I've been having problems with them ever since I can remember--but especially recently with mp3 players. The plug has to be rotated to exactly the right position to get the sound to be full strength without crackling, one channel comes in weak, etc. Just a couple of weeks ago I got a nice mp3 player and even better earbuds, and already I'm having problems.
I usually attack the problem with contact cleaner and cloth. (I'm afraid to use anything more abrasive because I don't want to loosen the fit.) Usually it works...for a little while. But I swear, there have been times when I've wanted to just solder a permanent connection.
Surely I'm not the only one who has this problem. Is it a design issue? Is there anything that can be done about it?
- Tom