Shure SE115m+ Specifications:

• Speaker Type: Dynamic MicroSpeaker II
• Sensitivity (1mW): 105 dB SPL/mW
• Impedance (1kHz): 16
• Frequency Range: 22Hz – 17.5kHz
• Cable Length: 54 in
• Colors: Black, Red, Blue and Pink

The SE115m+ utilizes Shure’s second generation dynamic driver versus the balanced armature driver featured on the SE110, but both have the same state frequency range from 22 Hz to 17.5 kHz. As with any pair of Shure headphones, there’s plenty of included tips: a set of rubber and foam tips in small, medium, and large sizes. With the variety of tips included, it’s almost guaranteed that there’s a size to fit anyone. If you still can’t find your fit, Shure offers additional sleeves such as tri-flanges on their website. A tight and comfortable fit is important since it’s essential to retain sound isolation from external detriments. There’s a small cleaning tool to remove any ear wax or dirt that may have entered the headset. Keeping the inner tube that reaches the speaker clean helps deliver unobstructed audio. Compared to most Shure headsets which offer a modular cable that disconnects right before the ‘Y’ split, the SE115m+ is a single 54 inch cable. While some may not have an issue with it, I felt as though it’s a neat safety precaution that won’t damage the audio port on your device since it can de-attach easily with a forceful tug. A shorter cable is also handy especially if you’re connecting your iPhone or another device to an armband. Moving forwards, the only other item included in the packaging is a soft-case to protect your headphones and store those extra sleeves.

Aside from audio quality, the next most important aspect of the SE115m+ is the remote control featuring compatibility with Apple’s 3-button system. The buttons work in the same manner as the Apple earphones that have a remote and microphone. Answering and making calls are simple and easy, but difficulty comes when navigating an iPod. The issue arises because the top and bottom button are solely used for adjusting volume, making the rest of functions completely reliant on the single center button. This can get confusing quickly. I should mention that this isn’t Shure’s fault, but rather Apple’s weird way of trying to simplify things. While confusing, the button is easy to find, feels good, and works well. On the other hand, the volume buttons aren’t too well though through. Taking a closer look, you’ll notice that those two buttons are nearly flush with the casing. That means when you aren’t looking at the controller, it’s often difficult to feel where those buttons are. While Shure emphasizes compatibility with Apple products, these will still work just fine with other devices featuring a 3.5mm headphone jack. However the controls might not necessarily function as intended.

In terms of audio quality, the SE115m+’s offer incredible value. The SE115m+’s aren’t exactly high-end headphones, but are a great option for those making their first steps into the realm high quality audio. In comparison, these in-ear-monitors will sound vastly superior to the earbuds included with an Apple product, BlackBerry device, Microsoft Zune, or any other digital audio player. If compared to the now-discontinued Shure SE110 earphones, the SE115m+ clearly have a fuller bass with a wider soundstage due to the new second generation dynamic driver. Although it’s great for music with a low beat, I would have liked to see Shure increase the quality of the high and mid range audio. Unfortunately this is where the SE115’s begin to falter. I also found the quality of vocals to be less than expected. While these are supposed to be used for phone calls in addition to music, I expected better audio quality, especially for vocals.

Making audio calls with the built-in microphone showed the strengths and weaknesses of the SE115m+. The microphone was actually quite good and other listeners were able to hear me quite well. In contrast, it seemed as if the incoming call quality was directly related to the disappointing vocals while listening to music. People sounded higher pitched than normal and almost tinny. Seeing as being able to make phone calls is one of the distinguishing features of the SE115m+, the call quality was disappointing.

For those looking for an entry-level earphone, skip the SE115m+ and move along to the SE210 earphones. While better than the SE110, they succeeded, the SE115m+’s price is nearly the same as that of the SE210 to justify going for that one instead. However, if you own an Apple iPhone or iPod Touch, the SE115m+ offers special functionality which is worth consideration. Shure is a reputable brand name and these will work as advertised, although don’t expect crystal clear calls. The SE115m+ have been available for retail through Apple Stores for a short period and are going on sale through Shure.com and at other retailers this month. Amazon has it available on pre-order for an MSRP of $119.

Buy: SE115m+ on Amazon for $119
Links: Shure.com

Shure includes a comprehensive package along with each pair of SE310s to offer customizations and modularity for each person. The items include a rugged carrying case, a cleaning tool, a cable extension, and a plethora tips: rubber, foam, and tri-flange tips in small, medium, and large sizes. The packaging is professional and inspires confidence for a quality product. The included tips prove very versatile and comfortable, plus they help dampen out a significant amount of outside noise. The excellent isolation will let you listen to your music in peace on public transit, at noisy family events, or even help on stage to drown out the crowd so you can focus on your live performance. (Keep in mind, it’s illegal to operate motor vehicles and bicycles with both buds in.) The cable extension is a clever way to meet the needs of those looking to hide their cords or to eliminate all the excess cables if you prefer to mount your digital audio player on an armband. Finally, the cleaning tool is quite handy when it comes to removing nasty ear wax from the sound tube of the IEMs. This helps ensure clear and unobstructed sound.

