Headphones
Etymotic ER-4P
One of the first, and still one of the very best in ear headphones, the ER-4P has outstanding sonic performance. From its tightly controlled bass definition to its articulate and extremely well-extended highs, these little in-ear headphones deliver serious audio goods. High efficiency and low impedance ratings make the Etymotic Research ER-4P earphones a great earphone to plug directly into any portable player like iPods and MP3 devices, and their outstanding musical performance will continue to delight if you ever decide to add a portable headphone amp to your mobile audio or laptop computer rig.
Product Features:
- Excellent price/performance ratio with these great sounding earphones.
- Ear canal headphones provide the best isolation of any can.
- Wide variety of tips ensure you'll find a good fit.
- Surprisingly durable with replaceable filters for long use life.
What's In The Box:
- storage pouch
- 1/4" adaptor
- 3 pair silicon tips
- 5 pair foam tips
- 2 pair replacement filters
- filter removal tool
- shirt clip
Applications:
The earphone & audiology research gurus over at Etymotic Research in Illinois, USA have performed some loving sonic voodoo to re-vamp the ER-4P, a low-impedance, highly-efficient version of their amplifier-only ER-4S model. Ostensibly similar to the ER-4S model in every way but impedance rating, the ER-4P have attracted some serious interest in the in ear headphone world because of Ety's recent enhancement of the bass response and because of the ER-4P's ability to achieve fully expanded musical dynamics and robust volume levels out of portable players (and other weak-amped audio sources) without demanding the use of a dedicated outboard headphone amplifier. Their acceptably punchy bass response combined with truly excellent treble range extension has proven to be a pleasantly engaging listening experience for many oft-traveling audiophiles who seek neutrality and true transparency in the upper highs. Huge bassheads should probably look elsewhere, however, since the ER-4P bottom-end is tightly extended but perhaps a tad lean for extra-funk rap & hip-hop styles. So, what does all this mean? If you want to use reference high-performance earphones directly out of portable audio sources like iPods, Mp3 players, and PC/laptop computers sans amplifier without breaking the bank, the ER4P could be precisely what you're after!
This low-impedance, single-microdriver earphone is the perfect portable audio player buddy and rates at a highly efficent 27 ohms impedance. The ER-4P's earphone cabling is made out of a softer rubber material than the ER-4S type which very slightly reduces the problematic microphonic cable noise effect (the 'cord just hit me' thump that echoes through your skull), which tends to be a common phenomenon with many in ear headphones. As far as other features go, the ER-4P look like, are the same size, weigh the same, have the same earpieces/accessories, and come in basically the same package as the venerable ER-4S model. The ER-4 come with several different eartip types and sizes--flanged silicon, rubber-flex, and squishy foam types--plus 2 pairs of earphone nozzle filter replacements within the box. Although not necessary to drive the ER-4P to cleanly dynamic audio performance, the additional clarity, impact, and musical detail resolution provided by a portable head-amp, as well as the soundstage cohesion and openness delivered by our HeadRoom amps' superb "crossfeed" processor, will further improve upon the sound of these excellent earphones.
Obtaining a good ear canal seal/fit with the Etymotics--or with ANY in ear headphone--is critically important for best sound quality. Please watch the Etymotic Insertion Video to learn more about proper in-ear insertion techniques.
PLEASE check our official HeadRoom 'B-Stock' webpage for GREAT open-box deals on this item!
Specifications:
- Manufacturer Warranty: 2 years
- Cord Type: Straight Y
- Coupler Size: Small
- Cord Length: 5 ft. (1.5 m)
- Weight: 1 oz.
