Introduction

Etymotic was one of the first brands to launch high-end in-ears about 25 years ago. Today, the company has a small, but distinguished line-up of often overlooked in-ears. Their hf5 was solid, but never really won over the public even though it delivered a good experience. Today, we take a look at their new ER4 models, which should mark Etymotic's return to the center stage.

Etymotic Research's background in measurement devices is seen in their approach to in-ears as well. Both the new XR and SR feature frequency response curves that by Etymotic's standard are regarded as neutral (close to flat if you did a diffuse field response compensation). The XR deviates the most due to its slightly elevated bass, while still being close. The XR has a linearly increasing bass from around 300 Hz, whereas the SR continues flatter downwards.

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 16 kHz
• Transducer: High performance, balanced armature micro-driver
• Passive Noise Attenuation: 35-42 dB
• Impedance @ 1 kHz: 45 Ohms
• Sensitivity @ 1 kHz SPL at 0.1 V: 98 dB
• Maximum Output SPL: 122 dB
• Cable: 5 ft detachable / 152 cm
• User Replaceable ACCU-filters: Yes
• 2 year warranty
• Custom-fit option available

Etymotic Research has posted these frequency response curves measured at the ear drum for the two new ER4 models. The only noticeable difference between the two is the bass response. Both are pretty close to the original ER4S in-ear, which set the benchmark 25 years ago and held it for almost 20 years in terms of precision.

The Package

Etymotic ships the XR and SR earphones in some pretty big boxes. The box provides plenty of protection, and you even get large carrying cases for these very small cylindrical in-ears!


The bundle probably only misses one thing and that is a more pocketable carrying case. The large one fits everything you need and then some, but we miss having a smaller clam-shell one for daily use.


Cables were a weak point on the previous ER4 from Etymotic. They have definitely listened, and the new SR and XR cables are as good as they come in terms of durability. Both the jack and the cable seem up to the job in terms of durability and are a bit on the bulky side. The y-split is pretty massive and heavy, but Etymotic included a clip that allows you to take some hanging weight off the in-ears. The cable is perhaps a good 20 cm too long even for a tall guy.


Another issue the new versions address is the housing's durability. The old models had plastic housings which were prone to cracking after several years of use. The new machined aluminum housings look much better and should be much stronger. Made out of aluminum, these should stay in good shape until the earphones become obsolete.


The SR and XR use the exact same housings; the only difference is in the tuning of the frequency response. In terms of aesthetics, the new XR and SR resemble the original ER4. Their simple design works well for deep insertion, and they are easy to get to sit right in my ears. Your mileage will vary, but due to the slim body, it will most likely work with the vast majority of ear shapes and sizes out there.


Tip selection is good. You get two sets of medium and large triple flange tips (Christmas trees), which can be cut down to double flanges if that suits your ears better. The silicone tips are of very high quality and seem easy to clean. The ER4s rely on a deep fit, which also means more wax on the tips under normal circumstances. The foam tips are a bit of a letdown as they are nowhere near the quality of the Shure olives or the almost industry standard Comply foam tips. All the tips fit onto the earphones well and will probably stay put even when pulling them in and out of pockets. As with the original ER4s, you can swap the acoustic filter yourself if it get clogged up. Etymotic even provides a little tool for it.