The earphone market is huge and encompasses everything from dollar-store buds to $2000 custom-fit monitors. Differences between them abound, but neither price nor brand name guarantee that you’re getting the very best performance for your needs.
We’ve tested over 350 earphones from all around the world in order to find the best values for every preference and budget. For this guide we confined our selections to sets currently available in the US through either US-based or global retailers. In addition to sound quality, we considered factors such as construction quality, comfort, and convenience, holding pricier models to a higher standard.
We grouped this guide into 4 basic sound signature types: basshead, warm and smooth, V-shaped, and balanced, plus one miscellaneous group. Keep in mind, however, that even earphones within the same grouping can differ significantly in overall performance. The goal here is not to find the one sound profile that’s universally praised, but to be able to better understand your own sound signature preferences so you can find the best sound for you.
In addition to considering your preferred sound tuning and any other desired functionality such as high noise isolation or an inline microphone for headset use, keep in mind the audio source you plan to use. For instance, some smartphones and computers may not pair well with sensitive or difficult-to-drive earphones. If you have to choose between upgrading your source and headphones, going for the headphones will maximize your sound quality gain per dollar, but keep in mind that higher-end sets will need a decent source to shine.
Lastly, don’t forget the importance of a good fit with your earphones. Most in-ears were designed to maintain a tight seal with the ear canal at all times, and their sound quality will suffer tremendously with a poor fit. Check out our earphone fit guide for info on wearing your in-ear headphones correctly.
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Last major overhaul: 04/22/2016: 6 outdated recommendations removed, 9 new ones added
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Basshead
Earphones for fans of heavy bass who value bass impact, depth, and power above all else. Because heavily enhanced mid-bass often results in bloated, boomy sound, we focused on finding earphones that provide deep, rumbling sub-bass and maintain decent clarity. In addition to the boosted bass, some of these sets emphasize treble for a v-shaped sound.
Below $50
JVC HA-FX101 ($20) – JVC’s enhanced-bass “Xtreme Xplosives” earphones are a bargain find for the bass-obsessed, combining plentiful bass with prominent, somewhat harsh treble. The overall sound is competent, if slightly unrefined compared to pricier sets, but two things are certain – the low end is sure to please bass fans and the sound is excellent for the price. It comes in several colors and a version with a built-in microphone and remote, the FR201, is also available. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Popclik String ($10 – $25) – For a brand focused on the Latin America headphone market where decent, inexpensive headphones are not too common, Popclik IEMs aim surprisingly high in both performance and design. Even the entry-level String model comes in rather expensive-looking packaging and offers strong performance, nice ergonomics, and integrated headset functionality. Elevated bass and treble provide a lively, energetic sound, and as an overall package there is way more here than I typically expect to see at this price.
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
NarMoo S1 ($32 – $35) – The S1 is a dual dynamic driver earphone with separate 10- and 6mm dynamic drivers in each earpiece, with the 10mm acting as a subwoofer to deliver powerful bass. The overall sound signature is smooth and full-bodied, avoiding the heavily recessed midrange and rolled-off treble many entry-level bass-heavy earphones suffer from. The earpieces are on the large side, but solidly built and comfortable except in small ears. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from NarMoo.com – use coupon code “THL” | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: RHA MA350, PADACS Aksent PD114, Nuforce NE-600X
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$50-100
HiSoundAudio Wooduo 2 ($60 – $100) – Though HiSoundAudio is better-known for their high-end mp3 players and amplifiers, the company has actually been manufacturing earphones just as long. The Wooduo 2 is HiSound’s idea of a proper basshead earphone, one that produces the lowest frequencies without any drop-off or distortion. In addition to some of the most powerful subbass on the market, the Wooduo 2 offers surprisingly good clarity and prominent, well-extended treble. Complete with a unique – if a bit gaudy – aesthetic, the Wooduo 2 is an all-around competent basshead delight. Read full review
Buy from ebay.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: Pump Audio Earphones, Velodyne vPulse
Over $100
Beats Tour 2.0 ($100 – $150) – The latest revision of the Beats Tour in-ears has impressed me with its smoother, more refined sound, improved fit, and more understated design compared to its predecessor. The bass is not as overwhelming as you may expect, either, and while the Tour 2.0 isn’t tops in sound quality per dollar, less pricy competitors also have trouble matching its comfort and features. Read full review on InnerFidelity.com
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: Future Sonics Atrio MG7
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Warm and smooth
These earphones are characterized by moderately enhanced bass and level or laid-back treble. Emphasis specifically on the mid-bass region often results in rich, full-bodied sound.
