Consumer Guide to Headphones and Headsets

Glossary

Ambient Noise that comes from outside the headset, including noise from passing cars, the phone and people talking. Sealed headphones prevent penetration of most ambient noise.

Aural Type of headphones that typically prevent sound from leaking out or bleeding to those surrounding you. A good choice for frequent travelers.

A/V Type of input or output that allows you to connect headphones to portable or other media devices.

Bass response The amount of bass produced from a headphone system.

Binaural The ability of a headphone set to create sound in both ears. The term binaural relates to both ears.

Bluetooth wireless technology This is a new technology that allows the user to take advantage of wireless technology. Sound quality is typically good and allows user to connect to several media agents including a portable stereo, mobile phone, laptop or computer and more.

Cans The audio industry’s slang for ‘headphones.’

Digital-to-analog converter A device that converts a digital signal to an analog one and back.

Digital signal processing (DSP) Computer alteration of analog sound signals to change them into digital form.

Drivers This refers to a single speaker instead of multiple speakers that may be in a crossover network or loudspeaker. There are several parts of a driver including the cone to move air, the voice coil and the magnetic. Loudspeaker is often used interchangeably.

Dynamic range The variable range over which sound is carried. The more diverse the sound range through which sounds are carried the more dynamic music appears to the human ear. Dynamic ranges are more 3D in nature, providing a more natural sound.

Headphone amplifier A device that improves the overall sound quality produced through headphones.

Op amp Short for operational amplifier. This is a circuit or part that helps expand analog sound.

Tube amp Vacuum tube that helps control amplification of sound. Many feel a tube amp produces a cleaner more clear sound.

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