When comparing Superlux HD 681 vs JLab JBuds EPIC, 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 JLab JBuds EPIC is ranked 50th. 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 for casual music listening and also for sport use
Sound quality is good enough for enjoying a wide variety of music genres. This comes with the advantage of having sport-related features like special tips for improved fit as well as splash resistance.
Pro Produces deep and forward lows complemented by detailed and airy highs
The low end frequencies are what stand out from the sound signature. Bass goes deep and is pretty forward too, so you can clearly hear and experience the thump from your music.
The highs are also crisp and airy, giving a lot of detail. This combination results in these headphones having a fun sound.
Pro In-line remote allows for control of basic phone/player functions
There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.
Pro Stays snug in the ears while you are active
Little rings called "Cush Fins" wrap around the earpieces, and give extra grip, and prevent the pieces from falling out. Also, these Cush Fins are quite soft and flexible so they do not have too much of a negative effect to comfort.
Pro In-line remote allows control of basic phone/player functions
There is a one-button remote which allows you to play/pause tracks as well as answer/end calls. This can be very convenient when used on the go.
Pro Included carrying case makes these easy to bring on the go
A fairly large, zip up carrying case comes included and should give these extra protection when taken on the go. You can just chuck this case into your bag without worrying about your headphones getting damaged.
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 Muddy mids
Due to the bass being quite prominent, the mids take a negative hit, as the bass gives the mids a muddy sound. Guitars and male vocals will not sound very clear at times.
Con Wearing these while on the move can be distracting
When the wires move or brush on your clothes, the rattling sound can be transmitted to the earpieces. This can be quite annoying.
