Etymotic ER4P Reliability

Has anyone else had reliability problems with Etymotic headphones? I have had a pair for 2 years and have had them break now for the third time with the wiring to one of the ear buds going bad. CS is reasonable in processing the returns and doing the warranty work but having to do this every 8 months is a little ridiculous. I like them for the sound quality and noise block but what a hassle. Any good alternatives in a similar price range?