Below $50
Dunu Trident ($25 – $35) – This unique-looking earphone showcases great attention to detail – its packaging, build quality, and design are all worthy of a higher price tag. While the other options in this category all sound clearer and more refined, the Trident impresses with a warm and smooth signature that’s easy to enjoy and difficult to dislike. With a conventional cable, the Trident is also easier to live with every day than the MH1C and its packaging makes it a superior gift. Read full review
Buy from eBay.com / Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Sony MH1C ($25 – $80) – Sony’s diminutive smartphone headset can commonly be found well below its retail price, but even at the full $80 MSRP the MH1C is a good deal solely for its superb audio quality. The earphone provides a warm, enhanced-bass sound with surprisingly good clarity and treble presence. The small size and soft eartips ensure long-term comfort, with the only downsides being the asymmetric flat cable and remote designed for Sony Xperia phones (it still has limited Apple and Android functionality) Read full review
Buy from eBay.com / Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: Xiaomi Piston 2
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$50-100
Shure SE215 ($99) – Shure has been a serious presence in the professional in-ear monitor market for more than a decade, and it certainly shows in the refinement of their entry-level model. The SE215 is ergonomic, highly-isolating, and boasts a detachable, user-replaceable cable. The sound of the SE215 is smooth, with enhanced bass, strong mids, and relaxed treble. The dynamic microdriver also delivers impressive clarity and detail. It may not be a sonic upgrade to the less expensive Sony MH1C, but with durability and other considerations factored in, the SE215 still comes out on top. An optional mic+remote cable is also available. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: HiSoundAudio Crystal, SteelSeries Flux In-Ear, Fidue A63
Over $100
RHA MA750 / MA750i ($120) – Scottish audio manufacturer RHA scores yet another hit with the MA750, which combines a warm and lush sound, spacious presentation, and good bass presence. The MA750 is less bassy compared to the pricier Yamaha EPH-100 and has more lower treble for a somewhat v-shaped sound, but otherwise is just as competent. Construction quality is extremely impressive, too, with stainless steel housings and thick cabling. The earphones should be comfortable for most listeners thanks to the over-the-ear fit and molded earhooks, and isolate surprisingly well. The MA750i model adds a mic and 3-button Apple remote. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Yamaha EPH-100 ($90 – $150) – Yamaha’s flagship earphone provides big sound in a small package, based around a dynamic microdriver wrapped in a compact, comfortable, and well-built aluminum shell. Noise isolation is outstanding and the sound quality is great as well, with strong bass, lush mids, and smooth – albeit slightly docile – treble. Add a dynamic presentation and impressive stereo imaging, and the EPH-100 is easily one of the best-performing earphones in its price class. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
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V-Shaped
Enhanced bass and treble make for an exciting, v-shaped sound, providing a lively sonic experience reminiscent of the “Rock” equalizer setting. Due to the way the human loudness contour works, at lower volumes a mild v-shape can actually present a fairly balanced listening experience.
Below $50
Philips SHE3580 / SHE3590 ($9 – $15) – These bargain-bin miracles may look like average dollar-store in-ears but their sound tells a completely different story. With excellent presence across the frequency spectrum, enhanced bass, and crisp, clean treble, the sound of the Philips is worth much more than what you pay. Small and comfortable, they come in several color combinations and are the perfect small gift for music fans of all ages.
