An advertised brand is not a guarantee of high quality products. And sometimes even the most popular headphones cannot boast of good sound. Roskachestvo specialists conducted research on the sound quality in gadgets of the most popular brands and determined which of them do not live up to the declared characteristics. The list of 10 fashionable, but at the same time very mediocre models with poor sound included 10 items from well-known manufacturers.
AFTERSHOKZ OpenMove, Aeropex and Trekz Titanium
Three models from the same manufacturer in different price categories, but with almost identical shortcomings. The sound quality was rated as low by both experts and ordinary users.
The sound of wireless headphones with support for bone conduction technology remains mediocre at any tone. Neither volume, nor genre, nor device adjustments help fix the problem. The sound seems to flow past the user, which is not surprising considering the design of the models.
Those around you will hear the content being played at almost the same volume as the user himself.
The model range is made of cheap and fragile plastic, which also affects their quality. Devices quickly break down and are not convenient to use.
How active noise cancellation works
Active noise reduction technology migrated to household appliances from military equipment: already in the mid-20th century, such systems were used to reduce noise levels in airplane and helicopter cabins. The first over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation were created by The History of Headphones for helicopters in 1957.
The technology was adapted for home use by Bose - it was its headphones that became noise-canceling pioneers in the consumer electronics market in 1989.
The operating principle is as follows: a system of microphones determines the noise level around the headphones, and then a signal with the same amplitude, but in antiphase, is reproduced in the speakers. As a result, noise and anti-noise waves cancel each other out. Of course, in order for an antiphase wave to be created, the headphones must be connected to some kind of power source, which is why such a system is called active.
Image: Alina Rand/Lifehacker
Implementing it in practice is not as easy as it seems. It's all about the very nature of sound. Generating a signal in antiphase is a difficult task: it must be done quickly and accurately. Quickly, because the noise can change, for example, in a cafe, cups are knocking on saucers, or someone is being congratulated on his birthday, that is, the sound background is not constant and you need to adapt to it. Precisely, because deviation between phase and anti-phase can lead to unpleasant distortion.
This is why active noise reduction works best with monotonous low-frequency sounds like the hum of an airplane engine or ventilation. They have a more or less constant amplitude, and the wavelength at low frequencies is quite long and forgives some discrepancy between signals in phase and antiphase. In the case of a cafe, the basis of the noise is created by mid- and high-frequency sounds, whose wavelength is much shorter and the amplitude changes more sharply - they have higher requirements for an antiphase signal.
Modern active noise reduction systems do not yet have sufficient computing power to silence the conversations of strangers and sudden noise. But they cope well with monotonous background noise.
HOUSE OF MARLEY
Stylish in-ear headphones that disappointed experts with sound quality. The environmentally friendly materials that were used to produce the model, unfortunately, did not have a positive effect on ergonomics and sound transmission.
Only an unspoiled listener can enjoy the sound quality from HOUSE OF MARLEY. The bass is barely audible, speech hisses, and such characteristics cannot be highly appreciated by modern users. The earbuds themselves often fall out of the ears, letting sound through.
Surprises
In fact, the Creative SB E1 is not just an amplifier, but also a sound card, a built-in high-quality microphone, a splitter for two pairs of headphones and much more.
When connected to a laptop (and installing the appropriate software), E1 is defined as an external audio adapter. The built-in microphone is a hundred times better than any webcam (especially on inexpensive laptop models), the sound is clean and crisp, there is a minimum of debris and noise. Just five points. One audio output turns into two: you can connect two pairs of headphones (for example, for a Skype call or watch movies together), or output the signal, say, to external speakers. Well, suddenly you need it.
In general, this little box allows you to connect a pair of headphones to a smartphone, improve the quality of communication (the microphone in it is what you need, the noise reduction works great), and work as an external sound card. We've talked about how to turn very quiet music into loud music, so we can move on to the main topic - hearing health.
MARSHALL
Wireless headphones with support for the Siri voice assistant. The model boasts good bass audibility, but this did not affect the sound quality in any way. The melody sounds rather mediocre, without depth.
There are also problems with volume control; the device takes too long to respond to pressure.
The model is quite compact, but the low-quality material quickly heats up and makes the headphones heavier. Sound leakage is big. On top of everything else, you won't be able to listen to music at high volume in public places without the reproachful glances of others.
