With Christmas fast approaching, you’re probably thinking about getting gifts for friends and family, or indeed yourself (you deserve it!). Of the numerous gifts you could think about buying, a set of headphones is one of the more practical gifts you can give (or get) that can be enjoyed instantly. However, with so many options to choose from how do you pick the right set of cans for you?
A timely release from Ministry of Sound seems quite apt then, with its new line of cans and earphones read to rock our blocks off. Ministry of Sound, in its 20th anniversary year, looks to pump two decades of audio expertise into its new range. It made sense to us at Elysium Towers that we should get hands-on with its best cans – the MOS006 – and put it through its paces so that you can benefit from our judgement. So gentlemen, start up your iPods please.
Department of Design
The first thing you’ll notice about these cans is the high level of build quality and design. The cans feel sturdy in the hand and this bodes well for an afternoon of rough and tumble at the bottom of our man bag when not in use. The high grade anodised aluminium cups definitely gives a premium feel to it, while the adjustable loops and soft pads make finding the perfect fit easy. The overall look has a certain urban feel to it, for those that like to put it about that way.
Embassy of Sound
Ultimately you’ll want a set of cans to deliver the goods on the sound front. They will be your commuting or travel companions for a good duration so quality of sound is very important. The two 50mm drivers in the MOS006 deliver full and deep bass, while the highs and mids are crystal clear. Using them on the underground proved enjoyable as the cans blocked out background noise while we rocked out to Flo Rida’s Good Feeling, amongst other high tempo tracks.
Verdict
At this price the MOS006 cans deliver great sound and build quality – in fact you could pay a lot more for the same depth of sound elsewhere. If you’re after a new set of cans for Christmas we’d recommend checking these out. Available in four colours from HMV stores, or online at www.amazon.co.uk or www.ministryofsound.com, RRP £39.99.
Elysium tip: when buying either cans or earphones, try to visit a store so that you can road test them with music from your very own iPod/MP3 player. This ensures the right set for your musical tastes.