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Soundmagic E10 ($35 – $45) – Though not quite as clear and resolving as the Philips SHE3580 or Piston 3, the E10 is a great all-around alternative with less bass emphasis, smoother treble, and a wider and airier sound. A headset version with mic and 3-button remote, the E10M, is also available. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: VSonic GR02 Bass Edition, VSonic VSD1/VSD1S, VSonic VSD3/VSD3S, Xiaomi Piston 3
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$50-100
JVC HA-FXT90 ($75 – $100) – This Japan import is chock-full of technology, combining two dynamic drivers – a carbon-coated tweeter and a carbon nanotube woofer – in a single housing. The sound of the FXT90 is balanced in an aggressive sort of way, with the intimate midrange giving up only a bit of emphasis to the prominent bass and sparkly treble. The performance is strengthened by good timbre and a nicely layered presentation, making these JVCs one of the best deals in portable audio. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from eBay.com | Manufacturer’s site
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear ($85 – $100) – The Momentum In-Ear follows in the footsteps of the on- and over-ear Momentum headphones with its stylsh design, comfortable, lightweight construction, and impressive audio performance. Its sound is v-shaped and slightly warm thanks to a generous amount of bass enhancement. The midrange is mildly recessed while the top end carries a high level of energy for a textbook V-shaped sound signature. The Momentum in-ear is available in both iOS and Android versions with full-featured 3-button remotes. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from Amazon.co.uk / Buy from Amazon.ca / Buy from amazon.de / Buy from amazon.fr | Manufacturer’s site
1MORE Triple-Driver In-Ear Headphones ($100) – The flagship in-ear headphones from 1MORE are an excellent value, starting with a hybrid triple-driver setup that’s virtually unheard of in this price range. The punchy, mildly v-shaped sound signature is a compromise between “audiophile” and “consumer”, which is not a bad thing in itself and makes the 1MORE an easy recommendation for many listeners. In addition, the inline remote is universally compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from Amazon.co.uk / Buy from Amazon.de | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: Astrotec AM-800, MOE-SS01, Thinksound MS01, Alpha & Delta AD01
Over $100
DUNU DN-1000 ($160 – $210) – The DN-1000 is a hybrid earphone – that is, it combines a dynamic driver acting as a subwoofer with a dual balanced armature setup handling the mids and highs. It has superb bass – deep and hard-hitting, with almost no bloat – as well as very good clarity. Its V-shaped signature makes it especially great for modern music – EDM, pop, and so on – and the excellent construction and good noise isolation, though typical for DUNU, still stand out among $200 IEMs. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from eBay.com | Manufacturer’s site
DUNU DN-2000 ($260 – $315) – On top of their similar aesthetics and construction, the DN-1000 and DN-2000 are both triple-driver “hybrid” earphones with V-shaped sound tuning. Sonically, the pricier DN-2000 is not a direct upgrade over the DN-1000, but rather a slightly more balanced and refined alternative with a bit less bass, a more spacious and airy soundstage, less recessed mids contributing to better vocal clarity, and treble that is a touch smoother. All in all, I consistently preferred the DN-2000 in my listening, but the differences are subtle enough that some users– hip-hop and EDM listeners, for example – may not see much benefit from the pricier DN-2000 or even find the bassier, slightly more v-shaped DN-1000 preferable. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from eBay.com / Buy from CTC Audio | Manufacturer’s site
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Balanced
Emphasizing no particular area of the frequency spectrum, balanced headphones provide the most clear and accurate sound and can range from slightly warm to slightly bright in tone. Balanced sets can also be mildly mid-centric when the bass and treble both roll off at the limits.
