BobJS
Headphoneus Supremus
i have two sets of the Shure SE846, never had any problems, did change the cables tho, the originals are pretty bad and when is cold outside they get pretty hard. i had the chance to listen to the new Campfire andromeda and i tell you i was really impressed, my audio source was my Astell & Kern SR 15, after one hour of testing i was sold, so the Andromeda will be my next purchase, they do have a wider sound stage with a real Punch.
I also have 2 sets of the 846 with original cables and have never had any problems other than discoloration due to copper oxidation which doesn't affect the sound. I too have the andromeda and find it very impressive though it doesn't have 846 bass. The 846 has always been my ultimate go-to. I think you can't go wrong trying again.
To OP : I know you said you're not interested in more expensive CA iems, but I just recently got hold of the Solaris, and the sound is amazing. Imagine an 846 with dynamic driver bass, solid mids, and holographic highs. Because of the size, I can't use it, though, where I might use the 846, (say, going to sleep).