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Etymotic ER2SE EarphonesImage © Etymotic

Etymotic ER2SE Earphones

70/ 100
Good
HearWiki score

Priced about right

$220
typical price, USD
Still sold newupdated
Buy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
Etymotic
Type
Wired IEMs
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2019

Score breakdowngood overall

Sound7.7
Value6.3

The ER2SE offers Etymotic’s renowned passive isolation, providing 35-42 dB attenuation. You will hear all the details in the music with lower volume levels that are safer for your hearing. The flat frequency response of the ER2SE will appeal to sound professionals and audiophiles alike. The ER2SE shells are made of anodized aluminum, CNC machined with extremely tight tolerances.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The Etymotic ER2SE is a wired, single dynamic driver IEM designed for studio monitoring and critical listening, offering a neutral and reference-tuned sound signature. It delivers strong clarity, accurate vocals, and high passive isolation, making it a solid choice for those seeking a transparent and detailed presentation. Its lightweight build and easy drivability add to its appeal, though the deep-fit design may not suit all users.

What works

  • Neutral, reference-tuned sound with accurate detail
  • Excellent passive isolation for immersive listening
  • Easy to drive from most devices without an amp
  • Lightweight and durable build with MMCX connectors
  • Strong value for critical listening and mixing

What doesn't

  • Protruding shells may cause discomfort for some
  • Bass response is modest and not for bass lovers
  • No inline controls or app support for adjustments
  • Limited frequency response above 16 kHz

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - Etymotic ER2SE Earphones
Driverdynamic
Driver typedynamic
Drivers per side1
Frequency response20 Hz - 16 kHz
Impedance15 Ω
Sensitivity96 dB/mW

Where to buy

Retailers we matched to this exact model. Prices are periodic snapshots - the link always opens the retailer's current listing.

What the reviews said

5 source(s) feeding this product's score.

head-fi.org

92

This Head-Fi review calls the ER2SE a top recommendation in Etymotic’s lineup, especially for value under $100. The reviewer praises its technical performance, especially vocals, timbre, and detail, while still presenting it as a neutral-leaning IEM.

Read the full review

headfonics.com

81

Headfonics describes the ER2SE as a reference-oriented single dynamic driver IEM aimed at studio monitoring and critical listening. The review praises its speed, extension, and treble clarity, and overall rates it as a strong performer for neutral sound.

Read the full review

headfonia.com

Headfonia says the ER2SE is the more neutral, reference-tuned version of the ER2 line and highlights its clear, accurate presentation. It also emphasizes the model’s very high passive isolation and notes that the dynamic driver gives it strong clarity without the balanced-armature timbre of older Etymotic models.

Read the full review

majorhifi.com

Major HiFi recommends the ER2SE for mixing and critical listening because of its flat balance, separation, and transparency. The review also notes that it is easy enough to drive from common devices, while still remaining a fairly low-output, reference-style earphone.

Read the full review

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Mentioned in articles

Where the Etymotic ER2SE Earphones comes up in our guides and explainers.

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