iPod iPod Shuffle Earphones with control for running?

[dodgie]

Hi,

I use my iPod Shuffle (3G) when running and am getting fed up with the provided headphones going haywire typically halfway through my run. I've read loads of posts about them not getting on too well with sweat etc... and my problem seems to fit the same description, so I am looking for some recommendations for a replacement.

Ideally sub-£50 in-ear style with iPod Shuffle controls on that you guys currently use in the gym or for running where they won't fail at the first sign of a bit of sweat and result in me having to run the remainder of my route listening to the track name and then playlist name being constantly read out!

I thought about getting one of those in-line control adapters, but the two I've found on Amazon have had atrocious reviews with regard to sweat and general build quality for running.

So, what do you guys use? Someone out there must be using a Shuffle for music while running?

Rich

 

[dodgie]

hmm, am I the only one who uses an iPod Shuffle for running then?

 

[mojohanna]

I had the same problem. Did you take advantage of Apple's replacement program? Check their site and your serial # to see if yours is eligible.

I got the new ones and have been using them for a couple of weeks with no issues.

 

[Ramunas]

I've got the same problem. The controls are not working anymore after few months of use. I'm looking for an alternative to apple's headphones.

 

[dodgie]

Hi,

Thanks for your replies, I have used the warranty exchange scheme, but have yet to use the replacement ones for running as I could not see any differences between the old and replacement ones so fear these would be just as susceptible to moisture damage.

Has anyone else not had a problem with the replacements for running?

Rich

 

[Jason Beck]

I went through a few pairs with mine, and got so fed up I got rid of it. I am a distance runner and typically run over 40 miles a week. Around 39 minutes in my run when the sweat starts coming down, as soon as it gets in the controls, they got unresponsive. I hated those headphones.

If someone who actually sweats and runs can try the new ones out, please let us know. Like actually sweats. A real runner can't use the old headphones. I ended up wrapping the box in saran wrap and that worked for a while.. but I gave up.

I liked the shuffle, it was awesome. But I just got the uhh... RCA Opal? from WalMart for 40 bucks and it's 4 gigs, has a radio, an equalizer, and plays video and you just drag and drop your mp3 albums into the drive that shows up in OSX. It works beautifully. Or you can just use Middleman for itunes and sync a playlist. So far it's been awesome.

Besides, I converted to some in-ear buds for some wicked base. I liked the Apple buds, but these are much better. When I am running I get the bass pounding, it's rad. I know you can use third party buds on the new shuffle... but with an adapter. So... I probably won't go back. If your a runner, and don't mind wearing an armband, check out the Opal. It's neat.

Apple! Fix the shuffle! Take off the in-line controls, and make it like the old shuffle with the controls on the unit. I had a previous gen shuffle and that thing rocked!

 

[dodgie]

Hi Jason,

That's the kind of times and distances I'm talking about, and they are useless. I've inspected both the old and replacement ones and there are no differences whatsoever between them so I can't see how they would be any different. I'll just keep them incase I ever sell it on.

It's annoying as I actually quite liked the fact that the iPod headphones were a looser fit, meant I coul dstill hear traffic noise etc.... as where I live it's hard to run out anywhere for a distance without crossing roads or going down country lanes.

Hmmmm, the search goes on I guess...

Rich

 

[Christer]

If you're willing to step up a bit in price, you could take a look at the Klipsch Image s4i (around £85 on Amazon). Although they're a headset intended for iPhone use, they claim full iPod Shuffle 3G compatibility.

The isolation is comparable to Apple's in-ears with remote and mic (meaning you are not completely isolated from your surroundings while running).

The sound quality is pretty decent, more or less comparable to Apple's in-ears. The high frequencies seemed a bit more pronounced in comparison, but to me it's more a matter of different rather than better or worse. They're not quite up to par with my older Shure e3c:s though.

On my runs, I've never had any problems with the remote going crazy. But then again, I usually stick to 5km runs (both in and outdoors) so I don't know how they'd perform at a longer distance. I tend to have the remote routed under my t-shirt though and I'm sure it can handle at least some sweating.

Overall build-quality is good. The wires are a bit thicker and the connection points feel a bit better.