AKG K374 vs Etymotic ER2SE Earphones: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Etymotic ER2SE Earphones comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Specifications
| Spec | AKG K374 | Etymotic ER2SE Earphones |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $89 | $160 |
| HearWiki score | 68 / 100 · Good | 82 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2019 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | - | single dynamic driver |
| Driver size | 9 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-24kHz | flat |
| Impedance | 28 Ω | 15 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB/mW | 96 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | - | No |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | - | No |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 6 g | 15 g |
| USB-C | No | No |
What reviewers said
AKG K374
The AKG K374 is a budget-friendly wired in-ear headphone that delivers a clean, well-balanced sound with modest bass and solid imaging for its price. Its sturdy construction and polished design stand out, though the stiff cable and finicky silicone tips may require some adjustment for a secure fit.
- Pro:Balanced, clean sound signature
- Pro:Solid build quality and materials
- Pro:Good imaging and clarity for the price
- Con:Stiff cable can be inconvenient
- Con:Silicone tips may not fit securely for all users
- Con:Bass quantity is modest rather than impactful
Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
The Etymotic ER2SE is a wired, single-dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a flat, reference-style sound aimed at critical listening and studio monitoring. It offers strong passive isolation and easy drivability, though its deep-fit design and modest bass output may not suit everyone. Its transparent, detail-rich tuning makes it a strong value for neutral-sound enthusiasts.
- Pro:Accurate, neutral tonal balance
- Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
- Pro:Clear and detailed treble
- Con:Deep insertion may be uncomfortable for some
- Con:Bass response is subdued
- Con:Shells protrude noticeably
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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