MA450i:
Nice build, comfortable fit, an iPhone-friendly three-button remote and a very full-bodied delivery - and all for just £40.

MA450i:

Hailing from the not-all-that-sunny-climes of Glasgow, RHA has hit upon a winning formula here. Nice build, comfortable fit, an iPhone-friendly three-button remote and a very full-bodied delivery - and all for just £40. The bass can get just a smidge overbearing when pushed, but the RHAs still have the overall quality to push the E10s right to the wire.

5/5

Click here to view product

MA450i:
What really sets them apart from others in their price range is the sound quality. Testing the MA450i earphones, the high and low frequencies were nicely balanced without sounding flabby. There was plenty of dimension and detail, making it sound as though instruments were in distinct positions around the listener, and it was easy to pick out specific sounds like fingers plucking a guitar string.

MA450i:

They don’t carry a musician’s name, they don’t come in a dozen sparkly colors, and you won’t find them in many stores, so it’s easy to overlook RHA earphones — which is a pity.

These relatively inexpensive earphones offer an awful lot for the money — the money being $40 to $50.

Developed in sunny Glasgow by a division of Reid Heath Acoustics, the in-ear earphones come in two models only, the $40 MA350 and the $50 MA450i, which is available in either black or white. The “I” denotes it’s made for use with the iPhone and has a microphone built in.

Quality for the price is fantastic. The earpieces are made of aluminum, have fabric-covered cables that transfer much less noise than most, and come with seven sets of dual-density silicon ear tips.

A sure tipoff that these are well built is that they come with a three-year guarantee.

What really sets them apart from others in their price range is the sound quality. Testing the MA450i earphones, the high and low frequencies were nicely balanced without sounding flabby. There was plenty of dimension and detail, making it sound as though instruments were in distinct positions around the listener, and it was easy to pick out specific sounds like fingers plucking a guitar string.

While pleasingly lively, they do not have the kind of exaggerated sound that can be tiring over time. These are easy to use for hours at a clip. But they are not the best choice if you treasure hammering bass and screeching guitars.

The other pair in the line is the MA350, which lacks a microphone but is suitable for any device with a 3.5-millimeter phone jack. They should sound nearly identical to the 450s.

The 450s are available through Apple online and in stores, and the 350s through Amazon.

Read the full article at New York Times

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MA450i:
The MA450s' sound immediately makes a strong impression. It's big, highly detailed, and the bass goes a lot deeper than most competing models

MA450i:
I haven't covered too many inexpensive earphones in this blog, mostly because I prioritize sound quality, and precious few under-$50 models cut it. The RHA MA450 really stands out in this crowded market, not just because it actually sounds pretty decent; the look and feel are outstanding and RHA sells the MA450 with a three-year warranty. Reid and Heath Acoustics products are designed at its research and development center in Glasgow, Scotland.

Build quality and features are exceptional for a $50 pair of in-ear headphones; the MA450 has machined aluminum earpieces, 10mm drivers, seven pairs of silicone eartips, an Apple-compatible mic and remote, fabric-covered wire, a small, black soft carry case, and a three-year warranty! Few headphones, including most high-end ones, come with three-year warranties, and RHA might be the only company providing that level of protection for affordable headphones (if you know of any others, please share that information in the Comments section). Warranty claims will be made through RHA's U.S. warehouse in Michigan. Following inspection, RHA will repair or replace the earphones, and proof of purchase or a sales invoice will be required.

The MA450s' sound immediately makes a strong impression. It's big, highly detailed, and the bass goes a lot deeper than most competing models. The sound is actually too bright, so if you listen to a steady diet of acoustic jazz or classical music, the MA450s probably won't make you happy. Subtlety isn't a strong suit, but rock, pop, and hip-hop fans will like what they hear.

I compared the MA450 with the Klipsch Image S3 in-ear headphones ($49.99). The red plastic S3s look and feel a little cheap next to the MA450s, and the S3s have a softer, more laid-back tonal balance. The treble is sweeter and less brilliant than the MA450s'. Listening on the street and NYC subway, the MA450s' brighter sound and punchier bass cut through the background noise better. Noise isolation capabilities are about the same from both earphones, but at home and in quiet surroundings, I preferred the S3s' more accurate, less hyped sound. There, the MA450s sounded too bright and overly detailed, and with older analog recordings the MA450 emphasized tape hiss. There's a lot of bass, but it can be a bit loose and fat for my tastes. Then again, if you crave bass impact, you'll love the MA450s' low-end. To finish up I compared the MA450s with the Velodyne vPulse in-ears ($89). The vPulses are sweeter and their bass output is just as potent as the MA450s', but the vPulses have much better definition, so it's easier to distinguish between bass guitar and bass drums. If you can afford the difference, the vPulses are superior-sounding headphones, but I still really like the MA450s; they're a lot of fun.

The RHA MA450s are available on Amazon for $49.95.

Read the full article at www.news.cnet.com

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MA450i: 
Sound quality is pretty impressive. Bass is tight and unexaggerated; midrange is what headphone aficionados would likely call "recessed," but it's refreshingly uncolored for an in-ear in this price range.

MA450i:

Scottish headphone manufacturer RHA hasn't had much of a stateside presence, but this week marks their arrival in Apple stores, with the MA450i in-ear ($49.95) and SA950i on-ear ($59.95) set to appeal to budget-minded consumers looking to accessorize their iDevices. And appeal they may.

The in-ear MA450i, available in (of course) black and white, is very comfortable; the aluminum housings are quite tiny, and reassuringly solid in construction to boot, with beefy strain relief conveniently marked with L and R channel indicators. I'd have liked to see a right-angle plug in place of the straight one used here, and the fabric-wrapped cables seem overly prone to tangles.

But any way you look at it, for 50 bucks, with 7 pairs of ear tips included and an iOS-compatible mic/remote pod, the MA450i is really a fine deal — the question at this price point is always whether or not you're actually getting a significant improvement over the freebie earbuds (EarPods, nowadays) that shipped with your iDevice, and in this case you certainly are.

Sound quality is pretty impressive. Bass is tight and unexaggerated; midrange is what headphone aficionados would likely call "recessed," but it's refreshingly uncolored for an in-ear in this price range. The top end is a tad strident for my taste, but those looking for an affordable in-ear that offers a good amount of detail without sounding thin will want to investigate.

The little RHA offered solid performance on a wide range of tracks. The stereo effects on Peter Hammill's "The Institute of Mental Health, Burning" (from Nadir's Big Chance), with its mix of heavy guitars, processing, voices, and winds, was presented quite well here, the upper-register percussive guitar and electronics perhaps a bit forward, but a big step up from an earbud. The tone of the fretless bass on Bohannon's "Run it On Down, Mr. DJ" (from Stop & Go) was clear, and though the female vocals and snare had a bit too much of an edge, everything else sounded very nice; the organ and wah-wah-guitars sitting in the mix as they should.

