V-MODA Vibe In-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone (Gunmetal Black)

by V-Moda

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 1 x 4 x 7.5 inches ; 0.5 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B000K5WW1U
• Item model number: v-electrohaze
• Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (176 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: October 2, 2001

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

The Perfect Integration of Form and Function

V-MODA, the music lifestyle brand that owes its allure to the fusion of fashion and function, introduces its passion for music and style to the world with our innovative line of "modaphones". The pinnacle experience of music is interwoven with supreme style in these premium fashion-phones that sound as amazing as they look. The Vibe series of earphones comprises the signature example of the V-MODA line, combining for the first time a meticulously-crafted sound signature with a conscious eye towards modern design.

V-MODA's "Sculpted Sound Curve"

V-MODA's engineers spent over a year of the design phase crafting the perfect sound signature of the Vibe series of headphones. Designed to mimic the warm, sweet sound of hi-fi stereo speakers costing thousands of dollars apiece, the curve remains amazingly straight with no bass roll-off which delivers a smooth and detailed bass response. A sensitivity dip in the 500hz to 2kHz range accentuates the bass slightly and reproduces a warm soundstage. The gentle dropoff in the high ranges was carefully designed to avoid harsh or "clinical"-sounding highs, making the Vibes suitable as in-ear monitors.

The Power of V-MASQUE and BLISS Technologies

V-MASQUE is the speaker technology designed to reproduce V-MODA's sculpted sound curve. It involves using micro-sized metal alloy housings with dynamic neodymium speaker drivers to produce intense clarity and a warm, rich sound. Many other high-end headphones use balanced armature drivers, which can produce clarity well when inserted deeply--and for many people, uncomfortably--into the ear. Yet even in the best-case scenarios headphones using balanced-armature drivers can often lack warmth, producing a "mechanical"-sounding midrange and highs that feel flat and cold. The sound signature of the Vibe series is specifically designed for juicy lows and a sweet midrange yet maintains very precise highs.

Vibe's amazing hi-definition sound makes every element of your music crystal clear and present on a 3-D soundstage. The unique V-MASQUE dynamic driver and "beat port" airflow system recreates the sensation of a LIVE music experience. The "beat port" airflow system works by allowing the airflow to move throughout the housing naturally thanks to precision-cut holes in the driver and the housing. This airflow creates an organic output that is far different than other high-end in-ear monitors that can sound distant and mechanical. The Vibe simulates an experience of listening to live music thanks to the circulation that takes place inside the headphone.

BLISS is the acronym for "Bass-Level-Isolating Soft Silicon". Passive noise isolation by itself is not unordinary for in-ear headphones, yet extreme attention to detail is critical because of the fitting's effect in both comfort and sound. The exact thickness of the silicon can make all the difference in the world. Many of the "softest" silicon fittings on some brands proved to be too thick in V-MODA's user test panel. BLISS is made to not only be extremely comfortable in the ear canal, but also to be the easiest earphone to put in and take out quickly. This way one can rock quickly in a matter of seconds, then take an intermission before another encore.

The shape of the fitting is also extremely crucial to prevent them from popping out too easily by providing a proper seal. One of the interesting things V-MODA discovered is that the smaller the fitting, the better the fit for some users since the smaller fitting fits slightly deeper to prevent fall-out. However, many people commonly try only "larger" fittings thinking they may be tighter when the opposite is true. This is why V-MODA puts the small fittings on by default in the packaging, but users should try a few different sizes to decide for themselves optimal sound and comfort.

The design behind BLISS is also an ideology of how far deep the fittings should lie in the ear and the level of noise isolation. In V-MODA's user test groups, many users found that other high-end headphones required a fit too deep and too intrusive to get the best sound and comfort. BLISS fittings are "just right" for everyday use and the amount of noise isolation they provide.

What It Means To Be a "Lifestyle" Headphone

Though designed as an audiophile headphone, the Vibe was also specifically designed to be used on the go while moving: at the gym, heading to the venue, or walking down the street. Even though the casing is made of metal, the Vibe amazingly weighs only 12 grams, which is a third of the weight of many other competing high-end headphones. It is also the only headphone designed to lie flush within the ear so that you can use it while laying down on a pillow.

