Options instead of earbuds?

OldBones

Hello all,

Does anyone know if this clip on speaker would work? I have not been able to adjust to ear buds.

HYPE HYAU-454-GRN Green Bluetooth cube Clip Speaker

If this clip speaker is not compatible, are there any other clip on style options?

Thanks.

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tfarabaugh

Most BT LE devices should work, but some work better than others. Price seems to not be a factor as the cheaper ones often seem to work better than the expensive ones. This is due to the fact that cheap models are more likely to use the base BT protocols and not customize them for advanced features or settings like more expensive models do (and there is no way of knowing if a manufacturer has tweaked the protocols to take them out of compliance). The BT standard is in such a way a 'standard' that it can be widely interpreted with different settings for buffer sizes, time outs, profiles, protocols, antenna configurations, etc.. TomTom cannot change their code every time a manufacturers messes with the BT coding. This is a case where paying more will not increase the chances of connectivity, it may actually decrease it. There are thousands of models out there so there is no way for TT to test them all and since the manufacturers often tweak the BT settings there is no way to know upfront if a pair will work or not. At a minimum they need to be BT LE and support A2DP and AVRCP, the two protocols necessary to play music. Your best bet is to buy them from someplace with a good return policy so if they don't work you can return them and try another brand.

If you do not like earbuds you can also try bone induction headphones, which sit on the temples, not in your ears. they have the added advantage of leaving your ears open so you can hear other things like approaching cars and also will not annoy everyone around you like a speaker would. A really good brand to look at is AfterShokz. They cost a bit more than usual headphones but are an excellent product.

I hope this helped answer your question. If so, please mark it as a solution so others can look for it if they have the same question.

OldBones

Thank you, tfarabaugh! I ordered the clip speaker, which was put to the test yesterday. It works great for my needs. Speaker quality is, of course, lacking but it will meet my needs to have my favorite tunes played at low volume. Love how it clips to tank/bra straps. I appreciate all the detail in your response. Keep on educating and helping out!