[SptsNaz]

I didn't exactly research this topic, but is there such a cable that converts the er-4s to the "p" version. If not, then why isn't there yet? I have the 4s version and I would appreciate it if there was actually such a cable, for portable listening. This is because I bought these used, and didn't have the option to choose.

Also out of my sound card, and my home cd player, these things power up nicely with almost 50%+ headroom. Right now they sound better than the grado sr-125 I owned before even though I can't directly compare. Should I consider an amp anyway, if so whats a good cheap amp that I can consider.

 

[lextek]

I don't think so. To go from "P" to "S" resistors are added. I don't know how you wound add to the cable and get less resistance/impedance.

 

[IZCool]

I'm not an ety owner, but from what I've read, you have to send them back to Etymotic to have the whole cable replaced - this apparently costs around US$50. You can't just buy the cord and replace it yourself as you run the risk of permanently damaging your 'phones.
This turns your ER-4S into ER-4P. Then you can use the ER-4P to ER-4S adaptor cord if you want to use it as an ER-4S.

Good luck

 

[Chipko]

You can't make an adapter for S -> P for the reason lextek and IZcool mentions. The P -> S adapter adds a 75Ohm resistor to each channel, making the resistance of the cable 100Ohms (or there about). You will have to replace the entire cable as IZcool mentions, either have Ety do it or get a replacement one from fixup and fit it yourself. You can ofcourse make a new cable entirely, there are some instructions on Fixup's homepage www.fixup.net

Or, get a headphone amp to drive them.

 

[SptsNaz]

Quote:

Originally posted by Chipko You can't make an adapter for S -> P for the reason lextek and IZcool mentions. The P -> S adapter adds a 75Ohm resistor to each channel, making the resistance of the cable 100Ohms (or there about). You will have to replace the entire cable as IZcool mentions, either have Ety do it or get a replacement one from fixup and fit it yourself. You can ofcourse make a new cable entirely, there are some instructions on Fixup's homepage www.fixup.net Or, get a headphone amp to drive them.

Really that stinks, I would probably pass paying an additional 50$ for cable replacement. On the other hand an amp cost even more... hmm

 

[andrzejpw]

although the cable price is a bit steep, notice the added functionality that you are getting. Your etys can now be easily used with or without an amp, and still sound great!

 

[SptsNaz]

Quote:

Originally posted by andrzejpw although the cable price is a bit steep, notice the added functionality that you are getting. Your etys can now be easily used with or without an amp, and still sound great!

But they sound VERY good right now, is it worth getting the cable anyway?

 

[Chipko]

Quote:

Originally posted by SptsNaz Really that stinks, I would probably pass paying an additional 50$ for cable replacement. On the other hand an amp cost even more... hmm

Umm, the fact that you can upgrade them at all is a very nice touch I think, considering the alternative is getting new Ety's at USD250.

As for if it's worth it? Plug them in to you portable source and have a listen. If you think they sound good as they are now then probably not. If you do an A/B comparison with a pair of 4P's you will probably want the upgrade.

Since you're a member here I'm gonna guess that you will eventually upgrade.

 

[hadron]

If you're satisified with the volume and bass response on the 4S straight out of a portable then there is no need to bother with the cable. I have the 4P with a resistor modded mini-to-1/4" adapter, mostly the difference is in overall volume, there is a slight bass enhancement with the low-Z (4P), and a bit better soundstage and imaging with the high-Z (4S).

 

[Wodgy]

Just to clarify, the ER-4S to ER-4P upgrade costs $100. This includes shipping from Etymotic back to you.