kwbarrett's Full Review: Shure E3C Consumer Headphones
I originally purchased the E2C as a replacement to my Sony EX51. While the sound was noticeably better, after 2 weeks, I just couldn't find an acceptable level of comfort with them. I also wasn't able to find a set of sleeves that would stay put for more than 30 mins. I returned the E2Cs in favor of the less bulky E3C for only $20 more. I have to admit I didn't find a lot of difference in sound between the E3C and the E2C, but other factors made the switch well worth it. That is not to say the sound quality of the E3C is not outstanding. You'll hear things you didn't know were there when listening to music through them. Much has been written about the sound quality of the E3C, but I feel this is largely subjective and won't go into much detail about the sound. Trust me, they sound great.
First, when the E3Cs arrived, I was able to get them inserted in less than 60 seconds the first time. And the grey sleeves were much more comfortable than any of the E2C sleeves. As a result, noise cancellation was much better with the E3C. In direct comparison with my dad's Bose QuietComfort 2s, these shut out at least as much noise. I used them while cutting grass and my lawn mower was reduced to a whisper and they cost much much less. These earbuds are also much less bulky than the E2C. The cord, Y-connector, and plug are all of the same outstanding quality you expect from Shure.
These buds are such a joy to wear. I use them on the subway ride to work mostly and I can't tell you how nice it is to hear no noisy cell phone conversations, loud tourists, and train noises so that I can just be alone with my music. I have read much about the so-called lack of bass with these earbuds. I listen to mostly jazz (Miles, Cannonball, etc.), but I also listen occassionally to rock, r&b, and hip hop music. I notice no lack of bass once these are inserted correctly even with a flat EQ. If they're not in correctly, bass is noticeably absent and music sounds tinny and lifeless. Once you get them in, clear as a bell. Staging is great also. I'm listening to Freddie Freeloader right now. I can tell that Cannonball Adderly is on the left, Coltrane is on the right, and Paul Chambers is somewhere in between, but mostly to the left. One thing these earpones will do is reveal flaws in low bitrate mp3s so make sure you have higher quality files (192+kbps).
If I had to complain at all, I would have to say that the triple-flange sleeves should be included with these as they are with the $500 E5Cs. I ordered them along with my E3Cs and haven't gone back to the other sleeves since. They are essentially earplugs you might buy in a sporting goods store, with the tube hollowed out for sound. I had a similar pair in basic training. These are also very easy to insert and once they are in, they're in for the duration. It's actually possible to put these to far in. You'll know when this happens because you'll feel the suction on your eardrum and you'll have a headache. The key is to moisten the tip slightly and then insert them. I carry alcohol wipes from a first aid kit and use them to moisten and clean the tips when I use them. Works perfectly. The triple-flange sleeves are $10/pair from Shure, but I'm sure they can be had for less.
In short, I'm glad I shelled out the extra $20. While sound quality is only slightly better than the E2C, they are less bulky, more comfortable, and more reliable.
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