iLive IA54B Headphones $10

Gear Review

Hands-On: iLive IA54B Budget Headphones

An emergency audio solution for the frugal student.

$10

Price

20

Hz-20 kHz Frequency

32

ohms Impedance

Table of Contents

• ①The Situation
• ②Basic Specifications
• ③Sound Quality
• ④Build Quality
• ⑤Comparison and Conclusion

Section I

The Situation

While studying for my next exam at the shopping mall, I realized I forgot to bring a pair of headphones. Rather than make the two-hour drive back home, I decided to buy a basic pair of headphones. I came across the iLive IA54B for $10 at Sears, which fit my needs perfectly.

 

Section II

Basic Specifications

• →Frequency Range — 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• →Sensitivity — 100 dB
• →Impedance — 32 ohms
• →Connector — 1/8" Stereo Adapter

Section III

Sound Quality

Given the $10 price tag, expectations should be tempered. Initially, the sound quality was poor, with exaggerated bass and nearly non-existent mids. Certain tracks that typically showcase high and mid frequencies were nearly imperceptible.

Tip: Adjusting the EQ on my iPhone 5 to 'Treble Boost' and setting the volume to 65% significantly improved the audio, making them halfway decent for tracks from Adele, Led Zeppelin, and Layla.

I would be curious to see how these headphones perform with a better audio source or an amplifier.

Section IV

Build Quality

The build quality is quite flimsy, made from thin and cheap plastic. While they mimic the look of Beats Solo headphones, the resemblance ends there. They should be handled with care, as they feel like they could snap easily. If treated well, they might last a few months to a year.

Section V

Comparison and Conclusion

After some research, I experienced a bit of buyer's remorse, realizing there are many decent headphones available in the $20 to $40 range. However, I reminded myself that these headphones serve a purpose: I had nothing, and this is better than nothing.

Feature	iLive IA54B	Sony ZX100
EQ Required	Yes	No
Primary Use	Emergency/Backup	Daily Driver
Durability	Flimsy	Reliable

I'll keep them as an alternative for listening to music and place them right below my Sony ZX100s in terms of quality. While the Sony headphones don't require EQ adjustments for decent sound, these will stay in my glove compartment as my emergency headphones.

   

Sometimes the best piece of gear is simply the one you have when you need it most.