EmailBest Reviewed
Earphones
- Best-value earphones Etymotic ER-6i *Est. $80
- Budget earbuds for the gym Sennheiser MX75 Sport *Est. $30
- Best noise-canceling earphones Panasonic RP-HC55 *Est. $60
- Best audiophile earphones Shure SE530 *Est. $450
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Best-value earphones
- Superb sound quality
- Good noise isolation
- Value
- Thin cord that tangles easily
- Tricky to fit properly
- Bass response depends on proper fit
If you don't mind earphones that sit deep in your ear canals, reviews say the Etymotic ER-6i are an excellent choice and less expensive than similar earphones, such as the Etymotic ER-4P (*Est. $185) and Shure SE530 (*Est. $450). Though the ER-6i earphones don't deliver as much sonic detail as more expensive options, they still make nuances in your music stand out. Passive sound isolation gives you a peaceful listening experience. As with most in-canal earphones, fit is crucial for best bass response, but they can't deliver the boom of higher priced headphones even under the best circumstances.
CNET and iLounge.com compare the Etymotic ER-6i to other headphones and give useful information on performance and comfort. GoodGearGuide.com also supplies a detailed review. Though less extensive, PCMag.com's review confirms the conclusions of other reviewers. User reviews at Amazon.com are definitely worth a read, with more than 350 owners giving their view on issues such as comfort and durability.
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Our Sources
1. CNET
Steve Guttenberg describes the Etymotic ER-6i sound as "extraordinarily fine." Compared to the full-size Grado SR60 headphones, the ER-6i sounds cleaner, though bass response is more impressive on the Grado. However, thin wires on the ER-6i tangle easily and the earphones can be uncomfortable for some.
Review: Etymotic ER-6i Isolator (white), Steve Guttenberg, Feb. 8, 2005
2. iLounge.com
This site reviews iPod and iPhone accessories, including an extensive list of headphones and earphones. Jeremy Horwitz is impressed with the detail on the Etymotic ER-6i, though he says it's not quite as "mind-altering" as the more expensive ER-4P.
Review: Etymotic Research ER-6i Isolator Earphones, Jeremy Horwitz, Nov. 19, 2004
Australian review site Good Gear Guide lauds the Etymotic ER-6i for its "amazing" middle and high ranges. Though bass response is weaker, equalizer adjustments help. Overall, the ER-6i earphones are comfortable, though Ross Catanzariti noticed ear soreness after a while. He's also disappointed with the thin cord.
Review: Etymotic ER6i, Ross Catanzariti, Nov. 24, 2005
In this short review, Bill Machrone says the Etymotic ER-6i have "brilliant clarity," though he found bass response disappointing without equalizer enhancement. Passive noise cancelation is superb, and he rates comfort as "very good."
Review: Etymotic ER6i, Bill Machrone, June 22, 2005
5. Amazon.com
Amazon users are impressed with the Etymotic ER-6i's sound quality and passive noise cancelation. Many found them comfortable, though some had problems. Owners emphasize that bass response isn't very good without the correct fit, so be sure to follow the directions. The thin cord is a concern for some.
Review: Etymotic Research ER6i Isolator In-ear Earphones (White), Contributors to Amazon.com
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