GEAR & GADGETS

The choices for privately listening to portable electronic devices and talking on cell phones range from cushy, but bulky, padded folding headphones that cover the ears to tiny ear buds that can fall out if not plugged deeply (and sometimes uncomfortably) into place.

Altec Lansing's AirFit inEar Earclips-S with Microphone may be the answer for those who want a solid fit in a light, nonintrusive device. The earphones virtually float in your ear, secured by flexible ear hangers that hook over the outer ears. Because the earphones don't screw into the ear, they do not block out external sounds -- a good feature when driving, caring for children, or running or jogging that requires alertness to traffic. An inline microphone, a call answer/end button and inline volume control make for easy operation. The Earclips work with most cell phones, including iPhone, as well as most MP3 players that have a universal jack. -- Judi Dash