- Detachable Cable: No
- Ear Coupler Type: IEM
- Noise Cancelling: No
- Wireless: No
- Microphone: No
- Connector Type: 1/8"
- Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW
- Headphone Type: In-Ear
Additional Resources:
- Manufacturer's Website
- http://www.etymotic.com/
- Product Manuals
- ER-4P Manual
- Product Info
- Inserting your Etymotics Video
- Product Reviews
- thestreet.com Jonathan Blum June 2006
- Customer Comments
- Playlist Review
- Gundeep Hora Oct 04
- Hardware Pacers Oct. 2004
- Stuart Brown June 2003
- Corey Greenberg April 2003
- David Ranada December 1999
- Bruce and Jenny Bartlett October 1997
- Edward M. Long December 1993
- On Hifi Wes Phillips February 2004
- techradar.com, Richard Black
Average Customer Rating: by DavidPet from on 2010-01-11
Pros: The best isolation, sound quality
Cons: Music "in your head", Bass too tight for someone
Would you recommend this product: Yes
It took me some time to get used to these phones, but after two years of everyday listening I am still very happy with them. It has bright, natural and quite cold sound with much of detail. Mids and highs always play the main role, but the bass is very firm and sure, so you can feel it well. The soundstage is one of the smallest I have ever heard and you have to count with it I am afraid, but on the other hand, there is no question about isloation - it is definitely the best, even in in-ear phones.
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by PScal from Little Rock, AR on 2010-02-07
Pros: Excellent isolation. Even better sound.
Cons: Coworkers talk about me while I am wearing these... I am certain.
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I have owned these for about 1 year. They sound great out of the ipod, and even better out of an amp. The large variety of tips by Etymotic and other companies ensures that anyone will find a good fit. I docked 2 stars off for Comfort because the tips that came with the ER4s did not allow for extended listening sessions (to my small ear canals). If these came with Comply T100 small tips, I would give 5 stars.
IEMs are very useful in office environments because they are portable, offer exceptional isolation, and are not a compromise compared to full size 'cans'. Another advantage is the people working next to you will not hear your music, no matter how vulgar it may be. Not so much once you remove them from your ears... you have been warned! My coworkers have learned that when I am wearing headphones to tap me on the shoulder because I am completely unable to hear them. The isolation helps keep me sane throughout the workday, safe from the speaker phone conference calls, gossip, and general office noise. However, I am certain a joke or 2 has been made on my behalf for this same reason...
Something every potential owner should know about IEMs: Microphonics!! You can hear your every move you make with these on, especially with the silicon tips. Use the dorky shirt clip, and rest assured that you won't hear anyone making fun of you while you have the phones in.
The sound is really astonishing out of these tiny IEMs.
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by VinnieVidi from NYC on 2010-01-24
Pros: Sound, fit, isolation, durability, flexibility, extras
Cons: R + L lettering could have been made more clear
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I have the ER4P, HF5, ER6i, and have had the ER4S in the past and believe that the ER4P are the best of the bunch.
It is difficult for me to distinguish between the sound of the ER4P and the HF5 (both of which are slightly more refined than the ER6i) and the fit and comfort is also the same. What makes the ER4P better than the HF5 is the cable. The braided ER4P cable is less microphonic than the HF5 and if I wear the cable around the ear, the microphonics are virtually eliminated.
The only Etymotic model that trumps the ER4P is the ER4S. But with the addition of the P to S impedance converter the ER4P is a far more versatile model. The converter allows for the better sound quality of the S model for home and amp listening, and without the converter the ER4P are efficient enough for a portable player.
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by Rocket Richard from San Diego, CA on 2010-01-21
Pros: comfortable, good sound
Cons: Still takes a back seat to over ear headphones in my opinion
Would you recommend this product: Yes
If you require in ear headphones, these are a solid choice. But when I compared them to any variety of over ear headphones, I find them wanting in low-end bass, and atmosphere and sound stage. I would rather listen to Grado SR60s than these. But of course I would rather use these if I were going for a run or long walk outside, or if I needed the isolation. So it depends on your needs. Also different people respond differently to in ear headphones, so your mileage may vary.
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by orthodromic from on 2010-01-18
Pros: Great value, accurate
Cons: No visceral bass impact
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I've gone through a couple of pairs of ER4P's over the years, having started before the braided-cord version. Taken in context with other IEMs, including the Shure SE530s and UE triple.fi's, these are a great value at a sub-$200 price range. I listen mostly to classical with some rock and pop, and so bass impact is of less importance to me. That said, the ER4Ps reproduce the full spectrum of frequencies well, without harshness or sibilence in the higher end. Bass impact improves when amped (ultra micro, xin supermicro), as does soundstage and detail, though not to the point where I would routinely carry around a portable amp with my ipod.
Tips matter. The standard foamies warm-up the sound, emphasizing bass more than with the silicone triple-flange tips. Soundstage is reduced somewhat, as is apparent treble detail.
