Digital Trends

Wi-Gear iMuffs MB210 October 18th, 2007 | by Jason Tomczak

Features and Design

The iMuffs (model MB210) by Wi-Gear are comfortably sized, multi-function headphones for iPods, iPhones, Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and properly-equipped desktop and laptop computers.

The headset frame is not the typical over-the-head design, but the less common behind-the-neck form. While the unusual form factor seems like it might be uncomfortable, it's surprisingly easy to wear and feels very good, even after long stints of listening to music. This is partly due to the lightweight frame (2.2oz) but also due to the way the headset rests over one's ears and disperses its own weight.

The round headphones themselves fit snugly against the ears, making the sound more direct and immediate. This eliminates unwanted sound-wave bleed-out from poor contact with the ear canal. It also helps make the bass and mids come to life without necessitating high volume levels.

The iMuffs use Bluetooth 2.0 for better data signal and distance. The iMuffs can pick up a Bluetooth signal from near-zero distance to anywhere from 3 to 10 meters (roughly 9 to 32 feet). Bluetooth range is mostly affected by environmental or situational issues, like line of sight, other electronic interference, etc. In one of our tests, the iMuffs worked flawlessly with our iPod touch even at a distance of 56 feet. 

Skype & Chat

The iMuffs work very well with Skype and other voice-enabled chat programs like iChat, so long as your computer has Bluetooth wireless. 

A2DP & Cell Phones

The iMuffs use a technology called Advanced Audio Distribution Profile, or A2DP. A2DP enables users to listen to stereo music wirelessly (from an iPod, iPhone or other Bluetooth/music enabled phone), allowing them to interrupt the music to take a call on the very same headphones. Non-A2DP users would need a separate Bluetooth headset for calls and dedicated headphones for their music. A2DP merges these functions into one headset. Of course, one needs to have an A2DP-capable phone to take advantage of this technology. Wi-Gear specifically mentions the iPhone for music/calling functionality, however there are plenty of other phones that'll work. 

Noise Canceling

One of the less-obvious features of the iMuffs is the built-in noise canceling microphone. This mic is what controls phone calls, Skype calls and voice chat. Better than a standard mic, the iMuffs mic filters ambient noise in your environment so the people you're talking to will be able to focus on your smooth, sexy voice. 

iPod Controls

The iMuffs have basic iPod controls on the right earphone - volume up/down, play/pause, forward/next and rewind/previous. The controls are sized just right, making them very easy to use.

The iMuffs have an impressive 20Hz - 20kHz frequency range. This is much better than most compact headsets.

Image Courtesy of Wi-Gear