Etymotic headphones tend to be a bit analytical in my opinion. I have some er4ps I use for the gym and have had the er4s... I bought my wife a pair of the ER6is when they came out which should be around here somewhere.
The isolation is great and its better then nothing on a long flight, but they don't really keep my focus.
The Ultimate Ears mentioned in the thread are a little less analytical, but a little dull IMO. I'd scored a couple pairs of the TP10s when they were blowing them out about a year ago, but I ended up just gifting them to friends as they weren't my cup of tea.
The Grado in ears look interesting, but I haven't heard them yet. I've owned most everything Grado made (Joe and John) over the years and though many hate them, I found them to be generally musical, warm, detailed, a little flat stage wise, forward in balance.... Thats one I'd investigate personally. |
The very best I've heard is my new BOSE 901 series 6 version 2 "speaker" headphones that just came out three months ago ! |
There is not a "best" for me. There are several top-line cans for I use depending on what kind of music and how the recording sounds. I use Audeze LCD-2 w/Burson HA-160 headamp for "perfect" recordings. The beyerdynamic T 1 w/Burson HA-160 for jammin' rock and roll with good bass in the recording. Sennheiser HD-800 balanced into Headroom Balanced Desktop/w desktop power supply when I want to hear exactly what is on the recording. Westone 3 IEMs are my overall preference for portable listening into a HiFiMan HM-801 PMP. |
just got the new Shure 500s...significant improvement over 5c, 4c etc. 5c has that bass thing going but 500s are tighter and better attack: mid range is more clear and open sounding: treble sounds more extended though may not be true: but overall the best in ears I've heard: that includes the 2 other Shures, Etyomic 4s and untimate ear pro 5. |
Best headphone to date: The original Jecklin Float.
Phil |
Did a session yesterday and used a pair of Sony MDR-CD3000 phones with my EAR HP4. Best closed sound yet. Now I am looking for a pair to buy. Any suggestions? |
i can't beleive a thousand people didn't already grab this one. These headphones are the best known, most comfortable, best value on the market. for around 150 you'll be in an audio heaven that few speakers can top. there're not really portable though. for that one i'd say shure e3, or if you're going cheap, sennheiser px100 or px200. if you want to learn a crap load more than you really ever wanted to know about headphones, go to head-fi.com forums. and headphone.com is a good beginner site. happy listening! |
Sure thing, Robm321. I was actually thinking about this thread today whilest commuting with my Headamp AE-1, iPod, and Shure e4s...it sounded oh so good!
- walkman |
I just may have to bump up to the e4 and get a portable amp. The e3 is ok, but I wouldn't have any doubts about your comments that the e4 is a big step up especially with an amp.
There is something about having hi end on the go that really makes this stuff compelling.
Nothing will replace the life sized soundstage in front of me from a high end home system, but I still enjoy the soundstage "in my head" with no reservations.
Thanks again,
Rob |
Robm321: Understood on head-fi (didn't realize, and yes, it's a bit daunting). I am glad that I helped. It "sounds" like you know your headphone/amp stuff, too, so I am glad to have been of service on the IEM end.
I can also add that I have never listened to the Etymotics, but they have a huge fan base...from what I have read, they are more detailed, have more high's, and are less comfy than the Shure's. Folks say the Shure's are more musical and the Ety's are more analytical. It seems that folks who like rock (like me) go for the Shure's and folks who like classical, go for the Ety's.
Since you are familiar with head-amps, and you travel, which means carrying a portable head-amp should not be an issue, I do recommend getting a portable headphone amp, even if it's just a toy to compare and contrast. It will make a difference with whatever IEM you get, but I must say, for me, the Shure e4 amped is really good: fast, musical, deep/tight bass, and strong highs and mids.
- walkman |
Walkman,
I do browse headfi every once in awhile. I am pretty knowledgeable on the regular headphones and headphone amps. I use Grado RS-1 with RA-1 and Senn hd600 with ASL MGhead Amp.
