Shure E3c Sound Isolating Earphones user reviews (White)

3.5 stars

"Good quality earbuds.... If earbuds are your thing." on March 13, 2006 by drewsblues

Pros: Remarkable sound isolation, good sound quality, durable case included, rugged, lots of optional buds for best fit.

Cons: Remarkable sound isolation (see below), case is clumsy to use, "white" noise when inactive, relatively difficult to insert and remove, pricey.

Summary: There is no arguing that, once you get the right fitting earbuds and figure out how to get them in your ears, these things sound great. Clarity, balance, and decent bass in an ultra-portable package. Additionally, their noise isolation competes with my wife's Bose Quiet Comfort 2s, without the need for an extra battery. They come with a nice, compact case that -- while a little difficult to quickly wind up and zip closed -- is a nice touch. These rugged earbuds are perfect for use with an iPod or other portable device.

Having said that, I assume that -- if you're considering purchasing these -- you're more interested in the cons than the pros. Especially if you're going to shell out $200 or so for them.

The noise isolation is so good (your ears are sealed so tightly) that i found them a bit uncomfortable at any more than low volumes. Additionally, a microphonic effect occurs when the cord rubs against anything. For instance, you can hear the sound of the chord moving against your shirt in the mix with your music. They can also be a bit claustrophic if you're not 100% comfortable with earbuds. That's how good the fit is when you finally get the right earpieces on these things (and it takes some trial and error).

Additionally, when you plug them in, you can hear "white" noise -- a low-level hiss. This isn't a big deal when you're on the go, but if you use them while sitting at a desk or in a quiet environment, it's noticeable.

Speaking of sitting at a desk: If you're in an environment where you have to remove and reinsert them a great deal (answering a phone a lot, dealing with "visitors") you might be happier with a different set of earbuds or, perhaps, traditional headphones. These take some practice to insert correctly, and they're not the easiest things to remove and reinsert repeatedly (I use traditional headphones at the office).

Having said all that, do I think they were worth the money? Not really. Not *my* money, anyway. For me, I'd have been better served spending the same money on a traditional set of "cans."

It really boils down to preference, I think. If you really like earbuds, or are constantly on the move and need a rugged, compact headset, these will make you very happy.

As I said, the sound is great, and they work wonders with an iPod. I've compared them to a few Sony models and these win the sound category, hands down.

I would recommend them, but only to someone who has their heart set on earbuds. For less money, you can get better sound from a set of headphones. But, to be fair, it's like comparing apples and... crabapples?