The M9394G/C headphones, better known as the iPod In-ear Headphones, are Apple's $30 replacement option for the pair packaged with its popular media players. The iPods are all about portability, and these headphones are very compact and come with a great case that keeps the cord from wrinkling. If you're planning to wear these during an on-foot commute, or while exercising, however, you'll probably notice the ear buds slip out of position when the cable bounces. This isn't to say the buds will shoot out of your ears should they sense motion, but they do fall out of place often enough to be annoying.

The audio quality isn't great, but it's a bit better than we'd have expected for $30. The main issue we saw is a pretty significant inability to deal with bass. The lower portion of the audible spectrum is really underemphasized, which means your bass lines sound thin and muted. Also, tracking is a bit erratic toward the low and high end. Erratic tracking means the volume isn't consistent between the left and right ear buds, so two notes of similar pitch can sound like they jump from left to right. These headphones do provide good isolation from outside noises, though their performance isn't great when compared to other in-ear options. They do a great job controlling leakage, so your music won't be audible to those around you.

Really, for the vast majority of people the iPod In-ear Headphones will be a fine replacement. No, they aren't for audiophiles, but you can't expect great audio quality from a $30 pair of headphones. These headphones fit best with mainstream listeners who don't mind thin bass and aren't looking for something to bring to the gym.