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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.

Our pick: Etymotic ER2SE Earphones - Great overall at around $160.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

AKG K374
Sound7.0
Value7.5
Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
Sound8.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of AKG K374 vs Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
SpecAKG K374Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
TypeWired IEMsWired IEMs
Price (USD)$89$160
HearWiki score68 / 100 · Good82 / 100 · Great
Released20182019
Audio
Driver-single dynamic driver
Driver size9 mm-
Drivers per side11
Frequency response10Hz-24kHzflat
Impedance28 Ω15 Ω
Sensitivity104 dB/mW96 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
Weight6 g15 g
USB-CNoNo

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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