Ever since the company Etymotic came out with their ER-4 headphones model like a quarter of a century ago, they’ve since been recognized as one of the leaders in portable headphones for hardcore music lovers.
Etymotic Technology
While maybe not the biggest name in earphones, Etymotic represents one of the best in technology and sound in the industry, thanks to its unparalleled engineering and performance. The new Etymotic ER4XR, which is the Extended Response model, and the Etymotic ER4SR, which is the Studio Reference model, are Etymotic’s latest in-ear headphones, which have very similar remains of the company’s original product. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right?
The key engineering spec has to do with their balanced armature single-driver design, which has always remained the same, and these 2 new models extend the line, with the ER4SR offering sound quality suited for audiophiles and professionals alike, but with some improvements in tone accuracy as well as compatibility with newer media players. Additionally, for both models, the earphone cables on both models are now detachable and replaceable, which is extremely nice and prolongs both products’ lifespan.
Etymotic ER4SR
As mentioned, the SR version is a Studio Reference model, designed with hardcore audiophiles in mind. While a little like the XR version, the sound has some slight differentials.
The ER4-SR come with a carrying case and a few eartips. The slim and light design makes them very comfortable to use, and most importantly, they stay in your ears, thanks to the triple-flange tips.
Spec-wise, the ER4-SRs have a a good frequency range and great volume. There is a good amount of bass, and not only is it clean sounding, but also very controlled. The mids contain absolutely no distortion or compression, making instruments and vocals pop. Finally, the “highs” are rich and full, but never screeching.
The Etymotic ER4-SR is definitely a Studio Reference earphone. The audio is punchy and outstanding, and is an excellent choice for professional listening or for reference. While it might not completely compare to the XR’s comprehensive bass, it is a rich and relaxed sound.
Etymotic ER4XR
The new Etymotic ER4XR Extended Response earphone sport a controlled bass boost while maintaining the mid and high frequency’s integrity. It also comes with the same carrying case and tips as the SRs, and the eartips and light weight design are equally as comfortable as well.
Spec-wise and just like the SRs, the ER4-XR offers a regular frequency range, but a higher impedance and lower volume. The bass on the ER4-XRs is outstanding and clean, somewhat better than the SRs. The mids and highs are no joke either, providing detailed accuracy and eliminating any hint of distortion or compression. Vocals really standout with the ER4-XRs as well, contrasting and sharp, and never piercing or overshadowing the bass.
The Etymotic ER4-XR is impressive, maybe more than the ER4-SR, but then again, the XRs are an extended response phone, with an all-around strong performance, but a flatter sound. They’re best suited for a lot of different types of music, all the while providing a huge range and full sound for nearly any music genre.
Etymotic Price
For high-end earphones, the Etymotics are both prices at $349, a reasonable price when you consider their quality. They’re both manufactured in the USA, and both have been updated with precision-machined, anodized metal housings and an unparalled match between left and right channels across all audible frequencies.
Bottom Line
There’s not enough good things to say 
about the Etymotics. For those on the road needing some serious noise cancellation features in an extremely light pair of phones, the Etymotic in-ear design is far and away the ideal choice. They surpass any active noise-canceling headphone and deliver a top level of ambient noise reduction due to the deep earplug-style fit of the Etymotic earpieces. Of course the produced sound from both models are in leagues of their own.
You can purchase the Etymotic ER4SR and ER4X4s here.
