Build quality of UM2 vs E5

[EdipisReks]

as some of you know, i've gone through quite an adventure with my Etymotic ER6i. i am thinking about getting a new set of canalphones in january (when i'll have money again, no thanks to holiday shopping and tuition

), and i'm looking at the Westone UM2 and the Shure E5. they seem to go for about the same price used, so price isn't really a determiner, and the reviews i've read seem to show that they have rather similar sound quality. what is a determining factor for me is build quality. i would like to get something that is built to last, unlike my ER6i. the UM2 looks like it has a naked braided cable, where the E5 appears to have the cable protected by a clear tube, which suggests to me that the E5 is going to be a bit more durable. has anyone had any problems with either one in terms of overall build? thanks.

 

[Ingo]

IIRC, I think Shure's fantastic warranty (2yrs) is transferrable.

 

[bLue_oNioN]

The Shure E5C is heaps more durable than the Westone UM-2.

 

[EdipisReks]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bLue_oNioN The Shure E5C is heaps more durable than the Westone UM-2.

that is exactly the kind of info i wanted. thanks!

 

[EdipisReks]

one last thing, bLue_oNioN, since you have both the UM2 and the E5, which do you like better from an sound quality perspective? i have read the UM2's have a better high end than the E5, but i also have heard the the E5 is plenty detailed. i like the sound of my ER6i (i just wish the physical quality aspect was a bit better), so i am a little reluctant to get the E5 due to the perception of rolled off highs.

 

[bLue_oNioN]

Coming from the ER-6i, you may (or may not, depending on your ability to adjust) be irritated with the E5s because of the upper spectrum. In this case, the UM-2s may be a better choice.

 

[EdipisReks]

i adjust pretty readily. do you consider the E5's to be detailed?

 

[EdipisReks]

bump

 

[dallasstar]

I have the E3C's and they're just as detailed as my Grado's when EQ'ed properly, so I think you'll be plenty satisfied with the E5C's which are supposed to be better in the detail and bass.

 

[bLue_oNioN]

Quote:

Originally Posted by EdipisReks i adjust pretty readily. do you consider the E5's to be detailed?

Sorry, I somehow missed that post of yours =/

While the E5 is revealing in itself, it is the decay, I feel, that pushes forth the sense of detail. In this case, the E5 has a very well-done decay that I like quite a bit.

 

[EdipisReks]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bLue_oNioN Sorry, I somehow missed that post of yours =/ While the E5 is revealing in itself, it is the decay, I feel, that pushes forth the sense of detail. In this case, the E5 has a very well-done decay that I like quite a bit.

in this regard, do you think they compare well with the UM2's?

 

[Iron_Dreamer]

The E5 is more detailed than most cans/earphones you'll ever hear, they are just not hyper-detailed as some can be.

 

[EdipisReks]

thanks, everyone. i think i'll be getting the E5's over the UM2's.

 

[bLue_oNioN]

Quote:

Originally Posted by EdipisReks in this regard, do you think they compare well with the UM2's?

I think both are very similar.

In a somewhat related topic, I find that the UM-2s are a little more delicate with notes when placed alongside the E5s -- depending on your tastes, you may or may not find this preferable.

I had documented my thoughts when I did a comparison, but have been so swamped recently with exams and projects that I haven't gotten around to doing a proper write-up. Maybe during winter break? =)