Extra thought and research was also put into the cable. Why is the cable so important? The main cable diameter of 2.2mm and overall cord length of 44"-46" work best to prevent "earphone fallout". V-MODA's cables are rigorously tested with weights to withstand abuse.

In addition to all this, the Vibe comes with a lot of extras. A gold leather pouch provides quick and easy storage, and the Modawrap cable manager can be used to control the length of the cables which is especially great for use with sport armbands. Black and clear fittings are included for extra personalization and two pairs of each size fittings are included. Try all 3 sizes (small, medium, and large) of fittings to create secure fit maximize music listening experience. Gently insert fittings into ear canal deep enough to ensure optimal seal.

What's In The Box

V-MODA Vibe headphones, gold leather carrying case, fitting instructions, VIP Card providing access to exclusive music offers and events through V-MODA, and a 1-year premier replacement warranty.

Product Description

Fashion-conscious style and audio enthusiast sound unite to form the most sophisticated electronics accessory in the world. Vibe's metal craftsmanship delivers the perfect balance of rich bass, superior audio clarity, and luxurious design. Unlike other uncomfortable and obtrusive in-ear headphones, Vibe presents essential active lifestyle comfort, security, and noise isolation for the discerning music enthusiast. The modawrap cable manager is included to control the length of the cable while listening and a gold leather carrying case is provided for storage.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

50 of 51 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Wary Purchase Turned Into Wise Purchase, March 19, 2007

By 

Michael T "Cool Hand Mikey" (NJ, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: V-MODA Vibe In-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone (Gunmetal Black) (Electronics)

These are good earphones - though I was not always convinced.
I've owned several in-ear style earphones in the past at this price range and lower. These are certainly the most 'fun' and sturdy. Despite my doubts, I highly recommend these earphones.

Allow me to preface:
After weeks of research on different in-ear style headphones, I decided on these. They fit my budget and they offered what I wanted - noise isolation, noticable bass, and a sturdy (i.e. not flimsy) construction - all complimenting my "while listening to an iPod on a commute" use for these.

I purchased the earphones. Then cancelled the order almost immediately. Later, I again decided to buy them.

This cancel was because, after more investigation, I discovered some not-so compelling features of these earphones and the company. I'll list them below and explain how I got over them (to help quell any concerns you may have), and then give some feedback regarding what they're like now.

Firstly, I learned that the 'sound curve' was unbalanced. I read that the bass was overpowering and possibly at the expense of a natural sounding mid and high range. As an avid blues/jazz listener, I was concerned by this.

Secondly, I read on a reputable website dedicated for iPod listeners (which shall go unnamed), that their experiences with V-Moda were not good. I heard of marketing practices that could be deemed somewhat 'shifty' or 'underhanded'. I didn't like that.

Thirdly, I found other earphones of similar price that were rated highly. The alternatives were tempting.

Fourthly, and finally, what's up with the marketing? The website plays music that I can't seem to permanently shut off. There's a lot of company-created jargon (BLISS, V-Masque, VIP card) that I'm usually wary of. And who exactly is supposed to use these things again? Oh yes, youthful, urbanized, jet-setting club-goers from Hollywood. Not me. Oh well.

Then I learned to stop worrying and love the V-Moda Vibes.

I figured I'd purchase them. Let them 'burn-in' (as I had so frequently read about in reviews; the process of allowing the earphones to play at a normal or above-average volume for hours until using). And return them if they failed as miserably as some reviewers seem to feel. I have not returned them after a month's use nor do I plan to do so ever. These are good earphones.

The SOUND curve is colorful. It is bass-heavy. It makes the earphones feel substantial. Especially compared to other in-ear earphones, the Vibes really shine. Most in-ear earphones lack any sort of strong bass. These are vastly different. For playing any bass-heavy music, these are unparralleled in-ear earphones (at this price range, given my experience). However, I am somewhat dissapointed with jazz playback. The mids and highs seem muddled, even with EQ settings. Regardless, it is passable and at least sounds 'rich' if not accurate. This does lead me to believe that these earphones are not suitable for studio-monitoring. But at this price range, I don't think any earphones meet that standard! In short, I look forward to listening to these earphones. It's fun - an odd qualification, I know. But that's the best way I can describe the experience. I would not, however, willingly sit at my computer desk and use these over the full experience of speakers or ear-cup designed headphones. I can't imagine any in-ear earphone that would make me want to do that, though.

