Klipsch unveils S4i, in-ear headphones alternative for iPhone, iPod shuffle

Klipsch on Tuesday unveiled its Image S4i, an in-ear headset that includes an in-line microphone and remote, positioning the pair as an alternative to Apple's in-ear headphones for the iPhone and iPod touch, nano, classic and shuffle.

The headset features Apple's advanced three-button microphone and remote system that easily handles the voice and/or music control of the iPhone 3GS, 3G iPod shuffle, 2G iPod touch, 4G iPod nano and the iPod classic 120GB.

The S4i remote is fully compatible with the Apple VoiceOver feature on the 3G iPod shuffle, which allows you to hear the name of the playlist, song or artist with a button press.

The in-line microphone and remote are positioned at the yoke -- where the two cables meet at chest level. The microphone covers 360 degrees (no need to speak into it) and features echo cancellation.

In terms of durability, Klipsch has added "strain relief" at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage. The ear buds are oval in shape for better fit than circular models (such as Apple's offering).

More information for audiophiles out there:

The key to the S4i's dynamic music performance is a moving coil micro-speaker with controlled damping, a feature that allows it to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound similar to a more expensive design. A dual neodymium magnet motor structure, in each of the 8.5 mm drivers, establishes the S4i's damping characteristics. It's a quality that allows kick drums to "attack" and Intermodulation distortion, or IMD, to be significantly reduced.

The Image S4i is available in black with chrome accents and comes with a two-year warranty; carrying pouch; small, medium and large ear tips; small/medium dual flange ear tips; an ear tip cleaning tool; and a clothing clip.

They're priced at $99.99 and will be available in August.