According to findfast.org the element Titanium is defined as being “A strong, low-density, highly corrosion-resistant, lustrous white metallic element that occurs widely in igneous rocks and is used to alloy aircraft metals for low weight, strength, and high-temperature stability.” That’s some pretty interesting stuff there. But what it SHOULD say is this: “Titanium is defined as being a strong, low-density, highly corrosion-resistant, lustrous white metallic element that occurs widely in igneous rocks and is used to alloy aircraft metals for low weight, strength, and high-temperature stability that really kicks some serious butt when applied to the creation of earbud/headphone technology.” After testing out the Echobox Finder X1 earbuds (Echobox, MSRP $229.99 available now on Amazon or Echobox Audio) for a while, it would be difficult to go to another headset without the love of Titanium added to it.
Not for the weak of heart when it comes to the pocketbook but also not for the weak in music appreciation, the Finder X1 (for our review we tried out the X1i which works with Apple products) proved to be a standout in several key areas. Utilizing German designed “PEEK” (Polyether Ether Keytone) drivers that produce a sound quality that continuously provides a clean, crisp sound while achieving moderate to strong highs and lows. The moments when the Finder X1 was taxed with a frequency were rare and the ability to reproduce a sound equal to many over the ear headphones made the time spent with these earbuds a true pleasure.
The Echobox Finder X1 (Amazon.com)
But how does Titanium figure into all this? The housings of the earbuds themselves are encased with the metal ensuring the many drops, bangs and slams the earbuds are likely to come across in its lifetime (as this reviewer can attest to) will still have them sounding great even after years of repeated abuse and/or misuse. The 1.2 meter (3.9 foot) copper cable is strong and built to last as the number of times a set of earbuds will get caught up, pulled and stretched will undoubtedly be high but after our testing it appears the Finder X1 looks like it more than meet the challenge so many others in its marketplace fail to meet.
While the sound and durability of the Finder X1 looks to be difficult to match, some slight drawbacks need to be noted for those interested in purchasing such a high end headpiece. The Titanium drivers which provide both security and stability to the unit may feel a tiny bit heavy on the ears which may require time spent adjusting it within the ear for longer than expected to ensure a comfortable session listening to their favorite media. If purchasing the Xli or XLa (Android) models, the microphone control while providing support in volume, music direction and mic control is very small for big fingers so time is needed before adjustments on the fly can be made with confidence from those with larger hands. The deal breaker for many however comes ultimately with the price tag as its $230 retail price may be a bit too much for some to handle.
For those who are on the fence due to price concerns all that can be said is this. After testing out the Echobox Finder X1 series the ultimate conclusion is that despite the high price these earbuds provide one of the best experiences around when it comes to satisfaction, durability and quality. A sound experience that proves itself worthy of its “Titan” (where Titanium derives its name) stature among audiophiles, exercise aficionados and travelers alike. It has been said that money cannot buy happiness, but what it can do is buy one of the best listening devices in its marketplace and quite possibly the last set of earbuds you will ever need.
(Please note that for this review, Pop Culture Cosmos did receive a review model for the game from the Public Relations Firm, Developer and/or Publisher responsible for distribution to the press.)
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