Still, for the money RHA have done a solid job with these two phones, particularly so with the MA450i. You could do worse than give 'em a listen if you're in the accessory market after picking up your iPhone 5.

 Read the full article at Sound & Vision Mag

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MA450i:
Looking for earbuds for that tablet or smartphone? Look no further than RHA’s noise isolating, in-ear MA450i.

MA450i:

Looking for earbuds for that tablet or smartphone? Look no further than RHA’s noise isolating, in-ear MA450i ones, list price $49.95, They’re machined from solid, aircraft-grade aluminum. The firm says “10mm [audio] drivers are housed within unique, aerophonically designed earphones engineered to produce outstanding audio,” and I can’t disagree one bit. Also nice are the range of interchangeable ear tips (for a great fit) and a 1.5m fabric braided cable, equipped with an Apple-compatible, three-button, in-line remote and microphone for phone calls.

Read the full article at Washington Times

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MA450i:
The sound was detailed and easy to listen to without fatigue, making the MA450i suitable for subway commuting or a cross-country flight. As a plus, it is iPhone friendly and has a microphone and control buttons built into the cable.

MA450i:

Earbuds do not offer very good sound quality, and over-ear sound-canceling headphones are pricey. There is also a misconception about sound-canceling sets; they reduce only the droning sound of jet engines and wind rush, not the noisy seatmates chatting on a phone.

If you want to shut down extraneous noise, the best way to do it inexpensively is with an in-ear headset. Most have flexible rubber or foam tips that seal out sound. Of those I’ve tried recently, the RHA MA450i, at $50, is the value winner. The sound was detailed and easy to listen to without fatigue, making the MA450i suitable for subway commuting or a cross-country flight. As a plus, it is iPhone friendly and has a microphone and control buttons built into the cable.

Read the full article at New York Times

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MA450i:
The bass is controlled and tight, with the right amount of midrange.

MA450i:

There are plethora of aftermarket headphones and earphones available for the iPhone these days. If you’re looking to spend some of that hard earned Christmas cash, you may not need to look any further than the RHA-ma450i earphones. If you haven’t heard of RHA Audio, they’re a Glasgow, UK based company that recently launched their products in North America and simple trip to the Apple Store will reveal their very affordable $50 price tag.

The RHA-ma450i come with seven (yes, 7) sets of ear inserts including a set of double coned tips in their own box, plus the headphones themselves and a soft classy carrying case. The tips come with 2 pairs each of Small, Medium, and Large so regardless of ear size, you should be able to find the right fit. The earphones are machined of aluminum, which makes them very attractive and much more durable than your typical plastic ones. The earphone cable is a braided fabric cable to reduce tangling and prolong cable life. If you’re anything like me, and you could probably tangle a 2×4, then these cables are for you. My days of tangling cables were over once I starting using these. They are compatible with any iPhone & iPod touch that supports inline mic/volume controls.

Audio Quality

The RHA-ma450i had some big shoes to fill, as my regular earphones are the audiophile oriented $400 Westone 3s. The earphones were very straightforward to use, offering much better than average sound quality. The bass is controlled and tight, with the right amount of midrange. My only complaint in sound quality was a little too much treble, not necessarily a bad thing, but it required an adjustment of the phone’s equilizer settings.
On the Phone

The inline mic offers good sound quality, even on a crowded subway; the recipient at the other end of the phone call could hear me just fine. There were no complaints of sounding distant or muffled conversation. While not a true noise cancelling headphone, a good fit with the correct ear tips provides excellent isolation from unwanted outside distractions and offers little to no sound leakage, another plus for those of us who like to travel.

Controls & Features

A note for Siri lovers: a long press will bring up everyone’s favourite voice assistant. The inline mic offers volume control, with one click offering pause, answer and hang up. A double click will skip to the next song while a quick triple click will take you back to the beginning of the last song. The mic also has a small indent in the center, making it very easy to locate the different controls. No fumbling in the dark or when you’re in a hurry to pick up a call. It would seem that the engineers and designers at RHA Audio thought through these very well.

RHA Hits MegaTechie Home Run

RHA claims to create unique, high specification audio products and everything they make is engineered to deliver professional grade, cutting edge sound. Each feature, detail and component is the result of extensive research and their uncompromising commitment to innovation and quality. In every aspect, the RHA-ma450i hits the mark. They are the perfect combination of price, sound quality, and performance.

The sound quality is on par with earphones costing a $100 more and the build quality is first rate. The inclusion of a 3 year, no questions asked warranty should seal the deal for anyone that is still on the fence. The only drawbacks I found with the headphones were the slightly higher treble than I would liked and the lack of replaceable cables. Now, for $50, I’m not going to argue about the cables.

Whether you’re a student on the go or an executive working out at the gym, the RHA-ma450i should be at the top of a very short list for anyone in the market for some new earphones.

Read the full article at Mega Tech News

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MA450i:
In addition to sounding fantastic, they’re also ultra-durable. The shell is constructed of aircraft grade aluminum, while the cord consists of reinforced copper cable inside a braided fabric enclosure.

MA450i:

British manufacturer RHA has recently released their line of headphones and earphones for the first time in the US. Of note: the company’s flagship MA450i noise isolating earphones.

In addition to sounding fantastic, they’re also ultra-durable. The shell is constructed of aircraft grade aluminum, while the cord consists of reinforced copper cable inside a braided fabric enclosure. An inline remote allows users to skip tracks, adjust volume and pause/play tunes on any iPhone/iPad/iPod. To ensure a snug but comfortable fit, they feature a choice of seven pairs of soft silicone ear-tips.

Read the full article at Vagabondish

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MA450i:
The sound from the all-aluminum MA450i is downright phenomenal. Bass thumping in my ear, clear highs and mid-ranges, all without full volume.

MA450i:
Let me begin by saying that there is at least one Apple product I cannot stand. Despite their initial cool look, the original stock earphones were a literal pain in my ear. Even adding the mic and remote on the cord of the second generation couldn’t convince me to use them for any length of time, so they are a back-up pair for those times I need earbuds – say while traveling (or having your earbuds yanked from your ear by a lawn mower… don’t ask). While I don’t have the newest version of Apple’s Earpods, the first and second generation of earphones didn’t give me much confidence in trying them out.

Depending on your needs, the best earphones/earbuds I’ve recently been using had the ability to sequester external noise so the sounds from the ear-embedded micro-speakers are more effective. Britain’s RHA entrance into this field are exceptional with their strangely-named MA450i.

The MA450i, so named for “Micro Aural” 450i (for Apple’s iDevices), is the next in line for RHA, and upgrades their MA350 version, a well-liked item at Amazon.com. Since the MA450i is for idevices, it places a familiar, yet an ergonomically curved, mic/remote on the right-eared cord.

By comparison to most other earphones, the sound from the all-aluminum MA450i is downright phenomenal. Bass thumping in my ear, clear highs and mid-ranges, all without full volume. Oh yes, these quickly have become my default earphones – for running and exercising, for podcasts, and even for drifting to sleep – because of the diminutive size and comfort in my ears. I suppose that was my biggest gripe of Apple’s earphones: they were just too honking big for my ear canal. On the other hand, I can wear the MA450i earphones for hours without adjustment or major discomfort.

