Klipsch Shows Off Ruggedized In-Ears, First Over-Ear Headphones


We’ve been fans of Klipsch’s Image line of headphones for some time now, so we welcome the latest updates with open ears.

The ones I’m most excited about are the Image S5i Rugged (top). The S5i is a nice mid-to-high-end pair of headphones designed for use with your iPhone. The new version is “extremely durable” and has a moisture-resistant rubberized in-line remote. These aren’t waterproof or bulletproof or anything, but you won’t have to worry about sweat or rain ruining your favorite pair of in-ears. They’ll be $130.

The Image One is the first pair of traditional “on-ear” headphones from Klipsch. They too work with the iPhone and have in-line controls. We’re going to have to check these out; debut products like this are always interesting. $150 for these; they and the S5is will be available in November.

There is also a cheaper pair of in-ears being announced, the Image S3, for $50. They don’t sound too exciting — probably decent, but eh. I think good headphones are one of the things worth dropping a little cash on.

Here’s the full press release, if you’re interested.

Klipsch Broadens Headphone Offerings with Three New Designs

INDIANAPOLIS (September 3, 2010) – In just three years, Klipsch has carved out a niche in the heavily saturated headphone market by manufacturing products designed to offer unequaled comfort, noise isolation and musical accuracy at any price point. Today, the company plans to build on its success with three new headphone models catering to cost-conscience consumers, athletes and people who prefer on-ear solutions.

Ranging from $49.99 to $149.99 (US MSRP), these headphones maintain the same high-quality sound signature and comfort levels as previous Klipsch headphones, but introduce enhancements in design, cabling, performance, packaging and accessories. These new models join the existing Klipsch headphone line, which includes the best-selling Image S4, Image S4i and Image X10i.

Image One

The Image One brings high-performance Klipsch sound to people who prefer an on-ear design. Not only is it the company’s first on-ear headphone, it’s among the first to feature an Apple-based mic and three-button remote for taking calls and controlling music on iPods, iPhones or iPads. Each lightweight, pivoting ear cup features premium leather and high-density memory foam for comfortable wear and superior passive noise-isolation, designed to block out ambient noise and provide enhanced bass. The ear cups fold flat for placement inside the included carrying case. Purchase these sleek headphones for $149.99 (US MSRP) at authorized retailers and klipsch.com in November.

Image S5i Rugged

Extremely durable and perfect for active outdoor lifestyles, the Image S5i Rugged in-ear features a mic and oversized moisture-resistant three-button remote to put music and phone call controls at your fingertips. Offering bold styling, highly intelligible phone calls and full music and/or voice control on select Apple products, these headphones retail for $129.99 (US MSRP). Available in a black finish, the Image S5i Rugged comes with three pairs of different-sized patented oval ear tips and a heavy-duty safety case with a built-in flashlight and removable belt clip. Purchase the Image S5i Rugged at select retailers and klipsch.com in November.

Image S3

These affordable in-ear headphones offer a major boost in sound and comfort over similarly priced competitor models. Available in a gun metal gray, red, pink or green finish, the Image S3 accommodates virtually any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. It comes with three pairs of different-sized patented oval ear tips and a carrying case. Purchase the Image S3 for $49.99 (US MSRP) at select retailers and klipsch.com in October.