There is a second big caveat to the MC5, however, and that is the sound signature. The earphones are shamelessly accurate, impossibly neutral, and extremely clear. From a technical standpoint they are at the top of the game – leagues above mainstream competition such as the Klipsch S4 and JAYS t-JAYS. However, though the dynamic drivers are capable of excellent extension at the limits, the MC5 lacks the bass presence and treble energy some of the competitors take such pride in providing. As a result, those who don’t particularly favor an uncompromisingly balanced sound may find the MC5 slightly boring, slightly inept at conveying energy and excitement, much like a consumer using high-end studio monitors to listen to music may want to go back to a pair of Klipsch bookshelf speakers. That, then, is the Etymotic Research MC5 in a nutshell – an amazing feat of audio engineering that is more consumer-friendly than the higher-end models but still far from being all things to all music lovers. For those who just want to hear their music the way it was mastered, the MC5 represents one of the best possible ways to spend $79 – a great introduction to audiophile sound at a great price. For everyone else, the appeal of the earphones will be highly dependent on personal audio preferences.
that was in depth and useful!
