[DickxLaurent]

I think comfort will be a major issue and a deciding factor in whether or not he enjoys using them. I'd have him try my im616's, but I want whatever I get for him to be a surprise. Are there any certain models that are known for being generally more comfortable? I'm looking for something entry level, like im616, ER6i, E2c, etc.

Thanks.

 

[cooperpwc]

If comfort is the big issue, then Vibes and D-Jays should both be considered. They use similar silicon tips and are very easy to insert.

 

[khbaur330162]

First off, it all depends on the tip used...

Anyway, I believe most first time users of IEM's will have some level of "break-in" discomfort. In time he should find them to be quite comfortable if he gets a proper tips. The size of his ear canal will ultimately determine which tip to use. If his ear canals are on the large side, for example, I wouldn't recommend the tri-flanged tips because they will go too far into his ear. This doesn't mean the Etymotics which come stock with tri-flanged tips can't accept some other tip that he may find adequate, however.

Good luck.

 

[aaron-xp]

My personal favourite in terms of comfort is the UM1 with comply tips.

 

[Jokieman]

Quote:

Originally Posted by aaron-xp /img/forum/go_quote.gif My personal favourite in terms of comfort is the UM1 with comply tips.

X2

 

[Wid]

I'm by far no expert on iems but I find my im 716s to be quite comfortable. I have had Koss plugs ( I know ) and I still have SuperFi 3s and the ALs are the most comfy for me.

 

[norseman8485]

x3 on the um1 with complys

 

[Proton]

Westone UM1 with Shure grey flex sleeves worked really work for me.

 

[DickxLaurent]

Can the UM1 only be ordered directly from Westone? $110 is a bit out of my price range.

 

[aaron-xp]

It can be bought from other shops or online stores.

I believe earphonesolutions.com has stock. (Oops, it doesn't really cost much less, USD109.)

There are probably better prices though, I'm not really sure.

 

[dw6928]

how old is your dad? alot of fathers (being one) don't love
the IEM feeling at all. is he on board with the type of headphone you are considering?

 

[bubsdaddy]

Maybe a semi-IEM like the EP630 or the CX300? Very comfortable with a little less isolation and much less expensive.

 

[DickxLaurent]

I had decided on the im616, because I spent so much time deciding on them for myself, and I like mine. But I am kinda worried about him thinking they feel too intrusive, so I'm changing my mind and going with the EP-630. It's also helpful that they are much less expensive, in case he ends up just not caring for the in-ear variety at all. He probably won't use them often anyway.

Thanks to everyone for the help!