Sennheiser MX 90 VC In-Ear Headphones

The MX90 VC is another of Sennheiser's new pairs of earbuds. Sporting their innovative winged design, they hold firmly in your ears and provide audio that is well above the quality of a typical earbud. While we still recommend over the ear models for true high quality listening, the MX90 won't disappoint the average listener.

As with the MX55 which we looked at recently, the MX90s are designed with a special wing that extends from the tip of the earbud. This wing is covered with a rubber seal, and slips comfortably into one of the top grooves of your ear. Sennheiser's intent here was to lock the earbuds in place, as a typical earbud design doesn't sit firmly in your ear. The end result is a pair of headphones that are great for fast paced activities like jogging or cycling.

The design is reasonably comfortable, although it takes a little getting used to. After an hour we barely noticed the wings were there. The buds themselves are comfortable as well, with interchangeable pads of different sizes and textures, allowing you to achieve the best fit for you. As usual, Sennheiser do not disappoint with regards to sound quality either. While we still feel an over the ear model like the Koss KSC-75 or Sennheiser's own PX 100 is a better choice if the quality of the audio is your top priority, the size, convenience and price of earbuds often make them an attractive option.

The MX90s provide good, balanced sound. We didn't find any one element overpowering, although bass was a little lacking; a common failing of most earbuds. It didn't have the power or extension we are used to.

The mid-range was quite well represented, with strong detail and separation and a fairly lively presentation. Sennheiser models are known for their laidback presentation so this was a bit of a surprise, but a welcome one. There was a lovely clarity to complex instrumental music like jazz or classical which you were rarely hear in other models in this price range.

Our only other complaint was with the highs, which verged on being a little tinny at times. This was probably at least partially due to the low levels of bass making the other elements more prominent.

Overall we were impressed with the sound quality of the MX90s. They were on par with other Sennheiser earbuds, such as the MX55, and they give most regular over the ear models a big run for their money. The lack of bass makes them a little less suited to styles like hip hop or dance, but even these types of music sound quite good.

Aside from the winged design, the other thing Sennheiser is implementing on their new earbuds is interchangeable face plates. Like mobile phones and most other electronics, they are becoming a fashion item, and so Sennheiser are allowing you to customise your earbuds with multiple cases. To be honest we don't really see the point, as they're tiny and will mostly be hidden from view anyway, but it is a nice touch and they do look pretty stylish.

I, like many others, have had various sets of headphones over the years. I tend to stick to simple base models for a few pounds and find them uncomfortable, flimsy, tinny, limited sound range etc etc.
So I though I would treat myself to a good pair at a ridiculous price (£7.99 down from £39.99).

These have none of the traits of previous 'bargains'. They are solidly built with some nice touches (like the metal disks in the case to stop the ear pieces from rattling around) and a crisp clear sound with good base response. They are a comfortable fit, despite the odd looking shape, and there is no fear of them accidentally falling out. There are a number of additional rubber buds to ensure that you can get the best fit. Even the volume control is simple and efficient if a little quirky.

As proof of their quality, comfort and sound reproduction my wife has allowed me to order a second set for myself as she has taken ownership of the ones I originally ordered!

Hi there if you are getting annoyed with headphoned that keep falling out while running or in the gym then these headphones are for you! Good sound quality and there is nothing moving these badboys, and they are suprisingly comfortable. Only one let down, somewhere in the design process (must have been a monday morning) they decided attach an oversized volume control in the middle of the cable. This is a bit annoying as it tugs a bit and just gets in the way. Silly little thing but when your exercising can geyt really annoying.

I bought these to supplement my Sennheiser PX100s that were not the most practical headphones when running or down the gym! Whilst very little can rival the PX100s in terms of sound quality in this cheaper price bracket - these MX 90 VC headphones are an excellent package. The fit is extremely comfortable - don't be put off by the quirky design - and it is extremely hard for them to fall out of your ears, even when running! Excellent mid-ranges, good high notes and perfectly decent bass make this an ideal upgrade from standard iPod or MP3 headphones, or like me to supplement another set for using whilst out and about! All in all, superb value and a great set of headphones.

Overall sound quality is good, and it looks very stylish. Perfect for exercising with as they *will not* fall out of your ears.

However I found the bass to be extremely lacking (after a direct comparison with sony mdr ex71) and also they're not the loudest earphones you'll find.

But definitely very good for the price.