. I'm really surprised to see it get such a glowing review from that head-fi thread.

And I have low standards because I just use them for going on a treadmill to work out.

For $2.50 less this pair was actually much better:

Button Design Noise Isolating Earphones $4.54

These things from monoprice are so cheap I usually get a few different types all at once to find one I like. They seem to get a different selection about once a year or so.

[Matsu]

Holy earbuds that's a lot of reviews there Eugene.

I was going to call this thread, "Why does my iPod Nano sound like crap?" - but like so many things these days millions of customers are thrilled with them, so I'll settle for an inexpensive remedy to something that Apple's unlikely to change, that may in fact get worse. This problem sounds deeper than just the ear-buds. I remember my old 3rd gen iPod sounding a lot better than this, even my Blackberry sounds a lot better, though music on it is a pain in other ways. It's almost like the Nano has a seriously overdriven amp section and is in need of very smooth yet efficient earbuds with really good isolation. Apple's buds can't seal out even moderate noise at the gym - even when you raise the volume to the point where every negative aspect of their sound becomes evident. I thought about Apple's ear canal phones - not sure if they'll be worth it at $90. I'm not against spending that much - probably my limit - but maybe something better can be had for the same dosh?

[Elysium]

Originally Posted by Brad Really? I got that one and it was utter garbage. Right into the bin. Bad, muddy, bass-heavy sound. Uncomfortable fit. Terrible noisy cloth cable. I'm really surprised to see it get such a glowing review from that head-fi thread. And I have low standards because I just use them for going on a treadmill to work out. For $2.50 less this pair was actually much better: Button Design Noise Isolating Earphones $4.54 These things from monoprice are so cheap I usually get a few different types all at once to find one I like. They seem to get a different selection about once a year or so.

Could be that I got lucky and the previous design that I had was the slam dunk, and the current one is garbage.

[Eugene]

Well supposedly you can get the Apple in-ear phones for ~$35 on eBay. Just have to make sure they're the genuine product in the listing since there are many lookalike products.

[Matsu]

But are they any good? I'd spend up to about $100 for really great earbuds with decent sound isolation, if not outright noise cancellation. I'd spend more one headphones, but they're of no use at the gym or under a helmet.

I really think the amp section on the nano is weird, weak with too much gain, at least that's the way it sounds to me. There are a couple of predefined curves to improve things at the expense of volume. OTOH, all my blackberries have had really good sound. Our office has at least one drawer full of leftover BB accessories - including earbuds. I'm going to try them and see - best price of all, free!

Not sure if Apple's FM antennae is incorporated into the headphone wires. If so, will a third party set ruin the FM reception? Guess I'll find out later today...