Besides the earphones themselves, RHA sends many different size silicon tips (for noise isolating in different size ear canals) and even a superfluous velvet bag. RHA clearly is sending a strong belief in their product as well since they advertise a 3-year parts and labor warranty.

The MA450i’s come with a harder-than-usual-to-tangle fabric covered 1.5 meter cord. Now, I’m 6’3″, and 1.5 meters is over 4 feet of cord! That means I can put an iPhone below my knee before the cord length is used up. Most of the time when I need earphones, the furthest away my device is in my pocket, so there is a lot of cord left to drape, dangle, and get in the way. When I move my iPhone to an armband while running, I have to put over 3 feet of cord in my shirt to keep it from flopping around.

While the microphone is acceptable for both indoor and outdoor use, the curved remote buttons don’t always function so well with my iPhone, iPad, and iTunes on my MacBook Pro. Fidgeting with the remote while running and exercising is a distraction I’d rather not have.

Compared to $29 for Apple’s version of earphones/earpods, these high quality earphones earn high marks for their relatively inexpensive $50 price tag. Heck the comfort alone is worth $20, and getting heavy duty bass without distortion in one’s ear is this audiophile’s joy.

Read the full article at iSource

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MA450i:
As I tested these earphones I was continually impressed with how clear the audio was across the entire range of sound, including the lower bass levels, which are not easy to reproduce on an earbud at any price point. Highs and mid-ranges came across very cleanly too, making these a great choice for music lovers who prefer a full audio experience. Listening to my favorite music on the MA450i's was a rich, personal experience, highlighting subtle notes that aren't always noticeable on other earbuds.

MA450i:

Still looking for a last minute gift for the music lover on your holiday list? Look no further than the incredible sounding earphones from RHA Audio. The British company, which is relatively new to the U.S. market, makes some very high-quality earbuds that pack impressive sound without inflicting a lot of damage on your wallet. Here are two of their products that I've recently had the opportunity to test, coming away very impressed.

The MA450i is RHA's flagship in-ear model that is available through Apple Stores – both online and brick and mortar – as well as Amazon. These earphones are built from aircraft grade aluminum, which gives them a very solid and durable feel that you don't always find in similar headsets. They also feature a three-button inline remote that allows users to skip tracks, adjust volume or pause their music on an iPhone, iPod or iPad. The remote even has a built-in mic, which makes it easy to both place and receive calls that sound crisp and clear on the tiny speakers. RHA has also included seven sizes of interchangeable soft tips for the earphones allowing users to find just the right fit for isolating outside noise.

If you've ever gone in search of good earphones for your portable devices, the above description probably doesn't seem very out of the ordinary. After all, there are literally hundreds of options for earbuds on the market from dozens of different companies that offer a similar set of features. But where RHA's products stand out from the crowd is in their performance for the price. Simply put, these are easily the best sounding earbuds I've ever used in this price range and they equal or exceed the quality of many higher priced offerings as well.
As I tested these earphones I was continually impressed with how clear the audio was across the entire range of sound, including the lower bass levels, which are not easy to reproduce on an earbud at any price point. Highs and mid-ranges came across very cleanly too, making these a great choice for music lovers who prefer a full audio experience. Listening to my favorite music on the MA450i's was a rich, personal experience, highlighting subtle notes that aren't always noticeable on other earbuds.

I found these earphones to be super comfortable to wear as well, once I found the proper size tips to use. True to form, my ears always require different sizes to fit properly, but with all of the options that RHA includes, it was easy to adjust as needed. Once I had the right sizes dialed in, the MA450i's did an excellent job of isolating outside noise, which can be particularly distracting at times. These earphones were also comfortable to wear for hours on end, something that comes in very handy on long flights.

Available in both black and white, the MA450i's come with a nice little soft case for use while traveling. Throw in a long, durable cable and a full three-year warranty, all for a price of just $49.95, and you really have a set of headphones that are incredibly tough to beat. This kind of sound quality just doesn't show up very often at this price point, which makes them a bargain that is tough to pass up.

Read the full article at Gadling

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MA450i:
They do indeed give a richly detailed dound with no discernable distortion.

MA450i:

Read the full article at Swipe Magazine or download the full edition from the iTunes store.

View the MA450i product page.

MA450i:
The key to the MA450i's is balance. And richness within that balance. Bass will thrum and treble will sing, but these RHAs also allow you to hear all of the layers in a song.

MA450i:

RHA has had no shortage of praise from reviewers. Their products are wonderful. And, more importantly, affordable ... Since I'm pretty sure we're all broke.

From a design standpoint, the MA450i's are pleasantly minimalist. A soft black fabric-coated wire (which doesn't transfer much if any noise) splits into left and right wires and black aluminum earbuds with a silver trim. The wire leading to the right earbud includes a slim in-line volume control module/microphone. The earbuds themselves are remarkably light.

And, yes, the 'i' in the 450i means they're specifically tailored to Apple's i-devices.

From an acoustic standpoint, they're fantastic. Especially for the price: $49.95.

The key to the MA450i's is balance. And richness within that balance. Bass will thrum and treble will sing, but these RHAs also allow you to hear all of the layers in a song. These are not, I should point out, necessarily the earbuds to own if you want to drown yourself in brain-shaking bass or eye-melting high notes all the time. Again: They're balanced very well.

That's not to say I blew them out. They performed admirably during even my loudest death metal and soundtrack sessions (I've been using them, actually, to enjoy the Dredd 3D soundtrack -- which is a sort of industrial score). But they're not going to give you the kick you're looking for is you're all about bass. (See that pun? Good.)

The most important aspect of the MA450i's, for me, was the fact that I could wear them for more than an hour and not feel any discomfort. From my apartment, to my mile-walk, to the subway, to work. Their aforementioned lightness is a comfy blessing.

What we're talking about here is remarkable quality for not a lot of money. Which is, itself, a terrible sentence. But the thought is there. The MA450i's are superb and you're getting a lot at a low price.

I highly recommend them.

Read the full article at New York Post

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MA450i:
RHA’s MA450i earphones are the model of choice in our household...sporting tangle-free fabric cabling, as well as an inline remote, the RHAs not only look great, but sound great as well.

MA450i:

Apple may have improved its own earphones considerably with its new EarPods, but some people will still prefer the snug fit and noise cancellation of a good pair of canal-phones. Wedging themselves right into the ear, canal-phones can provide an improved bass, as well as better noise cancellation than standard earphones.

RHA’s MA-450i earphones are the model of choice in our household. Made in Scotland and sporting tangle-free fabric cabling, as well as an inline remote, the RHAs not only look great, but sound great as well.

Read the full article at iDownloadBlog

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MA450i:
If you’re in need of some inexpensive earphones (especially if you’re using an iOS device) that do their job well and are good for traveling, these seem to be a great choice.

