If you are experiencing signal issues this could be a few different things. Below are some quick notes before freaking out…
QUICK NOTES ABOUT BLUETOOTH SIGNALS
While the range of Bluetooth is 10 meters (33 feet), the optimal range FOR ANY BRAND OF BLUETOOTH STEREO DEVICE is 2 feet from the music device, especially outdoors when the connection cannot bounce off things. THIS RULE APPLIES TO ANY BRAND ACROSS THE BOARD. The ACTIVE X bluetooth antenna is located in the right side so make sure your device is above your elbow and on your right side for optimal connectivity to your headset while streaming music outdoors. This will help remedy any signal interruptions.Water and sweat can interfere with Bluetooth signals as well. Make sure that there is no sweat in direct contact with the Bluetooth Adapter or the cellular/audio device. Make sure the adapter is not in direct contact with skin when exercising and that it is on the outside of any clothing (e.g. if using the iPod or armband, use it over the top of your clothing)
REVERB recommends armbands for your music device to keep the device within optimal range and separated from your skin during workouts. Positioning your hand on the wrong spot of the iPhone or other cellular phones may cause signal drop outs/reception issues. Sweat and moisture in this area, may also cause the signal to be blocked. The issue may be the phone, rather than the headphones.
Bluetooth Headphones: Why they will never work for running.
|Recently I was presented with two different types of headphones that are Bluetooth to test and review. I have always considered them for running but there was one thing holding me back. What do you listen to them through? I carry my music on an Apple iPod Shuffle which is a little bigger than the size of a quarter and it clips onto my shorts. It retails for only $49.99 for 2gb of space which holds thousands of songs, weighs 0.44 ounces and has 15 hours of battery life.
Compare that to the heavy Sony Walkman we used to run with!!!
Currently this model doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity so you would have to use headphones with a cable.
When the Apple watch was released, I was excited to use it for running with music (even though it is a rather poor running watch with no GPS) as it had Bluetooth connectivity which would work with Bluetooth headphones. So when I was presented with the opportunity to try these headphones, this was the ideal time.
I tested two different models. The Reverb ACTIVE X Wireless Sport Headset and the Axgio Vigour Sport Wireless Headphones.
Rather than go into detail on the quality of the sound and fit, I’m going to explain why I feel most will not want to use these to run with. Bluetooth. Period. It doesn’t work as a result of signal transmission and water content. WHAT does that mean!!?? It means that if the two devices which are to communicate with each other are on your body and not close to each other, the water content in your body will interfere with the signal transmission and pretty much ruin the ability to hear the music. How bad?? Well, the first run that I attempted with my Apple Watch resulted in frustration as a result of music interruptions every 20-30 seconds. At times it was even more frequently and very annoying. I figured it was the watch or I was intermittently picking up signals from houses I was running by.
I then used the same headphones paired with my new iPhone 6S as I was mowing the lawn (yes I do cut my own lawn and enjoy doing it!!). Same issue. I even noticed that every time I bent over to remove the bagger from the mower, the music cut out. I was listening to CNN through an XM app so I immediately thought it was the app. Wrong. It continued so much that I figured the wifi connection and LTE connection were fighting for each other so I went straight to LTE. Same issues. At this point, I figured the issue was with the headphones. So reached out to the contact I had for them. I was asked, “where did you keep your iPhone while you were listening to the music?”. After explaining that it was in my pocket, the response was simple.
“I had a feeling that was why. This is a common problem among Bluetooth headphones across the board. The signal is broken up by the water in your body. It is recommended by all manufacturers that you use an arm sleeve for optimal signal performance.”
I was then directed to this page for a more detailed explanation.
The Sound Cuts In And Out, Is Choppy, I’m Having Signal Issues, Drops Out Intermittently, Audio Drops Out, Interference
I then tried a second pair of Bluetooth headphones from a different manufacturer – Angio Vigour Sport Wireless Headphones, to see if the signal loss was the same. It was. In fact their’s was a bit worse.
