Logitech Headphones Fits Just Right

When someone mentions the company Logitech, the first thing that springs into mind is a mouse, a keyboard, or an iPod docking station. But after acquiring Ultimate Ears in August, it seems that the company is looking at putting themselves on the ‘audio’ map.

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While Ultimate Ears was founded during the mid-90s and has a ‘loyal following of touring musicians, sound engineers, and mainstream music lovers,’ it is considered a new kid on the block in Australia. And since it has to compete with brands such as Sennheiser or Audio Technica, Logitech would have to release an earphone that not only sounds fantastic, but must also be affordable.

The Ultimate Ears Super.Fi 5 is an ultraportable pair of ‘phones that fits comfortably inside the ear. It comes with three interchangeable silicone ear tips and two foam ear tips that allow users to create a tight seal for natural noise isolation.

The ear buds are housed in a liquid-silver plastic and colour-coded (Right is deep red, Left is black) for easy identification. Just a couple of millimetres from the right earphone is a built-in microphone, while a multifunction button that answers/ends calls can be found a few millimetres below the Y-cable. Logitech has also included a carrying case (that looks like a giant floss container) for easy storage.

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The Super.Fi 5 earphones’ top-fire design employs a single, wideband driver that delivers brilliant sound. The ‘phones were able to naturally block out ambient noise during our long commute, and we were able to listen in peace without resorting to cranking up the volume (which is good as it can prevent hearing problems in the future).

While the unit was able to reproduce kick bass and bass riffs on heavy tracks, it was not overemphasized. In Metallica’s “All Nightmare Long,” the earphones were able to pump out low-end sound without distorting other instruments. In addition, vocals were full, high notes were more than acceptable, and instrumentals remained crisp and sharp.

The unit can also be hooked up to the Apple iPhone, turning the unit into a hands-free kit that answers/ends calls with a single press of a button. Audio was clear and we did not experience any feedback while talking to our contact. The multifunction button can also be used to stop/play music on your iPhone.

Because of its low-profile design, the earphones are easy to wear anywhere. You can wear the earphone cables over the ear if you are exercising, or let them hang down for casual listening. The cord is tough enough to withstand extreme flexing, so you can be sure that it won’t rip while you are on the go. And if you no longer need the headphones, you can wrap the cord in a bundle and place it inside the carrying case.

Overall, the Ultimate Ears Super.Fi 5 vi is a well-balanced earphone that delivers. It may not be a well-known brand in Australia, but can probably be a good alternative for audio junkies who want to listen to their favourite music anywhere. If you do not want the additional hands-free option, then we recommend the Ultimate Ears Super.Fi 5 which sells for $329.95.

See page over for product specifications and pricing.

Ultimate Ears Super.Fi 5 vi specification:

In-line microphone Sensitivity: -40dBV/Pa, 1 kHz
Speaker Input Sensitivity: 115 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz
Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 15 kHz
Impedance: 13 ohms at 1 kHz
Internal Speaker Configuration: Single driver: proprietary balanced top fire armature
Noise Isolation: 26 dB
Input connector: 1/8 inch (3.5mm) gold plated

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Ultimate Ears Super.Fi 5 vi | $379.95 |  | www.logitech.com

For: Noise isolation; Clear and crisp audio; Comes with ear tips and hard case
Against: Lack of bass may turn some users off
Conclusion: Ultimate Ears delivers a well-rounded set of earphones