The SE310 marks the most advanced single driver model Shure offers in their SE lineup. A “tuned bassport” accompanies the single driver to enhance the bass for more impact and depth. The sound from these speakers are fed through a single sound tube directly into your ear canal. You’ll definitely notice an improvement in sound quality over the younger sibling, the SE210, which we reviewed as well. The SE310 earphones comes through clearer and more articulate than the SE210 model confirming that you made a good upgrade. The whole package blends together forming an enjoyable experience.

While many companies put useless and dysfunctional marketing jargon on their packaging, Shure has and continues to deliver. Remember that “tuned bassport” I mentioned earlier? It turns out that this feature comes out quite nicely on these earphones to produce a very strong and authoritative low-end. Bass lovers will easily be able to focus on all the low-end motifs in their music with good articulation. Contrary to most IEMs which lack bass, the Shure’s SE310 delivers it with ease and in abundance. I felt the bass was slightly overpowering these IEMs and it sounded as though it overtook some of the higher frequencies such as vocals which are the focus of a song. Despite that, if you’re looking for a good beat, the Shure SE310 earphones will not disappoint.

Moving up into the mid-range, you’ll find a classic Shure sound. The mid-range category has always been artistically crafted in Shure headphones and come through with a rich and slightly warmer sound. This definitely isn’t an analytical and straightforward IEM, but rather one that moves the music with that hint of artistic passion. Vocals sound decent, although leave you wishing there was slightly more. In perspective, it sounds as if they’re singing towards your direction, but you’re sitting a few rows back rather than the vocalists singing directly at you.

The high-end of the SE310 was somewhat mediocre. It didn’t stand out anywhere in particular and felt recessed. It was there, but it felt as though there was a curtain between you and the performers. It didn’t have that passion that the midrange did and instead felt bland. This tends to be an unfortunate characteristic of most IEMs and you certainly can’t call the SE310 earphones out on this alone.

Overall, the SE310’s felt slightly rough and veiled. Listening to every song and genre I was given the feeling that the grand forte was coming soon where the power of the music was to be unleashed, but sadly it never happened. It was a taunting experience expecting a grand spectacle and hearing parts of songs that were supposed to be large and grand feel less than that. The SE310’s make you feel as if they have tremendous potential, the only trick is how to unleash it. The soundstage was typical for IEMs and Shure’s SE310 earphones felt narrow. Instead of a grand concert hall where the music comes from all directions, you were sitting in a hallway with the performance only in front of you.

Naturally, I wanted to see how the SE310’s would perform when amped, so I paired them up with my Ray Samuels Audio: Hornet M amplifier and re-evaluated. The SE310’s have an impedance of just 28ohms so they’re definitely not very hard to drive. From that I wasn’t expecting any huge changes in sound from the amp, but it did have positive results. When amped the SE310’s opened up a little. The sound came through more clearly and was more articulate. It still felt veiled (except for the bass), but not as badly. The music seemed smoother and silkier and the vocals saw the most improvement cleaning up that slightly rough and unpolished sound they had before.

Coming in at around $150 on Amazon, the Shure’s SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones are a good value for the money. While they aren’t nearly the best sounding earphones out there, remember that these are powered by a single driver design after all. You’ll easily have to pay $50 more for a dual driver IEM such as Shure’s SE420’s to get better sound than the SE310. So if a potent bass and warm midrange suit your style, the SE310’s won’t disappoint. If you are a casual listener looking for good sounding pair of earphones, then I highly recommend considering the Shure SE310.

Buy: $165 for Shure SE310 on Amazon
Links: Shure.com SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones

Specifications Speaker Type:

• Dynamic MicroSpeaker II
• Sensitivity (at 1kHz): 105dB SPL/mW
• Impedance (at 1kHz): 16
• Frequency Range: 22Hz-17.5kHz
• Cable Length: 18 in. (45 cm)
• Warranty: 2-Years
• Price (MSRP): $119

As always Shure provides a kit with a variety of earpieces to ensure that the buds comfortably fit into your ear canal. The earphones have a modular cable which can extend from just 18 inches to 54 inches with the extension. Shure provides a 2 year limited warranty on these earphones, so rest assured that if they happen to fail or cause problems, you’ll be able to have them replaced. The headphone jack is a standard 3.5mm pin, which will fit into any standard computer, laptop, cd player, or digital audio player.

