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Headphones for fashionistas

By Kelvin Low, CNET Asia

John Koss introduced the first "modern" headphones in 1958 that are designed specifically for listening to music. They also supported stereo sound. Called the SP/3, these cans introduced the headphone concept to the people.

However, fashion designers only recently cast their eyes on headphones years after the SP/3. Instead of a sea of black headphones that look like hearing aids or ear protectors, designers today are pushing designs to their limits. We've picked five headphones with street fashion cred.

1.  iFrogz EarPollution Nerve Pipes
 
iFrogz lets you customize your headphones in six different ways. You're not limited to the choice of color, but the artwork that goes on as well. The picture shows a pair of Nerve Pipes that we fancy, with lots of shiny bits and gold details. Also, we really like the option of having fluffy earpads. Who said bling is dead?

(Image Credit: iFrogz)

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2.  WeSC bongo
 
The WeAreTheSuperLativeConspiracy (WeSC) designs started with the skateboard culture and with famous artists like Chris Pastras working on the headphones. That however didn't stop WeSC from expanding into the "nu-rave" culture with electro-based labels such as Ed Banger Records. If you're mad about "nu-rave" and think it's cool to use big headphones, this is worth considering.

(Image Credit: WeSC)

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3.  Skullcandy Skullcrushers
 
The company behind these headphones is well-known to snow and skateboarders. Skullcandy headphones feature heavy bass with vibrating subwoofers included in the ear cup. These are driven by a powered in-line amplifier. Skullcandy designs are usually inspired by collaboration with other companies. For 2009, the vendor partnered with Troy Lee Designs/Honda. Motor-cross headphones next, anyone?

(Image Credit: Skullcandy)

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4.  Zumreed ZHP-005
 
If nostalgia is what you are searching for, take at look at these retro-designed Zumreed spherical headphones. Go stripey with five different choices. Padded with soft material on the earpads, these phones also mimic the headband designs of older headphones. For that extra back-to-the-past touch, you can to pair the Zumreed with the original Walkman.

(Image Credit: Zumreed)

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5.  Parra x David Burel Plywood Headphones
 
It's not just garish, colorful headphones that we consider stylish. On the other hand, we have the David Burel Plywood Headphones with artwork by Parra. These have a very simple construction, are 1.2 mm thin and made completely of birch plywood. Each pair is customized for the buyer's head shape. If design exclusivity is what you want, here's an ideal choice.

(Image Credit: Booooooom)

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Tags: Sony Walkman, Skullcandy Design, headphone, phone, collaboration

 

 
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