Best Wired Earphones You Need to Try in 2024
8. Mee Audio M6 Earphone
The MEE Audio M6 Sport stands out as an exceptional pair of affordable earbuds, offering impressive audio performance, robust build quality, and numerous features. Vazharov, a trusted source in the audio industry, considers the MEE M6 as his top pick among budget-friendly USB-C earbuds, noting their excellent compatibility with Apple’s iPhone 15 series. He shares, “I’ve been using them on my iPhone 15 Pro for a week and appreciate their design, durability, fit, and included accessories.”
These earphones feature “memory wire” ear hooks that can be easily adjusted to match the shape of the wearer’s ears, enhancing comfort and stability. The MEE M6 Sport also boasts an IPX5 rating, making them sweat- and water-resistant, which is ideal for workouts. Additionally, the three-button in-line remote includes a microphone for taking calls, and the earphones come with six pairs of ear tips to ensure a perfect fit. For those who prefer a traditional connection, the MEE M6 Sport is also available in a 3.5mm version.
7. 1More Triple Driver Earphone
For audio enthusiasts seeking high-quality sound without overspending, the 1More Triple Driver Earphone is an excellent choice. Vazharov recommends these earbuds for their impressive sound quality, features, and reasonable price. The earbuds utilize three drivers, including a dynamic driver that delivers clear midrange and deep bass. The result is a crisp, accurate sound that exceeds expectations for its price point. According to 1More, these earbuds were tuned by Grammy-winning sound engineer Luca Bignardi.
The ergonomic design of the earbuds ensures a comfortable fit for prolonged listening sessions. They come with nine sets of ear tips, allowing users to find a secure and comfortable fit. While the Triple Driver Earphone does not feature a detachable cable, the existing cable is reinforced with Kevlar, enhancing its durability. The earphones also include a three-button remote with a microphone for easy control of music and calls.
6. 1More Penta Driver Earphone
The 1More Penta Driver Earphone is highly recommended by Vazharov for its remarkable design and sound quality, especially given its price. These wired earbuds feature a five-driver hybrid acoustic system, providing a more immersive listening experience with Hi-Res support for enhanced detail and accuracy. Vazharov highlights that similar multi-driver earbuds typically cost significantly more, making the Penta Driver a great option for value-conscious audiophiles.
The earbuds come with a detachable micro miniature coaxial connector, allowing users to replace the cable if it becomes damaged. The cable is made from oxygen-free copper, which improves electrical conductivity and minimizes signal loss, resulting in high-fidelity audio. The Penta Driver earbuds also include eight sizes of silicone and foam ear tips, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. They feature a 3.5mm jack and come with a 3.5mm to USB-C adapter, making them compatible with modern smartphones.
5. Sennheiser IE 600 Earphone
Sennheiser’s IE 600 Earphone uses proprietary 7mm True Response transducers to deliver exceptional detail and nuance, making even subtle sounds stand out. From solo keyboard errors in Led Zeppelin’s “All My Love” to the hidden cowbell in Blue Oyster Cult’s “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” these earbuds reveal elements in tracks that listeners might not have noticed before.
The IE 600 offers an extended frequency range that creates a well-balanced mix of instrumental and vocal arrangements, enhancing the intimacy of songs, especially ballads and live performances. The bass is rich and punchy without compromising the mid or high ranges. Using the included foam tips adds warmth to the soundstage and effectively reduces ambient noise more than silicone tips.
4. Sennheiser IE 900 Earphone
The Sennheiser IE 900 Earphone is a premium option for audiophiles who prioritize audio quality from high-end sources. These earbuds come with six ear tip options and three cables, offering choices between a standard 3.5mm and balanced 2.5mm/4.4mm connectors. Although they lack an in-line remote, their exceptional sound quality makes up for this omission. Priced around £1,000, they represent a significant investment.
Sennheiser’s engineers chose to use a single driver to minimize vibrations and ensure rigidity, achieving exceptional sound quality. This design choice sets them apart from competitors who often use multiple drivers.
3. Shure Aonic 5 Earphone
The Shure Aonic 5 Earphone is notable for its transparent design, allowing users to see the internal components. These in-ear monitors are ideal for those who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest in premium audio gear. The Aonic 5 uses three high-definition balanced drivers in a dual woofer and single tweeter configuration, providing a sensational listening experience with rich, natural vocals and clear details. Their transparency means they reveal the quality of the recordings, so lower-quality tracks may not sound as good.
