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HF5 versus IM716

post #1 of 7
5/11/09 at 10:45am
Thread Starter 
Has anybody compared the Etymotic HF5 with Altec Lansing IM716's?
I currently have the IM716's (still podded) but I'm considering getting the HF5's. However, since the IM716's were manufactured by Etymotic (or at least used their parts) and both the IM716 and HF5's have been said to be very close to the Ety ER4's, I'm thinking that this may just end up being a sideways move.
Thanks.
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post #2 of 7
5/11/09 at 12:07pm
That was my impression too. Although I have heard that the HF5 is easier to drive than the ER4P (and the iM716s? I don't know) which may be a plus. Then again using an ER4P through an iPod 5.5G -> FiiO E5 it sounds just fine, marginally worse than through my desktop amp at most, so I don't know if it really matters.

Frankly I'd just go straight for the ER4P. I mean if you clearly already like the sound signature of the Etys enough, how long will it be before you get upgradeitis and want to upgrade again? Why not just cut the middle step out and get the highest end straight up? I've got them and I couldn't be happier. I remember some people saying that the iM716s are 90% of the ER4P because they have the same drivers apparently, but I was pleasantly surprised the improvement was definitely much more noticeable than that. The step up in articularity and crispness was quite noticeable for me, and plus they definitely sound both less fatiguing (less harsh highs), and extend lower in the bass and higher in treble.
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post #3 of 7
5/11/09 at 1:38pm
If you still like im16s, don't upgrade to another etymotic, imho. If you want to explore other sounds, you should try one of the other iem makers, or other styles of headphones.
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post #4 of 7
5/11/09 at 5:41pm
I have had a stock 716 and have the HF2 and dont think you will find any earthshattering sq difference. To me however the ergonomics of the HF2 are far superior to the 716 so the HF5 at the current rebated amazon price of $99 is a great deal if you are in US and can use it.
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post #5 of 7
5/11/09 at 6:41pm
Cakbar,

Do you listen to them in HD mode or Bass mode?
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post #6 of 7
5/11/09 at 9:42pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by dosley01 View Post
Cakbar,

Do you listen to them in HD mode or Bass mode?
I had been listening to them in HD mode but recently started to listen to them in Bass mode along with treble boost on my iPod.
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post #7 of 7
5/12/09 at 9:19am
I went from the IM716 to the Monster Turbines and have been very happy. I thought I really liked the analytical Ety sound but found out I really like "Fun" sounding IEMS. I tried my old ER6i the other day and cannot believe I ever listened to them for so long, they sounded horrendous compared to the Turbines. It was like going from an AM radio to a full size stereo system in your ear.
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