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2016 In-Ear Earphone Buyer’s Guide by Sound Signature

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Last major overhaul: 04/22/2016: 6 outdated recommendations removed, 9 new ones added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
JVC HA-FX101

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
Popclik String

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
NarMoo S1

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 Wooduo2
HiSoundAudio Wooduo2

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
Beats Tour 2.0

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
Dunu Trident

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
Sony MH1C

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
Shure SE215

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
RHA MA750

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
Yamaha EPH-100


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.

Philips SHE3590
Philips SHE3590

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
Soundmagic E10

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
JVC HA-FXT90

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
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear

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
1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear Headphones

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

Dunu DN-1000
Dunu DN-1000

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
DUNU DN-2000

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 Ety-Kids
Etymotic Ety-Kids 3

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
Brainwavz M1

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
HiFiMan RE-400

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
VSonic GR07 Classic

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
Philips Fidelio S2

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 HF3
Etymotic Research HF3

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
Audio-Technica ATH-IM02

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
Ostry KC06

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
DUNU Titan 1

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
FLC Technology FLC8

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.comBuy 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

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ABOUT AUTHOR

ljokerl

ljokerl

Living in the fast-paced city of Los Angeles, ljokerl has been using portable audio gear to deal with lengthy commutes for the better part of a decade. He spends much of his time listening to music and occasionally writes portable audio reviews across several enthusiast sites, focusing mostly on in-ear earphones.

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1,509 Responses

  1. I have only tried the MDR-EX1000/EX600/EX300 and the MDR-7550.

    Lots of great earphones with a mic at $40 but I can’t say how they will compare to your EX61. Check out the LG Quadbeat F420, for example.

  2. hmm how do Jaybird BlueBuds X compare to gr07be? whats the diff?
    btw i’m owning Klipsch Image S4, what sound signature type it fall into?…i’m new to this ^^’

  3. I’d also like to add that: The aforementioned IEMs shorted on me a bit back. I’d like to find something with similar sound quality and price (within $40), with an in-line mic which isn’t completely necessary but is a great bonus if included.

  4. Hi Joker.
    Have you ever reviewed the Sony MDR IEM line? I’m talking about the DREX61lP IEM.
    If you can, go ahead and give them a try! I’d like to see your input on how they fare against similarly priced competing IEMs.

  5. I would not recommend the EX1000 if you found the GR07BE or DN-1000 to bright – it’s just not a “safe” earphone in that regard. The Sony MDR-7550 would probably be better as it’s like an EX1000 but with less treble presence. The W4R is good – not nearly as bassy as an MA750 but it’s got a lot more midrange presence and clarity. The EarSonics SM64 is good as well and about the same price, but with more bass than the Westones.

  6. Very different bass quantity – if you want deep, heavy-hitting, significantly emphasized bass, go for the Yamaha. If you want somewhat better punch compared to a true neutral earphone but aren’t willing to give up much in the way of accuracy and balance, go for the GR07 BE. The GR07 BE has a wider soundstage.

  7. And what do you think, is it much better than the RHA-MA750? Is it worth the 3x price? What would be an upgrade from the MA-750, if I did not like the harshness of the GR07BE, DN-1000, but I would like to get more details.. What about Westone 4R? (the SE846 was impressive, but I would not spend over 400$)

  8. can you help me decide between Yamaha EPH-100 and GR07BE? i know they both sound good for the price within my budget,, i prefer a punchy bass and really good soundstage..thx in advance 🙂

  9. If you want balanced, or even warm-and-balanced, the MA750 is probably not the right choice – too much bass, and not enough midrange presence compared to the GR06 and RE-400.

  10. Okay. My budget has increased a little making room for the RHA MA750s. How do you think these compare to the GR06s …and the RE-400?

  11. If you want heavy bass – the C12. If you want reasonably balanced sound with smooth treble – the E10. If you want moderately enhanced bass (more than E10 but less than C12), better clarity, and strong, energetic treble – the VSD1S.

  12. Yep, in Asia, where they always clump the same kind of shops along the same street. Kinda makes sense to do it this way, though.

  13. Thanks for the advice. I got the DN-1000, and they are amazing. Nice assortment of tips and very nice case.

  14. Yep, same Westone red STAR tips did the trick. Luckily I live about a 10 minute walk away from about 10 headphone shops in my city so getting the tips didn’t take any time at all (Yeah, being that close is a bit dangerous as well!) Comfortable, and finally the bass is extended (Initially I thought that the bass was a bit anemic but now it’s well balanced, good clarity and punch) and good isolation. Great call, again! It’s funny how independent websites such as yours kill mainstream audio websites in information accuracy and actually educating consumers on the best products. They really are falling behind. Cheers!

