Earbuds, Without the Buds

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By Sean Fitz-Gerald2013-08-07 23:11:29 UTC

The search for a reliable pair of headphones often leads to a fork in the road: in-the-ear earbuds or over-the-ear headphones? Earbuds, which rely on magnetic drivers and speakers to send sound waves in front of your eardrums, are compact and easy to carry; headphones are touted for their superior quality and damage control.

The decision-making process isn't getting any easier. A next-gen earpiece concept offers a third route: a wireless headset without speakers.

See also: Kickstarter Launches in Canada

The Kickstarter project Sound Band uses surface sound technology to send tiny vibrations through the backs of your ears, bones and tissues to land on your inner ear without blocking your ear canals.

The wireless device can also connect via bluetooth for phone calls; volume and answering controls are located on an FOB that hangs near the nape of the neck. The device delivers an impressive range of sound that spans from 20,000 Hz to 86 Hz and lasts for about five hours.

At this time of writing, the Sound Band team had raised more than $200,000, blowing past its $175,000 goal. Interested backers can nab a pair for $150.

Would you buy this speakerless headset? Tell us in the comments.

Image: Kickstarter, Sound Band

Topics: Dev & Design, earbuds, Gadgets, Headphones, kickstarter, Newsy, sound band, Tech, Travel & Leisure