The earphones will become available for purchase in Spring 2009. Although the expect sale price is $99, it should be available for cheaper through many retailers. We’ll be getting a unit to review as soon as we can, so check back for a full review! Meanwhile checkout our review of the Shure SE110 and the SE210.

Links: Shure.com SE115

Following up with a tradition of excellence, Shure Inc. introduces us to their latest in ear monitor (IEM), the SE110. Priced fairly reasonably, the SE110 aims to pick up where the aging and now discontinued E2c left off. It also introduces a new low-end product for Shure’s general consumer “SE” series since the “E” designation is now being used for professional IEM models.

Shure SE110 Specifications:

• Speaker Type: Balanced MicroSpeaker
• Sensitivity (1mW): 113 dB SPL/mW
• Impedance (1kHz): 27 Ω
• Frequency Range: 22Hz – 17.5kHz
• Cable Length: 18 in (54 in w/ extension)
• Colors: Available in Black and White

The Shure SE110 utilizes a single dynamic driver design that is capable of a frequency range from 22Hz – 17.5kHz. This isn’t the most impressive frequency range for an audio enthusiast, but it is very sufficient for many people. All of this technical wonder is contained within a clean and good looking housing that is available in either black or white. Also included with the SE110’s is Shure’s classic package of many different tips to fit the plethora of ears that these IEM’s might satisfy. Shure provides a set of rubber and foam tips in sizes small, medium, and large with their package to help obtain a greater seal while maintaining a good level of comfort. A helpful cleaning tool is also included in the package to keep out any ear wax that may have entered the headset. In order to protect and not lose these accessories, Shure provides a soft and thin profiled case to carry your headphones and extra sleeves around. The case is nothing special, but it serves its purpose and even has a carabiner to attach onto a backpack.

With the most important aspect of any headphone being sound, Shure’s SE110’s perform quite well at their price level. The dynamic driver provides plenty of bass impact for all genres of music as well as a warm sounding midrange. Seeing as how this is the low-end model of Shure’s SE lineup, the SE110 does lack in bass extension and the definition of its highs. Either way, it’s certainly an improvement over the last generation’s tinny sounding E2c earphones.

The SE110’s main strong-point is their mid-range. The mids on the SE110 are defined well and are certainly not lacking in their fullness. While they aren’t as articulate and separated as other IEM’s it doesn’t feel jumbled together either. Shure puts a warm emphasis on the mid-range giving them a more forward feeling and sound. While the mid-range comes across well with the SE110’s the bass and high-end are somewhat lacking. One thing the SE110 offers is a strong bass impact (the oomph!). In some cases it might feel overwhelming. While the bass impact is strong, the extension of the bass into the lower frequencies suffers. In many of the selected test tracks, other IEM’s were able to bring out the details of the lower bass frequencies that the SE110’s had difficulty displaying. The high-end on the SE110 also lacking. The emphasis on the high-end quality doesn’t seem to be there just yet. Cymbals felt empty with no punch behind them and certain highs in different pieces couldn’t be brought out at all.

Despite the SE110’s shortcomings, at this price-point of just $99 (MSRP is $119) and product line placement, it carries a pretty good value. (Available in stores and online now!) The majority of users purchasing the SE110 will probably be taking a good first step into the high end audio world and the SE110’s won’t be disappointing. If you wish for something a step better you may also be interested in the Shure SE210 Earphones. In the future, however, it will be worth upgrading to higher-end IEM’s whether they be from Shure or other manufacturers such as Westone, Ultimate Ears, and Etymotic.

Buy Now: Shure SE110 Earphones – $79! (free shipping + no tax)
Links: Shure SE110 Headphones | Shure.com
Related: Shure SE210 Earphones Review

Shure recently introduced the more affordable SE110 Sound Isolating Earphones, which are aimed more towards average consumers. This is great purchase for iPod, ZEN, and Zune owners plus for those who wish to listen to music on their computers. Even though these earphones are the furthest down on Shure’s product line, with their MicroSpeaker and Sound Isolating technologies, these will offer an incomparably better performance than generic headphones included with your media player.

In addition, as always, Shure will include a variety of Sound Isolating Sleeves (aka. earpieces) in three sizes to ensure that they will fit your specific ear. The headset’s cable is also modular, including a 3-foot extension for personal customization. Other than extra ear pieces and cable, Shure also throws in a carrying case. And finally it come standard with a Two-Year Warranty.