2. SoundMagic E11C Earphone
Founded in 2005, SoundMagic quickly gained recognition for its budget-friendly in-ear headphones. The SoundMagic E11C showcases the brand’s success, offering a snug fit and well-balanced, energetic sound from its 10mm dynamic drivers. These earbuds provide decent bass depth complemented by clear midrange tones. With a high sensitivity of 112dB, the E11C can deliver ample volume, making them suitable for smartphones and portable audio players, provided they have a 3.5mm socket.
1. Shure Aonic 3 Earphone
Topping the list is the Shure Aonic 3 Earphone, an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality in a compact form. These expertly crafted IEMs offer superb musical reproduction and come with nine different ear tips to ensure superior isolation and comfort. The Aonic 3 features a wired connection with a pair of nozzles and in-line controls, making them convenient and high-performing.
Buying Guide for Earphones
Choosing the right pair of earphones can significantly enhance your listening experience. Whether you’re an audiophile or a casual listener, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. This buying guide will help you navigate through the key aspects to look for when purchasing earphones.
Sound Quality
Drivers: The type and number of drivers in an earphone determine the quality of sound. Multi-driver earphones, like the 1More Triple Driver and Penta Driver, offer a richer sound with distinct bass, midrange, and treble. Single-driver models like the Sennheiser IE 900 can also deliver exceptional sound quality with minimal distortion.
Frequency Response: A wider frequency range allows earphones to produce more detailed sound. Models like the Sennheiser IE 600 with extended frequency ranges can highlight subtle details in music tracks.
Tuning: Earphones tuned by professionals, such as the 1More models tuned by Luca Bignardi, often provide a more balanced and accurate sound.
Comfort and Fit
Ear Tips: Look for earphones that come with multiple ear tip sizes and materials (silicone, foam) to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. The Shure Aonic 3, for instance, offers nine different ear tips.
Ergonomic Design: Earphones with an ergonomic design, like the 1More Triple Driver, contour to the shape of your ears, reducing listening fatigue over long periods.
Memory Wire: Models like the MEE Audio M6 Sport with adjustable memory wire hooks provide a secure fit, especially useful during physical activities.
Durability
Build Quality: High-quality materials and construction, such as the Kevlar-reinforced cables of the 1More Triple Driver, contribute to the longevity of the earphones.
Water Resistance: For active users, water and sweat resistance is crucial. The MEE Audio M6 Sport, with its IPX5 rating, is designed to withstand sweat and light rain.
Connectivity
Wired vs. Wireless: Decide whether you prefer wired or wireless earphones. While this guide focuses on wired models, consider your device compatibility and usage scenarios.
Connector Type: Ensure the earphones come with compatible connectors for your devices. Some models, like the 1More Penta Driver, offer both a 3.5mm jack and a USB-C adapter.
Additional Features
In-Line Controls: In-line remotes with microphones, such as those on the SoundMagic E11C, allow you to control music playback and take calls without accessing your device.
Replaceable Cables: Earphones with detachable cables, like the 1More Penta Driver, offer added convenience and longevity, allowing for easy replacement if the cable gets damaged.
FAQs
What are drivers in earphones?
Drivers are the components in earphones that convert electrical signals into sound. They come in various types, including dynamic, balanced armature, and hybrid, affecting the earphones’ sound quality.
Why is frequency response important?
Frequency response indicates the range of sound frequencies an earphone can produce. A wider frequency response means the earphones can reproduce more detailed sound across low, mid, and high frequencies.
How do I choose the right ear tips?
Choose ear tips that fit snugly and comfortably in your ears without causing discomfort. Many earphones, like the Shure Aonic 3, come with multiple sizes and materials (silicone, foam) to help you find the best fit.
What is the benefit of water-resistant earphones?
Water-resistant earphones, like the MEE Audio M6 Sport, are designed to withstand sweat and light rain, making them ideal for workouts and outdoor activities.
Are multi-driver earphones better?
Multi-driver earphones can provide a richer and more detailed sound by using separate drivers for different frequency ranges. However, high-quality single-driver earphones can also deliver excellent sound with minimal distortion.
Why are some earphones tuned by professionals?
Professional tuning, as seen with the 1More earphones tuned by Luca Bignardi, ensures a balanced and accurate sound signature, enhancing the overall listening experience.
What should I look for in terms of build quality?
Look for earphones made with durable materials like Kevlar-reinforced cables and oxygen-free copper, which enhance durability and sound quality. Water resistance and replaceable cables are also valuable features.
Conclusion
Selecting the right earphones involves balancing sound quality, comfort, durability, and additional features to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for high-fidelity audio, robust build quality, or a comfortable fit for extended use, this guide highlights the key considerations to help you make an informed decision. Explore the top picks in the list to find the perfect pair that enhances your listening experience.
