Rage, if it's not a bother, there's an earphone related question I'd like to ask. I've previously owned UE400 but am now looking for a replacement. What would you suggest to one who likes female voices in their full treble glory, strings yet likes a smattering of bass as well. Not too overpowering bass, accurate enough so I can listen to Imagine Dragon's 'Radioactive' without finding the bass too messy. Non-UE alternatives will do too, and preferably below USD80. Thanks in advance!!
Within the UE range, the only model would fit the bill is the UE600, which is listed at $120USD but are sold at around $80USD at most places. It has the cleanest treble of all UEs (sans maybe UE900), and and slightly recessed bass which is well restrained. You picked a great song to gauge as Radioactive has a crazy thumping bass. I listened to Radioactive with both my UE500 (same as 400) and UE600, and indeed the UE600 sounds tighter all around, but personally I still prefer the UE500 with a looser bass simply because I’m more of a bass head. Distortion is also better controlled with the UE600, it has a slight advantage in clarity and has less tendencies to crackle at high frequencies.
I can’t speak too much about the other brands, but I’ll try. My experience with Skullcandy models at the $50-80 range tell me that they’re more geared towards mainstream (bassy) sounds rather than what you’re looking for. I’ve also tested the Klipsch S4i (also around $80) and I find it to be strong and well balanced, with good treble and bass, but my biggest gripe is that it distorts and cracks too much in the highs, which bothers me a lot, it could not handle one of my favorite songs AMLIFY. A bit above $80 is the Shure SE215 (~$100) which I admittedly have no experience with but from what I’ve heard it is one of the best earpieces you can get for under $100, though I have also heard that it is slightly on the bass heavy side. Other safe choices include the Bose MIE2i and the Sennheiser MM70, though I have nothing to go off of other than reviews and their brand reputation. If you can find a store that will let you test them before you buy, by all means do so before you decide.