How to increase headphone volume on Android
Some dissatisfaction may arise, that is, the sound may be too quiet or, on the contrary, too loud. If the user is not satisfied with the sound in the headphones, then he can use various means. There are a total of 4 methods available to Android owners:
- Built-in telephone function;
- Specialized applications;
- Installing an amplifier on headphones;
- By setting up system files;
- Using the engineering menu.
Note! Before performing any manipulations with the phone itself or the headphones, you need to try the built-in functions of the phone. It often happens that they are enough for high-quality setup, so there is no need to resort to other methods.
By standard means
Standard methods are divided into two types: push-button and using settings.
The first method is known to all Android owners, and not only others. In principle, changing using buttons is very popular, convenient and not new. Using the buttons on the side panels of the phone will change the volume in the headphones on any Android.
There is a control panel on the side. Adjusting the volume up and down buttons will cause the sound to change in strength according to the buttons.
The top button indicates increasing the sound volume. The bottom button is used to decrease the volume. If the user presses one of the buttons, a characteristic change will automatically appear on the screen indicating the sound settings.
The second way is settings. As a rule, all sounds on the phone are divided into 3 large categories:
- Calls;
- Multimedia;
- Alarm.
Some devices also have a notification sound.
When pressing the sound buttons, the user can see characteristic changes in these indicators. The indicator depends on what action the user performs. If he watches a video, the multimedia indicator will change. If the user sets an alarm, the corresponding indicator will change.
Thus, in the settings you can change the corresponding sound. To do this you need:
- Go to settings, which are located on the main screen and resemble a gear;
- In the settings, go to the “Device” section and find the “Sound” menu. Click on it;
- The sound and volume settings section opens. Depending on the user's needs, it changes and adjusts the sound.
Using standard tools, you can also change the sound and volume in general in the headphones.
The location of the settings and the names of the items depend on the user’s phone model, operating system, and other important parameters.
Using apps
There is also an additional way to increase the volume - using additional and specialized applications. A more detailed analysis of some can be seen in this video.
Nowadays, the most popular applications on the market are:
- Volume Booster;
- Sound amplifier from FeniKsenua.
Both applications are available in the official source on Android, which is why the user can choose any of them and use it to enlarge.
Volume Booster
The first application is minimalistic and concise, which is why it has become so loved by many. Although it does not have any additional functions, it is great for those who do not need more.
The application only has a volume increase slider, as well as a check that can be done by clicking on the player sign. It has the only drawback - a large number of advertisements, which can irritate the user. If this does not bother him, then he can simply and easily download it and use it for its intended purpose.
Sound amplifier from FeniKsenua
The second application is not as minimalistic and simple as the first. Although it does not have additional functionality, a person can first raise and lower the volume on the phone itself, and then use additional amplification. This setting will allow you to make the most of the system's capabilities.
One main disadvantage of this program is the huge amount of advertising, which can also irritate the user. It is worth noting that all applications that provide free access have advertising in their interface. If a person wants to get rid of it, then, as a rule, he has to buy additional applications or subscribe.
Dedicated external amplifier
Also, when you connect the headphones to the phone, you can already carry out some manipulations and increase the volume. There are specialized amplifiers that are connected through headphones to the phone. Such an amplifier is sold in any technical store.
The only disadvantage of such a system is that such an amplifier not only weighs quite a lot, but also takes up a decent amount of space. This may be a problem for those who frequently use headphones to listen to music.
The connection procedure itself is simple and intuitive. You only need to use a special cable to first connect the headphones to the device, and then the device itself to Android. This can very well increase the volume of the music the user listens to through the telephone system.
Sometimes such an amplifier is not even needed. Many headphones have a built-in amplifier.
The advantages of such a device include, first of all, the fact that it works perfectly. This method perfectly helps to adjust high-quality sound without additional settings on the phone itself. Some amplifiers even have additional features. For example, on some you can adjust the sound frequency, as well as perform other manipulations.
The amplifier is chosen by those users who do not want to understand the phone system itself. Numerous settings can be intimidating for the user, so this method can be used.
Changing system files
The user can also take advantage of the opportunity to change system files. This method is quite complicated and requires additional skills to properly adjust the sound on your phone. The very essence is that programs or the “body” of the file are opened in a special notepad. Next, the user makes some changes, thereby changing the sound.