Below $50
Etymotic Research ETY-Kids ($39) – Etymotic’s entry-level model promotes hearing safety with a combination of immense noise isolation and volume-limiting impedance. The earphones are well-built and stay true to the Etymotic brand with sound that is clear, accurate, and neutral, though for some listeners perhaps lacking in desired bass presence. A headset version with microphone and 3-button remote is also available. Volume-limiting design aside, the ETY-Kids are a great option for the budget-minded audiophile. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Brainwavz M1 ($35 – $45) – Of the many budget earphones offered by Hong Kong-based Brainwavz, the original M1 still stands out many years after its release with its smooth and natural sound. There’s no bass boost here – just a balanced signature with a mild focus on the midrange and very smooth and pleasant treble. The small size, comfortable form factor, and complete accessory kit all make the M1 a user-friendly all-rounder perfect for first-time earphone users. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from mp4nation.net | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: VSonic VC02
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$50-100
HiFiMan RE-400 ($60 – $80) – The folks at HiFiMan have been perfecting the accurate dynamic-driver earphone for the better part of a decade, and the latest iteration offers a very balanced, slightly mid-focused sound with a hint of warmth, providing a noticeable step up in performance from even the best entry-level models. With its comfortable form factor and good noise isolation, the RE-400 is difficult to fault on any front. Versions with microphone and remote for iOS and Android are also available. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
VSonic GR07 Classic ($99) / GR07 Bass Edition ($130) – VSonic’s dynamic-driver flagship has been popular on the portable Hi-Fi scene for four years thanks to its ergonomic design and bio-cellulose dynamic drivers that offer excellent consistency across audio sources and produce sound that’s quite neutral, yet not lean or lacking in bass. There are more of both highs and lows compared to the HiFiMan RE-400 and Etymotic HF5, but the GR07 is still pretty darn balanced, and plenty great-sounding. The latest “Classic” version is available in 3 colors and priced at $99 while those looking for a little more bass will enjoy the equally capable GR07 Bass Edition. Read full review: VSonic GR07 / VSonic GR07 Bass Edition. Read impressions of the GR07 Classic here.
Buy GR07 Classic from Amazon.com in blue, maroon, or silver / Buy from eBay.com / Buy from LendMeUREars | Buy GR07 Bass Edition from Amazon.com / Buy from eBay.com
Retired: MEElectronics A161P, Philips Fidelio S1
Over $100
Philips Fidelio S2 ($100 – $135) – Philips’ new flagship earphones are well-built, well-accessorized, and reasonably priced. Offering a flat and level signature with a mild bump across the bass range, the S2 also features tangle-resistant cabling and a built-in microphone and remote. The semi-open design makes them great in situations where the higher noise isolation of most other high-end earphones is undesirable and a great choice for those who don’t like the more intrusive fit of most other IEMs. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Buy from eBay.com | Manufacturer’s site
Etymotic Research HF5 ($120) – Etymotic Research invented the universal-fit in-ear headphone back in the 80s, and the company still manufactures some of the most accurate-sounding earphones on the market more than two decades later. The HF5 is a top-tier model with a mid-level price tag, offering an impeccably clear and detailed sound from a tiny balanced armature driver. It also offers outstanding noise isolation – better than pretty much any other universal-fit earphone on the market – all at a very reasonable price. Two headset versions – the single-button HF2 and 3-button HF3 – are also available. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Audio-Technica ATH-IM02 ($170 – $200) – The Audio-Technica IM02 is priced closer to the single-driver in-ear monitor offerings from Shure and Westone but utilizes a dual-driver setup with performance to match, making it a no-brainer for musicians. It also benefits from a sturdy construction, secure fit, good noise isolation, and detachable, user-replaceable cables, as well as neutral – if just a hair smoothed-out – sound. Audiophiles and other critical listeners will appreciate the clarity and accuracy the IM02 delivers without being overly treble-heavy and harsh. Read full review on InnerFidelity
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
Retired: Fischer Audio DBA-02 mkII, Aurisonics Rockets
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Other
A catch-all for earphones that don’t strictly fit into the other categories or offer variable sound tuning.
