Encore Data Products, Inc.

Disposable refers to inexpensive headphones and earbuds that will work but are not designed for long-term use. These are a great choice when your situation requires an inexpensive but not long-term solution like classroom testing, give-aways and limited budgets. If you care for them and do not use them every day they can still last quite awhile. They are prone for easier breakage so do not use these if you need something to last a long time.

Many classroom headphones come with reusable, sealable plastic bags. These are good for storage and labeling for individual students. Storage cases also work well. As long as you keep them dry, untangled and out of high/low temperatures they will last.

Ask 5 people and you will get 5 different answers about what the best headphone is. Find the set of headphones that meets your specs the best.

Tip Ring Ring Sleeve. The little black lines on the plug end each have a purpose. If you see 3 rings this is a TRRS plug: 1 ring for the mic and 2 rings for the stereo sound. A TRS plug is for a standard stereo headphone (2 rings) and a TRS plug has only one ring making it a mono headphone.

Headphones with vinyl "leatherette" earpads can be wiped down. Foam earpads are not cleanable. There are replaceable earbuds for many models and you can always use disposable headphone covers for each user.

This is a personal choice depending on the users. A full-size headphone offers the best sound blocking due to the big ear cushions. Earbuds are not recommended for young children due to comfort and less control on volume limits.

Most classroom headphones have recommended age groups. There are specific models designed for the younger set.

Manufacturer warranties vary but all cover product manufacturing defects when purchased through the warranty period. Warranties do not cover abuse; biting through the cord or bending the plug by pulling it out at an angle will void any warranty. Once again proper care is strongly advised. Headphones built for schools are designed for students, just not full-on destruction...

Not if you handle the headphones correctly. They are still made with plastic and plastic can break so handle properly for best results. The cheaper the headphone, the easier they are to break.

Classroom headphones that have at least a 1 year warranty are designed to hold up well to standard use. Disposable headphones & earbuds are designed for limited use. Here are some key ways to help your headphones last: 1. Don't bend the plug when inserting or removing from a device 2. Don't chew on the cord 3. Don't bend, rotate, stretch the headphones beyond what they are designed for 4. Store them is a safe and dry location 5. If there is a volume control be careful not to rotate past its limits