For this you need to perform the following algorithm:
- First, you need to check whether your phone is rooted. This is done using a program. More details about such rights can be seen in the video below;
- Next, you need to install Explorer with root rights. ES Explorer is best suited for this;
- After installing it, open it and go to the main menu, located in the upper left corner. Afterwards, select “root explorer” from the proposed menu and click on it;
- We look at the picture below and look for exactly the same path. Next, open this file using a pre-installed explorer;
- Afterwards, we use the search and enter the query shown in the picture. We find the item that is also presented in the picture. Remember the number after the “RX” value. In our case it is “3”;
- We return to the very first move and find the line with the value “ctl.name...” and substitute the number that we memorized earlier;
- The volume replacement occurs in the same line next to the final value.
Note! You don't need to set large numbers, otherwise it will be really loud.
After this, the sound on the device will change. The main thing in this scheme is to remember the number and carefully monitor those files that change.
How to boost the sound on your phone using headphones through the engineering menu
The engineering menu is the last resort available to the user. To amplify sound through the engineering menu, you need to have sufficient knowledge and skills in the field of technology:
- First you need to launch the application through which all phone calls are usually made;
- Next, you need to enter the following combination into the window where the number is usually dialed, which is shown in the picture. In general, the choice of combination depends on the phone brand, as well as on other indicators, such as the operating system and many others;
- Then the engineering menu opens, where you need to select the field with Audio;
- There are 4 sound indicators available in this field: the normal mode is responsible for the sound without headphones, the hard mode is the sound with headphones, the low speaking mode is responsible for adjusting the volume, and the third and second together form the same thing as the previous item, only with headphones together. Select the one you need;
- The settings will open where you need to set the desired volume. After setting the value, click on the “Set” button.
This way you can change the volume through the engineering menu.
JBL
Wireless headphones with the ability to connect a cable when the battery is low. The device looks stylish, but is not durable, especially the cable. Spare earbuds allow you to operate the device with maximum comfort.
But problems may arise with the sound, especially for those around you.
Too much sound leakage is the main drawback of the model. Complaints may also arise regarding the bass volume. This sound drowns out other tones and can cause headaches.
The best programs for sound amplification
Standard Windows sound software is not always sufficient to obtain the best results. Third-party programs for controlling and amplifying sound will help you unlock your full audio potential. As I already wrote, there are quite a few such utilities; you can get confused when choosing. Therefore, I want to recommend the best, in my opinion, programs.
Equalizer apo
This program contains a huge set of tools for improving sound. You can configure a huge number of frequencies, as well as each audio stream separately. It’s convenient because you can customize it to suit yourself, removing unnecessary blocks. Works great with Windows 10 components. The only negative is the program does not have a Russian language.
Pros of Equalizer apo:
- Suitable for software and equipment of any level;
- Possibility of individual customization;
- There are many ready-made profiles;
- Quick installation;
- Takes up little memory;
- Free to use.
https://equalizerapo.com/
Sound booster
An easy-to-use utility aimed at maximizing sound amplification. The disadvantage is that it is a paid service. There is a trial period of 2 weeks. Someone is downloading illegally.
Positive aspects of the utility for quiet audio devices:
- Increases volume up to 500%;
- Allows you to adjust the sound so that it is clear;
- Very simple interface;
- In Russian;
- Can be configured to autostart with Windows;
- You can come up with and customize your own hotkey combinations to control the sound of headphones or speakers.
Author's note! I wouldn't recommend turning the knob up to 500%; you'll ruin the speakers.
Viper4windows
A very interesting program with wide functionality. Here you can boost the volume, select profiles for different uses, as well as modes for different headphone models. Plus a good equalizer, the ability to level the sound, work with any frequencies, and much more, you can play with it for a long time and it’s interesting. In addition, the utility is free and can be used in Russian. Although some wrote about the need to additionally transfer a special file to the program folder. Everything worked for me in Russian right away. I won’t even list the advantages. Thanks to this program, you can make sound of any level on equipment of any level (well, almost). That is, the effect of a home theater through headphones, etc. And absolutely free. Link to 4pda.
From the author: Dear reader, tell me how you restored the normal headphone volume on Windows 10? Did you use any utilities to improve/strengthen the sound? Which method really helped?
SONY
Headphones with a soft neck strap and a microphone disappointed many experts with their sound. Too loud bass quickly tires, the melody loses its beauty and rhythm. But Sony did a good job on the sound leak.
Even at maximum volume, your favorite track will not disturb others.
There are also no complaints about the convenience and build quality of the model. The only drawback is the inconvenient location of the control keys, which leads to numerous errors. The ergonomics are also poor - the volume buttons are too close to the call answer key.
Microphone noise is one of the many causes of interference in headphones
We have looked at the possible sources of the noise problem in headphones, which relate to material interference, but now we are left with problems that relate to the setup of computer equipment.