  15. Sorry, never even heard of the brand. Another “wood-only” manufacturer? There have been quite a few of these popping up.

  16. Hi, have a question about your recommendation for ear tips. I find these earphones need insertion at a certain depth and angle to get full sound. I’m having a little bit of a difficult time with Comply tips. I think they need a longer tip so that you don’t have to push them right up against the outer ear. Do you think the Westone STAR tips will likely resolve this issue? I see they’re sold in a multi-pack for best fit. Thanks for your time.

  17. Cracking list & reviews joker, has helped me a lot! Have you by any chance got hold of the Grain Audio IEHP yet? Any views?

  18. Those are all very good earphones – the ER4 and DBA-02 being brighter and more “analytical” and the BA200 being a little warmer and more full-bodied. If durability is a concern, though, I would definitely go with the Etymotics, and you certainly won’t miss any detail with those.

  19. Hi ljokerl,

    Thank you so much for all the useful reviews. Previously I was using Westone UM1 until the cable failed me. I was looking for a IEM with replaceable cable but the price would be very high. I did try Shure 215 and do not like the it coz I feel a lot of detail went missing. For my budget around 200, I supposed I will forgo the replaceable cable. I would prefer a more balanced and detail IEM and so I read around your review. Now I’m stuck between ER4PT, DBA-02 MKii and TDK BA200 (which you recommend to one of the guy in the comment section). Which of it would you recomment?

  20. If you can get a DN-1000 for $125 I’d go for that. Otherwise it really depends on the type of sound you’re after – lean and accurate – go for the VC1000 or R-50 or Etymotic HF5 (my preference is the VC1000). A little more bass and warmer tone, but still quite accurate – the GR07 mkII or GR07BE. Even more bass and warmth – Yamaha EPH-100 or RHA MA750.

  21. After seeing reviews i think these are good iem’s (Vsonic VC1000, Vsonic GR07 MKII, Rock it R-50 , DUNU DN1000) within 125$.i dont know which one to buy… Please tell me which one you will go for or would u suggest me a good headphone within125$.. i will buy that without any second thoughts.. thanks…

  22. Hi Ljokerl, just wanted to report today I purchased a pair of BA200’s (for only about $120US) and couldn’t agree more with your analysis. They’re like a bright CK90pro, but still have that in-the-studio kind of feel. Overall, I’m quite sure these will be quite enjoyable to listen to. Bright, but just right. Not fatiguing in the least, but you get more of that waveform and sound which is clipped a bit in the CK90pro.

  23. The GR06 is still pretty good but I personally prefer the even more inexpensive VSD1S to it. It’s more v-shaped in sound signature but also more open and un-congested. There are a couple of good newer options for warmer-sounding sets as well, such as the SteelSeries Flux and the new Fidue A63, but if you really liked the GR06 I’d probably just get another one.

  24. Hi Joker,

    It looks like you’re sidestepping the GR06s. Are they not as good as they used to be? I might just have lost my pair and am looking for something as good if not better. I record, mix and produce, so I’ve grown quite fond of the warm, balanced signature.

    Any recommendations?

  25. The Westone 2 and TDK BA200 would both be good options for a CK90Pro fan – they’re not as smooth up top, but much more so than the DBA-02 and similar. They are a touch warm in tone, but nothing drastic. I’m a big fan of the BA200 especially.

    Also, have you considered trying a dynamic driver? The HiFiMan RE-400 doesn’t sound like a monitor, but it’s a smooth earphone without being tonally dark. I think it’s a very good – and inexpensive – compliment to the CK90Pro.

  26. Hi Ljokerl, love spending time looking at your in-depth reviews. So helpful when eliminating choices and categorizing. I have been using Audio Technica CK90pro for a few years and am really used to the “monitor” sound of it. Whenever I try out headphones at retailers they always sound harsh and brassy (sibilant?) to me comparatively speaking. I was thinking about the TDK BA200 or Fischer DBA-02. Do these sound like a good step up or aside or whatever for a CK90pro user? I tried all the new Audio Technica headphones out and the new over-ear hump designs make putting them on a real pain. What about Westone products? Or any other IEM in the neighborhood? Thanks for the great work and website.

