Review: Griffin EarJams

The stock iPod earbuds are a simple thing…you either love ’em or hate ’em. Many people replace the earbuds with another set, especially the type that fit inside the ear canal. Griffin Technology has devised an accessory, the EarJams, that attempts to make the stock earbuds as good as more expensive models.

With a price of $15, the EarJams are much cheaper than a new pair of good headphones, and allow you to continue using those trendy white ‘buds. The main goals of these are to give the user more bass, more volume, and keep other noises out.

EarJams

EarJams

The EarJams are simple to “install”. If you have a first or second generation iPod, however, you can only use the EarJams if the earbuds were replaced (Apple changed the earbud design with the second generation models). If you have any other iPod and are using the standard earbuds, they just snap on. Three different sets rubber ear pads are included, providing users with the best fit. After installation, the earbuds look and feel like more expensive sets, such as the Sony EX70s or EX71s. With these caps installed, the shape of the earbuds change, changing how they sound.

Rather than have the excellent treble that Apple’s earbuds are known for, the “EarJammed” earbuds have much deeper bass and midrange response. A tradeoff, but it can be compensated with equalizer settings. The sound itself is more isolated, as well.

I alternate between the white earbuds and a set of Koss headphones, both relatively inexpensive sets. In tests, the EarJams sounded good, although bass was a bit heavy in some cases. Most audiophiles would hate the EarJams, but then again, they probably aren’t using the stock earbuds.

The EarJams are not as comfortable as some earbuds, but about the same as the unmodified Apple ones. The edges of the EarJams must be turned just right, or the edges will cause discomfort. When the little indentations are lined up with the L and R indicators, the EarJams are the most comfortable. As for the inner ear cushions, they were very comfortable. The EarJams obviously make the earbuds bulkier, but it should be noted.

Overall, we liked the EarJams, but they might not be for everyone. If people hate the stock earbuds, care a lot about sound quality, or don’t want increased sound isolation, they should look elsewhere, otherwise, the EarJams might be a good purchase.