Inbox:As I explained to a technophobic friend the other day, "Bluetooth is just like radio, but it broadcasts only as far as you can reach", writes Mike Butcher
Now, strictly speaking, it's nothing like FM radio, but you try explaining the broadcast distance for a mobile phone wireless protocol. It turns out it's harder than you think.
At least the analogy rings true. Bluetooth was originally intended as a radio transmission standard for replacing the wires connecting devices like earphones and mobile phones. But these days you can get Bluetooth headsets for real-world music listening - and not just for looking slightly mad while talking to yourself as you walk down the street. This year we'll be bombarded with lots of devices offering "A2DP" Bluetooth connectivity that is compatible with phones to car stereos, MP3 players to headphones.
Sony's DR-BT30Q is a differently styled, unconventional-looking headset. Sporting a built-in microphone for talking on your mobile hands-free, it also works with supported MP3 players. Largely intended for use with a music phone, the DR-BT30Qs is designed to hook up with most Bluetooth devices, meaning you could even use it to stream music from your laptop, or perhaps make a call on Skype.
The built-in rechargeable batteries last 11 hours for music/voice and more than 100 hours in standby. However, they are heavier than average and the sound quality is nothing to write home about. Prices are around €60.
The Bluetrek ST1 Bluetooth headphone has a clever bendable design which makes it pretty practical, assuming you are happy with the slight resemblance to a stethoscope. Despite this, the sound quality is pretty good. Available in black or white the headphones have an in-built Li-ion battery which is capable of almost nine hours of playback and 400 hours of standby time.
There are even play, pause, track direction, and volume controls on the earpiece. Pricing has not yet been announced.
The Sony Ericsson HBH-DS970 enables up to six hours of music playback or talk time, and up to 300 hours of standby time. Weighing in at 27g, the headset also supports multi-point functionality.
In other words, it can stay connected to several devices at one time, such as an MP3 player and a mobile phone. An integrated LCD display shows caller ID and music information. The sound experience is satisfyingly well rounded. Prices come in at around €90.
However, if its a full bass sound you want then check out the Motorola S805 DJ headphones for around €120. The S805s have an integrated mic for making and receiving calls. Play/pause, skip and volume controls are accessed by buttons on either side. It even comes with a 3.5mm cable so you can listen to non-Bluetooth devices.
When trying out all these headphones, make sure they work well with your player and are compatible before leaping into Bluetooth-based listening.
