iPhone/iPod Headphones that Let You Hear Everything

No, it's not an add-on for your MacBook Air, but one for your iPhone or iPod. Airdrives, the "Stereo Earphones for iPhone and iPods," feature this integrated discrete microphone that enables hands-free dual use from MP3 earphones to iPhone headset and, check this out, allow their user to hear life's surroundings as well.

Mad Catz has just gone public announcing that the AirDrives earphones are now shipping. The company first talked of the earphones back in November 2007. Their most distinguishable feature is of course the outer-ear design, powered by InAir Technology. As mentioned above, this lets users hear their surroundings, as well as the playing music. It is a new audio technology which may prove very helpful, as well as annoying, depending on the user.

So here's the full breakdown: you get hands-free iPhone music pause / call answer functionality, but you also remain aware of life's surroundings; comfortable ear grips can be adjusted for a precise fit and retention, while the AirDrives' outer-ear design delivers rich natural sound and durability as well.

Technical specifications say that the Frequency Range is 20-20,000 Hz, with sensitivity going as far as 98 dB SPL at source / 80 dB SPL at inner ear. Speaker impedance is 16 Ohm, with a maximum Power Input of 15mW (more than enough to damage the irreplaceable organ known as "the ear").

The jack is a gold-plated 3.5mm dual standard stereo, iPhone compatible, iPod (90 degree) compatible. Cable Length is 4ft.

Mad Catz also has this Promotional Giveaway (pictured left) up on their website saying that with the purchase of this product, you receive a "FREE Mad Catz iPod Power Pro Bundle (SKU MOV035930/04/1). While supplies last."

Mad Catz AirDrives are now available for $100.