Product Analysis ER-6i:

If you remember our ER-6 Isolator analysis, you will realize that the physical differences between the ER-6 Isolator and ER-6i Isolator models are not significant at all.  On the physical side of things, the ER-6i model is all white (to match the Apple’s iPod) with labeled left and right earpieces.  Another little improvement in these earphones over the ER-6 is that they contain a narrower eartip, which will allow them to better fit a wide range of ear structures.  Unlike the ER-6 model, these will indeed go farther in towards the ear canal rather than causing fitting issues towards the middle of the ear.  We are glad that Etymotic has paid attention to the fitting issues.  This makes the usability of the earphones much pleasurable to work with. 

Let’s discuss the proper fitting methods for these earphones in order to get the maximum exposure to sound.  These earphones, thanks to their unique design, must be inserted deep inside the ear to make contact with the ear canal.  And for you to properly insert these earphones, there is a technique involved in this entire process.  You must pull your ears back-and-forth both upwards and outwards while continuing to slide the earphones in the ear.  There are two main advantages to this method – first of all, it cancels the outside noise that may interrupt the music pleasure of the listener.  Before we continue, we would like to point out that these earphones do not actually have noise cancellation technology built in, but due to their unique design they simply block out all excess noise.  The second advantage to the particular architecture is that they should fit more comfortably than most headphones, as they will not slide off the head. 

Unfortunately, the disadvantages to having close tip architecture overpower its advantages.  Etymotic sharply warns its users with two noteworthy usage warnings – 1. Do not use these earphones in trafficked areas due to their noise blocking structure.  This means that you will be confined to using these earphones either indoors or in central, no trafficked locations such as parks.  While it is not so dreadful, some travelers may find this to be an annoying feature.  2. Do not use these earphones at their full volume especially with “hard” music categories such as Rock, Rap, or Metallica.  According to Etymotic, the high volume exposure to ear canals will have a negative effect on hearing in the long run.  This is because these earphones pragmatically touch the ear canals.  We suggest that the ER-6i earphones be used at low to mid volume levels and honestly, with their closeness to the ear canal, you won’t miss out on fulfilling sound. 

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