Product Reviews Ear
Ear Generation II iPlugz Sports Monitor And Kryptonite 4 Disc Lock And More
EAR Generation II IPlugz Sports Monitor $295
The Generation II iPlugz are the latest offering from E.A.R. Inc., specialists in custom hearing protectors and music monitors. Each custom-molded plug has two sound drivers that concentrate on midrange and high tones. Molds are made from silicone impressions of your ears (done at your local E.A.R. vendor), and the custom plugs are then assembled with the necessary electronics. The fit is comfortable, precise and snug, exactly what's needed for effective noise reduction and sound fidelity. I always wear earplugs when riding and estimate that the iPlugz provide approximately the same high degree of noise attenuation as foam earplugs with a Noise Reduction Rating of 33 dB (see Street Survival, Oct. '07). In a quiet environment they provide more bass and a fuller high treble range without the usual tinny sound of most earbuds. On the road I can listen to music at a fairly low volume and still hear high notes, even at highway speeds. Windscreen turbulence (or lack thereof) affects the minimum volume required to hear music clearly, but I cannot discern any sound distortion even at head-splitting volume levels.
Two cautionary notes about listening to music with earphones or helmet speakers: The first is to check local laws to ensure it is legal in your state. The second is that even at low volume, piped-in tunes drastically reduce one's ability to hear other traffic and emergency-vehicle sirens.
I give the Gen. II iPlugz top marks. They come at a premium price but provide premium performance. -Evan Kay
5 stars
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