If it caught your attention to discover that we can listen to music underwater while swimming, you will be frozen when you learn how bone conduction headphones work. Yes, headphones that do not have a device to insert into the ear, and that also transmit music through your bones.
The ability to enjoy music or podcasts while exercising is something many of us crave. However, many of us fear the risks of using earplugs, especially when running near roads or cycling. But don't worry! Bone conduction headphones make your audio listening experience much safer and more enjoyable.
How do bone conduction headphones work?
The way traditional headphones work is obvious, isn't it? These headphones receive a signal from a device, generating audible waves that are channeled to the ear. However, unlike traditional headphones, bone conduction headphones convert those electrical signals into vibrations that are transmitted through the bones to the inner ear.
These devices are placed on the bone in front of the ear, next to the cheekbone. From there, the vibrations are transmitted to the ear, creating the magic. However, it's important to note that the music isn't projected externally as it would be with speakers. Only the person wearing the headphones can hear the sound, since the waves travel exclusively through the bones.
Because the ear isn't blocked, the user can hear external noise while enjoying music in their inner ears. This not only allows for awareness of the surroundings but is also beneficial for monitoring breathing during exercise, something many overlook but which can be a sign of poor athletic performance.
Despite being incredibly comfortable and completely revolutionary, the technology behind them isn't suitable for everyone's budget. You can find good ones starting at €80, although you can always opt for a low-cost version.
How are bone conduction headphones different from traditional headphones?
Traditional headphones use speakers to emit sound waves near or into the ear through a process called air conduction . In this process, sound enters the ear canal and vibrates the eardrum. This moves the bones of the middle ear, which in turn transfer the sound to the cochlea in the inner ear. From there, the vibrations are converted into electrical signals that are sent to the brain so we can experience sound.
In contrast, bone conduction headphones bypass most of that anatomy and send vibrations directly to the cochlea, using devices that convert sound into vibrations . These devices are called transducers and are held firmly against the bone by a headband. The transducers must remain in place to send audio to the bone. Most designs place two transducers against each cheekbone, just in front of the ears.
These devices also include a strap that connects the ears and then the back of the head, connecting the two devices. The Bluetooth connection sends audio from a mobile device to the headphones, which vibrate the cheekbones and send the sounds to the inner ear.
This method of communication is truly innovative and, as we mentioned, allows you to enjoy music without losing awareness of your surroundings. However, it's also crucial to understand some considerations when using bone conduction headphones.
What should be taken into account when using bone conduction headphones?
Much of the marketing for these devices emphasizes that bone conduction headphones offer greater awareness of your surroundings compared to traditional in-ear headphones. This is largely true, but there are some advantages and precautions to consider when using them.
One of the reasons these headphones help runners maintain awareness of their surroundings is that they allow for multiple sound inputs. However, a principle called masking can mean that not all external sounds are perceived. You won't hear ambient noises as well as you would without wearing any headphones , even though bone conduction headphones keep your ear canals open. This isn't a reason to avoid using headphones altogether, but it's something to keep in mind.
This type of masking is different from that which occurs with in-ear headphones, where nearby sounds must pass through or go around the earpiece before entering the ear canal and competing with the headphone audio. Some people, like Portnuff, use bone conduction headphones when running outdoors, though “they aren’t inherently safe devices,” he cautions, because they can be distracting and still mask some outside sounds . “But they do have the advantage of not plugging the ears and creating a seal that physically blocks other sounds.”
What should you know before buying bone conduction headphones?
If you're considering buying bone conduction headphones, it's important to choose carefully. "I've seen advertisements for devices that are called bone conduction headphones but aren't," says Portnuff. It's recommended to look for devices that appear sturdy, with a headband that securely attaches the device to the bone , and avoid those that hang from a strap around the ear without a headband.
A good pair of bone conduction headphones can be very beneficial for runners, allowing them to stay aware of everything going on around them. “They can give you better awareness of your surroundings, but only if you choose sound levels that allow you to hear what's around you as well as what you're listening to,” as well as choosing headphones that actually work.
Should I never use bone conduction headphones?
If you're looking for an ultra-high-quality audio experience, bone conduction headphones might not be the best option for you. Bone conduction doesn't offer the same sound quality as traditional headphones that transmit sound through the air.
Additionally, in situations where you want to block out other sounds, such as on a bus or train, bone conduction headphones may not be your best option . They can be combined with earplugs on an airplane, but they won't block out engine noise as effectively as regular headphones.
Finally, if you're on a busy street or in a place where you need to be aware of surrounding sounds while running, it may be best to skip the headphones. It's essential to adjust the volume to avoid discomfort when using these types of devices.
