Apple Earphones with Remote and Mic
I've never owned a set of earphones I really liked, until now.
The Apple Earphones (distinctly different from Earbuds) are a great set of earphones which do lot more than just play music. Highly recommended.
This accessory makes a difference to using an iPad in several ways. First of all, they have what Apple terms a 'control capsule' which has a microphone, two buttons on each end, and a third button in the middle.
This control capsule makes all the difference. You can adjust the volume up and down as well as play, pause and forward to the next or previous item played.
The microphone allows to you speak to your iPad and works great with the iPad's inbuilt dictation. Using them with iPad means you can use the middle button to talk to Siri!
It also answers and ends calls. Lots of stuff with one little accessory.
MUSIC:
When listening to music from your library the earphones produce excellent sound. Use the iPad's inbuilt equalizer to change the sound quality to suit you.
I like that I can easily turn the volume up and down, pause, and forward to the next track without reaching out to the iPad... I just use the control capsule. Excellent.
DICTATION & FaceTime Calls:
The microphone built in to the control capsule captures every word. Dictating is a LOT faster than typing and strolling around the verandah dictating is a lot more pleasant than being seated in front of a keyboard. The Apple Earphones with Remote & Mic work brilliantly.
I find that it's possible to hold a FaceTime call in a room full of chatty kids (and mum) and hear my grandfather speaking, clear as a bell. Interestingly, I'm able to respond in just over a whisper... a quiet tone of voice, and he can hear me clearly too. That's half the volume I'd have to speak at if using a telephone, and it would be challenging to hear him in a noisy situation. Bye bye phone, FaceTime forever.
In closing, I'd highly recommend the Apple Earphones with Remote and Mic.
They've made a difference to my enjoyment AND productivity.