[abecedarian]

Simply put, I'm looking for in-ear monitors that are good for rock music (good mids) below 50 dollars and that surpass the Sennheiser CX 475's. If they exist.
 
As I said I would prefer emphasis on mids. However, if there are some monitors that offer a better overall experience with a balanced sound signature that isn't strenuous and too dry and obviously not infiltrated by bass as I feel my CX 475's are (just a bit) I would definitely consider them.
 
I know it looks like I just signed up real quick to make a request for help but, I have been browsing many threads here. I've looked at the Klipsch S4's, SoundMagic PL-50's, and the Sony MDR EX310LP's most recently. The Sony's seem to be my best bet but, I get conflicting reports saying they are balanced and then that the mids are recessed which is a no-go for me.
 
Honestly I'm very indecisive and not wise with regard to audio equipment. I'm worried I will make a bad choice. I would appreciate any help you can give me; especially if you go into detail.
 
 

 

[NA Blur]

Stay away from the S4.  They have a big +14 dB bass enhancement from 1 Hz up to 90 Hz. That is just too much bass and way to much to try to control properly.
 
They are just outside of you $50 budget, but the Brainwavz M2 may just be what you are looking for.  They are mids emphasized, are built well, and sound really awesome for the price which is around $65 new on sale.  I think they are well worth it.
 
Here are some charts you may find helpful.
 
Brainwavz M2
http://www.innerfidelity.com/images/BrainwavzM2.pdf
 
S4
http://graphs.headphone.com/graphCompare.php?graphType=0&graphID[]=1953
 
If you do end up with the M2 I highly suggest you try some Comply T-400 Foam tips with them as I have.  They make the fit a bit more comfortable for long trips and seal better.

 

[abecedarian]

Thank for your reply. I can stretch my budget a small amount. I probably won't exceed $70 plus shipping. I will add those to my list of considerations while I continue to research in my free time.

 

[jaqueh]

easy, soundmagic pl30, pl50, tdkba100 there's a deal on them right now, or brainwavz m2
 
if you are stretching your budget to 70 then consider getting etymotic's HF series, usually they are around 70, but only used

 

[abecedarian]

I think I'm going to go with with the Brainwavs M2 (ViSang R03). They are right in my price range and the reviews all save the mids are great. Also, I read they were good for movies so that is a plus to me. Thanks all.