They are comfortable. The foamies and silicone tips fit easily in my ears, and fit is important with IEMs. The former are more comfortable in the long run: the latter creates a fullness in my ears over time.
The driver housing can crack over time. I'm not surprised by this, as I don't handle them delicately, occasionally knocking them into objects while taking them out of my pocket. Etymotic is a great company, and will repair/replace quickly in or out of warranty for free or at reasonable cost. Replacement altogether with a new pair, because of the price, is also not bank-breaking.
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by Masopoli from Prov R.I. on 2010-01-18
Pros: sound quality, comfort
Cons: price,
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I'm not used to ear buds. I've always found that inserting something into the ear is a very bad idea. Overcoming that, I now have a new fear. Loss of hearing! Be very careful of the sound levels this product and others like it produce. This may not have anything to do with a review of the product but buyer beware. As for the etymotic ER-4P, simply amazing. Believe the reviews. Don't move around to much, it seems any type of movement along the cord amplifies the "rub rub" sound. When the days of needed retreat are upon me , I lay back in my recliner, turn to my trusted player, and enjoy a moment of musical peace. Always checking the sound level first.
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by JSmall from Cape Cod on 2010-01-16
Pros: Comfortable, Triple Flanged Rubber Tips, Sound Quality
Cons: Slight bass tilt that colors lower mid-bass
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I used them with my Headroom Portable Micro Amp and older SendStation iPod Pocket Dock Line-Out adapter when travelling or relaxing at the beach. Very good bass quality, with just a slight too much bass tilt that colors the lower mid-bass, but still very good.
I've tried their lower end ER-6i long ago and stepped up to the Shure (older version of the) SE310, which was a mistake. I hated them due to poor sound quality (no bass and bright), silicon tips constantly fell out of my ear, and uncomfortable after 30 minutes.
So, not sure why I passed on the ER-4P when I bought the Shure, but glad I circled back to them now.
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by Headphone Fan from Greensboro, NC on 2010-01-16
Pros: Great sound and isolation
Cons: Insertion and long term comfort
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I have used mine on all different kinds of high end equipment in the rack and portable, and they sound great everywhere, even when compared to my Senn 600s. The improvement when used on IPod and Touch is incredible. I have an IRiver CD portable CD player and Headroom amp which travel along with the ITouch and these make everything sound great. Did switch to the new foam bud tips and added even more comfort. The noise isolation is a great plus also.
Use the Stereophile freq sweep test track and see how far these little guys take the sound, even without a headphone amp.
While sitting and enjoying great sound you may come to feel sorry for the masses walking around with the stock white buds hanging out of their ears. Knowing that they are not hearing the full potential of higher bit rate portable audio as it can be….but you will get over it.
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by bicycle_john from new england on 2010-01-16
Pros: Good value - best sound isolation - incredible customer service
Cons: Not the strongest bass
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I great in ear headphone for the travelling professional; they started it all - what can I say
i like the snug fit much better than the shure phone (or others)
very secure, very quiet and will few parts to break (they include spares)
cusomter service is the best
wish they would update the 4 series into another "gold standard offering" to compete wit the new high end phones coming out from competitors
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by Arejay 244 from Grapevine, Tx. on 2010-01-16
Pros: Sound that's 'inside' your head..as it should be
Cons: None for my money
Would you recommend this product: Yes
The proliferation of in-ear canal headphones in the past couple of years is in large part a testament to the success of the design, but in my view, the excellence the ER4P's and ER4S's deliver...I am a 'former' audiophile...that is, as I got older (married) I no longer kept up with the field. Retirement, and an iPod got me back in....The ER6i's were great, but I was able to exchange and upgrade to the ER4P's and could not be happier 5 years later. Dump ANY and ALL ear buds, spend a few $ extra. After all, it's only your hearing.. PLUS...GREAT sound quality from iPods...something I suspect most still don't know exists. Thought I'd lost mine a couple of years back, and ordered a replacment pair without even blinking at paying the price a second time...they're that good.
