Ep 22. Follow the Beat

In season 2 episode 22 of Consumer 101 titled "Follow the Beat," viewers are taught about the best way to purchase headphones and speakers. Host Jack Rico introduces two teenagers, Kaitlyn and Corey, who share their experiences with headphones. After being surprised with the range of prices and quality on the market, Kaitlyn and Corey visit a laboratory to see how sound is measured.

The hosts then compare noise-canceling headphones, gaming headsets, and earbuds, explaining how the technology in each of them works and the benefits of each one. They also provide tips for choosing the best headphones for one's needs and budget.

Next, the show teaches viewers about the science behind how sound travels and how speakers can be designed to optimize sound quality. They visit a speaker engineering lab where they see how frequencies and decibels are measured and how speakers are designed and tested.

The hosts provide helpful tips for choosing the right speakers, such as understanding wattage and frequency response, and how to set them up correctly for the best sound experience.

As the show progresses, the hosts dive into the topic of counterfeit products. They reveal how counterfeit headphones and speakers can be dangerous and not perform as well as the legitimate products. They visit a warehouse where counterfeit products are seized and destroyed to raise awareness of the dangers of purchasing counterfeit items.

Lastly, the show takes a look at the future of audio technology and the various advances that will change the way we listen to music. Viewers are introduced to an experimental technology that uses our own skulls to transmit sound, providing a unique and personalized listening experience.

Overall, "Follow the Beat" provides in-depth insight into the world of headphones and speakers, from how they are designed and tested to how to spot counterfeit products. The episode is full of helpful tips for choosing the best audio equipment and provides a glimpse into the ever-evolving future of audio technology.