If you think there’s something wrong with the idea of “seeing sound,” you obviously haven’t tried iBlink Stereo Gel Earbuds yet. The set we got to review came with White/Power Pink LED lights, but there are other combos to choose from (i.e., if you’re not a girl or just plain hate pink). Read on to find out how these new earbuds actually let you see the sound coming from your MP3 Player.
Stand Outs
Any electronics store offers tons of choices when it comes to cheap earbuds – and most of them tend to blend into the crowd. Not iBlinks. These little beauties – which are fully compatible with most iPods, iPhones and MP3 Players – include integrated LED lights on the earbuds themselves that actually blink with the music, adding a little pizzazz to your normal listening routine.
Glowing Gimmick
Basically, we thought these were a fun and different choice when it comes to inexpensive earbuds. Just be warned – it’s not their sound quality that makes them a cool gadget to buy. The silicone ear gels fit pretty well (unless you’ve got tiny ears, like me – I actually found them very large and uncomfortable, almost to the point of hurting) and they block out most other sounds (not the person talking on their cell beside you on the bus, though), but don’t cop them if you’re looking to amazing sound quality. It’s their little blinking lights that make them special.
As for the blinking LED lights, you can choose from three hues: power pink, electric blue or hot white. The lights can be found on both earpieces and are supposed to blink the beat of whatever song you happen to be listening to – but they don’t. They just sort of flash with the overall sound or, at best, seem to be driven by the vocals some of the time. Still, they stay in step with the music and actually look kinda cool flashing in your ears as you bop along.
Bottom Line
iBlink Earbuds are pretty much what you’d expect to get for about $20. The sound quality, while not wonderful, is decent, the fit is fine and the blinking lights are a fun added touch. But if sound is the most important think you look for in headphones or earbuds, move on.
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Buy the IBLINK WLW1 Earbuds with LED Lights (Pink with White LED Lights) (ask parents for permission first)
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