The Evolution of Headphones

Headphones made it possible for people to listen to their music and audio without subjecting everyone around them to their musical tastes, but they are far more than just a personal listening method. From the clunky headphones of yesteryear to the sleek ear buds of today, headphones have come a long, long way.

1919
Radio Headphones
- These were the earliest known headphones and used moving iron drivers.
- Comfort was minimal.
- Sound quality was poor.
- The headphones connected to a battery, which could cause a shock to the user.

1958: Stereo Headphones
- Invented by John C. Koss.
- Essentially mini loudspeakers covered with cardboard.
- A full spectrum of sound was available.
- Japanese inventors promptly began to utilize and improve the design.

1979: Supra Aural Headphones
- The Walkman, a portable cassette player, hit the market along with the new supra aural headphones.
- Supra aural headphones sit on the ears, not around.
- They are smaller and more portable.

1990: Cordless Headphones
- These send an infrared signal to the headphones.
- Allows the user to wander around the room without worrying about a cord.
- Usually good for up to 150 feet.

Late 1990: Earphones
- These included both earbuds and canalphones.
- Earbuds fit just into the ear.
- Canalphones are custom designed to enter the ear canal, blocking out external sounds.
- These styles are more portable due to size.

Uses for Headphones
While mainstream uses for headphones have evolved from the phonograph to the Walkman to the iPod to the cell phone, there are other uses as well.

Listening to music, webinars and video from desktop
- Maintains privacy at work
- Best type of headphones: Earbuds
- Doesn’t bother others.

Phone use
- Hands-free usage
- Privacy
- Easier to take notes during a call
- Best type of headphones: Earbuds with microphon, wireless ear clip

Traveling
- Listen to music
- Listen to in-flight movie
- Best type of headphones: Earbuds

Canceling noise
- Create anti-noise that reduces background noise (like airplane motor).
- Good for traveling on planes, trains and buses.
- Best type of headphones: Specifically designed noise canceling headphones.

Playing Sports
- Waterproof and ergonomically optimized.
- Stay on while running, jogging or exercising.
- Best type of headphones: Specifically designed earbuds for sports.

The headphones you use with your portable listening devices today are nothing like those that were first brought onto the market. Now we have the benefits of comfort, style and amazing sound quality, making it just as gratifying to use wireless headphones as it is to listen to the deep tones from a Hi-Fi speaker system.