When comparing Sennheiser CX 300 II vs Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23, the Slant community recommends Sennheiser CX 300 II for most people. In the question“What are the best earbuds around $50?” Sennheiser CX 300 II is ranked 1st while Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose Sennheiser CX 300 II is:
The bass is the highlight of the sound signature. It goes deep and has very good punch too, yet at the same time stays fairly controlled. The mids are present and quite smooth, though not too forward. The highs do not stand out as amazing, though the level of detail is fairly good. Overall, a very good sounding pair of in-ear headphones which bass lovers will find to be quite enjoyable.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Fun sounding with deep and punchy bass, smooth and full mids as well as good detail from the highs
The bass is the highlight of the sound signature. It goes deep and has very good punch too, yet at the same time stays fairly controlled. The mids are present and quite smooth, though not too forward.
The highs do not stand out as amazing, though the level of detail is fairly good.
Overall, a very good sounding pair of in-ear headphones which bass lovers will find to be quite enjoyable.
Pro Cable feels reliable
The headphone cable feels high quality and does not seem like it would break easily. They are also fairly flexible so they should not be too prone to tangles. The strain relief on the connection points of the cable to the earpiece keeps it from detaching easily when yanked.
Pro Fit and isolation can be customized
The CX 300 II come with 3 sets of ear tips in small, medium and large sizes. These are easily interchangeable so you will have some options when it comes to fitting these headphones.
Pro Secure
Even though the battery pack is quite heavy, these are able to stay secure - even while exercising.
Pro Long term comfort
These can be worn all day with no discomfort.
Pro Not much tangling
These buds don't tend to tangle like other ones do.
Pro Noise reducing
These reduce environmental noise by 90%
Cons
Con Microphonics can be distracting
If you wear these in-ears while walking around, the movement of the cable can be clearly heard in the earpiece (called microphonics), which can be quite distracting.
Con No in-line controls or mic
You will have to pull out your phone when answering calls or changing music tracks when using these in-ears.
Con Requires additional battery
The noise cancellation feature requires one AAA battery.
Con High cable microphonics
The cable makes significant noise when it moves, causing interference with the listening experience.
Con Heavy battery box
The bulky inline battery box tends to get in the way. It is located in the center of the wire.