Headphones are wired using a variety of methods, depending on the type of headphones and their intended use.
Wired Headphones:
- Single-Ended: Most wired headphones use a single-ended connection, which means they have a single wire with a 3.5mm jack on one end and a plug on the other. This plug connects to the headphone driver, which converts electrical signals into sound waves.
- Balanced: Some high-end headphones use a balanced connection, which means they have two wires, each carrying a separate audio signal. This helps to reduce noise and improve sound quality. Balanced connections typically use a 4.4mm or XLR connector.
- In-Line Microphone: Many wired headphones come with an in-line microphone that allows users to take calls or use voice assistants. This microphone is usually located on the wire, close to the headphone jack.
Wireless Headphones:
- Bluetooth: Wireless headphones typically use Bluetooth technology to connect to devices. Bluetooth uses radio waves to transmit audio data, allowing users to listen to music or take calls without the hassle of wires.
- Proprietary Wireless: Some headphones use proprietary wireless technologies, such as RF or infrared, which have a shorter range than Bluetooth but can offer lower latency.
Cable Types:
- Standard Audio Cable: The most common type of headphone cable is a standard audio cable, which uses a 3.5mm jack on one end and a plug on the other.
- USB Cable: Some headphones, especially those designed for use with computers, use a USB cable to connect to devices.
- Lightning Cable: Apple devices use a Lightning cable to connect to headphones.
Connection Types:
- 3.5mm Jack: The 3.5mm jack is the most common type of headphone connection. It is a small, circular connector that is found on most smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- USB-C: The USB-C port is becoming increasingly common on smartphones and other devices. It can be used to connect to headphones, but it is not as widely supported as the 3.5mm jack.
- Lightning: The Lightning port is used by Apple devices to connect to headphones. It is similar to USB-C but is not compatible with other devices.
Examples:
- Single-ended headphones: Apple EarPods, Sony MDR-XB50AP
- Balanced headphones: Sennheiser HD 800 S, Focal Utopia
- In-line microphone headphones: Beats Solo3 Wireless, Bose QuietComfort 35 II