MA450i:

I’ll get this out of the way right up front, like I did the last time I was sent (and then reviewed) a pair of headphones: I am not an expert when it comes to audio. If you want a more professional review that can give you a more in-depth analysis of sound quality compared to other headphones/speakers, please look elsewhere. My only intent here is to provide a more “everyman” perspective.

RHA, a company from the UK that is leaping across the pond to put out a few products here, sent me a couple pairs of headphones awhile back: The earbud-style MA450i headphones and the more “traditional” SA950i headphones. I’ve used each of these for a little over a month now (the MA450i far more between the two), so I wanted to share a few thoughts on what seem to be some very solid, inexpensive headphone choices.

Both pairs come with a 3-year warranty (which is great), a fabric braided cable (which feels great and which I like more than more standard audio cables), a microphone for calls and an inline remote designed for use with your iPhone, iPod or iPad (to pause/play and control the volume).

RHA MA450i ($49.95): As I said, I’ve used these more than the other pair. This is primarily a preference thing on my part — I quickly grow tired of having headphones on my head, and I like the freedom to have only one earphone in if I want to keep my other ear open (say, if I’m listening to something at work and need to hear if my boss sneaks up on me).

I’m really happy with how they work. The sound quality seems great. The braided cable is less prone to tangling than my other earbuds I’ve used, which makes traveling with them less of an ordeal for me. The inline remote is nothing revolutionary, but it’s certainly nice to have in order to quickly pause a video on my iPad or whatever. Extra ear tips are included if they ones that come pre-installed don’t fit as snugly as you might like.

I realize I’ve just typed out a list of features rather than super interesting text, but that sums up the MA450i earphones in some ways: There’s nothing about them that’s going to blow you away, necessarily, but they do their job extremely well. I don’t put them on and think “These are amazing!” but at the same I don’t put them on and think “This are crappy!” I kind of put them on and forget they’re there, which in some ways may be just as high of a compliment as saying they’re amazing, especially considering they don’t cost a fortune, like some headphones do these days. If you’re in need of some inexpensive earphones (especially if you’re using an iOS device) that do their job well and are good for traveling, these seem to be a great choice.

Read the full article at Dallas News

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SA950i & MA450i:
Glasgow-based audio-products manufacturer RHA has two headphone options that work great with mobile devices. Both models have reliable in-line mics and remotes on braided cables that resist tangling.

SA950i & MA450i:

Glasgow-based audio-products manufacturer RHA has two headphone options that work great with mobile devices. Both models have reliable in-line mics and remotes on braided cables that resist tangling. The RHA SA950i headphones ($59.95; Apple Store) are lightweight and are designed to sit on, not over, the ears. Titanium-coated drivers mean full, rich sound.

Available in black or white, the RHA MA450i earbuds ($49.95; Apple Store) fit right in the ear canal, so they mostly block outside noise. They are created from solid aluminum so are built to last.

Read the full article at Straight.com

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MA450i:
Also from a tactile point of view, because headphones and earbuds are as much about feeling and bells and whistles as they are about the sonic presentation, is the material of the headphone “string.” It’s not wire covered in black plastic, it’s wire covered in a thin, clothy, rope-like material. I’ve somehow cut through headphone wires before, and I don’t think that’s going to happen. These suckers are tough.

MA450i:

Most of the stuff on sale at the Apple Store, both physical and virtual, tends to be made by Apple itself. Usually if Apple likes a company that makes something that could make its products better, it just buys the company. British company RHA is a special exception, as it sells its line of earbuds directly through Apple.

The flagship of their line of just-for-iPhone, iPod, and iPadearbuds are the Ma450is. They offer great sound for hearing nuances even in compressed audio files (as well as glorious, glorious outside noise cancellation) more so than the ubiquitous white earbuds that come with those same Apple products. The extra $49.95 is worth it.

More earbud covers than you could possibly use or imagine. While they’re a little hard to get off and on, the upside of that meaning they don’t slip off or make the whole apparatus fall out of your ears when you shift slightly, they come standard with seven slightly different sets to make sure you’ve got absolutely the perfect fit. Certainly no other mainstream earbud set comes with so many lavish options for customization, or, if you’re so inclined, to share with your six siblings, all who have different-sized-by-a-few-millimeters earholes.

Also from a tactile point of view, because headphones and earbuds are as much about feeling and bells and whistles as they are about the sonic presentation, is the material of the headphone “string.” It’s not wire covered in black plastic, it’s wire covered in a thin, clothy, rope-like material. I’ve somehow cut through headphone wires before, and I don’t think that’s going to happen. These suckers are tough.

Another notable feature is the “remote,” or rather a convenience button on the string-wire for volume, so you don’t have to open up or unlock your iPhone or iPod just because you want to turn up the music. Yes, newer models have volume controls on the side of the device, but when you’re running or don’t want to pull out your $300 communications device on mass transit, it’s nice to be able to easily turn it up or turn it down. (RHA makes a version of the earbuds without that remote, the MA350, which cost a little less.)

Read the full article at Popdose

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MA450i:
These from RHA are a welcome surprise, as they have a durable cord design and I wasn’t expecting this kind of sound quality for such a modestly-priced paid.

MA450i:

The cords on headphones and earbuds tend to break, especially if you use yours everyday – so I’ve become accustomed to buying new ones pretty frequently. These from RHA are a welcome surprise, as they have a durable cord design and I wasn’t expecting this kind of sound quality for such a modestly-priced pair.

Build from machined aluminum, the RHA MA-450i earphones have 10mm drivers with a frequency response of 16 Hz to 22,000 Hz. The earbuds are sound insulating, but without any active noise-cancellation technology. This isn’t really necessary because the earbuds hold in your ears well enough to isolate you from most external noise. They come with a mic and a remote, which will allow you to control music and take calls on an iPhone.

The reinforced braided fabric cord is also a nice surprise, because if you’re careful enough, you can keep your cords tangle-free. The cord is quite long, at 5′ (150cm). It’s long enough to go from my ears to the iPhone in my pocket, and still be able to use the iPhone without opening my coat, as I usually pass headphone cords under my jacket. I found this convenient, but if you prefer shorter cords, then these earphones won’t fit the bill. The earphones also include a set of seven different silicone ear-tips to ensure a snug fit in your ears.

The one thing that I was missed was a hard case for the earphones. They come with a soft carrying pouch, but I would have liked something sturdier.

The MA-450i earphones are a worthwhile consideration for anyone needing a decent pair of earbuds. The sound quality is quite surprising. I compared them with the Beats Tour, which retail for $149.95, and I preferred the RHAs.

Read the full article at TechnaBob

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MA450i:
In short, the MA450i is fairly easy to recommend. It won't set the world on fire, but it actually feels like it might be worth the $50 RHA is asking.