  27. The VC-1000 is TWFK-based. If you didn’t like the upper half of the DN-1000’s response, I would not recommend it.

  28. Well, a GR07 mkII with more bass and similar clarity is the GR07 Bass Edition – pretty much by definition. Another option for that type of sound from a US company would be the Westone 3 if you can find one in your budget from an authorized reseller (for warranty purposes). I know they went for less than $200 back when Westone first announced they were discontinued.

  29. I could probably do vsonic again if there was a worthy option. After looking at the dn-1000 it looks good pretty good but I feel it will be the same issue if there is a warranty concern being only in china. Open to all and my suggestions by the way but really don’t want to spend more than 250-300. Thanks again great info.

  30. Hi iJOKER
    really impressed with ur knowledge regarding IEMs. I am an entry level earphone enthusiast trying to find high quality budget IEMs. But I would like you to please categorize for us, the DEVICES (mp3 players) which reproduce excellent sound. To name the few its WALKMAN series from sony, IPOD from apple, and Galaxy player from samsung.
    Thankx in advance

  31. The RE-400 is smoother than any VSonic product I’ve tried by a fair margin and has more focus on the mids and more natural vocals than the VSD1/S. Durability is probably part luck and part how you take care of them. I’ve not had a HiFiMan product fail on me yet but I’m aware that others have.

  32. Only problem I heard that its really flimsy.. Is it much better than VSD1(S)? I just wanna get some IEM which is better for vocals and highs, better clarity. I dont need good bass, because I know there is no ultimate solution in this 100-200 USD price range (maybe except GR07BE, which I had and was too harsh and sibilant), so it would be a second IEM for therese purposes under 100USD. 🙂

  33. You’ll lose a little clarity with the EPH-100 – it’s a lot bassier than the GR07, too. Same goes for the EPH-100. Honestly, if you can swing it, the Dunu DN-1000 is likely your best bet for a non-VSonic product with comparable clarity but a little more bass than the GR07.

  34. Hey joker
    Just looking for some info, I’ve had klipsch s4s, gr06, and gr07mkii. Recently my gr07 crapped out and I can’t seem to get any assistance from lendmeurears or vsonic. Anyways I’m looking to get a new iem that will have a bit more bass than the gr07 but keep the same clarity, but I don’t want vsonic due to warranty issues. I was looking at the yamahas EPH-100 but would value your opinion.

  35. The RE-400 would make a very good compliment to the MA750. You could also get something more BA-based if you want an even bigger contrast – an Ety HF5 for example. It’ll have less bass than the RE-400 but with a good seal its treble is not sibilant and it provides an extremely detailed sound.

  36. Hello Joker!

    I have an RHA-MA750 and I am quite satisfied, but I miss a bit the highs and details of my previous GR07BE. So I am thinking about getting a second IEM. I did not like the harshness and sibilance of the GR07 so its not an option. What do you think about RE-400? I liked the GR06 btw, I guess the Hifiman is better in most ways. I cant buy an ultimate IEM (or it would be too pricey) so I will buy one more IEM beside my RHA, which is very sturdy and ideal for commuting, but on the other hand, I miss a bit the great vocals and detalis.. I will use my i4 as source, thats why I dont really consider a pricey multi driver IEM. RE-400 worth its price beside RHA or any other recommendation?

    Thanks 😉

  37. If you like the VSD1S I would actually say the FXT90 is a better option, but the MA750 is certainly nice as well. The FXT90 is no slouch in bass quantity but it’s only a little bassier than the VSD1. It has a more well-layered, dynamic, aggressive sound, though, with simialrly good treble sparkle. The MA750 on the other hand has a warmer and bassier sound than the VSonics by a fair margin and less overall treble energy.

  38. Hi again. XD

    So since I’ll be getting the SHE3590 soon, I decided to save up for a higher tier (kinda?) earphone, somewhere around the $100-120 with good sound and build quality. After some browsing around, I narrowed it to the following:
    JVC HA-FXT90, HiFiMan RE-400, and RHA MA750. I’m liking the DN-1000 but it’s almost double the price than what I plan on saving up, haha.

    What would you recommend from those 3, or would you recommend something else? (I just realized they’re all from different sound signatures. lol) Coming from the VSD1, everything was great but I felt that the bass didn’t have much presence so I’m looking for something similar to the VSD1 but with better bass, not too much though. I’m kinda leaning towards the RHA 750 but looking forward to your inputs. (:

    Thanks again!

  39. The MH1C might be hard to wear the way you wear earphones because of the flat j-style cable. With that consideration the DN-23 might be worth the extra $.

    P.S. I actually prefer the sound of the SHE3590 to the DN-22 and DN-12 so maybe it doesn’t have to be temporary.

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