I kept it because I liked the design and didn?t see any others like it. I bought these hoping to get something smaller to fit in y ear. Plus, its not full proof noise cancellation. I do like the earrings themselves, though. I still love them and would love to buy a new pair but they just didnt last like I thought they would. They are a bit snug, but thats what I wanted. I dont see much difference from the original. I found no evidence that these were "renewed. this lock might stop a quick snatch and grab. Yes, they are both excellent speakers.