Introduction

IE8 is the name of the latest high end in-ear offering from Sennheiser. Like the other earphones in the IE-line these utilize a dynamic driver, but as an added bonus these have adjustable bass response. Besides the bass trim feature the IE8s also boast a user replaceable cable which is a neat feature. Design wise the IE8s are pretty much in tune with the rest of the IE-series earphones. State of the art in-ears usually cost a bit, and the IE8s are no exception to this rule as the going rate for a set is around $400 online which is quite a bit.

Specifications

• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 20 kHz
• Cable length: 1.2 m, symmetrical (earphone to separator: 0.4 m; separator to plug: 0.8 m)
• Impedance: 16 ohm
• THD, total harmonic distortion: < 0.1%
• Sound pressure level (SPL): 125 dB (1 kHz, 1 Vrms)
• Attenuation (passive): up to 26 dB (95%)
• Connector: 3.5 mm, angled
• Ear coupling: Intra-aural (ear-canal fit)
• Transducer principle: Dynamic
• Weight: 5 g

The Package

The IE8s ship in a very sturdy box which gives a good amount of protection.


Like with the rest of the IE-line of products you get a really neat bundle with the IE8s. The real highlights of the bundle worth mentioning besides the different tips are: ear hooks, a shirt clip, and a neat carrying case. As with the other IE-earphones you also get a well thought out carrying case that works well, but is too big in order to be handy when you are on the move.


The tips selection that is supplied with the IE8s is really good. You get three sets of single and double flange tips plus two sets of foam tips. You also get two sets of what are arguably the strangest looking tips on the market today. On the far right you can see that rather uncomfortable looking double edged contraptions. To me they are as uncomfortable in use as they look, but there will undoubtedly be someone out there who can benefit from their crazy design. The foam tips are rather hard, but are actually really comfortable to use. I got a good fit with the larger of the two.