Etymotic ER2 SE/XR Noise-Isolating Earphones

Which ER2 is right for you?

Both ER2 models, the ER2SE and ER2XR, use the same low-impedance dynamic drivers. That means they are easy to drive, and no amplifier is required. The only difference between the 2 models is the tuning of the lower (bass) frequencies. The “Studio Edition” ER2SE is tuned to have a flat frequency response. The “eXtended Response” ER2XR is tuned to have an emphasized bass, adding 1-2dB to the mid-bass and 3-4dB to the sub-bass. The rest of the frequencies are practically identical to the ER2SE.

The ER2SE offers Etymotic’s renowned passive isolation, providing 35-42 dB attenuation. You will hear all the details in the music with lower volume levels that are safer for your hearing. The flat frequency response of the ER2SE will appeal to sound professionals and audiophiles alike. The ER2SE shells are made of anodized aluminum, CNC machined with extremely tight tolerances. Using a single dynamic driver allows for a very accurate IEM without the added complexity of crossovers, and helps keep the aluminum body small and slim. Included is a user-replaceable cable.

The ER2SE is ideal for sound engineers, audiophiles, and consumers on a budget, who are looking for in-ear monitors that are easy to drive while offering accurate audio reproduction.

ER2SE is a great choice for audio creators and musicians on a budget, who require a precise and neutral sound reproduction. ER2SE is also the IEM of choice for consumers who prefer to listen to their music exactly the way it was recorded.

The ER2XR offers Etymotic’s renowned passive isolation, providing 35-42 dB attenuation. You will hear all the details in the music with lower volume levels that are safer for your hearing. The flat mids and highs, along with the emphasized bass of the ER2XR, will appeal to consumers and audiophiles who like a little more presence of bass.

The ER2XR shells are made of anodized aluminum, CNC machined with extremely tight tolerances. Using a single dynamic driver allows for a very accurate IEM without the added complexity of crossovers, and helps keep the aluminum body small and slim. Included is a user-replaceable cable.

The ER2XR is ideal for musicians, audiophiles, and consumers on a budget, who are looking for in-ear monitors that are easy to drive, and prefer the added warmth in the bass frequencies.

ER2XR is favored by those who enjoy the extra bass presence and body when listening to their music. The extra bass is done tastefully without turning the ER2XR into a bass heavy IEM.

Frequency response graphs and Etymotic’s target:

Etymotic’s target frequency response graph represents a “perceptibly flat” frequency response. Our goal is to have a flat frequency response curve when the music notes hit your eardrums. To achieve that, we need to account for the resonance inside the average ear canal, since IEMs bypass the outer ear structure. The result is the need for higher SPL in the 2-5k region (lower treble) for compensating said resonance. That is the reason for the “hump” in that region.

The target curve that Etymotic is using for tuning our IEMs differs slightly from the Harmon preference curve. It was developed in-house more than 20 years ago, leveraging on our human hearing expertise and acoustics research.

Accurate Earphone Reproduction

When tuning in-ear monitors to accurately reproduce a recording of a live performance, our goal is for the sound hitting the eardrums to be identical to that at the original performance. To achieve this, the acoustic properties of the ear must be factored in. The acoustic resonance and horn effects of the ear change a flat audio signal entering the open ear into sound with a (2700 Hz) high-frequency boost, which is the same response heard at the eardrum in a typical ear. That is the reason for the “hump” in the frequency response graph, which assures the eardrums perceive a perfectly flat frequency response for all frequencies.

Best-in-Class

No compromise, high-performance noise-isolating earphones that deliver best-in-class benefits and superior value, perfectly matched to the latest product innovations from most music players that support a 3.5-mm stereo phone plug.

Noise Isolation

• 35 dB - 42 dB noise isolation
• Documented highest noise isolation of any earphones or headphones on the market today

Features

• True high accuracy sound experience
• Metal earpieces with anodized finish
• Assortment of eartips for the perfect in-ear fit
• Detachable cables allow for easy replacement
• 35+ dB of natural external noise isolation

Durability and Warranty

• 2-year replacement warranty
• Reinforced cable for durability
• User-replaceable filters that protect the balanced armature drivers from ear wax

In the Box

• Detachable, 4-foot cable
• Foam and 3-flange ear tips
• Filter removal tool and filters
• Compact storage pouch
• Shirt clip

Technical Specs