2) There was a weird notch in the strap, right at a stress point; they likely would have ripped after some time. So I sent in for the upgrade, giving them my numbers on the unit as they asked. I almost wondered if they came across some 2. As far as clarity in the microphone, my sample of twelve individuals were asked if they could clearly hear the dialogue "[they could] clearly hear". The retaining pins are all of adequate size, and the bolts included are Grade 8. I chose this pair in hopes the material would stay cleaner than my other 2 pairs. I guess I can get 6 or 7 hours of straight listening out of one charge? Haven?t really measured. - Special plug format allows the modem to be switched on/off remotely if powered by Power over Ethernet. If the charging dock has no battery life it will not activate the charged earbuds. I wouldn?t recommend buying these and I can?t return them because it?s past 30 days.