Ostry KC06 ($45 – $65) – The KC06 is a bright, mid-forward earphone that boasts slightly enhanced bass with some sub-bass roll-off, superb clarity, sparkly treble, and a soundstage that’s wide and airy for an in-ear earphone. Next to higher-end sets it lacks some bass extension, soundstage depth, and imaging ability, but for the price it is very hard to fault. The shallow fit is comfortable in the ear, too. One caveat is the high sensitivity, which means hiss can be audible and low volumes can be hard to dial in with sources not designed for sensitive IEMs. Read full review
Buy from Amazon.com / Buy from eBay.com / Buy from LendMeUREars
DUNU Titan 1 ($90 – $110) – The Titan 1 is the next logical step up from the KC06. It is similar to the Ostry unit in many ways – both are shallow-fit, metal earphones; both are worn cable-down and both have only moderate noise isolation; both are comfortable, especially for those who don’t like deep in-ear fit of conventional IEMs. The sound of the Titan 1 maintains the strengths of the Ostry with fewer caveats – the forward upper midrange and wide, airy presentation are retained while clarity, detail resolution, bass depth, and overall balance are all improved. The DUNU unit is also sturdier, and the $120 price tag makes it the IEM to beat for this sort of sound. Read full Review
Buy from Amazon.com | Manufacturer’s site
FLC Technology FLC8 ($320 – $360) – The main draw of the triple-driver FLC8 is the flexible 36-setting sound tuning system. Not all of the possible settings are brilliant and swapping out the ports is an exercise in patience and finesse even with the included tweezers and spare parts, but it’s pretty easy to alter the sound once you get the hang of it. Those who get tired of listening to the same sound signature, have eclectic music tastes, or aren’t yet sure of exactly what sort of sound they want are certain to find extra value here, but it’s not just the tuning system that makes this earphone special – even if limited to the default tuning, the FLC8 is a superb-sounding triple-driver earphone that also happens to be the lightest and most comfortable in its class. Fead full review
Buy from Amazon.com | Buy from LendMeUREars
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That concludes an overview of over two dozen of the most essential earphones for every taste and budget. For more in-depth reviews of these and other sets check out the sortable review list. This guide will be updated whenever we come across new products worth mentioning.
Check out also our Budget Earphone Buyer’s Guide – the Best Earphones Under $50 and our Custom In-ear Monitor Buyer’s Guide
Questions or comments? Leave them below.
Last major overhaul: 12/08/2016: 5 outdated recommendations removed, 2 new ones added
1,509 Responses
Thanks! Useful answer, VC1000 ordered. Waiting to receive it , then report – but just in few words….
The VC1000 is a little brighter and less forgiving but unless you specifically liked the slightly rolled-off treble of the A161P, you should be okay. Bass quantity is similar between the two but the A161P tends to have more forward, aggressive mids (intimate, as you mentioned) while the VC1000 is more spacious and the mids are more relaxed. I find the VC1000 to be more accurate overall though both have their moments.
Hi, I heard one of my friends A161P and I remember that I liked very much its soung signature. I was suprised with bass amount from an single BA IEM! Now I’m thinking to buy VC1000 – after the intimate sound of A161P will the Vsonic be too harsh or sibilant? What about the bass amount of VC1000?
Thank you in advance! AAron
If you’re looking to stay with a warm and smooth sound like the Xears, I would go for a Sony MH1C. The cable is slightly annoying but it sounds great for the price with good bass depth, great clarity, and excellent overall sense of space.
Hello Joker,
Your reviews are legendary! Thanks!
Currently I’m using the Xears XE200PRO, but the cable started giving issues. Now I’m looking for something new under or around $50.
I mainly listen to Britpop/indie music. I like the deep rumbling bass-guitar sound and riffs, instrument (guitar) separation as well as a spacious sound.
I thought about getting the new XWH700PRO, but reading your comments left me thinking about others too (VSonic VSD1 for example). Which in ears would you advice? Thanks!
That’s a good deal 🙂
Thanks for the reply.
I ordered the VSD1 from MP4Nation a couple of days ago. Had some store credits left and I got them for $29 only!
I received them a couple of hours ago. Out of the box, they sound MUCH more amazing than the M21, as you rightly said. The bass is a bit boomy but I think that should tighten up a bit once I have burnt them in.
Eagerly waiting for your review!
That’s a tough spot. Even above the RE-400 price range there’s just not much with the same level of clarity and balance, equally smooth treble, but better bass, You could definitely go for a high-end Shure or Westone – the SE535 would probably be your best bet for smooth treble and flat mids – but it’s hard (for me) to justify the price hike. The overall performance is just not leagues ahead of the RE-400.
That or just risk the EPH-100 and hope its bass doesn’t get in your face too much.
