As technology in portable audio players like Apple Ipod’s and Sony MP3’s have advanced, it’s brought about an entirely new industry of accessories for these fantastic MP3 players.

The MOST important accessory you could ever purchase are quality headphones for your Ipod and MP3 player. Not only will the sound be 10 times better...the extra money spent here will actually help protect your hearing.

It doesn’t matter which brand of MP3 you have... you’ll have no problem finding headphones and earphones to match your tastes, requirements and budget. All you have to do is look around.

Although all MP3s come with headphones... known as earbuds, most are far from giving quality sound. These tiny devices are made to be worn inside the ear and as all ears are not the same size, one earpiece is not ideal for all users. That’s why it is important to select those that are comfortable to YOUR ears!

The other factor you need to pay attention to is the quality of sound. Although, the buds that come free with your player may sound “just okay”, it’s important to try out another set so that you can hear the difference. It is only then that you will truly appreciate what a good quality high performance earphone sounds like.

There are four basic types of headphones to choose from:

1. Earbuds. These are the type included with most MP3 players and the Ipod. Ordinary earbuds will cost you any where between $25 to $50. In my opinion, these are the least desirable to purchase.

2. In canal earphones. Whereas earbuds sit on the outside of your ears, the in canal type actually are inserted into your ear…just like a foam or rubber earplug. These are also called passive noise cancelling earphones.

The high-end models start at $50 to $100. In this price range some of the best earphones are from Etymotic Research, Ultimate Ears and Shure. If you are willing to spend $300 to $500 and above, you can opt for the top of the line Ultimate Ears Triple.fi 10 Pro and the Shure SE530. Be assured either of these top of the line models will have you enjoying "pure audio bliss”.

3. Noise canceling. There are two types of noise cancelling headphones. Active and passive.

The passive type are usually the in canal earphones (they block out outside noise just like an earplug would). No batteries required.

Active is battery powered circuitry used to hear outside noise and electronically block it out. The disadvantage of active noise canceling is that batteries are required to power the noise cancelling feature.

The Sennheiser PX250 is an excellent active noise cancelling headphone, at a cost of approximately $125. These headphones give full and rich sound. They also are foldable and durable and easy to carry in their included carrying case.

Another top rated active noise cancelling model (rated a score of 9 out of a possible 10 by Wired Magazine) is the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7, priced at approximately $160.

4. Standard on the ear or over the ear type of headphones. These are your standard looking headphones. The full size stereo types are more for home use. The smaller and compact styles are great for traveling and home use.

The Koss PortaPro is a perfect example of an on the ear compact headphone definitely worth looking at. The sound quality is very good and these cans are lightweight and foldable. For a price of around $50, they can’t be beat. You can easily carry them in their included carrying case. The earpieces rest on your ears and sides of your head.

Full size headphones you won’t go wrong purchasing are:

The top rated AKG 701 Professional. At about $350 these headphones are one the top rated headphones available...no matter what the price!

The Ultrasone HFI 700. These headphones won the Editors Choice Award and are priced around $250.

Thank you and hope this helps you make the best buying decision possible.

Not many people know that there are airline headphones especially made for use on airplanes and other noisy places... noise cancelling headphones.

These audio listening devices have become immensely popular because of their noise canceling feature.

However, it is important to know as much as possible about these headsets before making a purchase for a simple reason that these can cost a bundle. Some of the best brands cost several hundred dollars and that is why it is important to shop around so that you get the best deal and the best model suited to your needs.