So being that this is a blog about running and the review is in regards to using these headphones for running, I cannot recommend them. I feel that placing your phone in an armband to avoid the connectivity issues simply defeats the purpose of using a pair of Bluetooth headphones. This makes for a very uncomfortable situation when running and having a tight band strapped around your arm. It’s much more comfortable and less expensive to buy the $30 Apple EarPods and get a $50 Apple Shuffle than to use Bluetooth headphones with a $600 iPhone. Never mind the astronomical price difference!!
In all honesty, the Reverb headphones did sound really great, had great bass, and even blocked out sound by the comfortable fitting ear buds. They even have a wonderfully designed headband that ergonomically stays in place and doesn’t bounce around when running and is %100 cable less. The problem lies in the technology.
If someone out there has figured out a way to transmit the signal without water inference from the body, I’d love to hear from you. Until then, I’ll stick to the wired headphones.
Bluetooth earbuds like Jaybird BlueBuds X2 or Plantronics BackBeat Fit are great for running. They sound good and have solid Bluetooth connection but quite pricey. I don’t think the models you recommend here are suitable for running.
I have these headphones right now that’s the whole reason I looked for this question to be answered. Mine do not work while running or doing yard work.
I have Plantronics BackBeat Fit and they work perfectly even if I am 10 meters away from phone.
I tried using the Jaybird X3 while cycling…keeping the phone in my jersey pocket at the back…constant disconnection and annoying sound…no use at all!
I second the Jaybird X2 comment. I run with it all the time never skips. Bought the Bragi and it skips constantly. 🙁
I do not run but my lawnmowing story is the same. I simply cannot keep a solid connection when I mow my lawn. Instead I am just using my klipsch wired earbuds for mowing despite the occasional accidental ripping out my ear drums when I need to step away from my mower and the wire gets hung up on a bolt or lever on my mower.
Im glad it is not just me though!
A good pair of in-ear headphones offer a great listening experience for you and, if designed right, will mean your fellow commuters can’t hear your choice in music. Even if not, you won’t be able to hear them complaining.If you’re less than impressed with the earphones that were bundled with your Headphones fear not – there are plenty of great alternatives that ensure you won’t be suffering in silence.
http://latestone.tumblr.com/
Personally, I don’t have any problems with running and using Bluetooth earphones, even though I use cheap ones I got from EBay (Bluedio N2).
I use a Microsoft Lumia 620 and I don’t have any problems with it cutting out while I’m running (only sometimes when I try to connect occasionally).
I bought a pair of Jaybird Freedom earbuds for very cheap and they have been working great. I run with them outside and on the treadmill, although I do use an armband for my phone. When I use them at the gym I leave the phone off my body and, depending on where I stand, I do get signal chop, but most of the time I’m very surprised at how well they work, for being so cheap. There are better and more expensive models. I’d recommend you give them a second (third?) chance.
I tried these also. Still no luck for me. Tried back pocket front pocket doesn’t matter. The Jaybird just aren’t working for me.
I have the X2 and have my phone in a runners belt at the small of my back. The Bluetooth drops out, especially when I turn my head to the left. So pretty much a no go for me. Will be going back to my Motorola S10.
Having the same issues with my Jabra Step bluetooth headphones and an iPhone while running. But only on LTE or 3G no problems when I’m on wifi, wondering if it could be interference from cell signals. Thoughts anyone?
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I thought I’m the only mutant on earth with this problem! I run long distances, outdoors in 35 degrees tropical heat (I’m from sunny Singapore). As a minimalist long-distance runner, I only have my iPod mini (7th Gen) and after having 3 pairs of JBL Reflect Minis die on me within 6 months, I decided to go with the Mee X7 Plus (Bluetooth). I don’t even carry ID or money when I run.