BURN-IN did make a difference. I let them burn-in for nearly two days. It turned the earphones from sub-par, hollow, and tinny into rich, deep, colorful like they are now. Definitely worth the time and highly recommended.

The WIRES and CONSTRUCTION are sturdier than other in-ear earphones I've used in the past. I don't feel like repeated bending will make them disintegrate as others have. In fact, these are the most sturdy wires and earphones I've encountered for in-ears. As with many things, time will ultimately decide. For now, I'm pleased.

The FIT is comfortable. The company's claims of resting your head on a pillow are fair assessments. The multitude of interchangable ear tips is fantastic. I was pleased with the range and it made me feel like the company's attention to detail was promising.

Some reviewers cite the STRAIGHT-PLUG as a problem. It is. But a small one. An elbow-shaped jack would be far better, but the straight-plug isn't a killing blow. I have seen the wire crimp up against the wall of the straight-plug and it seems to fold. Something for me to watch for in the future. But in terms of pulling the plug out of my iPod, I don't see it as much of an issue.

Due to the design of these earphones, NOISE-ISOLATION is not as strong as others I've tried. I thought this would be a deal breaker. However, with the reduced level of noise-isolation, I'm actually enjoying it more. It's more like noise-reduction. For example, if I'm walking on a sparsely populated street and playing music at a moderate volume, I can hear only my music and maybe loud ambient sounds. Alternatively, if I'm on a crowded train, I am aware of conversations immediately around me but cannot make out the words unless I concentrate. When I use these earphones for plane travel, I think they'll work great; isolating the right amount of noise. To describe the noise reduction, I'd say to cover your ear canal with the pads of your thumbs. What can you still hear? That's what you'll hear when the Vibes are in.

Finally, keep in mind what you're buying. You're buying IN-EAR EARPHONES. These are designed to be inserted into your ear-canal. For those with very small ear-canals or who don't like things in their ears, I'd say not to purchase this style of earphone. Additionally, as noted earlier, these reduce noise! Not suitable for driving or any other activity which requires a high-level of alertness. Also, note that the bass is substantial for this style of earphone, but not necessarily for big headphones.

Some other NOTES that may be important to the buyer:
These have a y-split, not a j-split cable. Very important to some people, it seems.
I didn't believe it, but these do truly look great in your ears. It seems they targeted 'fashion' and they got it right.
The 'extras' (excepting the extra ear tips) are terrible. A champagne colored faux-leather bag (youthful, urbanized jet-setters can definitely tell the difference, V-Moda). A silicone boomerang meant to wrap your cord over. A registration card disguised as a "VIP" pass. V-Moda scored with the earphones themselves, but not with the peripherals. Regardless, I paid the money for the earphones and the extra ear tips were a great bonus!
The metal is indeed cold during cold weather. No big deal though. It warms up quickly.
The metal on the 'gun black' color is a slightly deep green tint. The image is a fairly accurate representation.
These must be inserted "straight" into your ear-canal. If they're off kilter they'll bother your ear. Extremely easy to remedy.
Also, I have read about (very few) headphones seeming tinny, even after burn-in. If this is the case, you may have a defective pair. But believe me, it's worth the hassle to get a working pair!

These are superb earphones. They serve all the necessities for this class and excel at some (bass response, sturdiness). And though they may slightly lack in some areas (supremely accurate mid/high representation, noise-isolation), the pros definitely outweigh the cons. If you want an in-ear earphone and are looking at this price range, I fully recommend buying the V-Moda Vibes. There'd better be a compelling argument not to!

80 of 85 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Not Bad - I enjoy them, December 7, 2006

By 

Pukahead (Honolulu, Hawaii United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: V-MODA Vibe In-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone (Gunmetal Black) (Electronics)

Just got these earbuds and I must say they're pretty good. They have a pretty clear and crisp sound, and a decent sound stage. Excellent for those who like listening to easy listening, jazz, classical, music of that nature. The buds have some bass, but definately not enough to satisfy any normal "bass head". Those looking at these earbuds should consider the following things:

1) Although they say "Gunmetal Black", they are definately not black. They have a sort of green tinge to them. Not that I really care since most of earbud in my ear so you won't see it.