Also, there are a few promising earphones that I haven’t tested in depth yet – the TDK BA200 and RBH EP1, for example. Perhaps someone else has already compared one or both of these to the RE-400 in a meaningful way.
Thanks man, that was very helpful. Problem is I use Spotify, which to my knowledge doesn’t combine with an iPhone equalizer. Any other IEM’s out there that could suit my taste? Might even save up to the $400 mark, since I listen to music almost 2hrs a day.
Why not just get an RE-400 and boost the bass a little with an equalizer?
Anyway, the EPH-100 is way bassier than the RE-400. It’s great if you want a warm and bassy sound but all of the earphones you’ve tried so far have been way more neutral. The DBA-02 mkII is thinner-sounding and not as warm as the RE-400. It probably isn’t what you want. The GR07BE is closer, but if you want it to be as smooth as the RE-400 you’ll again have to engage the equalizer – its treble is more like that of the Fidelio S1 and PFE122.
Great list man, txs! Recently bought the Philips Fidelio S1 and the Phonak Audeo PFE 122, but returned them both cause I kept reaching for my brother’s RE-400 instead. Looking for an IEM with similar smoothness and clarity, but something that will make my world music and jazz collection sound more punchy (played from iPhone4). I like my music balanced with a hint of warmth, an airy soundstage and non-fatiguing. Can’t decide between Yamaha EPH-100, VSonic GR07 BE and Fischer Audio DBA-02 mkII. Please advise.
I like the VSD1 quite a lot. Its sound is like a blend of the GR02 Bass Edition and GR07 Bass Edition – it’s clearer, tighter, more accurate, and less harsh than the GR02 but not quite as much so as the GR07. For $45 it’s a great deal and I think you’ll notice a big improvement in overall fidelity compared to the M21. The only caveat is that the M21 has smoother, more forgiving treble.
I still have the VSonic VC1000 to review (which will be finished in a week or two) but after that the VSD1/VSD1S are my top priority.
Forgot to add that I have the MEElectronics M21 right now. So how does the Vsonic VSD1 compare to them?
Thanks for the excellent article, this would save a lot of people a lot of time!
I wanted to go for the Vsonic VSD1. I see you’ve tried it recently, so what are your thoughts about it?
Also, Any ETA about when you’re going to put up a full review?
Thanks a lot I think I may try the ckm500 since I want more bass on my new earphones that I yearn for
They are different in how they present bass. The VSD1 is more accurate – the bass is enhanced but there is a good balance of subbass and midbass and it doesn’t sound overbearing as a whole, just a little warm. The CKM500 is skewed in favor of mid-bass. It is bassier in the conventional sense but not as accurate and refined as the VSonic.
The VSD1 is more similar to the GR02BE you currently have – you’re just trading a bit of the bass of the GR02BE away for a tighter, clearer, less boomy, and more detailed sound – while the CKM500 is a whole another ball game.
Hi joker between these two iem which is better the Vsonic Vsd1 or the Audio technica ckm500 I like warm and sweet sound signature more to bass but do not want to compromise on the mids and highs too.Which is better?currently using Vsonic Gro2 BE
That sounds like a Brainwavz M1, Astrotec AM-90/Rock-It Sounds R-20 (these two use the same driver), or, if you don’t mind having to raise the volume on your DAP, the Etymotic Ety-Kids. The M1 has tight bass and is very smooth overall. Might not have the most crisp sound but it’s very easy-going. The AM-90/R-20 are your typical entry-level balanced armature earphones. Bass is tight and flat and the top end rolls off a bit but they have a thinner, crisper note presentation than the M1. The Ety-Kids sound like an Ety and can currently be had for <$30 on amazon but they are volume-reducing, which could be a deal-breaker for some.
Hey Joker! What sound signature and IEMs (below $50) would you recommend for non-boosted, tight bass, smooth mids, and crisp highs?
