Help! Looking for IEM recommendations and thoughts

[Castor82]

Hi all,

Long time lurker, first time member. Thanks to you all for the awesome community - I’ve spent hours reading your thoughts, reviews and general opinions.

Hoping some of you share your thoughts on my specific requirements. I’m not an audiophile but love great quality products and maintain what I’ve owned in the past.

Background - I’ve been a long time fan of Etymotic (oh how I miss the ER6i!), with HF5s being my affordable staple pair of Earbuds. Recently tried B&O E4s and Bose QC20s and found they didn’t suit at all.

I travel a lot for work. I mean, a lot. I’m fortunate to usually be at the front of the plane so sleep is a good option. I’m a side sleeper, so size of an IEM is important, as is durability and sound quality. I’m happy to spend whatever is required but probably looking for something mid-range - $250 - $600. Budget can be stretched though.

I need something that has no external profile to my ears and is comfortable to lie on. Depth of insertion isn’t a problem as I’m used to Etymotic.

I’m thinking Grado 10e as they seem small but powerful. I also recently tried a Chinese brand, Magaosi K5 and was surprised at how comfortable and flat in the ear they seemed.

IEM experts, help please!

Thanks very much,
Castor

 

[Colors]

Try the Massdrop Plus.

If you're looking for something with good SQ and to sleep in, you'd probably want something that sits flush to your ears. The MD+ does that.

 

[Castor82]

Thanks mate, really appreciate the reply!

 

[buke9]

Take a look at the Echobox Finder X-1 small and great detail and decent soundstage with tuning nozzles to adjust the sound .

 

[Castor82]

Anyone else have anything to add?

Thanks guys!

 

[Will Chiu]

what do you use as your source though?

 

[serman005]

Klipsch X11i

 

[popof94]

If you can find in second hand (I think there is one pair actually on HF) for 600$ or a little more a pair of Fitear ears Togo 334 I think it would be a very good choice. They are small, light, easy to fit and with an incredibly smooth medium, good bass rumble and absolutely no hiss in treeble. Not a reference tuning but very addictive Iems.

 

[Castor82]

iPhone X is my source...

 

[megabigeye]

The JAYS qJAYS are teeny. I used to sleep in mine (I have the original version) without discomfort.

 

[Castor82]

As an update for all, I ended up with the Klipsch X20i IEMs. Absolutely love them. Comfortable, amazing audio, great design.