But I have been traveling more lately and I bought the Shure e3. I also use a RIO mp3 player (I didn't want to be stuck with itunes and wanted option for WMA files). I don't know much about the in ear stuff. I wanted a summary which you were very helpful with. At headfi they tend to be so familiar with headphone set ups that it's hard to get an overview of what's good and what works with what without lots of reading to get to it, but it is a great forum. I can't say the same for headroom which is clearly a bottom line driven sales company. Their reviews claim Senn headphones are all the best and great values and Grados get very low ratings. I have both and like both, but if I had to give one up it would be the Senns. Sorry to go off on a rant.
I agree with you. I've heard nothing but good things about the UE $900 phones, but I'm not sure I want to drop that much on anything portable. |
Sure thing, Robm321. Also, I'd say I know a bit about headphones, but still pale in comparison to some of the guru's over at head-fi know...that's really all they talk about over there, headphones, so sorry to beat a dead horse, I but highly encourage you to sift through the threads there as you will likely learn some more on this subject. They do have a huge number of participants there, so you'll get far more representative reviews on the IEMs than just little old me...
- walkman |
Great info - thanks walkman! |
Hi Robm321. No, I guess I would not say that. There are plenty of folks over at head-fi who are claiming "sonic satisfaction" with their e4s straight out of their MP3 players. However, I am not the only one over at head-fi who claims that (while the e4 is clearly superior to the e3), the e4 straight out of the source (e.g. iPod) is not an excellent result. I like my e5 straight out of the iPod more than the e4. It's not a huge preference, but is a winning preference.
You should know that there other IEMs (canalphones) in the e4 price-range that have a different sonic signature, and may be preferable to you. The westone UM2 gets good reviews, and apparently has more bass. A lot more bass from what I have read. I have not tried them. There's also the Super.fi pro5 by Ultimate Ears, the same folks who make the custom UE-10/UE-5.
I really like Shure headphones because they are comfy to me, sound good to me, and Shure has excellent customer service (not just to me, but widely regarded and lauded).
I think you do have options here, and I would not necessarily preclude the suggested purchase of the e4 sans a headphone amp. I'd consider the e4, and if you got it, and found the bass lacking (it depends on the source; the iPod does not have great bass, but some have found satisfaction here with the bass boost turned on, while others using different mp3 players are satisfied), then you can consider getting a portable amp (price range $50-$400, and widely available used on head-fi). Another option is to buy both the Shure e4 and the Westone or the Super.fi Pro 5, and return the one you like least.
I did already have a portable headphone amplifier prior to the purchase of the e4s. While neither the e4s nor the e5s, nor many (if any) canalphone require a headphone amplifier from a sensitivity view, they do benefit to some degree from an amplifier due to the fact that the amp is just a better amp of sound than the little chip located in one's mp3 player. I do love the sound of my shure e4s with my headamp AE-1 (and Ray Samuels has a tiny new "Hornet" out that is getting some early, strong reviews over at head-fi, and Jan Meier has a new version of the Porta Corda, but these are not cheap, and there are many other good portable headphone amplifiers, new and used, to shop from), and it's the pairing of the mp3 player & the headphone amp that is somewhat consistent with the sonic nirvana that folks shoot for here with their home systems. I'm satisfied, but also can do better as those custom IEMs would likely be a big step up (but also in price and anxiety due to the worry factor of getting such an expensive IEM snagged in subway or on the bus or whatnot...).
good luck,
- walkman |
Walkman,
Given that the E4 would require the cost of an amp to go with it. Would you say that there is no reason to get an e4 at all unless you already own a portible amp given that after the amp purchase the cost would be close to the same?
|
I've not used the custom IEMs but ultimate ears or sensaphonics, or for that matter, Shure also lets one purchase custom ear molds with their universal IEMs, however, the use of the foam tips with the Shure's makes them more customizable to one's ear canals. And, when removing the IEMs, one should raise the top of one's ear to break the seal, and then slowly pull out the "plug." No pain at all; no worries, no suction, no vacuum effect -- not with the foamies.
