[Spazmatazz]

Hey - I've been using Senneheiser CX300s with my iPod, and was very happy with both the sound quality and the fact that I could pick up a genuine pair for about £20 from Amazon. However, since I started using them around a year ago I've been through 2 pairs; the cables break. Seems they aren't quite robust enough for long-term portable/gym usage. I don't do anything too crazy, but obviously they snag on things, get stuffed into my pocket, wrapped around the 'pod etc... which I guess takes its toll, and eventually they break or short out (both times near the jack) and one of the earphones drops out.

What I need then, is a pair of noise-isolating in-ear 'phones of comparable or better sound quality that are much more durable. I'll pay upto £60 or so to get something that will last.

For instance, are CX500's tougher than CX300's? Or should I be looking at getting another brand, for instance Shure? Any other recommendations?

Cheers!

[willj12]

I have just bought the two days ago for £35, they have gone up to nearly £50 now Sony MDR-EX500LP with Multi Layer Diaphram: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo
These are very good heaphones, they have replaced my CX300's and they stay in my ears alot better and have much better sound.
I haven't had them long enough to test the durability yet, but so far these are very good headphones.

[Steven]

You have to look at the individual design. Shure typically use reassuring thick cable, but my Westone UM2 as typical across their line, utilises thin braided cabling that is virtually microphonics free as well as being intact 2 years later (purchased second hand) and it held up just as well with my old Shure's

In contrast I had 3 pairs of Sony EX71 suffer right driver failure but no issues with 4 other canals', including the CX300 (now sold). Looking at cable design you have to look at the plug and how they go into the ear driver... sometimes they just go straight into the housing 'naked' and are asking for a tug to break

As for gym use, I have ordered Sennheiser PMX 80 off Amazon for stay-on-ability and as they are cited as sweat-proof. I'll soon see when I run 10k with them (no post now due to Easter -_-)