Etymotic MC5 review

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Verdict:

The MC5 earphones sound generally well-balanced, but their noise isolation isn't as effective as we hoped.

Review Date: 22 Jul 2010

Price when reviewed: £55

Buy it now for: £52
(see more store prices)

Supplier: http://store.apple.com/uk/

Reviewed By: Alan Lu

Our Rating 3 stars out of 5

Review
Specs

Etymotic's latest set of noise isolation earphones, the MC5s, are cheaper than the company's previous sets at just £55. We've been impressed with the noise isolation capabilities of previous models, but underwhelmed by their audio quality. Despite their low price, we hoped the MC5s would have improved audio quality as well as effective background noise isolation.

The MC5's audio quality was indeed greatly improved over previous sets. Music from most genres sounded generally well-balanced and detailed. We were able to hear details such as backing instruments in jazz and blues tracks that were inaudible on many earphones.

However, those same tracks also sounded rather cold, lacking the richness and warmth that we prefer. Rock, R&B and other bass-heavy tracks weren't as pleasurable to listen to though due to the unsatisfying bass, which wasn't as thumping as we'd like, plus there’s a lack of volume.

Unfortunately, while the MC5s did manage to block out some background noise amongst the din of a London Underground carriage, it wasn't nearly as effective as other earphones we've tried. Some sentences in audiobooks were inaudible and we had to turn up the volume to hear the more subtle parts of quiet classical and folk tracks, almost defeating the point of using noise isolation earphones in the first place. These results were so surprising, we tried using some of the other differently sized earplug sleeves included in the box to try and improve the noise isolation but without any success.

The Etymotic MC5 earphones are affordable and they generally sound pleasing, although we'd prefer more bass and volume. Their noise isolation is inferior to other earphones we've tested though.

The V-Moda Remix Remote aren’t as well-balanced, but their noise isolation is far more effective. If you have more money to spend though, Creative's EP-3NC are even better at blocking out unwanted noise since they combine noise isolation and noise cancellation techniques.

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User comments

Response to Expert Reviews MC5 Review by Alan Lu

Alan:
Our MC5 earphones come with 4 different eartips, each designed to fit deeply into the ear canal to produce the highest noise isolation of any earphones currently on the market. In order to experience the optimum level of noise isolation, a proper seal must be obtained inside of the ear canal. This may require some experimentation with the different eartips. Once achieved, ambient noise will be 35-42dB, depending on the eartip that is used (3-flanged or foam).
If the eartip fit is compromised, you are more likely to experience ambient noise competing with the sound of the MC3. I would invite you to re-experiment with the variety of MC3 eartips to see if a deeper fit and seal can be obtained. When using the 3-flanged eartip, the largest of the three flanges should effectively seal the entrance to the ear canal (like a cork in a bottle). You may find pulling up and out on the back of the ear, moistening the eartip, or slightly twisting the eartip once inside the ear canal are helpful methods to obtain a seal. If you are using the gray memory foam, be sure to roll the foam between your thumb and index finger for at least 7-10 seconds before insertion. Hold the eartip in place while it expands back towards its original shape, conforming to the shape of your ear. Glider eartips do not need to be compressed prior to insertion, but should be inserted slowly until the ideal positioning is achieved.
Our website posts a helpful tutorial on eartip insertion at http://www.etymotic.com/ephp/epinsertvideo.aspx.
We understand that ears come in all shapes and sizes. Like a fingerprint, everyone’s ears are different, and many listeners will benefit from our Custom Fit Program. This is an upgrade option that allows anyone who has purchased an Etymotic product to have their ear impressions taken and receive a set of soft silicone sleeves made specifically for their ears. By registering their product on our website, a listener can download a special voucher, select the Custom Fit Program Network audiologist nearest them, and have a set of custom sleeves made for the price of $100.00 (USD or current equivalent). Utilizing a custom sleeve allows for a perfect seal and the most comfortable fit, perfect for long listening periods.
Additional information about our Custom Fit Upgrade can be found on our website at http://www.etymotic.com/customfit/index.html.

By Rick_at_Etymotic on 18 Aug 2010