I've been using IEMs for 6-7 years now. They are great, especially for blocking out outside sound. There are different sound signatures with the various brands, Shure, Etymotics, Superfi.pro, Westone, and the custom IEMs. Usually, it's a matter of getting comfy with the concept of screwing a canalphone into one's head, and finding the right kinda tip (e.g. the foamie). Otherwise, IEMs to me, are an indispensable portable headphone. I use them walking around NYC, and on the subway and bus commute to work within NYC.
Some have mentioned the Shure e3; well, IMO and many others, the e4s are far superior. I've had both, no comparison. The e4s are richer, more detailed, and have some bass, especially when used with a portable headphone amplifier (easy to plop the amp and the mp3 player in a bag and carry the bag). The e5s have a ton of bass, but too much, but are a rick, thick sound with detail. I prefer the e5s unamped and the e4s amped.
Again, you'll find a lot more information at head-fi.org about these headphones and others. Audiogon and Audio Asylum for hi-fi, Head-Fi for headphones. Very easy.
- walkman |
Henryhk,
I would assume the same thing. |
Best place to explore this is over at head-fi.org, where they talk headphones incessantly, and are quite nice, too. I have learned a lot from there, and also used the site to make an informed purchase of my fave, the Audio Technica L3000.
For example, you'll find many comparisons of IEMs, but the UE-10 is clearly in the top of the heap, with the Sensaphonics 2Xs...those seem to be blow away the universal IEMs, from what I've read. I have the Shure e4 and e5 and have had the e2 and e3. The e4s/e5s are different and very good, but from what I've read, should not compare to the UE-10...and they are very different prices, too, with the UE-10 being almost 3x more than the shure e5.
- walkman |
Thanks Lenny. I also think with regard to your concerns Robm321, the UE custome molded fit may solve some those issues: pure conjecture on my part but it must, shouldn't it? |
The in ear stuff sounds good, but anyone that isn't traveling should try them somehow first, because it is difficult to get the seal right.
One time I tried to pull it out, and I felt serious pain in the eardrum. My ear was sore all night. I use sure e3 which is all I wanted to spend since mp3, wma isn't exactly the highest quality front end anyway. I use it for travel only.
Just a warning for anyone considering these. They are great for travel: sound isolation, etc - but make sure you're comfortable with them cuz they aren't anything like regular headphones. |
Hi Henryhk,
A recent (within 6mos) issue of Stereophile reviewed the 5c(s) with a promise of a future review of the 10 pro. I had a rather lengthy discussion with Michael at UE about my listening tastes, expectations, etc. and he convinced me (OK, I got sold) to just go for the 10 Pros. The biggest difference I'm told is that they implement 2 bass armatures which provide greater slam and dynamic range. Anyway, I couldn't be happier, despite their price. |
Lenny or anyone else: has any one compared the ultimate ears 10 pro to shure 5c or etyomics rsch 4ps? |
I have to agee with the chap who said Stax. |
What about these?
Sony MDR-V6
Sony MDR-7506
Etymotic Research ER-4P
Etymotic Research ER-4S |
AKG K1000 HOOKED UP TO CARY 805 MONOBLOCKS.THESE ARE EARSPEAKERS....NOT HEADPHONES |
|
Sony SA5000. Best dynamic headphone this side of the Sony Qualia 010.
Amazing for the money.
