For my amp question, thanks!
However, I need help choosing a CIEM based on these categories-
[size=10pt]-Build Quality: I want these in ears to last as long as possible, forever maybe, as I won’t be changing IEMs for a long time. I take good care of my headphones, but I will use them very often. In general, CIEMs have very good build quality. The concern is the drivers and moisture which can clog filters and cause issues with the BAs themselves. Depending on how often you use them, you should use a hearing aid dryer and clean ear wax from the sound tubes. Of course, any IEM will have the same issues. Dynamic drivers are less prone to these issues, but my IE8 had degredation due to wear.[/size]
[size=10pt]-Microphonics: From my experience, I never found microphonics a problem when listening to music, but from what I’ve read, microphonics appear to be a problem on IEMs. I play with headphone cables often, tangle them, wrap them, and untangle them when they get tangled because they’re a mess. This is primarily cable dependent, and with an over-the-ear fit, it generally isn't an issue. The stock twisted Westone style cable is very good from this perspective.[/size]
[size=10pt]-Noise Isolation: I don't need too much isolation; just average (like 3/5 on a scale of 1-5). It’s nice to filter out background noise, but it poses a safety threat, so I prefer average isolation. Hybrid or dynamic driver CIEMs have less isolation than BA, although a shorter canal length will give less isolation, but the sound can change and there are more chances for fit issues. [/size]
[size=10pt]-Comfort: I will be wearing my headphones for many hours at a time, and can listen to 200+ songs without removing them. Sometimes, I sleep with my headphones on. I want a non-fatiguing sound, and I want to feel as if the headphones weren’t there or as they were cushioning my ear.[/size]
[size=10pt]-Song Genres: I listen to all genres. However I listent to classical, techno, electronic, jazz, rap/hip-hop/pop, rock (occasionally), and popular songs most. Examples include Approaching Nirvana, Eminem, John Coltrane, sometimes Miles Davis, Linkin Park, and many Billboard 100 songs. It will also be used for to watch videos/movies, conferencing/calling, and video games. The more expensive CIEMs tend to have better techncial capabilities/performance and will do better with a wider range of genres and other audio.[/size]
[size=10pt]-Sound Signature: I like my sound to have resolution and seem 3D. Likewise, I value tonal accuracy, clarity, coherence and detail. Words to describe my preferred sound are rich, warm, organic and natural, realistic, transparent, and bright. Punchy bass and treble is important. Check out CIEMs such as the SE 5-way, Heir Audio 8.A, Earsonics EM6 and EM4. If you can provide more information as to the headphones/IEMs you like, that can help narrow down the choices.[/size]
[size=10pt]-Other Important Information: The source of my audio is usually my Sandisk Sansa Clip+, although at other times it will be my Asus N53SV-XV1 PC, and other times my Android phone (rarely an iPod or iPhone). Keep in mind that I will not be using an amplifier of any kind. Everything improves to an extent when driven properly, so take that in mind. High end CIEMs have a lot of capability and when driving them with lower end sources they won't perform at their best.[/size]
[size=10pt]If someone could help me, that would be great. Really looking forward to feedback or replies! Thanks.[/size]