Call me overly symmetrical, but I can't quite wrap logic around the $39 Sony headphones I just purchased. The Right stereo cable offers 21" of slack, while the Left delivers a scant five. 

 

I pulled, stretched, bit, and yanked, but neither cable would give way to any semblance of equilibrium.

 

Giving Sony the benefit of the doubt, I went as far as to consult the how-to diagram on the back of the package (an act that made me feel inadequate as a person with ears — it's like having to consult the back of a milk carton before pouring it onto your morning cereal — Oooohh, the cereal and the milk go INSIDE the bowl?!)

 

There, in black silhouette, was a profile of a girl with a pony tail wearing the earbuds exactly as I had done just moments before. Perhaps she was silhouetted to mask the obvious confusion on her face.

 

I really expect more from Sony. About 16" more on the Left stereo cable to be exact.

 

If, perchance, I'm being dense (which is highly likely (just ask my wife)), or you think I purchased a defective piece of Sony technology, let me know. Until then, I'm back on Apple earbuds which provide a lot more symmetry for a little less money.