MA450i:

Recently MacNN had a chance to test the RHA MA450i, a pair of earbuds aimed at owners of Apple iOS devices. The difference is an inline remote, which can be used to take calls, change tracks or volume, and issue Siri commands. In general, this works just as you'd expect. The remote is located near the right earbud, which might be awkward for some, but is relatively easy to get used to. It can also be used to answer calls and play/pause music on other smartphones, including Android devices, but people wanting real control over a non-Apple device should probably look elsewhere. The remote's position seems to be good for ensuring clear voice reception from the mic.

RHA promises "high definition sound with full bass," and it's hard to dispute that claim for the most part, since in testing the MA450i's audio was quite clear. Calling it "full" bass is an exaggeration, but the earbuds perform reasonably well when listening to beat-heavy music like Photek. The supplied silicone tips also manage to do a decent job at balancing comfort and noise isolation; there are even six extra pairs, in case the pre-attached ones don't match your ears. That's more tips than you'd normally get with a set of earbuds.

Another nice perk comes from the 450i's cord, which measures almost four feet from end to end and is wrapped in braided fabric. Time will tell, but it seems like the cord should be more resistant to tangling and tearing.

In short, the MA450i is fairly easy to recommend. It won't set the world on fire, but it actually feels like it might be worth the $50 RHA is asking.

Read the full article at MacNN

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MA450i:
But it’s the sound that really hits it out of the ballpark for RHA. The earbuds, which are based on the design of a trumpet, produce a mellow and richly-balanced sound. There’s not a hint of tinniness. The sound quality is made even better as a result of the effective noise-isolating nature of these ear buds. There’s nothing between you and excellent sound quality.

MA450i:

There are headphones that you tolerate – like the ear buds they give you on airplanes or the ones that come with your cellphone. They work okay but they don’t fit inside your ear particularly well, bouncing out when you go for a jog. And the sound, well, the sound is nothing great.

Then there are RHA’s MA450i aluminum, noise-isolating headphones. Every irritation that you may have ever had with run-of-the-mill ear buds has been lovingly addressed by RHA.

Apparently all ears are not created equal. It’s with that thought in mind that RHA provides seven interchangeable tips for a comfortable fit and enhanced noise isolation. The tips come in a handy carrying case which helps ensure you don’t misplace them.

Another bugaboo that RHA seems to have reduced is the tangled cord. Replacing the usual wire that tends to get hopelessly tangled when bouncing around your bag or pockets is a fabric-braided, reinforced 1.5-metre cable.

The headphones also come with a remote and microphone which allow them to be use with most iPod/iPhone models. The attention to quality continues with gold-plated connections.

But it’s the sound that really hits it out of the ballpark for RHA. The earbuds, which are based on the design of a trumpet, produce a mellow and richly-balanced sound. There’s not a hint of tinniness. The sound quality is made even better as a result of the effective noise-isolating nature of these ear buds. There’s nothing between you and excellent sound quality.

The bottom line is that RHA’s earphone and headphones would make a great gift for everyone from the the frequent traveller to the iPod-addicted teen on your holiday gift list.

Read the full article at Canada.com

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MA450i:
After a solid month of using the MA450s we can’t recommend them enough. If you’ve got an i-Device user in your life and think they’ll enjoy the added in-line mic as well as the slight bump in audio quality, the MA450s are a great gift idea.

MA450i:

I consider myself borderline audiophile, though, I wouldn’t say “full fledged”. My wallet prevents such ventures. But for all intents and purposes, I love personal audio. Whether it be mp3 players or headphones, I’m on it. Trying out headphones of all price ranges is always something to take pleasure in. So when RHA asked us to check out their new MA450i in-ear phones (a slight upgrade from their entry-level MA350 which we reviewed – and loved – earlier this year), we jumped. The MA350s, we think, are a steal at only $30. They are by far the best sounding in-ear phones south of a Benjamin. Can the slightly better, slightly more expensive ($40) MA450 improve upon their much loved sibling?

From the outside, not much has changed from the 350 to the 450. In fact, you’d probably look over the two pairs side-by-side and write them off as the same pair of headphones. But there is one important outward change – a mic. The MA450s now back an in-line mic for true, 100% iPhone compatibility. Stop taking your headphones out to make/receive a call. It’s a minor addition but a highly welcome one. The other minor change – a longer cable.

Outside of the new mic, the rest of the changes reside on the inside. According to RHA, the drivers inside the ear pieces have been tweaked slightly. In A-B testing with the 350s we still have in-house, we can confirm that the 450s do indeed sound slightly better. Now, many people probably won’t notice the change. Truth be told, we weren’t sure we noticed anything at first at all. But after running through a wide range of genres and artists through our ears, it became apparent that the 450s are in fact a nice, albeit small step ahead of the 350s. Highs seem to be slightly less harsh and mid-range tones are generally slightly less forward. The upper base range also seems to be a little more subdued, which is nice. Finally bass extension is just as deep (maybe a touch more-so) than the 350s.

In many of our favorite dubstep songs we enjoyed each and every drop that would leave pretty much all < $100 in-ear phones in shame. Likewise, the highs and separation offered by the MA450s make complex songs from artists such as Linkin Park, DMB, Muse and Radiohead sound downright awesome. The entire soundstage offered by the MA450s is greater than their $40 would lead onto, too. Material by artists such as M83, Massive Attack and Sigur Rós was airy and ambient as ever.

The sound quality of the MA450s is untouched anywhere near it in terms of price. On top of the awesome sound and newly included iPhone compatibility, the sheer number of included ear tips is huge plus. Literally any ear type will find a plug that comfortably fits. And after all, getting a good seal is incredibly important with in-ear phones like the MA450s.

After a solid month of using the MA450s we can’t recommend them enough. If you’ve got an i-Device user in your life and think they’ll enjoy the added in-line mic as well as the slight bump in audio quality, the MA450s are a great gift idea. Speaking of which, it is that time of year. Stocking stuffer, anyone?

Read the full article at Gadgetsteria

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MA450i:
A pair of Earbuds that will put a smile on anyone's face. Incorporating striking depth and dazzling audio distinction, they really do make listening to music a pleasure, at an affordable price.

MA450i:

A pair of Earbuds that will put a smile on anyone's face. Incorporating striking depth and dazzling audio distinction, they really do make listening to music a pleasure, at an affordable price.

Read the full article at Slinky Studio

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MA450i:
The sound produced from these tiny speakers is stunningly clear. I’ve heard sounds in song backing tracks that I never knew were there before. It produces all the little subtle sound effects added in that you’d never notice without a great audio system.

MA450i:

When it comes to personal audio, looking for the perfect earphones is a seemingly impossible task. If you haven’t got more than $50 to spend, the choice is difficult. Do you go for something that looks really cool, but sounds awful, or do you go for Apple’s earPods? If you make the latter choice on purpose, there’s something wrong with you. Let me start off this review by making a confession: I really hate in-ear headphones. It’s not that I can’t appreciate their quality, it’s just that I don’t like having all the outside world completely blocked off like I’m in my own little bubble. I always sense that there’s no air movement and a lot of pressure inside my ears, making them quite uncomfortable to use. But, I will ignore my personal preference for the sake of this review, because this headset deserves to be praised for many reasons.

