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- Superb sound quality
- Good noise isolation
- Affordable
- Thin cord that tangles easily
- Tricky to fit properly
- Bass response depends on proper fit
If you don't mind earphones that sit deeply in your ear canals, reviews say the Etymotic ER-6i are an excellent choice and less expensive than similar earphones, such as Etymotc ER-4P *Est. $170 and Shure SE530 *Est. $450. Though the ER-6i earphones don't deliver as much sonic detail as more pricey options, they still make nuances in your music stand out. Passive sound isolation gives you a peaceful listening experience. 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 compare the Etymotic ER-6i to other headphones and give useful information on performance and comfort. GoodGearGuide also supplies a detailed review. Though less extensive, PC Magazine confirms the conclusions of other reviewers. User reviews at Amazon.com are definitely worth a read as over 350 owners give their view on issues such as comfort and durability.
| Etymotic Research MC5 Noise Isolating In-Ear Earphones (Black) | |
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Our Sources
1. CNET
Steve Guttenberg describes the Etymotic ER-6i sound as "extraordinarily fine." Compared to the open-back Grado SR60, the ER-6i sounds cleaner, though bass response is more impressive on the Grado. However, thin wires on the ER-6i tangle easily and they 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 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 GoodGearGuide laud the Etymotic ER-6i for its "amazing" mid and high ranges. Though bass response is weaker, equalizer adjustments help. Overall, the ER-6i 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 cancellation 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 cancellation. 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 was a concern for some.
Review: Etymotic Research ER6i Isolator in-ear earphones (white), Contributors to Amazon.com
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