Earbud Optimized

Proper reproduction of natural sound typically requires accurate, high-quality headphones. We learned early on that our recordings lost much of their realism when using earbud-style headphones like the stock Apple earphones that come with every iPod and iPhone. Since they are by far the most common headphone in use these days, we immediately developed a mastering process that corrected for their particular spectral signature. We did not expect however, that it would be so effective. With this proprietary mastering process, our "Earbud Optimized Series" accurately reproduces the holographic imaging that is the cornerstone of our recordings when using earbud-style headphones. We believe they are the finest reproduction of natural sounds available for the entire earbud family of headphones. No matter how good the recording is, when it comes to nature and earbuds, this process is a mandatory step in creating a true “being there” experience. It really is amazing.

What's an earbud?
The term earbud is often incorrectly used, so it can be a bit confusing. Earbuds are headband-free lightweight headphones that sit directly outside the ear but do not create a seal or block external sound. A prime example of earbuds are the earphones that ship with the Apple iPod or iPhone. There are others, but they are less common. Do not mistake in-ear monitors with earbuds. In-ear monitors, also known as canalphones, are inserted directly into the ear canal and usually have a foam or silicone sleeve that creates a form-fitting seal to isolate the listener from external sound. Some examples of in-ear monitors are the Etymotic ER4P, Shure EC2 and SE 110, Bose tri-port In- ear, or Ultimate Ears SuperFi 5. When using in-ear monitors, you will typically want to listen to the Full Spectrum Series version of our catalog. Remember, when you buy a track from us, you automatically get both. Just make sure you are using the correct version for your headphone type. The Full Spectrum Series has black album artwork, the Earbud Optimized Series has white album artwork.

To make it easy for you, when you purchase a track from us you actually get two files: the Full Spectrum version and the Earbud Optimized version. We do this because not everyone uses earbuds, and for those that do, many also own a higher quality pair of headphones. Because the Earbud Optimized Series is typically only valid when listening with earbuds, we give you both versions so you don't have to commit to one or the other.

Information for other headphones.