When comparing Superlux HD 681 vs Bose SoundSport In Ear, the Slant community recommends Superlux HD 681 for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Superlux HD 681 is ranked 5th while Bose SoundSport In Ear is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose Superlux HD 681 is:
The HD681 will not put a lot of strain to your neck and head, even for long periods. Coming in at around 220 g, they are relatively light. This is due to the use of plastic as the primary build material, along with small metal tubes on the headband frame instead of large plastic or metal parts.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Not tiring to wear
The HD681 will not put a lot of strain to your neck and head, even for long periods. Coming in at around 220 g, they are relatively light. This is due to the use of plastic as the primary build material, along with small metal tubes on the headband frame instead of large plastic or metal parts.
Pro Bass and treble are emphasized
These headphones have what is called a V-shaped sound signature where the bass and treble is boosted while the mids take a backseat. The bass is powerful, deep and satisfying. Listening to bass heavy music will certainly be a good experience. The boosted treble makes audio detail up front, so nuances in the music can be clearly heard.
Pro Fairly wide soundstage
Due to the semi-open design, the sound is not completely trapped inside the ear cup housing. This gives the sound a wider, more natural feel.
Pro Great bass reproduction along with good detail and smoothness to the highs and mids
Bass output is very good. It has good power yet at the same time is fast and punchy. It does not bloat the sound at all. The highs and mids are able to deliver a good level of detail that makes the sound quite lively. These will work best for bassy tracks, though rock, jazz, classical and pop will still sound enjoyable.
Pro You have the option a short or long cable
In stock form, these headphones have a relatively short cable. However, Bose includes an extension cable for extra reach. This can help to minimize the wire length that you have to deal with when going for a run or exercising.
Pro Won't easily get damaged by splashes of liquid
The earbuds can resist small splashes of liquid or sweat. The hydrophobic cloth material wrapped around the headphones helps to minimize issues relating to moisture.
Pro Won't fall off the ears easily
The specially designed Stay Hear ear tips have a wing design which helps to add grip to the earpieces when worn. This helps to ensure that the headphones will not easily get dislodged when on the move.
Pro Can be worn for long periods with little to no discomfort
The ear tips are very soft and flexible. Combined with the ear bud design that does not jam into your ear canal, these are a joy to use in terms of comfort, even for extended periods.
Cons
Con May feel cheap and flimsy
The plastics used in the construction of these headphones are not of the best quality. They feel flimsy and will often flex and rattle.
Con Thin ear pads may cause comfort issues
The ear pads are made of cheap feeling synthetic leather which can get warm rather quickly. To potentially add more discomfort, the cushioning inside these ear pads is quite thin, and can hurt the area around your ears when worn for many hours straight.
Con Mids can be lacking
Some may find the mids to be inadequate. Vocals, guitars and other sounds in the mid-frequencies may sound distant or too soft.
Con Treble can be harsh
While the bass benefits greatly from the V-shaped sound signature, the highs are boosted by quite a lot, and can make the treble sound too harsh for some. Cymbal hits for example can be too washy and near distorted and can be fatiguing.
Con Separate variants for iOS/Android
Do make sure to buy the proper variant for your device. The remote will not function optimally if the headphones are used with a different platform.
Con Has poor noise isolation
You'll still be able to clearly hear your surroundings with these on. If you want to focus on your music while using these, then the noise that mixes with your music can get quite distracting.
