Intro
At North American launch, the only system option for the PSP was the Value Pack, which bundled several critical accessories with the system. While being essential, the quality of these accessories may prevent the user from getting the most out of the Sony’s new baby. The included earphones (MDR-E818 relabeled as PSP-140) are functional barebones cans. The PSP-140 is a two-part earphone, half of the cord being on the earphone end and half on the remote end. The cord, buds, and connectors are colored white. The ideal replacement earphone would have to feature a two-part construction and also match the original white color (so it could be used with the remote). Luckily, Sony makes several models which fit these requirements. We will be looking at the Sony MDR-EX81.
The MDR-EX81 is the latest in Sony’s successful NUDE-EX line of canalphones (canalphones are earphones which fit snugly in the ear canal). While not as advanced (or expensive) as canalphones from Etymotics or Shure, the in-canal design still helps keep outside noise out and reduce the volume needed to clearly hear the audio signal. The EX81 differs from its predecessor the EX71 by adding an over-ear hanger and a flatter frequency response. Best of all, it does come in both white and short cord, so you can use it with the PSP remote. Included are: the earphones, three pairs of tips, a right angle extension cord, a bud protector, and a carrying case.
Specs
Here are the specifications of the MDR-EX81, and the specifications of the MDR-E818 in parentheses where different.
[list][*]Type: closed (open)
[*]Driver: 9mm (16mm)
[*]Magnet: Neodymium
[*]Power: 100mW (50 mW)
[*]Impedance: 16 ohms
[*]Frequency response: 5-23,000 khz (12-22,000 khz)
[*]Weight: 10g (6g)[/list:u]
Impressions
Since the short cord version (EX81SL) is not available in the United States, I purchased the Japanese retail version. The packaging is very nice: a clamshell which can be resealed. I hate packaging which has to be destroyed to be opened (which unfortunately the US packaging is), so bonus points there. The phones themselves come with three sets of rubber silicone tips so all sizes of ear canals can be fitted. This is important as a tight seal is essential if you want to seal out outside sound. A poorly fitted canalphone can sound worse than a bad earbud. Some people find canalphones uncomfortable, so your mileage may vary.
The EX81SL is a two part phone, so you can hook it up to the included PSP remote cord. The color schemes match perfectly (white and brushed silver accents). While using the EX81SL on other devices, just plug in the extension cable and you have a full length earphone cord.
Sound reproduction is very good, especially for the price the EX81 commands. Bass is present but not overpowering. Since the phone seals out outside noise, it is much easier to make out midrange and treble without having to turn the volume up. As the PSP is not designed to audiophile standards, pricier phones such as the Etymotics 4P are likely to yield only marginal benefits over mainstream canalphones like the NUDE-EX series, yet the money saved will easily buy a couple new games.
Conclusion
The MDR-EX81 is a good value and suitable upgrade for PSP owners who have got their MP3 collection on memory stick. Make sure to get the white short cord version (MDR-EX81SL/W) for best PSP compatability. The EX81LP can be purchased directly from sonystyle as well as some retail stores. The EX81SL can be purchased from audiocubes.com and on ebay.
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