RHA’s ma450i set has impressed me immensely. A lot of work has gone in to the design, and 3 years of research in to the acoustics and sound. The earphones themselves have been designed to replicate the bell of a trumpet. They’re made from aircraft-grade aluminum, making them incredibly sturdy and resonant (also not likely to rust). The cable is lined with a weaved fabric to make them less tangle-prone. To top it all off, they ship with 8 different sized earbuds, so they’re bound to fit anyone’s ears, and the mini-jack is gold plated to increase connection quality. The only negative on the hardware side is that the plastic casings around the 3.5mm jack, inline mic and controls seem a tiny bit cheap. But, to create earphones this good for such a low cost was bound to have a few trade-offs, and this is one I’ll happily accept.

The most important thing about earphones is sound quality, and these have it in bucket loads. Without spending over $100 on a set of Beats/Bose/Sennheiser etc headphones, you’d struggle to find a better in-ear pair than the ma450i’s. The sound produced from these tiny speakers is stunningly clear. I’ve heard sounds in song backing tracks that I never knew were there before. It produces all the little subtle sound effects added in that you’d never notice without a great audio system. When considering sound quality, it’s not necessarily volume that should be used to judge (although these do pack a punch if cranked up to 11), it’s the breadth, and depth of sounds you can hear that’s surprising about this tiny set of earphones.

The earbuds also keep pretty much any exterior noise out: positively or negatively. I had them in my ears walking up my road (which has no pavement/sidewalk) and didn’t notice a huge truck driving past me until it had already gone. An unnerving experience – I’m sure you’ll agree – but, it did fill me with a huge sense of awe for the RHA earphones I was using.

On the sound side, the only disappointing thing is the same that comes with any in-ear earphones. I don’t feel like I’m immersed in sound, and bass/treble balance is swung a tiny bit more towards the bright/treble side, and with the aluminum earphones, it obviously tends to sound a little too clean and metallic at times. Not enough to put me off using them in favor of anything else. I’ve had plenty of in-ear sets before now at similar prices that concentrate far too much on bass, and drown everything out with a horrible indistinct drone. These pick up and isolate all the sounds within a track and produce them back with such clarity. If they’ve had to tone down the bass a tad to achieve that, again, I’m happy with that trade-off. What you’re left with in the end is a sound that baffles. How the heck could they achieve this for less than $50? Simply stunning.

 Read the full article at Today's iPhone

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MA450i:
Overall, these are very credible set of earbuds at any price and a bargain at £40.

MA450i:

RHA has a reputation for releasing high-quality audio products at very affordable prices, and the MA450i earbuds are no exception. Vocals are brilliantly realised, with crystal clarity and very good detail. Treble is well defined and lively too, though the bass could be a little crisper. They’re also very comfortable, have inline controls for iOS devices and an anti-tangle cord that does its job well. They come supplied with a carry bag and an excellent range of tips. Overall, these are very credible set of earbuds at any price and a bargain at £40.

If you’re still using the earbuds you got with your iPod or iOS device, we recommend you treat yourself to these.

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MA450i:
They are a great choice at a very affordable price.

MA450i:

 After checking out the Logitech UE 900 earphones a few weeks ago, I don't think too many other earphones can match their performance. Then again, they are priced at $399 so it isn't likely many readers are will to fork over that kind of cash when I hear people complaining about paying $50 more for a smartphone. There are some great alternatives and the folks at RHA, a British audio company, reached out and asked if I wanted to try a pair of their new MA450i earphones that they recently launched here in the US and Canada. It is MUCH easier to pay $49.95 for a pair of earphones and after testing these out with various phones over the past week I have to say they are a great choice at a very affordable price.

 I'm not sure if the folks at RHA knew it or not, but orange is one of my favorite colors (brown and yellow too) and thus I was pleased to see the dark gray retail package with orange highlights. The package is long and rectangular with the earphones shown in a clear window while the replaceable ear cushions are shown in the left side of the package. You will find the following inside:

RHA M450i earphones 
7 pairs of silicone ear cushions (2 each of S, M, L with one double flange)
Carrying pouch
User documentation

The large size seemed to fit my ear the best and it is always great to have a spare of the size that fits you. I like that the orange highlight is part of the color on the piece that fits over the aluminum on the earbud itself.

My ear opening is too big to use the double flange pair (they look to match up well with the medium size). The standard soft ear cushions are very comfortable and do a good job of blocking out surrounding sounds while also helping to hold the earphones in place. This model of earphones includes a mic and media controls on the right cable. BTW, the cables are fabric coated which helps keep them nearly tangle free with the total length from your ear being 1.5 meters.

There are three buttons on the mic control unit. The upper is for increasing volume and the lower is for decreasing volume. The center button controls several things through a series of pushes and this is easily used thanks to the indented design so you don't have to look down and can manipulate it by feel. A single press answers or hangs up a call while also acting to play or pause media. Double press skips forward and a triple press goes back. A long press and hold launches Siri on my iPhone 5. Unfortunately, the mic is not supported on other devices and while the press and hold launches Google Now on my Note II, the mic is not picked up so it is worthless there. The retail package clearly states these earphones are made for iPod, iPhone, and iPad. They do work for enjoying audio on Android or Windows Phone, but there are some limitations.

I enjoyed using these earphones and found that I could wear them for hours on end without ever feeling any discomfort. They also stayed in my ears, much better than the earpods included with my iPhone 5 by Apple. The RHA MA-450i are also much easier to put in my ears than the high end Logitech UE 900 that I have to take my glasses off to wrap around my ear and secure. The volume really CRANKS and gets way too loud to actually be comfortable. I did find that there is too much treble at the upper volume levels so I changed my iPhone 5 equalizer to bass boost mode to try to reduce that.

The controller worked very well and thanks to the improved version of Siri in iOS 6 I found the overall package to be quite useful. BTW, you can also find the MA-350 without the mic and controller for $39.95. One of the rather unique features of these earphones is the three year warranty so RHA is standing by the product they created. If you are looking for a pair of earphones that are better than the ones from Apple, then I recommend you consider the RHA MA-450i.

 Read the full article at ZDNet

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MA450i:
These headphones have excellent audio.

MA450i:

RHA is an audio research and engineering center in Glasgow, UK. Their RHA branded headphones and earphones have made to the US and that's a good thing. The RHA MA450i Noise Isolating Earphones are the proof of that. These headphones have excellent audio, loud volume and very comfortable form. The have built-in microphone as well as remote control for music playback. The RHA MA450i comes in both black and white with matching lanyard colors.

Earphones don't all come in the same shapes and designs, just look at the Apple's new EarPods. The RHA MA450i earphones are more in-canal than in-ear. The design might look generic, but the experience is quite unique. The RHA MA450i is designed to completely block off noise as you push the buds deep into your ear canals. The soft silicone ear-tips feel nice in the ear and even when the earbuds extend more into the ear than others, they don't feel uncomfortable. Once the earphones are in place, they create a seal inside of your ears and block out ambient noise almost completely. The earphones are made with airplane grade aluminum and machines perfectly. 

