Considering the popularity of the iPods as well as other Portable Media Players (PMPs), it is not surprising that the headphone/headset market is booming. When I attended CES 2008 in Las Vegas this year, I was amazed at how many booths were dedicated to nothing but headphones.

The trend these days is toward the wireless with Bluetooth, but some of these traditional corded models can do pretty well. For example, the new SE line of headphones from SHURE, which I had a chance to try on at CES.

The basic and lowest price of the SHURE SE line is the SE110, and it costs about $119.99. It has balanced Mircospeakers, but does not bill itself as High-Definition. However, I had a chance to listen to it, and it sounded pretty Hi-Def to me.

The SE210 has sound isolating earphones that have Hi-Definition MicroSpeakers for full range audio. They say that they have the “ultimate in precision highs and rich low end”, and they cost about $179.99.

The SE310 has the Hi-Definition Microspeaker that also includes a Tune BassPort. It has a different, thinner design that can deliver an extended range of audio. It runs about $299.99.

The SE420 has dual MicroSpeakers with dedicated tweeter and woofer. These headphones have lows, mids, and highs that are “distinctly defined”. This model runs about $399.99.

The SE530, the most advanced of the SE line, features sound isolating modular earphones with dedicated tweeter and dual woofers for “an expansive soundstage and full-bodied bass. This is the most expensive model and will take a user out $499.99.

All of these models are available at the SHURE site, they include sound isolating sleeves. These are rubber pads that block out all ambient noise. These models also include adaptable pads for different sizes of ears.

I believe that every model has a very short cord, at least at first. In other words, the two earphones come together at a male connector. Don’t expect to use just that unless you keep your iPod or MP3 player very close to your ears. Fortunately, a three-foot extender is also included for some versatility.

Each of the models from the SE line also come with a carrying case that is fashionably attractive and closes with a zipper.

All the SE models are available for purchase at the SHURE site, and usually have a two-year limited warranty. You may think that the price is too high, but it may be a small price to pay for quality sound.