I shove the iPod in a small ziplock, and tuck it just above my tush in my compression shorts, and the BT connection goes off. But as soon as I hold it between my thumb and my finger on my right hand, connection’s back on. I’m not opting for any armband solutions because those things will leave an ugly tan line. (The sun REALLY shines here in Singapore.)
I’m gonna go back to wired headphones. But please avoid the JBL Reflect Mini. Three pairs died on me within 6 months because their ‘sweatproof’ button is maybe not so sweatproof after all. Either that or my sweat is too acidic. JBL has exchanged three pairs for me and it’s not a permanent solution.
Wait…maybe I AM a mutant – I sweat acid and my skin kills Bluetooth.
Let me know if you all want more details. Happy to help a follow runner out there anytime.
Phone Running Armband
As you would expect, listening to music as you begin your run can also seriously improve your performance. Sometimes taking your fitness to the next level can be challenging, and it is small things like this that can really make a difference.
I had the activeX from reverb, they did have some skipping issues, but I pre-ordered their new reverb weatherbuds and I have to say I am highly impressed with the improvements in signal, no issues there. As a runner, I sweat A LOT on long runs, I also like to run in the rain and these are perfect as they are actually waterproof, used them in the pool the other day too. I would look into these if you are looking for an affordable and quality pair of running headphones.
Yes as some above have said the higher priced bluetooth headphones work flawlessly. I own a pair of Jaybirds and the never skip or cut out at all. And you can now find the first gen pre-owned lightly used ones on Amazon or Ebay for under $50. Just remember Nick, as with all things you get what you pay for. And if you are an avid runner who listens to music, it is well worth your time and money to upgrade.
This blog post is almost exactly captures my bluetooth experience, except I am using mono earbuds. I have been using the GoNovate G9 & G10 earbud while I am at work, while I am in the car, and while I am in the gym. The listening experience goes uninterrupted only if the phone I am paired with has an unobstructed wireless path to the monobud. If the phone is in my pocket, the signal cuts in and out. If the phone is set behind something at my workstation, it will cut in and out. Both of these examples are not consistent though, its really odd. I have had the paired phone in my pocket, and listened to audio without interruption. I have had the phone in a room while I am 2 rooms away without the connection dropping. It’s like hit or miss – I think it has something to do with these factors: how full is the battery (70% seems to provide for the least conn. drops), what your external environment is (in/outside), and other electromagnetic signals in the surrounding area. I hope to purchase the Apple Airpods once I upgrade my iPhone to a 7 in a few weeks. They better hold a connection for $160! <3 handsfree
I have noticed that different phones have different signal strength.
I have Samsung Level U bluetooth headset.
With my Meizu M2Note smartphone, I get constant interruptions, even when I am just walking on the street with the phone in my chestpocket.
With iphone 6s, I can walk without interruptions at all, and I hear slight “ticks” when running with the phone in pants pocket, but the music is still listenable.
If I were to choose a phone with best bluetooth signal strength, how would I find it? Like, what characteristics should I look into?
Started with a bulky Motorola S10-HD Bluetooth headset worth $60 that was bouncing so much i though it would pull right out of my ears (though it never did) but one day in frustration I grabbed them off my head and tore them in 2 so it would force me to get a new pair, I then tried a cheap $35 pair and they actually sounded ok but would cut out on me when I turned my head right… This took a few frustrating runs to figure out. Next I decided to try Plantronics Backbeat Fits $150. OK these will be amazing right!… I mean 150 bucks these are gonna be the last pair I will ever buy, right? WRONG!… the connection was just ok.. And they would let in so much ambient noise that even on full blast they were hard to hear when running in an urban area. Up until now I was just throwing the headsets I wasn’t happy with in my drawer, but $150!! I wanted my money back.. I took them back to the store I purchased them at (rhymes with Shmest-Shmuy) and the were happy to exchange them, So I decided to get a set of Powerbeats and the Bluetooth connection was fine, but after my 3rd run they stopped working all together from what I can only assume was from just sweating on them. After ranting to a few friends they confirmed a similar experience, I was forced to send these back to Apple for a repair or exchange, And ill give them credit… It WAS fairly painless, but I wasn’t going to use these for running again just to have the same issue… So my wife got my new Powerbeats (she’s not near as sweaty and gross as I am! LOL.) And that takes me to my present Bluetooth headset. Jaybird X2. Hands down in every way the best listening experience I have had… Connection? Flawless! and I keep my phone in a pocket at the small of my back. Sound quality? The best I have had yet from wired or wireless headphones. And with the App i am able to customize the sound thats right for me. The Fit? Perfect. With the cord management system (Really just a couple of clips…) you can wrap these over your ears and around the back of your head and take up all the slack. (They don’t move!)
