The Review Vault

Griffin TuneBuds 'a Vast Improvement' Over Apple's Earbuds

- 2007.03.23

Rating: 3 out of 4

Last time in The Review Vault, I reviewed the Griffin disko nano, a polycarbonate case for the iPod nano.

The iPod has fast become a big part of the Macintosh experience, and as such, I feel it should be covered. I'm starting a new series called The iPod Files that will focus on reviews on iPod gear.

This time, we're looking at Griffin's TuneBuds (formerly known as EarThumps), in-the-ear sound buds that come in your choice of white or black. To be honest, I'm not crazy about in-the-ear earphones at all - I'd much rather have regular headphones. But there are times when in-the-ear 'phones have their place.

The only pair of in-the-ear 'phones I had prior to receiving the EarThumps were the white Apple earbuds that ship with every iPod. I think the Apple-supplied earphones just barely do the job. They lack one thing: adequate bass response. While I'm not an audiophile by any stretch, I do appreciate good sound.

TuneBuds packagingSo how do the Griffin TuneBuds stand up?

The first thing you will notice is the packaging - very elegantly packaged. Everything clearly and neatly laid out, as you'll notice in these pictures.

There are three sets of silicone fittings included to fit the shape of your ear. A nice touch is the enclosed zipper casing. Think about it: how many times have you lost track of your earphones? This zipper case is a handy addition.

TuneBuds packagingThe cord is of adequate length, perhaps a little longer than the Apple earphones. As for the meat in the sandwich - which in this case is the sound - the TuneBuds do a better job than Apple's earphones. It has a pleasing bass response. However, I found it lacking some treble response. I felt there should have been more of a balance.

While I would've liked to see more of a balance between bass and treble response, I have to say that the TuneBuds are a vast improvement over the Apple earphones. For the $29.99, I'd wholeheartedly recommend the TuneBuds if you want something better than the standard Apple issued earphones.

I give them a 3 out of 4 rating. Another great product Griffin! LEM

Go to the iPod Files index.

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This article copyright ©2007 by Tommy Thomas. Low End Mac is an independent publication and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Apple Inc. Entire Low End Mac website copyright ©1997-2012 by Cobweb Publishing, Inc. unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, iPad iPhone, iMac, iPod, MacBook, MagSafe, Mac Pro, Apple TV, and AirPort are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Additional company and product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks and are hereby acknowledged.
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