Glossary
Welcome to the Tomate Tech Glossary
At Tomate, we believe that understanding the technology behind your favorite audio gear shouldn't be complicated. Whether you're new to wireless earphones or a seasoned audiophile, we’ve got you covered! This glossary is here to help explain some of the common terms and features you'll encounter when shopping for headphones, earbuds, or other audio products. From Bluetooth to Active Noise Cancellation, we've broken down the key details in a way that’s easy to understand.
Feel free to browse, learn something new, and make confident choices when selecting your next audio companion!
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
A technology used in headphones and earbuds that reduces unwanted ambient sounds by creating sound waves that cancel out external noise. ANC is ideal for use in noisy environments, such as public transport or busy offices.
Source: How Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work – HowStuffWorks
Bluetooth
A wireless communication technology that allows devices like headphones, earphones, and earbuds to connect to smartphones, computers, or other audio devices. Bluetooth technology has evolved over time, and Bluetooth 5.0 and higher offer faster connections, improved range, and better energy efficiency compared to earlier versions.
Source: Bluetooth Technology Overview – Bluetooth.com
Earbuds
Small, in-ear audio devices that rest just outside or inside the ear canal. They are typically lightweight and portable, designed for use with mobile devices, and ideal for casual listening. Some earbuds feature additional technologies like touch control and noise isolation.
Source: Earbuds: Everything You Need to Know – Lifewire
Earphones
Similar to earbuds, earphones sit in or around the ear canal, but they are often used interchangeably with the term "earbuds." They can have different designs, such as in-ear or over-the-ear hooks, and may feature noise isolation or ANC.
Source: Earphones Explained – TechRadar
Headphones
Audio devices worn over or around the ears, offering better sound quality and noise isolation compared to earbuds. Headphones come in various styles, such as over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear. Wireless headphones connect via Bluetooth and offer portability without the hassle of tangled cords.
Source: The Ultimate Guide to Headphones – SoundGuys
Impedance
A measurement (in ohms) of the resistance that headphones or earphones give to the electrical signal coming from the audio device. Generally, lower impedance (under 32 ohms) works well with mobile devices, while higher impedance headphones require more power and are often used in professional audio settings.
Source: Headphone Impedance Explained – Audio-Technica
Sensitivity
Sensitivity measures how loud the headphones or earphones will be for a given input power, usually measured in decibels (dB). Higher sensitivity means the device can produce louder sounds with less power. For most listeners, a sensitivity rating between 90-110 dB is ideal.
Source: Headphone Sensitivity Explained – Headphonesty
Driver
The driver is the part of headphones or earphones that converts electrical signals into sound. It consists of a diaphragm, voice coil, and magnet. The size of the driver (measured in millimeters) often affects the sound quality, with larger drivers generally producing more bass.
Source: Headphone Drivers Explained – SoundGuys
True Wireless Stereo (TWS)
A technology that allows wireless earbuds to connect to an audio device and to each other without any wires. TWS earbuds work independently and offer full stereo sound, making them ideal for music lovers who want a cable-free experience.
Source: What is True Wireless Stereo (TWS)? – Forbes
Touch Control
A feature in wireless earbuds or headphones that allows users to control playback, adjust volume, or answer calls through touch-sensitive panels on the device, eliminating the need for physical buttons.
Source: How to Use Touch Controls on Wireless Earbuds – CNET
Over-Ear Headphones
Headphones that fully cover the ears, providing better sound isolation and comfort for extended listening sessions. Over-ear headphones are known for delivering richer, more immersive sound compared to on-ear or in-ear styles.
Source: Over-Ear Headphones vs On-Ear – Headphonesty
Battery Life
The duration a wireless headphone or earbud can operate on a full charge. Battery life varies depending on the model and usage, but most wireless earphones offer 4 to 10 hours of listening time, with charging cases extending total use up to 24 hours or more.
Source: How Long Do Wireless Headphones Last? – SoundGuys
Frequency Response
The range of audio frequencies that headphones or earphones can reproduce, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response range (e.g., 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz) provides better sound quality and depth.
Source: Understanding Frequency Response in Headphones – Audio-Technica
IP Rating (Ingress Protection)
A rating that indicates how well headphones or earphones are protected against dust and water. For example, IPX5 means the device is water-resistant, while IPX7 can handle full immersion in water. This rating is especially important for sports or outdoor use.
Source: IP Ratings Explained – TechRadar