A top quality CD player and amp can really show how good they are:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1129003545&openmine&zzDrarthurwells&4&5#Drarthurwells |
Agree a lot with dbk. Since my last post I purchased a Total Airhead amp and boy does it make a world of difference: also use a Cardas cable specifically designed for the IPOD-amp connection which improves things incrementally. I own the Shure 3C, EC5 and Etyomic 4NS. Btwn the Shures, E5C outperforms by a wide margin, as it should be given the price difference: soundstage, clarity, definition, treble, bass, u name it. Btwn E5C and Etyomic I feel its a matter of taste and comfort: The former certainly accentuates mid bass and warmer in tone: but resolution I think is just as good but given the mid bass bump can camaflouge things at times. Etyomic sounds more clear and a more open sound stage but can be analytical at times...and is less good in terms of just rocking out if that is what you want. I use both depending mood, music and gave my 3C's to my son. Remember one of the keys is to have recorded your music in Apple's loseless compression or non-compressed file formats such WMA or via Exact Copy. You can't correct faults at the source. One thing that was not mentioned in terms of comfort, Etyomic sticks out and cord issues are sometimes (only sometimes) as some mentioned earlier, but note the E5C is designed to be hooked into your ear from behind: wrapping around from back to to top of ear and into it: if you wear glasses then sometimes it can become a bit of a balancing act. The other full gear (?) headphones are all very good and superior in a lot of cases but are bulky and not great for travel. I would also add neither the E5C or the Etyomic models are good for say running etc if that is what you require. Shure's 3C is probably a better bet in that case (and using a smaller player such as the new Nano IPOD etc). |
To reiterate what Marakanetz posted here on 7/8/04, Stax Omega beats all! For $3,000 for the headspeakers and driver, I hope so. |
try the grace headphone amps...I own the 901 and senn-600 and it is a beautiful thing |
anyone tried the new Qualia (Sony) Headphones? |
I bought the Shure e5C -
I still have the ety ER4P.
I use a Xin mini amp with bass boost and both sound great once you get the external ear canal fit right. I found the larger foam ear buds that are made for the ety's to work best in terms of bass response. I also had custom silicone ear plugs made by an audiologist but found them too finicky to insert and somewhat uncomfortable unless positioned perfectly. The foam expands to conform to the shape of any ear and seems to get as good sound isolation.
The noise generated by the ety cord is annoying and the fact that they stick out of the ear canal makes sleeping on the side difficult for plane rides. I read a post somewhere which describes a way to get the ety cord over the auricle and use of a rubber strap similar to the Shure configuration to get rid of the cord problem?? Has anyone heard of this??
As far as sound quality, the etys have the best top end detail and clarity but at times can sound overbrite and etched(for lack of a better word). The bass is clean and well controlled with no boomy quality but still is weak compared to the Sures or over ear head phones.
In a direct head-to-head comparison (IMO), for general portable listening, the Shure e5C are fantastic but sound muffled and at times boomy compared to the Etys. However, the richness of the midband can't compare and I think is a more real to the source rendition. I will keep both and use them interchangably.
I also have a pair of Grado 80s and think thse are fantastic and combine the best featrures of both of the above canal phones. For home listening and in outdoor quiet places, nothing is better for the money!!! |
LOL
since we're on the topic of headphones. Off the subject sort of but I have a hum on the my MGhead (tube) headphone amp coming out of the left earphone. I've switched and changed tubes and cables and it is still on the left channel.
I'm going to take it in for repairs on Monday but was wondering if anyone knows what it is. I'm not an expert with tubes by any means.
Thanks,
Rob |
You know, I have never connected the two before, but now that you mention it, I bet a jacket would help keep me warm and toasty in frigid situations. Thanks! |
LOL - oh and make sure you put on your jacket, it's cold outside. |
I'm sorry, what'd you say? No, seriously -- I appreciate the concern, but I don't listen at really high volumes only pretty high volumes and then only for a little while. I may not be the sharpest potato chip in the bag, but I do know enough to avoid blowing my own ear drums to smithereens. |
rsbeck,
I hope you are careful of the high volumes. Hearing damage is easier to do with headphones than with speakers.
I'm not trying to be your parent, just a caring audiophile. |
I too travel a lot and despite the better sound quality, I do not carry headphone amps ala headroom as I always want to keep things light. I've gone a lot of headphones and earphones and the two best are etymoic research and shure...etyiomic has better treble extension and more air, while shure,,,,the 5C model in particular, ..is a bit warmer but better bass. If u headbang, shure is the way to go. |
Goatwuss,
I use the MGhead as well with the Senn 600s. I am a big fan of the headphones, and I use them for classical music such as Symphonies (they give better intrument location than the Grados), but when I listen to Grados on jazz, rock, etc. - they just seem to have more slam, detail, and they get my toes tapping. |
I find this interesting because my findings contradict a lot of other opinions on this thread.