2) The mini connector on this thing, that you would plug into your device is a strange shape so trying to pull it out of a tight jack can be infuriating. The connector is made of metal and shaped like a cone. Any amount of mouisture or the oils on your finger will make removal a project (you could pull on the cord, but that is not recommended).

3)If you love your bass, these are not for you. Although there's enough there to to make it enjoyable for an easy listener like me, those who want their "face mashed in" by bass should look elsewhere. For you "bass heads", you may want to checkout the "Ultimate Ears Metro.fi 2". These earbuds have a pretty good amount of bass though not as clear as the Vibes. You can get them here on Amazon.com for about the same price, [...] (yes, I have listened to the Metros).

4) Although they do provide isolation, these earbuds do not do the best job doing so compared to others. Outside noise is not totally blocked out when there is no music playing. Once the music starts however, outside noise is very difficult to hear. They have a little hole drilled into the bud which probably helps give it an open sound, but also probably hinders the isolation (I say probably since I am not the one who designed these things, so I don't know what those holes are actually for). Not sure how they would perform in a noisy environment like an airport or on a plane.

All in all, I think this is a pretty good buy. I certainly enjoy them with the types of music that I listen to. I would definately recommend them to those who just want to sit back a relax.

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing for what they are designed for and more, December 16, 2006

By 

S. Malov "MaloSify" (Davis, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: V-MODA Vibe In-Ear Noise-Isolating Metal Headphone (Gunmetal Black) (Electronics)

I'll say things quick and simply. I have experience using sennheiser hd595, altec lansing im716, etymotic er4p... Fairly expensive headphones.
These headphones right here perform very well for the price you are paying for them. V-moda Vibe is designed for use with portable players, and specifically for club music - ie Hip-Hop, Electronica, Soul - and they prove to be the best headphone for that music in the sub-$300 range. (although combination of some full-size phones with expensive sources may do better, but when you got $300 - this is it, and u r paying only a third).
What is also notable is that they do very well with almost every single other type of music. If you have no previous experience with high end audio gear - this is it (no Bose is not high end, Bose is overpriced, these will sound tons better than the Triport. if u want price comparison - triport should cost about 30 bucks). In short - if you are looking to spend $100 on headphones, or even more - this should be the best choice for you. They sound amazing, they run equally great from comps and portables, and they are very comfortable to wear as they weigh close to almost nothing. Don't be scared by their apparent size in pictures, they are actually very small and hide inside your ears better than earbuds. They are rather loud so moderate listening levels are advised.
And if you do have previous experience with high end audiogear - ie Sennheiser or Beierdynamic headphones - read on since this will be more detailed explanation of the sound. If you don't - grab these and find out what music can really sound like.

For audiophiles now:
These headphones perform amazingly for bass-heavy music, rhythmic music, and anything/everything that uses electric instruments. They have great separation, and very fast response. They are also one of the best iems for percussion - outdone by some of the high-ends like UM2, ES1/2, maaaybe properly amped etymotics. These headphones also soundstage fairly well, with some instruments being put to the back while some kept up front. They have a hole in the chasis, producing a semi-open design, (which I'd say is revolutionary for iems), which is partly responsible for soundstage, and makes them easier to listen to, at the cost of a portion of the isolation.
Their weakest musical area is classical music - because of the slight hump in the mids piano starts to sound improper, and that applies to guitar, and some other chord instruments. Although only those specific ones - as it holds one amazingly to reproduce single-note instruments like strings, brass, woodwind ... especially woodwind and brass. If you listen to classical music only though - these are not the best, altec lansing im716 should be a better choice in this price range. For ANYTHING else - these win over in sub $200 price range for the phone, or sub $300 if u want to include the amp in the price. These do not benefit from amplification and hold completely on the quality of the DAC, although still performing very well even with portables.

Any other notes? These headphones are great for all types of music, but the more aggressive - the more they really shine. Their speed allows them to work well with quickly played complex sounds.