Headphone Recommendations

[Nemo128]

I lost my loves, the Etymotic ER6i. I need to find a new set. Here's what I'm looking for:

1. Sound quality is top priority. I'm not a major bass head, I'm most concerned about smooth mids and crystal clear highs.
2. Sound isolation. I use them mainly on my motorcycle, so they need to do a stellar job of blocking outside sound.
3. Price. Not looking to go over $100. Would rather stay in the $50 range unless they are exceptional. Will most likely not go over $100 no matter what.
4. I'd prefer something made in the USA, just to support domestic companies. I know that's a stretch. I refuse to buy Sony. Won't happen, don't bother suggesting.

So far I've read about some Klipsch, the newer Etymotic models, Ultimate Sounds... just not sure and not many places to see good models in person.

[BoredSysAdmin]

If you willing to bet on the dark horse, many people praised MEEElectronics and their top of the line A161P measures as good as some 3-4 times more expensive headphones (look for 20% coupons - they are out there )
MEElectronics A161P Balanced Armature In-Ear Headphone

or go for the sure thing (pun intended) - Amazon.com: Shure SE215-K Live Sound Monitor, Black: Musical Instruments

I had Etymotic HF2, now switched to Shure SE435 - and I can tell you the improvement is very noticeable.

[afterlife2]

I have all of these and highly recommend any of these. Some with lower prices:
Amazon.com: Klipsch Image X10 Noise-Isolating Earphone: Electronics
With Sony Tips they sound even better!
and
Amazon.com: MEElectronics M6-BK-MEE Sport Noise-Isolating In-Ear Headphones with Memory Wire (Black): Electronics
and
Amazon.com: SoundMAGIC PL50 Noise Isolating In-Ear Monitor Earphones (Blue): Electronics
Bonus Headphones(Great and remind me of the AT M50):
Amazon.com: MEElectronics HT-21 Travel Lightweight Headphone with Swivel Cups, Adjustable Foldable Headband (Black): Electronics

[BoredSysAdmin]

Amazon.com: Klipsch Image X10 Noise-Isolating Earphone: Electronics

X10 sometimes even on better sale down to $95 (expired now, but Imo worth to wait if you are not in rush)
Klipsch Image X10 Noise-Isolating Earphones for $95 + free shipping - 1007328

[endless ent]

Due to your low price concerns selection is highly limited but your in luck. I saw, just last week, a unit rated for the construction industry (you know for a jack hammer opperator) . The specs are commensurate with the price and available for a limited time in Home Depot just for Christmas. They are in the (seasonal) gift giving suggestions area. Long / easy return policy, so give them a try and your passenger can get a gift for your price too.

[afterlife2]

X10 sometimes even on better sale down to $95 (expired now, but Imo worth to wait if you are not in rush)
Klipsch Image X10 Noise-Isolating Earphones for $95 + free shipping - 1007328

Believe it or not they were $350.00 when they first came out. Be careful if you buy these on ebay. These are the Sony tips that go great with them:
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-EPEX10A-B...ords=sony+tips

[Nemo128]

The Klipsch X10 seem interesting every time I read about them, but are they that much better than Etymotic mc5... I did find that my Etymotics triple flange wasn't very comfortable, but they did seal very well.

I don't mind spending $100, I don't think my options are limited at al at $100. They're for flights and motorcycle rides, so they don't need to be audiophile class $350 pieces. But comfort for 2-4 hours worth of listening, defly important.

I keep hearing that ditching the included tips and buying others would increase comfort. Or getting a custom tip. Thoughts?

[BoredSysAdmin]

The Klipsch X10 seem interesting every time I read about them, but are they that much better than Etymotic mc5... I did find that my Etymotics triple flange wasn't very comfortable, but they did seal very well.

I don't mind spending $100, I don't think my options are limited at al at $100. They're for flights and motorcycle rides, so they don't need to be audiophile class $350 pieces. But comfort for 2-4 hours worth of listening, defly important.

I keep hearing that ditching the included tips and buying others would increase comfort. Or getting a custom tip. Thoughts?

These are the tips already included with A161P:


I would get them myself for $70-80 is I was looking for headphones

[Nemo128]

Those look sweet. Might have to try them, they seem like the best bet for now.

EDIT: Hold the fone, I don't want an inline mic. They're never going to be used with my phone.

[afterlife2]

These are the tips already included with A161P:


I would get them myself for $70-80 is I was looking for headphones

I had the 151(Sold them), which were not to my liking. Maybe these are better and improved. You can't go wrong with Mee. The M6 were my first pair and I was blown away by how great they sound for such a small price tag. The included tips included are great with Mee(They don't cheap out they even give you a nice case). For the price I'd try both M6 and 161. I'd also save up for the X10(with Sony Tips A+ like night and day I tell ya). Christmas time they go on sale at least last year on amazon they were. Please don't get anything too Isolated when riding your bike. Good luck in the storm guys. I'm in NYC too.