10.25.05 - Reviewing earphones is a lot like describing wine, it's part art, a great deal of science (technology in this case) and very much personal taste. I know what I like but translating
that into a coherent and meaningful review is difficult. Your tastes in music are likely to be different, your need for bass response or desire for a "truer fidelity" to coin a phrase is certainly different than mine. That said, I think we all can agree that when something sounds really great we all can hear it and apart from quibbling over the finer points I am here to say these Etymotic earbuds sound really great.
This in-ear-canal model is about middle of the road when it comes to price but in terms of sound quality, noise isolation, and comfort it is setting higher standards for everybody else. The ER-6i is one of my favorites and provides great sound, good bass, excellent external noise filtering and an iPod-matching white design. All that combined with a very fair price and you have a product that is well worth your consideration when it comes time to replace your earbuds.
Other than its wonderful sound reproduction, part of the appeal of the ER-6i is the way it looks. Each set comes with transparent case, white rubber triple flanges and white cords that fit into your ears. The flange style earplug is designed to block out external noise and preserve more of your music's detail. If you are not comfortable with the flange inserts then switch to the foam ear tips included. These things are apparently interesting to look as I get quite a few comments down at the club where I work out. Each set comes with about 5 feet of cord - a little much for my taste. Etymotic provides a white plastic clip below the Y-joint of the headphones making it easy for you to attach it to your clothing, a nice touch that keeps everything under control and prevent the cord from catching.
While the silicone rubber flanges look uncomfortable and a little scary to the uninitiated they are surprisingly comfortable and are designed to slip easily in your ear. (I have always found the original earbuds very uncomfortable, these I hardly notice). The three ribs of silicone rubber effectively plug your ear canals isolating music inside your head and blocking outside noise. If you have ever tried the active noise cancellation headphone systems ( you know the ones with the giant ear cups and fancy electronics) you will get the idea of how effectively these block noise. In fact, I am always cautious walking in San Francisco because I can no longer hear traffic. Look before you cross has become my mantra.
Sound quality is noticeably clearer and more preferable to the original earbuds that came with your iPod. You do not have to turn your volume up to hear the details in your music, the ER-6i seems to accurately reproduce your music at all volume levels. These are definitely a step above “standard” earphones and to my way of thinking this justifies the higher price. With balanced treble and bass response plus musical clarity your really have to try them with your favorite sounds to appreciate them. You're going to have trouble keeping your friends from wanting to try them out.
There's enough bass in the ER-6i to give even the most jaded a good experience, but it's not an overpowering or distorted booming, you know like you hear coming from the car next to you at the light. For those of you accustomed to viscerally "feeling" your bass (that car next to you again) this will take some getting used to as it is "in your head" not "out-there". Treble is not exaggerated and I have never noticed these sound tinny or shrill. I love big band swing arrangements and the instruments generally stand apart from each other rather than blurring but isn't that what you would expect from good speakers, headphones or earbuds.
Etymotic includes a soft protective case for your 'phones and I have to say that the carrying pouch is a pretty good package. Lined with soft fabric to protect your 'buds, sealed with Velcro, the pouch looks great and fits easily into a pocket.
While I recognize that everybody has different budget limitations and style preferences, I feel confident in recommending these earphones. From their excellent sound quality to their appealing design I am confident in saying it is money well spent. Put them in your ears and you won't be looking for a replacement any time soon.
Because of their performance, design, and price point, we have awarded the Etymotic ER-6i our Editors Choice. - jc
Click here earphones, in ear monitors for more information on other high end ear monitors e.g. Shure, Westone, Ultimate Ear, Future Sonic.
Here for information on wireless headphones
Here for information on working out with earbuds
The iPod Authority