Koss and Skullcandy don’t make great IEMs in my experience. I would try something with balanced armature drivers now if I were you. Not sure how distribution is in Taiwan but you may also want to look at the Brainwavz B2, which is a rebrand of the original (first generation) Fischer Audio DBA-02. It might be a better deal than the DBA-02 mkII and Etymotic HF5 in your region. If you don’t need as much noise isolation, the Philips Fidelio earphones (both S1 and S2) do guitars pretty well, too. They are still difficult to find in the US but have better availability in Asia.
I have not tried many IEMs, to be honest most of them have been Skullcandies because I have been given several sets, I also have tried a couple KOSS IEMs like the pathfinder, again they were a gift. Never listened to my music on the go much. Recently moved to Taipei and listen to a lot more music now and find myself becoming more picky. I am a huge fan of the Grado 80i sound.
What IEMs have you tried? Something with a flat reproduction may not get all of the harmonics quite right but it’ll get the tone down pretty well. An Etymotic HF5, for example, or the Fischer DBA-02 if you can swing the cost.
Awesome List! Thanks for all the hard work. I am fairly new to the IEM game. I play guitar and am never happy with guitar tone reproduction in IEMs. I play a Gibson Explorer paired with a Mesa Boogie dual rec. I love the crunch. I am looking for a set of IEMs that are good for rock and guitar solos. My musical tastes are all over the map from classical to hip hop to metal and everything in between, but I judge the headphones on guitar tone and drums. From this list what would you recommend?
The DBA-02 is brighter than the HF5, slightly. The EPH-100 has a dip in the lower treble so it’s typically more forgiving than both.
One more question, please. From your opinion, which one is brighter, Ety HF-5 or Fischer DBA-02?
Thanks.
Thanks.
I already have Ety HF-5, like it but it’s too bright for some recording, can’t listen to it for long time. Looks like Yamaha EPH-100 will be a good choice…
Hmm… tough choice. I would say RE-400 and EPH-100, that way I have all my bases covered.
Second choice would be Etymotic HF5 + JVC FXT90, for the same reason.
Hi Joker, great guide.
If you can only take 2 earphones from the list, what earphones do you take?
Amazon is the place to go for brand-name tips but for cheap unbranded ones you want ebay. These are going to be similar to most other foamhybrid type tips http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-PR-Memory-Foam-Tips-Earbuds-Eartips-For-Most-Earbuds-in-ear-Sony-Mdr-as-40ex-/321040109211?pt=US_Replacement_Parts_Tools&hash=item4abf7b4e9b
I also just purchased them cost 20.95 delivered and are very pleased with sound quality(your assessment is very in review). I have two questions: Where can I buy the hybrid foam tips, guessing Amazon and what is type name of the tips?
It’s my pleasure – glad the guide has been helpful!
The Brainwavz R1 is something I have only heard briefly. Its sound signature seemed to be on the v-shaped side of things and it didn’t sound as good overall as the M5, but that’s about all I remember. The M5 has plenty of bass and a warm signature, but its soundstage is not the widest (no more so than that of the FX101, for example). The FX101 has a lot of bass, which is going to be hard to match in an earphone with a wider soundstage. My recommendation would be the Audio-Technica CKM500. It’s a little pricier than the M5 but should be a better fit for what you are after.
Just wanted to say: thank you very much for making the process of choosing the right iem a LOT more manageable.
My current favs are JVC HA-FX101 ,FX3X and Yuin PK3 N PK2 also Monoprice 8323 . I like my sound with good bass ‘with oomph’ and wide soundstage. Also own Soundmagic PL50 which to me is bit laid back n boring ..so i only used them for blues music ..mostly old recording .
Which would u recommend btwn Brainwavz R1 n M5 …I like very much the bass by JVC and soundstage of Yuin ?
Mostly i listen to EDM,Rock and Blues …your input is much appreciated. Thanks.
The M5 is significantly bassier than the M1. I would classify its signature as borderline basshead. The result is a much warmer overall tone and the appearance of a more recessed midrange and treble in comparison to the M1. The M1 is more balanced, with gently rolled-off bass and treble, which gives it a mid-centric character.
Can you compare differences between Brainwavz M1 & M5 thks
That’s the whole point of the main comparison table, which contains earphones costing as little as $3: https://theheadphonelist.com/ . Something for everyone, so to speak.
