AblePlanet launches the EXTREME XNC230 series active noise canceling headphones. The headphones have a foldable design for easy carrying and an adjustable headband. Other than active noise cancelation, the XNC230 also includes the LINX AUDIO Hear the Difference technology for enhanced sound quality. The EXTREME XNC230 comes with in-line volume control and uses 3.5mm plug. It needs a AAA battery for the active noise canceling function. It is available in red, green, pink and white. The price is $149.99. [ableplanet]

JayBird launches its new SB2 Sportsband Bluetooth headphones with a design that takes cues from the 80′s while maintaining a sleek modern edge. The SB2 features a felxible overhead band, a rubberized underside band for grip and moisure sealed button controls. The on-ear headphones supports Bluetooth 2.0+EDR wireless transmission and includes the apt-X technology for delivering CD quality audio. It sports an integrated 4mm omni-directional microphone. The JayBird SB2 is priced at $99. Also released are the iSport Bluetooth adapter ($69) for iPhone and iPod and the uSport

TDK Life on Record, a brand owned by Imation, introduces in Japan the new CLEF line sports headphones, including the Canal Type TH-SB20YG, Inner Type TH-SB21YG and Neckband Type TH-SB22YG. Obvioulsy, you can see differences between three headphones by looking at their name. The TH-SB20YG features 9mm drivers while the TH-SB21YG and TH-SB22YG boasts 13.5mm and 14.7mm drivers. They all have 20-20,000Hz frequency response, a 1.2 meter cord and 3.5mm connector. TDK’s CLEF headphones will be released in August. [tdk-media]

Bose IE2 in-ear Headphones Bose introduces three new in-ear products, the the IE2 audio headphones for listening on-the-go, and the MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets, designed specifically for music-enabled mobile phones. The IE2, MIE2 and MIE2i all feature Bose’s TriPort acoustic headphone structure for improved audio quality and the Bose StayHear tips for greater stability and a comfortable fit. The IE2 is made for any 3.5mm audio sources such as MP3 player, PMP, PC..etc, while the MIE2 and MIE2 are for use with music phones and they feature in-line microphone and one-touch

Pioneer oM SE-MJ5 Pioneer launches four new DJ-Inspired headphones, including the oM SE-MJ5, Steel Wheels SE-MJ71, Loop SE-MJ31 and the EQ SE-MJ21. All of them have an on-ear design and feature 40mm sound drivers and sound tuning philosophy similarly found in Pioneer’s professional DJ headphone line. First of all, the oM SE-MJ5 is lightweight, portable foldable headphones with 1,500 mW max input power, 105 dB sensitivity and velour and leather-type interchangeable ear pads for maximum comfort. It comes with a 2 meter OFC Litz extension cord and 3.5 and 6.5 mm adapters and is

Sensgrad, expert in hearing protection, launches the ZEM noise canceling headphones. Unlike most noise-canceling headphones on the market, the ZEM uses a non-electronic way to eliminate background noise. Outside noise is absorbed and eliminated inside the chambers, replaced by your choice of music or communication. The ZEM comes with an adjustable headband and can be folded for easy carrying. Two models are available, the 26db SGZP001-26-BK ($29.99) and the 31db SGZP001-31-BK ($39.99). They both feature miniature electro-magnetic receivers producing broadband output with zero

Audio-Technica launches two new headphones, the ATH-XS7 and ATH-XS5, both with 40mm sound drivers. The former features a “Wide Back Band” headband so you don’t have to worry about your hair, while the latter is for those who wear cap. The Audio-Technica ATH-XS7 comes in black and yellow with a price of 6300 Yen while the ATH-XS5 is available in red, black and silver for 5670 Yen. [impress]

Audio-Technica is going to release in August the ATH-BT03 series Bluetooth headphones. It supports Bluetooth 2.1+EDR standard and includes A2DP, AVRCP, HFP and HSP profiles. It comes with built-in microphone which means it also serves as a headset. The Audio-Technica ATH-BT03 sports also the SRS WOW HD audio enhancement technology. The company also introduce the ATH-BT03T version that has identical features and functions but is intended for use with cellphones. [audio-technica]

TDK Life on Record, a brand under Imation, launches the TH-WR700 wireless headphones that utlizes Kleer’s 2.4GHz wireless audio technology for transmitting high-quality stereo audio. TDK’s TH-WR700 includes a headphone unit and a transmitter with 3.5mm connector that is to be plugged to audio source. The TH-WR700 headphones feature 34mm sound drive and features 20-20,000Hz frequency response, 08 dB/mW sensitivity and 32ohm impedance. It will be released in 1 March. [crunchgear][tdk]

Being a PC gamer, I’m no stranger to headphones. Whenever a new pair comes out, there are generally wild claims that accompany the release. Phrases like “most comfortable,” “clearest sound” and many others get tossed around. Sure, some of them have an innovative feature or two, but it’s rare to find one that seems truly innovative. The Psyko 5.1 PC Gaming Headset falls into that very small group. It’s not uncommon to find a headset that promises 5.1 surround sound capabilities. But with all of the speakers right there in your ear, it’s hard to