The RHA MA450i Noise Isolating earphones has a fabric braided cable that's about 5 feet long and a small built-in mic stick is located right near your mouth when you put the earphones in your ears. The mic stick also has control buttons for volume and play/pause during music playback. The RHA MA450i has a 3.5mm gold plated audio connector. Though the stock ear-tips fit everyone had tried the earphones here, the RHA MA450i comes with 6 additional sets of gel tips in different sizes.

The RHA MA450i has 10mm drivers and the shape of the chamber, inspired by the aerophonic design of a trumpet's bell, produces not only loud volume but also very clear audio with nice range and surprisingly good dynamic for earbud-style headphones. The interesting design of the RHA MA450i ensures no sound leaks, you can discover this when you pull the earphones just a little bit when you break the noise blocking seal, very little sound leaks out. The RHA MA450i provides very wide dynamic range in all genres we've tested it with, and all tracks including vocals and instruments have amazing clarity for small earbud headphones. Bass is also quite noticeable and you don't lose the balance of the tracks like with many smaller earbuds. We tested the RHA MA450i with several Android smartphones, the iPhone 5 and tablets, and found the performance was quite consistent cross the board. 

The RHA MA450i Noise Isolating earphones also has a built-in mic for making phone calls. The outgoing voice was clear and loud using the microphone.

The RHA MA450i Noise Isolating Earphones are one of the best we've seen in recent months. The audio quality is excellent playing all genres and volume is very loud. The headphones are good for making phone calls and they're very comfortable to wear. When you put them on, be sure to push them deep into your ear canals and when you do that, they provide one of the best noise isolation functions we've seen on earbuds. 

4.5/5

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MA450i:
 Sound is clear with crisp audio separating the different instruments and voices.

MA450i:

Getting decent cans for your trip to and from work can be a nightmare thanks to a flooded market. But when you’re paying under $60 for a set that sounds good and has seven different sized earpieces, your gamble is likely to pay off.

That’s the gamble you will take with the RHA MA450i in-ear earphones. All in all, it’s a pretty decent gamble. If there is one thing we have learnt about reviewing earphones, it’s that everyone’s ears are different so there is little point putting too much emphasis on what we think is the inspired part audio wise of the earphones in question.

So when it comes to the RHA MA450i, we’ll just say this. The bass is decent but you may find it could be better if you like your music to thump. Sound is clear with crisp audio separating the different instruments and voices. Fit should be fine as there are so many different sizes of bud – but they can be quite tricky to pull on and off. The fabric Y-cable is a great thing and stops a fair few tangles, although you will inevitably have to untangle them from time to time after you leave them in your man-bag or pocket for too long. There is also a microphone and volume control on the cable.

In terms of practicality, the biggest issue we have with in-ear earphones is the sound the chord makes as you walk down the street. Often it can pull at the buds and interfere with the music. If you’ve paid handsomely for your earphones it is an extremely annoying issue. Thankfully the RHA’s keep this to a minimum. You would have to have your music on pretty soft to hear external interruptions. That also means you need to pay close attention when crossing the road!

At the end of the day they do what most earphones already can do to differing degrees of success. The real win here is the price. At $59.95 they are a bit of a steal for the quality. It’s a price that will allow you to throw them around and even break a pair every now and then without worrying too much and then curling up into a little ball of despair after you realise how much you spent on them.

Would we use them at home to listen to our favourite tunes in high quality? No. Would we recommend them for your travels? Yes, very much so.

Read the full article at EFTM

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MA450i:
What really helps the MA450is get ahead of similarly priced competition is its amazing soundstage property – treating the listener to the various instruments delivered in a way to emphasise musical depth.

MA450i: Forged from aircraft-grade aluminum, coated with a scratch-resistant material, and featuring a cable made from woven fabric to reduce tangling - the tiny MA450is have a rather large box of tricks up their sleeve.

This latest model from RHA includes iOS device compatibility, and a three-button microphone – an all important feature in the ever-demanding earphone market. 

As with many earphones, sound changes once they are ‘broken in’ – and the MA450is are no exception. 

Although at first frequency may seem slightly brash and uncomfortable, this soon evens out over time. The result is a warm and rich sound, with more emphasis on balance than out-an-out power.

There’s a strong depth of sound achieved with a noticeable linear bass throughout the spectrum. 

Vocal reproduction is effective, with just enough power to allow the vocals to cut through, without taking away from the backing instruments.

What really helps the MA450is get ahead of similarly priced competition is its amazing soundstage property – treating the listener to the various instruments delivered in a way to emphasise musical depth.

They are also very comfy, too, with much lower levels of ear fatigue than with larger headphones. 

The tips come in various sizes to ensure that they fit correctly, and RHA even provide a carrier case to stop them getting lost.

Aesthetically, although not eye-catching, it’s clear a lot of thought has gone into their design. 

The package boasts that the sound delivery has been inspired by the aerodynamic design of a trumpet’s bell, and indeed, on closer inspection, the MA450is have a unique look.

But these are designed for people who want to experience the music completely, not turn heads with garish aesthetics.  

To that end, there are few earphones that do it better.

Read the full article at DailyMail

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MA450i:
 They're the first earphones I've found that sound good, stay in my ears and are reasonably priced.

MA450i: To be sure, I'm not an audiophile, but I am discerning enough to know what headphones sound better than the ones I'm used to. I'm not a big fan of the new EarPods Apple released last month. While they are an improvement over the old earbuds, I've recently found a pair of earphones I like a lot better: RHA's MA450i noise isolating earphones.

I've been trying out the RHA MA450i earphones for a few weeks now and I'm happy to say they're the first earphones I've found that sound good, stay in my ears and are reasonably priced. The earphones are machined from aircraft-grade aluminum and come in black or white. Each pair also comes with a set of seven silicon ear-tips so you can choose the size that is right for your ear. And as is a must for any earphones used with the iPhone, the RHA MA450i has an in-line remote and mic so you can operate your iPhone without taking it our of your pocket. But what I really like about these earphones is that they have a fabric-braided cable -- meaning it's not cheap plastic -- so it doesn't get all tangled and it lasts a lot longer than normal earphone cables.

RHA is relatively new to the audio scene. It's a Glasgow, UK, company that was founded in 2008, but spent three years in research and development before launching its first products. Based on my usage, I think we'll see plenty of great audio products from RHA in the future. The RHA MA450i earphones are available in Apple stores and online at RHA's website for US$49.95.

Read the full article at Tuaw.com

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MA450i:
The RHA MA-450i Earbuds are brilliantly built and designed, deliver exceptional audio quality and have a fantastic supplied remote control.

MA450i:
 RHA a division of Reid Heath, have released a successor to the MA-350 Earbuds, dubbed the RHA MA-450i Earbuds. We loved the MA-350 Earbuds, they had an excellent build coupled with accomplished audio performance but the lack of a remote and microphone prevented them from gaining a full five stars. This time around a remote and microphone have been included, so what do we think, keep on reading.