As for this abridged guide, it contains only the best of the best and there are still several sets under $20 here. Look around the web and you can snag a Philips SHE3580 for less than $10, which is about as good as it gets for the money.
Perhaps you should put super cheap headphones on here that way kids who are buying solely on $2 a week allowance money can use your website because I’m a kid and I’m positive I’m never looking on this website again
Yeah, I would say so. They are normally $50. They are also remarkably similar to the TFTA 1V (http://www.head-fi.org/t/573007/tfta-2100-2v1s-1v-tfta-2100-3v2b-1xb-review-pictures-videos), which are ~$150.
Padacs Aksent for $10 from your link. Does that make it a really good deal?
If I can find the time, I would love to pick portable headphones up again. The market is continuously growing so right now it’s tough to keep up even doing just IEMs.
Great info on the large world of IEM’s and I will put good use to the advice!! Do you plan on also getting involved again on reviewing portable headphones?
Good question. The reason I decided to group by sound signature and not by genre is that two different fans of the same genre may have different signature preferences. In my experience most classical listeners favor either balanced presentation or a slightly warm-and-smooth one. The latter does add some coloration but is typically more akin to what people think of as the classic “Hi-Fi” sound signature (think old tube amps, vinyl, etc) and will give some extra authority to instruments that rely heavily on low frequencies (e.g. the contrabass).
I would like to know which sound signature classical / acoustic music would fall into. Thx for time and reply.
Perhaps in due time there will be a separate section for “mid-centric” as opposed to purely balanced.
Very helpful and useful guide for entry-level users. But I think placing the Vsonic GR02 Silver under balanced is misleading. If I had followed this suggestion I would be dissapointed, since they have too strong, outshining mids to be a balanced ones.
Thank you. It is my hope that this guide can serve as a sort of condensed, go-to version of the big IEM review.
Glad you’ve enjoyed your VSonics. The VSD1 is definitely on my to-try list considering the boastful statements made by VSonic about these earphones!
Like witerabbit said, I wish this was around when I first looked for decent IEMs. Thanks for the hard work! I’m glad I went with the gr07 mk ii based on your review and clieos’. Though I am now getting into CIEMs (UERMs are my first), it is nice to have a guide where I can direct people to for a more budget oriented IEM. I bought three gr02s BE to give to my friends and family for christmas; they are really wonderful IEMs at that price. I’ve tried the re-400 in a store and was amazed at how close it sounded to the gr07. It is an excellent buy for $100. I’m looking forward to your vsonic VSD1 review once you get your hands on them! 😀
Thank you – glad the reviews have been useful. Constructing a condensed “Best” list has been on my to do list for years but I never had the time nor the platform until now.
Unfortunately I haven’t yet had a chance to try out either of the JVC triple dynamic earphones. JVC doesn’t market their high-end earphones in the US, which means I’ll probably have to buy or borrow a pair at some point to get my hands on them.
As for the effect of the FXT90’s bass on the midrange – it does bleed a little as sets with enhanced mid-bass tend to but in the context of the sound signature I find that perfectly acceptable. If you are willing to give up some bass quantity, I can recommend the VSonic GR07 Bass Edition as something that has punchy bass, yet doesn’t really bleed the way some of the JVC sets do.
Wish I would have run across this tidy summary of the most relevant IEM’s in their given price range and sound signature before reading through details of 50+ iem’s! Of course reading that much must be somewhat satisfying or one wouldn’t do it LOL. So thank you for this wonderful summary page to your massive iem review list, and thank you for taking the time to write out so many reviews! That being said, I am wondering about the JVC’s FXZ100. They can be found for just slightly more than the FXT90’s yet I wonder if the tripple driver setup is controlled & tight enough that the sub-bass doesn’t bleed into the lower mids as I have read the fxz200’s to do, making mud pie. As you know, in the headphone world, too much of a good thing doesn’t mean it’s better. So your perception if the fxz100’s are an ‘upgrade’ in sq compared to the fxt90’s would be appreciated. Thank you, and keep up the awesome reviews!