CX 300

We've reviewed plenty of headphones here at the GoodGearGuide. So much so that our editor seems intent on going into a fit as soon as we even begin to mention the dreaded 'H' word. However, when we heard about the Sennheiser CX 300, we weren't prepared to let this opportunity slip, despite what the boss thinks. [Editor's Note: This is otherwise known as a CLM (Career Limiting Move)].

The CX 300's are consumer ear-canal phones which are targeted at younger customers who prefer small ear-buds, but still want quality sound, and let's face it; most of the headphones that are packed in with any sort of music players are as far away from quality as you could imagine. Trust us. So, do the CX 300's stack up?

Well, we definitely think so. For starters, they are quite attractive. We tested the Silver model, which uses a black cord and ear buds, and the colour contrast is quite aesthetically pleasing. The earphone itself is finished in two tones of silver; a brushed look (if you look really close) for the rounded ends and more of a chrome finish on the ring which holds the seal. The earphones themselves are quite small, and when they are firmly in your ear, they aren't the type to attract any unwanted attention. In fact, we feel that they are perfect for those trips to and from work on the train.

For canal phones to be effective, a perfect fit is needed inside your ear. To help you as much as possible in your quest to achieve this, Sennheiser has included three interchangeable rubber ear adapters (small, medium and large sizes). Unfortunately only rubber ear tips are included; many other companies who produce canal phones also include different style foam tips, which provide an even better seal than the rubber ones. Still, this is a matter of personal opinion and with the three different sizes offered, we feel that whatever you ear size you should be able to get a perfect fit with at least one.

Now for the crunch; sound quality. You'll be pleased to hear that we were quite happy with the CX 300's. They aren't going to make you sit up and scream out "wow", but they do the job they are intended to do and all in all, they do it pretty well. For this price, we can't complain at all. They provide a solid level of sound and certainly heap more misery on the poor headphones that are packed with MP3 players.

Undoubtedly the best feature of the CX 300's is the powerful bass they provide. While canal phones tend to shy away from bass, the CX 300's have taken a different turn, providing deep, powerful bass without ruining the clarity in the higher ranges. The bass is not overwhelming at all and it seems as though Sennheiser has struck an almost perfect balance juggling this important quality with the mid range. The latter isn't as detailed or responsive as some other models, but we are talking a pretty substantial difference in price here, so this is understandable.