Shure's E2C Headphones: Pricy but Nice
Dynamic Microdrive Technology. Full Frequency Soundstage. Background Noise Elimination. Overly Sophisticated Terms to Describe Headphone Technology.
We’re not sure how you have a “soundstage” in your headphones, but it seems to work well- the Shure E2C’s are the best earbud style headphones we’ve tried. They don’t work quite as well as the more expensive, heavier “sealed” or full-size type, but still do a pretty good job of helping you get lost in the music. Their frequency response was great- no hisses, pops, crackles, whines, and a decent bass response, provided the buds were set correctly in our ears.
We tested some classical pieces for harmonic response, used some rap for bass testing, and listened to a few standard pop tunes for general levels. We tried using them around televisions, in a crowded room with people talking, and in a parking lot with plenty of traffic. Overall, the buds tested well in every use, though if you mainly listen to MP3s, you may start noticing flaws in your music encoding. Also, they aren’t a replacement for noise-cancelling headphones, though they work well at sealing out the outside world.
One neat feature is the variety of included “sleeves” or different buds. Six types come with the package, and the foam sets are more functional and less attractive, while the rubber sets look nice but don’t work quite as well.
One not-so-neat feature is the price: the E2C will set you back around $100. Believe it or not, this is their entry level model- they offer others, the E1C and E5C at $149 and $499! We have a hard time recommending these except as a luxury since sealed headphones can work better and are less expensive but for DJs, music professionals, and those who don’t mind spending a little extra for better sound: you will be well served by the Shure E2Cs.