One of the most common causes of noise in headphones is noise from the sound card microphone.
Even if you don't have a microphone connected to your sound card, you may experience noise from the microphone jack.
In order to test this hypothesis, you need to go to the sound volume settings of your sound card, find the slider that adjusts the microphone volume level and reduce it to zero. Or, if possible, turn off the sound from the microphone altogether.
If the noise in the headphones was caused by the microphone input, then turning off the sound from it should completely correct the situation.
In order to get to the microphone volume settings, open the control panel, find the
“Hardware and Sound” and go to it.
Now find the “Sound” and go to it.
In the sound settings window, go to the “Recording” , then find the active microphone (in my case it’s the Sound Blaster ZxR microphone), select it and click on the “Properties” in the lower right corner.
In the new window, find the “Levels” , and either move the microphone volume slider as far to the left as possible until its value reaches zero, or click on the blue speaker icon, which is located to the right of the volume indicator.
A red crossed out sign should appear next to the speaker. This icon will indicate that the microphone is completely muted on the system. It is preferable to turn it off, and not just lower the volume level. One type of problem with the microphone input or the microphone itself is its high sensitivity. This problem can be solved by turning on the microphone noise reduction mode.
Almost all modern sound cards have this mode. If you find out that the reason for the crackling noise is the microphone, but you need it, then try turning on the noise reduction mode if it is available. This should solve the problem.
Return to the list of causes of noise
JABRA
Wireless in-ear headphones, which are designed without a JABRA cable connection, are protected from dust and moisture, and boast fairly convenient controls. There is also support for voice assistants from Google and Apple.
The playback quality is quite mediocre. The sound is somewhere far away, and high tones play annoyingly loud. The melody lacks sharpness and rhythm. There are no problems with voice quality.
The model supports an equalizer, but even that is not enough to set the optimal sound. At the same time, JABRA owners will not disturb others with their music, thanks to minimal sound leakage.
The main thing in headphones of any type and design is the quality of sound transmission. Music of any genre, as well as voices, should sound clear, without extraneous noise or distortion. However, not all manufacturers manage to produce products that meet even these minimum requirements, as evidenced by the models discussed above.
Problems with the sound source
There are several hardware problems that cause deterioration in sound volume.
- Connection to a USB port. The USB connector may break. This is explained by the frequent switching on and off of electronic devices. If there is a problem, the sound may become quieter or disappear completely. To eliminate the defect, the connector must be replaced.
- Front panel connection. If the sound card on the front panel is faulty, the sound may be low. The problem may also be with the connectors. This computer element requires repair. You should first make sure that the audio accessory works with other devices.
- Drivers are to blame. A popular reason is faulty or outdated drivers. It is recommended to download them from the official websites of the manufacturers. There is also a possibility of driver conflicts with each other. To resolve problems with quiet sound, it is recommended to adhere to the following algorithm. Go to the official address of the manufacturer, familiarize yourself with the current versions of drivers. If you do not want to constantly monitor updates, it is recommended to download an application that independently checks the relevance of drivers in the background.
- You can update an outdated version using the device manager.
- You need to select sound devices, right-click and go to the “Update” tab. Any icons near the inscription of sound devices symbolize possible errors and malfunctions.
The main reasons for the deterioration of headphone sound
Perhaps the most common reason that your headphones become quieter is dirty sound output channels. After all, even in the cleanest room there are dust particles that settle everywhere. In addition, sweat generated by the human body can also accumulate on the surface of the device. And over time, turn into deposits of salts and other substances. All this leads to the fact that the sound is no longer easily disrupted, which means we hear it worse.
It is possible that while using the headphones, the owner changed the settings on his smartphone or computer. As a result, the sound may change to a duller sound. It is enough to return the settings to what they were before so that the device works stably again. In addition to contamination of the protective grid and settings, there may be more serious causes of failure. If the headphones have been subjected to shock or exposure to water, you may need to seek professional help. Because cleaning alone won't help matters.
A thin wire is also a common cause of headphone failure. The sound may change if part of its vein is broken or torn. In some expensive headphone models, even after connecting the broken wires, the device may not work.
Checking the overall level or volume limits if the sound is quiet
If the headphones are still playing quietly
, you need to check the system volume settings on the source. There may be restrictions on the overall level or volume of a specific application. Also, in the case of a computer, you can try reinstalling the drivers.
Android phones often have a system volume limit to protect hearing. Usually the system warns about this. To be sure, go to the settings and check this point.
