[EdChap]

Oh hai!
 
I'm looking for a portable IEM that I can listen to to and from work, powered by my iPhone. I read through the Multi-IEM Review thread and picked out a few possibles (HiFiMan 262/272, AudioTechnica ATH-CK10) but wanted to double check before I took the plunge. A few reviews of the HiFiMans seem to suggest that amping makes a considerable difference, but given I just want to be able to slip something in a jacket pocket, amping seems a little impractical.
 
Are there any particularly good IEMs in this price range (or slightly higher, if needs be) that I've overlooked for the type of music headlined?
 
Thank you very much.

 

[HeroicPenguin]

I really like the TF10s at that price range. I listen to similar stuff and they're really fantastic IEMs at that price. Add an aftermarket cable and they become even better. They're definite a top-end IEM.
 
Here's what I generally listen to as a reference: http://www.last.fm/user/HeroicPenguin

 

[imackler]

I agree with the RE262 but you should get a cheap amp for it. Buy the used GR10 for $280 in the forums. Amazing deal. You could also get the  GR07... I'd probably recommend that for a budget option. 

 

[proedros]

RE-272 for 250$
 
or
 
used GR-10 for 280$
 
 
DON'T EVEN BOTHER WITH TF10 unless you wanna save that 150$ which in that case you'd better off with a GR-07 (or even a re-262 which are sold here for 120$)
 
 
boy , these TF-10 are the definition of over-hyped mediocre iems....



 

 

[yello131]

instead of Grado10, get Ortofon e-Q5 for 200 on sale at MA
same BA driver, same factory, different design but cheaper for Brand new one  ha-ha

 

[HeroicPenguin]

Quote:

RE-272 for 250$
 
or
 
used GR-10 for 280$
 
 
DON'T EVEN BOTHER WITH TF10 unless you wanna save that 150$ which in that case you'd better off with a GR-07 (or even a re-262 which are sold here for 120$)
 
 
boy , these TF-10 are the definition of over-hyped mediocre iems....

 
That's a bit harsh, don't you think? I actually like the TF10s better than my Westone UM3X (of course, fit is a different issue). Especially since you can usually get the TF10 for ~$120 used.
 
I haven't heard the GR-10, but I hated the Grado sound signature, so YMMV.

 

[imackler]

Quote:

I haven't heard the GR-10, but I hated the Grado sound signature, so YMMV.

They don't really share a lot in common. 

 

[ZARIM]

The Klipsch Image X5, Sony EX7550, XBA3, XBA4, Etymotic HF5, RE272 and GR01 are very detailed yet fun to listen with good bass amount.

 

[EdChap]

Thanks, guys. And are all these recommendations amp-free?