SMS announces new Sync by 50 Cent wireless headphones with aptX, drops mic and exits stage left

50 Cent isn’t just the hype man for the SMS headphone brand, he’s also listed as CEO of the company – and so far he seems to be doing a pretty good job. This morning the company announced its latest release, the new Sync by 50 On-ear Wireless headphone. This scaled down version of SMS’s $400 over-ear offering looks to carve out some coveted headphone real estate by providing something we all want: affordable wireless audio that actually sounds good.

Similar to its big brother, the $230 on-ear Sync is molded into a folding, hard-shell chassis with memory foam pads, pairing posh styling with the latest in wireless audio technology. And when it comes to wireless, it’s all about the numbers. The cans boasts the lightning-fast Bluetooth version 4.0 as well as aptX , a codec that allows for enhanced decoding of compressed audio. The state-of-the-art protocol should allow the Sync to deliver a crystal clear wireless signal, while attaining an impressive estimated battery run-time of up to 12-hours - that’s a flight to Tokyo and then some (if you live on the Best coast).

Wireless audio specs aside, we’re normally a little wary of hip-hop ‘phones due to their penchant for overblown bass, and compensatory sharp treble. But our recent experience with the SMS Street by 50 gives us some faith that the on-ear Sync will actually bring some quality sound to the table. The Street impressed us with its smooth balance, ample bass, and expansive stereo image, providing a refreshing mix of clarity and power, without blasting us out of the water.

Features for the on-ear Sync include a full array of onboard controls, a hardshell carrying case and cleaning cloth, a mini-USB charging cable, and an included cable with a “3-click” in-line microphone for extended listening and calls without a power source. The Sync by 50 On-Ear Wireless headset will be offered in silver and black and is available now.

Ryan Waniata is an audio engineer, musician, composer, and all-around lover of all things tech and audio. Hailing originally from Montana, Ryan received his bachelor degree from the University of Montana in composition and technology. He later studied audio engineering at the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in Tempe, AZ, then packed up for Nashville, where he spent a couple of years playing and recording music in various studios and local venues. Ryan now makes his home in Portland, OR. Feel free to contact him on google + and twitter, or check in with him at Digital Trends to get the scoop on all the latest gear.

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