Having recently (late 2006) bought my first Apple iPod I wanted a good set of earphones for it as I wasn’t thrilled with the “iPod ripe for stealing here” target that the earphones that came with the iPod painted on my back. Now I am normally one of those people that can’t really tell any difference between a $10 speaker and a $500 speaker. I am also one of those that hate spending $20 or $30 for a cable to hook up my stereo or surround sound system. I see no problem with the cheapies that come with the equipment. So, I was really curious if I could tell the difference between a set of so-so cheap-o earphones and a high end $300 plus set of earphones?

So I got a set of Shure E4c Product Shot sound isolating earphones to test. I first listened to one of my favorite songs with the cheap-o earphones and then to the same song with the Shure earphones. Now I want you to all pardon my French here, but wholly crap. It was like a deaf person hearing for the first time in their lives. I couldn’t believe the quality of the sound I got from the Shure earphones. I was hearing things in the song that I never knew was there, small sounds, nothing that was major. No new instruments showed up or anything like that, it was much more subtle than that. It was hearing all of the sounds and their nuances that made the difference. Or, maybe a better way of putting it, it was like I had eaten cardboard all of my life and then finally got a steak dinner. I just couldn’t believe how clean and pure the sound was and all of the little sounds that were lost with the cheap-o earphones finally could be heard and appreciated. I was floored I never figured that there would be such a big difference. A little difference yes and I figured that would be because of the sound isolating function of the Shure earphones, but it went far beyond that.

The E4c earphones are nice looking and feel like they are very well made. But, one of the things I really liked is that you get a very nice package with these earphones. You get a wide selection of sleeves, these are what are on the earphones that not only keep outside sounds out but keep them fitting comfortably and tight in your ears. You get sleeves in several styles with each style having up to three different sizes including large, medium and small. This I think is a nice touch as it helps ensure that no matter how big or small your ear canals are that you are going to have earphones that fit correctly. Shure also indicated that if you want to go to the cost and trouble you can have custom sleeves made for these earphone for that ultimate perfect custom fit.

You also get a 1/8” to 1/4” jack adapter so you can use the earphones with any stereo or portable music device. You also get an inline volume control so that if the equipment that you are using doesn’t have volume control you can add it by using the inline volume control.

Technical Specifications:

• Speaker Type:  High-Definition Driver with Tuned Port
• Sensitivity (at 1kHz):  109 dB SPL/mW
• Impedance (at 1kHz):  29
• Cable Length:  E4c: 1.55m (61 inches)
• E4c (in black): 1.42m (55 inches)
• Net Weight:  31g (1.1 oz)
• Input Connector:  3.5 mm (1/8") gold-plated stereo plug
  

My conclusion after this test is that it is well worth the money for a good set of earphones. $300 plus may seem like a lot, but if you want to get the most from your music and the most from your iPod or other audio device I think it is well worth the cost. I love these earphones and can’t recommend them enough.

Sound Isolating Technology

The E4c's in ear design works like an earplug to block background noise naturally. This enables you to listen comfortably at lower volumes-even in loud environments. And unlike bulky headphones utilizing active noise cancellation technology, no artifacts are introduced into your listening experience. Sound isolating earphones are also much smaller and don't require batteries.

Speaker Type: High-Definition Drivers with Tuned Port Technology

E4c Sound Isolating Earphones feature High-Definition drivers with Tuned Port Technology for incredible audio reproduction. As the ideal companion to any portable or home audio source, the E4c's Tuned Port design improves airflow around the driver to deliver professional-grade sound with extended bass response.

Personal Fit Kit

Because every ear is different, E4c Earphones come with a pair of disposable Foam Sleeves, a pair of Triple Flange Sleeves, three pairs (small, medium, large) of Flex Sleeves, and three pairs of Soft Flex Sleeves (small, medium, large) to ensure the ideal personalized fit.

Secure In Ear Design

The soft, flexible sleeves in the Fit Kit gently contour to the inside of your ear to create a comfortable, secure fit, so that the earphones don't fall out while you're exercising. The E4c's are also compatible with custom-molded sleeves, made by a hearing specialist, for the ultimate in fit and comfort.

Lightweight Construction

Weighing only 1.1oz (31 g), the E4c is lightweight and secure enough for any portable listening application.

Earphones Carrying Case

The E4c comes with a stylish, compact carrying case, providing a convenient, tangle-free way to store your earphones.

Level Attenuator

An included volume level control allows for comfortable listening from any high-output audio source, such as airplane armrests.

Two-Year Limited Warranty

Every E4c purchased comes with a two-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship.