$25 or less.

[gibson5469]

I read some reviews on this topic but they were pretty inconclusive. Looking to get the best IEM's under $25 as a gift.

Here's what I've narrowed it down to:

Senn CX300
Senn CX400
JBUDS J2
JVC HA-FX66B \
JVC HA-FX34 - All under $20

JVC HA-FX33 /
Sony MDR-EX75 (hopefully not too bloated in bass like my ex71's)

Im really leaning towards the Jbuds J2, but the sale on the JVC line just makes them an even better deal ($17 for fx66 and $10 for the fx33)

 

[walkingman]

Of those listed I would say the CX 400.

 

[gibson5469]

So i would say right now its cx400 vs. j2's?! never heard either of them so opinions please

 

[boomy3555]

The CX 300's,400's, and 500's have been the Sennheiser staple cheap buds for years now. The IE8's have replaced them but in a MUCH higher bracket..
My overall impression of both the 300's and 500's ( I don't have the 400's) is that there is alot of punchy bass, with a surprising clarity in the highs. not so much in the mids but still exceptional for the price. You can get the 500's for around 20-30 but there are fakes out there and it's hard to trust the sellers in that price range.