The SE110 will be available in stores in just two weeks, September 17th to be exact. It’s MSRP is set at $119, however will be available in retail stores for just $99! Shure also offers a variety of accessories including music phone adapters. We’ll be getting a pair to review very soon, so check back! Meanwhile, please take a look at our review of Shure’s $150 SE210 from earlier this year.

UPDATE: Shure SE110 Earphones Review

Links: Shure SE110
Related: Shure SE210 Review

Skatter Tech got a hold of the Shure SE210, an upgrade to the popular E Series, a few weeks ago and we have been quite pleased with the headset’s performance. The headphones included with most MP3 players, including iPods, are not exactly top notch. Purchasing a high quality set of headphones makes quite a big difference. Although the SE210 is at the bottom of their line of high-end earphones, it is still one of the best ones available on the market. (We reviewed the SE210-K Black)

Shure SE-210 Specs:

• Sound Isolating Earphones
• Hi-Definition Micro Speaker
• Frequency Range: 25Hz – 18.5kHz
• Included: Deluxe Fit Kit & Case
• Available in Black or White
• Price (MSRP): $179 $150

If you own the previous E2c model, the first thing you’ll notice is that the new SE210 earphones are much smaller and lighter. We felt the material also looked cheaper, but the sound it produced proved us wrong. Shure kept the headset in the Y-shape form factor instead of switching over to other styles such as “behind-the-neck,” which Sony uses in their headsets. Unlike its predecessor, which had a 56-inch cord, the Shure SE210 offers flexibility by including a 36-inch extension cord to go along with the short 18-inch headset. (54 inches total) Finally, Shure has improved the performance of the bass since it could barely be heard in the E2c’s.

Another bonus when you purchase Shure earphones is that they are almost guaranteed to fit (unless you have really weird ears). Shure includes 3 types of headphone sleeves: foam sleeves (S/M/L), rubber flex sleeves (S/M/L), and a triple flange sleeves. In addition to the sleeves, Shure bundles a semi-hard carrying case, the 3-foot extension cord, and a little tool to clean out wax from your earphones.

Overall, the most important factor, sound quality, was superb. Although $50 more expensive than the previous model, the SE210 is quite a good improvement since the earphones are more compact, reach a wider set of frequencies, and have an improved bass. If you one of those audiophiles, who is looking for something even better, you might be interested in their other higher-end models: SE310, SE420, or SE530. However for most people who want a better set of headphones, but want something cheaper than $150, we recommend checking out these: Shure E2c, Bose Tri-Port, or Sony MDR-EX90. And as for the SE210s, they are available in stores now!

Buy Now: SE210 White or Black for $149
Links: Shure.com | SE210 Earphones
Related: Shure HeadPhones Preview

During the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Shure announced a major upgrade to their popular high-end consumer headphones. The four new Sound Isolating headphones all have “ever-wider frequency ranges,” move up a spot on the product line while remaining at around the same price, and are smaller than the previous models. The new headphones are also slightly more expensive than the previous models, which have been on the market for over two years, ranging from $150-500.

The Shure Earphones:

• SE210: The cheapest of the new line of headphones, but these Hi-Definition MicroSpeakers offer better sound quality than most headphones on the market. – (Range: 25Hz-18.5kHz) – [$150]
• SE310: Slightly better than the Hi-Defintion MicroSpeakers featured in the previous model, but now includes Tuned BassPort and reaches wider frequencies. – (Range: 22Hz-19kHz) – [$250]
• SE420: Even better frequencies and now have more powerful Dual TruAcoustic MicroSpeakers. – (Range: 20Hz-19kHz) – [$350]
• SE530/SE530PTH: Probably the best portable consumer earphones on the market today. These two feature a new Triple TruAcoustic MicroSpeakers. Can hit even the lowest and highest notes, has dual woofers?, and better bass. – (Range: 18Hz-19kHz) – [$450/$500]

To ensure the new earphones will fit everyones ears, the package will include “a variety of sleeves.” These include small, medium, and large: Foam, Soft Flex, and Triple Flange Sleeves. All four models have a 45cm cord plus a 91cm extension cable (total 136cm) and come with a Carrying Case. In addition the Premuim Kit (only for the SE420 and SE530) include a Volume Control module, 1/4″ Adapter, and an Airline Adapter.

I had the chance to try out each of these phones recently at the Shure booth at MacWorld 2007 and I plan to purchase the E210 when they become available. According to public Shure’s Press Release, the earphones will begin to ship worldwide next month, Feburary 2007. However a Shure employee I spoke with stated that the date currently mentioned is an estimation and may take much longer. I will write up a review as soon as I get a hold of a set of these, so check back soon!

Links: Shure Earphones | Buy Now (Amazon)