After first removing the earbuds from the retail packaging, it was very apparent that the build is still top notch. The strong trumpet bell shaped silver lightweight and small aluminium buds look identical but are no longer matte in finish, instead are now glossy. Each buds flat rear back can come in two colours, black or white, also glossy in finish. The 1.5m braided cable doesn't just look better than it's plastic counterparts, it performs better too, because the cable is harder to tangle and is also generally more durable and hard wearing. They're a very smart looking pair of earbuds and the design should still be applauded.

Seven sets of interchangeable tips are neatly found in a small box within the retail packaging. Removing and applying tips takes around a minute for each bud, some are a little harder than others to remove and apply. I found the default tips offered me the most comfort coupled with compactness. But the sheer choice of tips in different sizes and styles, really shows how much RHA want you to have the best possible listening experience. Also included within the box is a travel pouch.

If a pair of earbuds don't have a built in remote these days, I'm not going use them as my everyday pair. Possibly sounds a little unfair but I need that functionality, even if it's a cheap and cheerful implementation. So when I first read that the MA-450i's had a remote for Apple devices to take advantage of, I was very excited. After using these earbuds for two weeks, I can safely say that the remote is one of the best I've ever seen or tried. It's brilliantly contoured to hold between your index finger and thumb. The buttons are all separate and very responsive when clicked. Offering adjustment of volume, pausing/ resuming music and answering calls. Also a single microphone is located on the rear of the remote and is adequate for phone calls but is a little sensitive to the wind.

Noise isolation is very good. You can't hear the exterior audio from the earbuds when in public and loud noises from surroundings doesn't creep into your music either. The exceptional noise isolation is due to the aluminium used on the buds.

Down to what really matters, audio quality. Here is where the really noticeable differences from the MA-350's show. The on paper specs are as follows, 10mm drivers, a frequency range of 16-22,000HZ, Max Power of 3/10mW and the impedance of 16ohms. The audio generated from these specs has striking depth, dazzling distinction of individual elements, accurate treble, exceptional acoustics, deep but not harsh bass and the volume can be cranked all the way, with zero distortion. We tested these across many genres of music and they performed magnificently, audio is rich and detailed, it makes listening to music a pleasure.

The RHA MA-450i Earbuds are brilliantly built and designed, deliver exceptional audio quality and have a fantastic supplied remote control. At an RRP of £49.95 and available to purchase for just £39.95 on Amazon, I can't point to a better option in the price range. We look forward to seeing what this Scottish company has in stall for us in the future.

Read the full article at Slinky Studio

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MA450i:
The MA450i opens up a spacious sonic landscape that is quite advanced and sophisticated.

MA450i:There's no question that, as we climb higher up in the price ladder, reasonably decent headphones provide - with one or two expensive exceptions perhaps - a listening experience unavailable with earphones. But the thing is that for many who satisfy their music hunger with an iPod or iPhone or iSomething, headphones are not an option. Ask my daughter. Earphones are.

Earphones are handy, sort of, and visually less intrusive. iPods/iPhones are often used outdoor, in the street, in the company, and there matters of style do matter. Ask my daughter. The more invisible the headphone is the better; hence, earphones. To me, however, the hot question was to what extent earphones can provide a similar listening experience than comparable headphones do?

RHA MA450i is a 50 euro, noise isolating dynamic earphones with a remote and a microphone. It's designed iDevice users in mind. It's machined from solid aluminium - not plastic - and houses a 10mm driver. What caught my attention initially was RHA’s signature aerophonic design, which was said to provide "an impressively detailed, well-balanced sound experience".

Aerophonic design

The term "aerophonics" refers to noise-generating action of wind instruments. The shape, volume of space and build quality all contribute to the aerophonic function (the production and amplification of sound in a volume of air) of an instrument, or in the case of RHA, an earphone.

The traditional earphone shape pushes sound out of the driver into a compact chamber, forcing the sound through a narrow channel and, according to RHA, making it be harsh and muddled. To avoid this - and to realize a sound that is as clear and natural across the audio spectrum - the RHA R&D team decided to follow the model of the aerophonic properties of the bell of a trumpet, the shape which they thought is perfectly designed to channel air and sound efficiently.

In the RHA MA450i, the normal airflow system used in trumpets is inverted, and the air is directed from the widest part of the bell shape to the narrowest. According to RHA, this concentrates sound naturally and allows air to progress unobstructed and unforced from the speaker into the ear. This RHA's signature aerophonic design is hoped to produce clearer and more natural sound than traditional earphones, as well as allowing full and deep bass response.

The Sound

Well, full and deep bass it was, surprisingly deep and full. For listening experiments I used iPod and a variety of more and less compressed audio files in several formats. From a track to another, the low bass came out in a way it didn't come out from ordinary button earphones nor from my daughter's less than 50 euro headphones: with force and power, sometimes but not too often slightly out of proportion.

More importantly, the overall tonal balance was quite healthy. As compared to standard earphones, the balance of the MA4501 is of the kind that hifi hobbyists are reaching for, meaning that the MA450i didn't do any cheap sonic tricks to attract a quick superficial listener. It didn't, for instance, push the midrange artificially forward to emphasize the compressed nature of compressed music. That might have been fun for kids but not for sound lovers. In fact, I found the midrange a tad laid back in relation both to the low bass and the presence of high treble. That's kind of daring given that most iDevice listeners probably listen to compressed music.

All in all, after having tried standard button earphones and headphones from the same price category as the MA450i, I'd say that the MA450i opens up a spacious sonic landscape that is quite advanced and sophisticated. I fully enjoyed the MA450i's well-balanced reproduction of Beethoven's Fifth, for example. With the cheap button earphones and lesser headphones, the same track sounded dull and two-dimensional. This is not to say that there were no other similarly priced earphones that would perform equally well, it's just that I'm not sufficiently familiar with the supply.

Using the RHA MA450i was mostly trouble-free. They were easy to insert in the ear, and stayed there too. Fit is unlikely to be a problem since seven pairs of soft silicone ear-tip come along. Also, the remote functioned as promised.

Finally, I took a walk close to a heavily trafficked road to check the efficiency of the MA450i's noise isolation system realized with the dual density ear-tips. Soft silicone on the outside is designed to keep external noise out, while firmer silicone on the inside produces a tighter seal to prevent sound leakage. I was quite happy with the way in which the MA450i ignored hundreds of cars passing by. More disturbing was rubbing noise coming from the fabric braided cable: to avoid it completely one needs to stop walking altogether.

The RHA MA450i didn't make me a headphone listener but they proved that fairly good sound is nowadays available also from less expensive earphones. That was a good lesson. My daughter was more indifferent but that's because sound is not on her priority list.

Read the full article at Innerworld Audio

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MA450i:
...You have yourselves a top performing, durable pair of earphones that offer great value for your precious pennies.

MA450i: