Replace your iBuds

Playlist - If you see a pair of white earbuds on the street, it's a safe bet that the attached ears are listening to an iPod. It's also a safe bet that the listener isn't getting the most out of his iPod. As cute and identifiable as the iPod's stock earbuds are, they're no match for the quality of sound the iPod is capable of producing. We've reviewed some of the top headphones on the market. If you're interested in upgrading your iPod's audio, or if you need to replace a broken or lost pair of buds, listen closely -- we'll help you get the best cans (that's slang for headphones) for your cash.

We've split our coverage into three categories -- lightweight, travel and full-size -- and suggested our favorites for each type of buyer: the el-cheapo bargain hunter, the bang-for-the-buck value shopper, the chic-style wearer, and the ultimate-sound audiophile. Whichever model you choose, you'll be taking a step up the audio ladder.

Lightweight Headphones

These are the portable styles most people are familiar with: earbuds and small over- and behind-the-head models that use a plastic or thin metal headband. Our choices may look similar to the cheapies that come with most portable electronics, but they sound much better.

Bargain

Sennheiser Electronic GmbH KG MX400 ($15) and MX500 ($20). If you like earbuds but just want better ones, start here. For the extra $5, the MX500 gives you an inline volume control. They won't match your white iPod like Apple Computer Inc.'s buds, but you get better sound and, on the MX 500, an inline volume control. (If you're after bass, keep in mind that earbuds tend to be weaker in the low end.)

Koss Corp. KTX Pro 1, KSC-50, KSC-55 and KSC-75 (all $20) and SportaPro ($30). These models are variations on the same design and therefore sound fairly similar. But that's a good thing -- you won't find better sound for an Andrew Jackson bill. The KTX Pro 1 has your standard over-the-head portable phones. The KSC-50 and KSC-75 are ear clips -- they hang over each ear with no headband to mess up your hair. The KSC-55 are Koss' version of the behind-the-head "street-style" models. (If you have a large head, move along; the KS-C55 are clearly made for smaller noggins.) Finally, the SportaPro is a hybrid -- you can use the headband in an over-the-head or behind-the-head position.

Also check out the Sennheiser PMX60 ($30).

Value

Koss PortaPro ($50). The upscale siblings of the bargain Koss