[romnation]

Looking for something portable for use when traveling, and on the subway and whatnot. What's the best IEM out there? Source will probably be a Rockboxed 5.5G ipod, or possibly a Hifiman later. Any suggestions? How will an IEM even compare to something like my LCD-3 full size headphone?

 

[Cassadian]

Possibly the Spiral Ears 5-Way reference, but they only sell within Europe.  
 
They cost 1500 dollars not including other miscellaneous costs.  The 5-Way reference are acclaimed to be better than the LCD-2, beating it at its own game according to Average_Joe, an experienced and well-versed custom in ear monitor reviewer.  You can find his comprehensive review on it somewhere in these forums.

 

[Toe Tag]

I have some good news. They cost 999 Euros. The Euro is dropping like a rock. (see http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com)
 
Type this into Google: 999 eur in usd. Right now $1270. Might be a good time to get them. Or in a few weeks or months when Greece, Spain and Italy default...
 
See this thread http://www.head-fi.org/t/541494/multi-custom-iem-review-resource-mfg-list-discussion-20-reviews-spiral-ear-5-way-added-5-15-12 The Hidition from Korea is also getting cheaper thanks to the (relative) strength of the USD.