Upgrade for Sennheiser MIE

[Fedev]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for a new pair of earphones to replace and potentially upgrade my wired Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear. I've used them for several years when traveling or outside, and I was pretty satisfied with them. However, since switching to the Fiio JM21 and trying Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro X headphones for home listening, I feel the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear sound has too much emphasis on the bass. I'm specifically looking for small, wired IEMs that don't have a cable going around the ear. This is because I want something very portable, and since I wear glasses, I'd prefer to avoid any cable interference around my ear.

I've read very good things about the Etymotic ER series, but I'm a bit worried about their peculiar deep insertion. I've also considered models like the Hifiman RE series and Final Audio E series, but reviews for those are mixed, and the models are quite old. I'm seeking something detailed, with a linear sound signature, controlled bass response, and good isolation. I primarily listen to metal and my budget is around €200 max.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can offer advice!

 

[earmonger]

I have Etymotic ER3XR and while I like them for a lot of things, I wouldn't choose them for metal -- they have clarity but not crunch, and a kind of two-dimensional, blueprint-like image. The deep insertion question is a matter of individual anatomy. The triple-flange tips shown on the outer box are uncomfortable for me (as well as a bad seal), but the gray foam tips are fine.

 

[dunring]

I've got the Tanchjim Ola and neutral tuning but need a better cable, so I added a multikit. The Momentum 4 ear buds are much better than the original, especially battery life. The Truthear Zero Red has extremely low bass distortion. Detail will be up to how low the noise floor is on your source. Even the Apple 3.mm adapter will do a great job for $9.

 

[Fedev]

Thanks for your hint @dunring but I see those are "big" IEMs with cable around the ear.

@earmonger what would you suggest for metal?

 

[Fedev]

Anyone with more advices? What about 1More earphones?