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Easy listening: The best earphones

A new kind of earphones allow you to enjoy music in loud places without blowing your eardrums out. Money Magazine field tested a few. Here are our top picks.

By Wilson Rothman, Money Magazine contributing writer

1 of 6

Money Magazine Field Test Winner

Creative ZEN Aurvana: $100

Cost: $100

Comes with: Six sizes, case, airplane adapter

Sound quality: "Clear with good defintion of different instruments," says audiophile Michael Fremer. A slightly weaker bass makes them second best overall. For the price, they are the best of the bunch.

Volume needed: 57 percent

Bottom line: Nice noise reduction, great sound and priced in the middle of the pack.

Grade: A-

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Big retailers are working hard to cater to tech-hungry students. Here's how to put together a perfect package on a budget for your back-to-school student. (more)

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