I should say. I am in no way affiliated with Jaybird. I just wanna give props where they are due.. they did a great job with these and I love them… save yourself my pain.. go Jaybird and call it a day!
Same for me.
I’m glad I read this article. I have bought about 11 different pairs and none of them do work.
I do have a body problem too though as it seems a lot of electricity pass through it and I can shield a lot of signals. But still, the only way I have found to go jogging with a bluetooth headset is to have an armband on my right arm (1ft), while most BT receiver are also on the right, in the microphone. If I put the armband to my left arm (2ft away), which I used to do, it’s already too far away.
I have tried those BT headsets on 4 different iPhone models, on 3 iPods, and 4 Android phones. They ALL have the same problem: choppy.
To make things worse, if the receiver (the mic/remote control) touches my skin on my neck, which pretty happens all the time when jogging, the sound is cut.
Very unpleasant.
So I’m back to wired headphones. I wrap the extra cable length around my player on my arm, I attach the cable to my t-shirt with a little spin so it doesn’t dangle around at each step.
I spent a fortune in those headsets for nothing. But this article is making things clear.
Same problem with my brand new Jaybird X3…no matter its in my pocket the phone (tried with S5,S8, IPhone 6) or in an armband (Both sides) its cuts terrible or stop working. So if They sell its as Sports or publicity as running, its a design/technology issue. I agree with Dr Nick. I will change it for a cord earbuds. Anoying
Ditto issue on the Jaybird X3 brand new wireless headphones. I keep my nano in my front pocket while jogging and it cuts out constantly. If I hold the nano up near my ear, it works fine. I had thought this was specific to the Jaybirds but it appears to be common.
Has anyone alerted the manufactures that we are getting rooked? Not that they care, but maybe there is still hope.
I am not really a runner anymore but am always walking/power walking. I had the Jaybird X2’s and they were great. No skipping issues always connected to my phone which was in my pocket when walking. Recently and sadly they died in a tragic lawnmower accident. They were hands down the best earphones that I have used. I then moved up to the Jaybird X3’s to replace them and have had nothing but problems with the sound cutting out. I also don’t like the fact that they introduced the proprietary clip for charging. The placement of the clip worries me to as I use the adjustment clips to remove the slack from the wire to keep the remote pinned to my head. I usually sweat a lot so I am not sure what impact it has on the charging prongs but I cant imagine that it is any good. Anyway my 2 cents is that the X2 were great and the X3’s have seriously regressed . Buyer beware!
Don’t you think it’s just your asses pressing the phone when you lean over?? My headphones do the same thing in any squished space, then when placed in a nice loose pocket, or armband…viola.
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To come back after my initial post, I have eventually found BT headset that do work most of the time: earbuds. Since you have one in each ear, without cables between themselves, you have 2 receivers, not 1. And this seems to work pretty nicely.
I use two different brands and go jogging with them. I usually run 60-75 minutes each time and they rarely “break” the connection. You have to make sure to position them correctly in the ear, usually twisting them clockwise to make them fit rather than pushing them deeply into the ear channel, which can also block the signal.