I know that
Modern Warfare 3 is a big hit this year, so the various licensed products simply make sense, but it seems strange that these ear buds are
MW3 licensed, but not usable with the game. I fear that a lot of people who purchase these will miss that and assume that the
Special Edition Call of Duty: MW3 Billets can be used for playing the game - especially if it's purchased as a gift by someone who's not familiar with gaming, anyway.
I may be taller than average, but I found that the cord wasn't as long as I would have liked. In addition to using the Billets with my Motorola Backflip (Android-based) phone, I also tried these out on my gaming computer and my work computer. At one point at home, I had to take one ear bud out to turn my head and lean a little behind me when reaching for something and, at work, I couldn't move much at all, as my computer case is mounted under my desk. If you plan to use these with a computer, think about the distance between your phono jack and your head. You may need an extension cable.
As long as you understand what the Billets are for (and what they're not for), the main hurdle here is probably the price. At just shy of $70 USD, it's at the beginning of the high-end arena. The sound quality is there and the two-year limited warranty help to offset the cost, but the lack of a volume control might make some balk. If you're a fan of MW3, you're in the market for some high quality ear buds and the cord length and lack of volume control isn't a deal breaker for you, you should check out the Call of Duty: MW3 Billets - they really are some sweet ear buds.