Maximo iMetal iPhone Headsets

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Julie

April 01, 2008

If you're searching out a replacement headset for your iPhone, you need look no further than the iMetal headsets from Maximo. They offer two models. The iP-HS1 will appeal to those people that prefer a classic style earbud fit and the iP-HS2 is for those that prefer an in-ear style fit.

Let's take a look at both styles and see how they compare to the stock headset that ships with the iPhone.

iP-HS1

This is the model with the classic fit.

Included with the headset is a small silvery carrying pouch, a 2ft extension cable and one set of earbud covers.

Hardware Specifications

Earphone drivers: 15mm neodymium
Frequency response: 18Hz-22KHz
Sensitivity (1KHz,0.1V):>100dB
Maximum SPL output:>120dB
Microphone Sensitivity: 44dB +/-3 dB@1KHz
Microphone Frequency response: 20Hz-16KHz
Microphone impedance: 2.2K Ohm
Signal-to-noise ratio:> 58dB
Headset cable length: 4 feet
Extension cable length: 2 feet
Connection: 3.5mm with stereo audio & mono mic

Made of a lightweight aluminum alloy body, the iP-HS1's have a satin finish earphone, with a chrome 'neck'. They actually feel a little heavy in hand, but that didn't translate to discomfort while wearing them.

You'll notice a small silver ball on the Left cable, approximately 4 inches below the earbud. This is the built in microphone. I like that the microphone and the call answer / end / pause switch are separate. The switch is the silver disk at the Y in the cables. The switch has a button below the grey rubber cover.

Audio quality with this headset is very good for both music and calls. I was very happy using it for both tasks. People on the other end of my calls commented on how clear I sounded. Listening to to music was enjoyable as well. Compared with the stock Apple buds, I would give the nod to the iP-HS1's for both telephony and music.

iP-HS2

This is the model with the in-ear fit.

Like the iP-HS1's, this model also includes a small silvery carrying pouch, and a 2ft extension cable. In addition, two sets of different sized silicon eartips are also included.

Hardware Specifications

Earphone drivers: 9mm neodymium
Frequency response: 18Hz-22KHz
Sensitivity (1KHz,0.1V):>100dB
Maximum SPL output:>120dB
Microphone Sensitivity: 44dB +/-3 dB@1KHz
Microphone Frequency response: 20Hz-16KHz
Microphone impedance: 2.2K Ohm
Signal-to-noise ratio:> 58dB
Headset cable length: 4 feet
Extension cable length: 2 feet
Connection: 3.5mm with stereo audio & mono mic

I have to say up front that in-ear style buds are not my preference. I don't like the isolation feeling at all and have yet to find a pair that remain comfortable in my ears for even a short length of time. So, with that in mind, I will say that the iP-HS2's didn't feel any less comfortable than other headsets I've tested, such as the Skullcandy Full Metal Jacket SC-FMJI's. So, if you like wearing this type of headset, I don't think you'll have any issues with fit as long as one of the three sets of ear tips work for you.

As far as sound quality, the iP-HS2's are very good. They seem louder than the FMJ's, but don't have the problem with muddy overpowering bass. I actually enjoyed listening to music for the short period of time that my ears tolerated me wearing them. As with the iP-HS1's, I had no problems with Telephony tasks. They really shine there.

I'll be stashing my stock buds in a drawer and using the iP-HS1's whenever I use my iPhone. If you're interested in purchasing a set, they can be found through online retailers such as Amazon.com and Buy.com.