I bought the Ety ER4S - used with various amps, HATED them, and returned them. Next to my MG Head + HD600s at the time, they sounded like a broken toy. Tried to like them every day for 2 weeks straight. No bass, thin mids, highs that hurt my ears. Rock music, jazz, and classical
I bought the Shure e5C - LOVE them for in ear phones. MUCH more - bass, dynamics, midrange texture, highs that don't hurt your ears than the ety ER4S.
So my two headphones currently are the Senn 650 + MG head amp for home use, and the Shure e5C + M Audio Audiophile USB with hard drive transport for work. I certainly prefer the 650s in general - More comfortable, more open sound, more of a "soundstage", but the 5cs sound great too.
For all people who are not a big fan of the sennheiser 580/600/650 on this thread... what amp are you using? In my experience, an amp is an ABSOLUTE necessity with these headphones, otherwise the sound will be dull, lacking life and dynamics and realism. The MG Head is a great match, for not too much dough, quality control at ASL is an issue. |
I have no trouble listening to the Shure E3's at pretty high volumes. Cannot comment on Ety 4-p's. |
Grado RS-1 with RA-1 amp.
I prefer these to the Senns. I own the Senn 600s also, and they do sound more like speakers. They are less fatiguing, but not as musically involving as the Grado RS-1s.
I'm sure there are better headphones out there. I just haven't listened to them.
Rob |
I used to have Etymotic er4p's, and unfortunately left them on an airplane never to be recovered. I now have the Shure e3's. In comparing the two, I like the Shures, but not quite as much as the Etymotics, which I just loved. I think the Etymotics sound clearer with better bass, and they fit in my ears better because of the three-flanged earpieces. The Ety's are probably worth the extra money. That said, both of these are great earphones and perfect for airline travel. |
I agree with Theduke that the ESP 950 is a terrific headphone. It is smooth and full sounding while managing to NOT muddle detail -- a pretty hard trick. I too find the Senn to be a crude and rough sounding phone, relatively speaking, but then again, I did not hear it with a topnotch dedicated amp. |
Are the SUre E3s better than the etymotic er4-p especially in terms of bass and microdynamics?? |
Can you listen to the E3s at reasonable volume since they are very close to the ear drums?
Rob |
Shure E3's are truly amazing with the foam inserts. You roll them up and insert, allowing the foam to expand. That acts as noise cancellation and creates great bass extension. |
I'll probably catch alot of flak on this but I dumped my Sennheiser HD600 for the Koss ESP/950 and never looked back. To my ears, there was no comparison; the low distortion and low coloration of the Koss made the Senn sound crude in comparison.
In addition I found the Koss to be a little more comfortable. By the way I found a brand new pair on Ebay for $375. It's been said many times that the Senn HD600/650 needs good amplification and that adds to signifcant cost.
There is a downside to the Koss, though. Build quality isn't as good as the Senn. For whatever marketing reasons Koss imagined this as a portable/home unit which compromised build quality. The phones come apart if handled in a certain way. Really, how many people are walking around with a Walkman attached to 6 cell battery pack attached to the dedicated amp unit attached to phones that are about the size of the HD600? What was Koss thinking? It would have been much better to construct an amp with better rca connectors and a dual concentric volume controls that accurately tracks.
I really think the Koss is an overlooked gem if you can find it priced under $400 or so. And, no, I haven't heard Stax phones in many years. I have no doubt that they rule supreme. |
I have not compared earphones extensively, but I had a pair of Sennheiser HD580's and I was pretty happy with them, but they are open design so I needed earphones for airplane travel. I bought a set of Shure E3's and the E3's sound way better than Sennheiser HD580's. I never listen to the Sennheisers anymore. When I got the Shure E3's, I listened to them with an ipod for so long, I fell asleep wearing them. |
Has anyone compared the different Shure E series Earphones?
Are the difference worth the money? Money no object which is best for Jazz and female vocals?? |