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by Mark Hewitt from Perth, Australia on 2010-01-15
Pros: Blocks out a lot of noise, and the sound quality is fantastic
Cons: The in-ear tips can be uncomfortable for long term use
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I work in a cavernous office space, with a mezzanine level. I work on the lower half, and my workmate nearby insists on yelling up to the mezzanine level to the workers there, and vice versa. I can't move my location, and my work requires enough concentration that this behaviour drives me insane.
That is, until I got these headphones.
I did a lot of research into different headsets, such as active noise cancelling, but those work well for constant noise, not for punctuated loudness. I also tried a set of low profile workman's earmuffs with earbuds inside, which was great apart from the fact that I wear glasses, and their arms push the earmuff padding out, allowing sound in. So when I found these headphones, I had to try them.
There are many tips to try, and I settled on two sets; one that goes right into the ear canal for times when the office is loud, and another that are much like foam earplugs. The foam tips are a lot more comfortable, but don't block out as much noise. The ear canal tips do a fantastic job at blocking out distractions, but tend to get a bit uncomfortable if worn for a long time. I did find that rubbing a little bit of water onto them before putting them into the ear helps comfort a lot, and I could wear them for much longer, but I'm still not wearing them for a full work day. I certainly wouldn't wear these for exercise.
As for the sound, I'm amazed at how great they are. Truly a feat of engineering.
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by Steve from Washington, D.C. on 2010-01-15
Pros: Amazing performance straight out of the player
Cons: ear canal headphones aren't for everyone
Would you recommend this product: Yes
These will blow away any headphones that come with your portable player and will be more comfortable too! They come with a little carrying case and a bigger case full of goodies (1/8" to 1/4" converter, many different ear tips to try). They don't need an amp to be driven, but if you have a cheap portable player the noise floor will drop out significantly with a good, clean amp. Oh, and there is the noise isolation to consider. I thought these would be great at work, but sometimes I miss calls from my phone which is RIGHT NEXT TO ME when I use them. I don't even crank the music, but the rest of the world still falls away. I've since moved my phone so that I can see the lights blink when I get a call. :)
The only downside is general to ear canal headphones... the fit is very uncomfortable for some. After long listening sessions, my ears take a sort of sigh of relief and can breathe again.
Addendum: these cans take some burning in, so if the initial sound does not impress, keep listening!
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by Shandy from on 2010-01-15
Pros: comfort, solid build, crisp sound
Cons: valve system
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I bought these as a pair of backup headphones, knowing that my UE triple fi would sound better but were (based on experience) not likely to stand up to exercise abuse.
so far i'm very happy with the ER-4P. they sound very very good, and fit is easier than most in ear sets i've tried.
haven't had them long enough to change the valves yet...but i wish this could be avoided.
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by Steamkiwi from Ballarat, Victoria, Australia on 2010-01-15
Pros: Great sound, comfortable, wide range of fitting accessories
Cons: Take some getting used to and getting right tips
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I purchased these after some considerable web research, and have not been disappointed with them. The packaging provided excellent shipping protection and storage, and included accessory tips made setting up to suit my ears easy.
The units are a bit fiddly, and take some getting used to, as they are small and need to fit deeply in to the ear channel for the best noise sealing and sound quality. Once I had got that sorted, sound quality has continue to improve, and I really do not feel as it I am wearing them.
The design looks good for long life, with the two twisted cords to the individual units, and a well-designed link in to the cord to the plug.
Overaqll, well recommended. Not the cheapest around, but good value.
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by Zach from Ft. Worth, TX on 2010-01-15
Pros: Wonderful sound.
Would you recommend this product: Yes
I purchsed these from Headromm about six years ago. They are some of the best headphones that I own. I can wear them for an extended period of time and they are still comfortable. After six years, I still use these a lot.
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by G Close from San Francisco, CA on 2010-01-14
Pros: Great definition, great soundstaging, excellent isolation
Cons: In-ear headphone, so you have to like this
Would you recommend this product: Yes
Better definition than my $1,500 B&W bookshelf speakers, which are excellent. I wear these on public transportation, and the noise isolation is outstanding.
These are "in ear" phones, so you have to like that. This was a plus for me, but not for everyone.
The cord on mine has fairly pronounced sound when struck, this is annoying. Not sure if this has changed (my units are circa 2005).
I've also experienced stellar aftermarket support from Etymotic. What a class act.
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