JVC launches wood shell in-canal earbuds

JVC today introduced an unusual take on the largely settled world of earphones. Its HP-FX500 buds drop the metal and plastic of most in-canal earbuds in favor of birch wood. Aside from the unique appearance, the design also includes tangible improvements, according to JVC: hybrid drivers ensure the earbud is at least as clear and stable as traditional earbuds, while damping gel inside the buds both reduces jittering in the buds themselves and improves the passive noise canceling effect. JVC claims the ability to produce sounds as low as 8Hz and as high as 25kHz.

The Japanese firm bundles the earbuds with multiple sizes of rubber ear tips and a carrying case. Shipments start in early February for JVC's home country, where the FX500 set will sell at an open price but should be available for about $131 in the area when it goes on sale. Word has not yet been given of a release in the US, though JVC regularly exports its earbuds and headphones. [via Impress]

Filed under: iPod, peripherals
Other story tags: JVC