Klipsch Image ONE (II) On-Ear Headphones Preview

Klipsch has been a leader in the speaker market for quite some time. Expanding into headphones was a natural progression for them. The Image ONE headphones were well received in the market but consumers did have some suggestions. Surprisingly, Klipsch responded to these suggestions with a new and improved offering, the Image ONE II (we read that as 1, 2) headphone.

From a design standpoint, the two headphones are very similar. They have an on-ear design, an adjustable headband, and similar specs. The new Image ONE II headphones have upgraded the aesthetics with a gloss-black finish on the headband and a higher-end look to the back of the earcups. The covers on the earpads are now flat rather than cupped as you'd see on most earpads. this may make for a more comfortable fit and better isolation.

There are two important upgrades in the Klipsch Image ONE II headphones. First, the headphones now fold back on themselves to allow for easier storage for travel. The second change is that there is now a single cable leading to left earcup (as opposed to two on the previous model). This will make transporting and traveling with the Klipsch Image ONE II headphones much easier.

Overall performance is maintained from the previous model. The Image ONE II headphones are rated from 16Hz to 23kHz. They feature the same Full-range KG 150 40mm driver from the previous model as well as the mic and three button remote on the cord. The message that Klispch is sending with the Image ONE II headphones is clear: "We had a winner on our hands to begin with. We've just made them a little easier to take with you."

If you are more into the wireless side of things, you might consider Klipsch's second addition to the Image ONE headphone line. The Image ONE Bluetooth On-Ear Headphone has all the same features, aesthetics, and specs as the Image ONE II except that it is wireless. The controls are now on the right earcup and they connect via Bluetooth 2.1 to your phone or player. The battery will last you 10 hours but, if it runs out, you don't need to worry. Klipsch has included a direct connect audio cable for an optional wired connection. We'd definitely be interested to see how the wired versus wireless connection sounds on these headphones.

Conclusion

'When you've got something good, don't mess with' it seems to be how Klipsch is approaching their Image ONE headphones. While the drivers and performance haven't changed from the previous model, the Image ONE II offering is easier to transport and overall it looks better. Add to that a Bluetooth version for wireless or wired connection, and you've got everything a consumer might need in a pair of headphones.

For more information, please visit www.klipsch.com.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.