Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2013

There is no end to headphone options for audiophiles in Japan and global brand Sol Republic has entered the crowded playing field as part of their boldly stated mission of “ridding the world of hollow sounding headphones.” The high end models were designed with music creators in mind—electronic musician Steve Aoki is a convert—but the technology was then filtered all the way down to entry level options. All models have built-in mics and three-button device control, making them compatible with newer Apple devices as well as Android and Windows phones. The Tracks (¥9,800) and Tracks HD (¥13,800) on-ear models can be customized with interchangeable headbands and replacement cables so the set does not have to be thrown out should it develop a short over time. The Amps (¥6,800) and Amps HD (¥9,800) in-ear models bring deep bass and clarity to your smartphone and feature wide, flat cables that resist tangling. Available at Amazon.jp and major electronic retailers.