Why You Can Trust CNET Get an Altec Lansing Muzx stereo headset for $12.99
These noise-isolating earbuds are perfect for smartphones, as they have an inline microphone for carrying on conversations.
During my recent vacation, I rediscovered the importance of owning good headphones. Specifically, noise-isolating earbud 'phones, the kind that allow you to watch a movie on an airplane, listen to music in a noisy coffee shop, and go for a run without wind noise drowning out your tunes.
Alas, my earbuds are always going missing--or getting permanently "borrowed" by certain family members who shall remain nameless (all of them). That's why when I see a deal, I like to stock up.
While supplies last, J&R has the Altec Lansing Muzx Core MZX206 noise-isolating stereo headset for $12.99, plus $2.99 for shipping. Even better, if you grab two pairs, shipping is free.
Update: Rats! Sold out already, at least at J&R. Sorry about that, folks!
These are new, not refurbished (are earphones ever refurbished?), and they usually sell for $20. So although the savings here aren't mammoth, this still qualifies as deal-worthy.
What I like about these is that they're not some no-brand earbuds. Altec Lansing has a good reputation for making good audio products. I have a couple Altec speaker docks, and they're excellent.
The Muzx Core comes with small, medium, and large ear cushions so you can get just the right fit for your ear canals.
Even better, it has a cloth cord, which is less likely to get tangled than a traditional plastic-coated cord. (I say this having used both; cloth is way better.)
Embedded in that cord is an inline microphone, making the Muxz Core an ideal choice for smartphone users. With the press of its tiny button, you can place, answer, or end a call. (The button also lets you play/pause music.)
if you don't like the stock earbuds that came with your MP3 player or smartphone, I suspect you'll like these a lot better. I'm in that camp: earbuds hurt my ears, but earphones slip comfortably into my ear canals--and sound comparatively fabulous. Put me down for two pairs.
Bonus deal: Now you just need some good tunes to play. Today only, Amazon MP3 and Google Play are offering Coldplay's new album, "Mylo Xyloto," for just 25 cents. I won't say it's my favorite Coldplay album, but for two bits? Hard to pass up!
Bonus deal No. 2: Today only, Woot has the iGo battery charger and eight AA rechargeable batteries for $9.99, plus $5 for shipping. This four-position charger can accommodate both AA and AAA sizes, in any combination, and it works with both rechargeable alkaline and NiMH cells. Sold!