The V-MODA Vibe Duo in-ear headset is certainly stylish and, at $99.99, doesn't gouge consumers for the aesthetics. This headset was built with the iPhone in mind, so the plug is thin enough to fit into a recessed headphone jack. While headset functionality is a plus, it means the Vibe Duo might not work with older media players: the 3-channel plug means you'll have to press the microphone button to hear the entirety of the playback. Of course, headset compatibility isn't an issue on newer media players.
Though physically attractive, the Vibe Duo didn't look so good in our audio tests. We found low but consistent levels of distortion at all frequencies. The Duo also performed worse than all other in-ear headphones in terms of leakage: don't take these to the library, because everyone around will be able to hear your music. In other areas, the Vibe Duo offers average performance, but it does shine in one area: bass response. The Vibe Duo features bass so strong it's slightly off our charts. While this over-emphasis should make bass enthusiasts happy, it might be too big a boost for some.
While these are not the headphones for an audiophile, or for use in a home theater setup, at $99.99 the Vibe Duo is priced appropriately for what it offers. These headphones are comfortable, portable, and stay in your ears while you exercise. If you're in the market to replace your packed-in iPhone headphones, the Vibe Duo is a good choice with good looks.
