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Etymotic ER4SR EarphonesImage © Etymotic

Etymotic ER4SR Earphones

77/ 100
Great
HearWiki score

Good value

$300
typical price, USD
Still sold newupdated
Buy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
Etymotic
Type
Wired IEMs
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2016

Score breakdowngreat overall

Sound8.7
Value6.5

ER4SR is the highest-performing single driver in-ear monitor. The IEM shells are made of anodized aluminum, CNC machined with extremely tight tolerances. Using a single Balanced Armature (BA) driver allows for extremely accurate IEM without the added complexity of crossovers, and helps keep the aluminum body small and slim. The included high-quality user-replaceable cable is reinforced and twisted, to improve longevity and durability.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The ER4SR is a wired, single balanced-armature in-ear monitor built for critical listening, delivering an exceptionally flat and accurate response that suits studio work and audiophile purists. Its deep-insertion design provides strong passive isolation, but it forgoes all modern conveniences like controls, app support, or wireless features, focusing purely on sonic transparency. With a detachable MMCX cable and multiple ear tips, it offers flexibility for those who prioritize fidelity over everyday usability.

What works

  • Reference-grade neutral tuning with high accuracy
  • Excellent midrange detail and informative sound
  • Strong passive noise isolation due to deep fit
  • Detachable MMCX cable and varied tip selection
  • Lightweight and durable build

What doesn't

  • Limited bass impact and roll-off at high frequencies
  • Deep-insertion fit may feel intrusive or uncomfortable
  • No inline controls, app support, or wireless options
  • Pricey for a single-driver design with niche appeal

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

Specifications

Audio - Etymotic ER4SR Earphones
Driverbalanced armature
Driver typebalanced-armature
Drivers per side1
Frequency response20 Hz - 16 kHz
Impedance45 Ω
Sensitivity98 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

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

majorhifi.com

Major HiFi considers the ER4SR a true studio-reference earphone with strong fidelity, detail, and soundstage. It presents the model as a serious in-ear monitor, helped by its detachable cable and included tip options.

Read the full review

soundonsound.com

Sound On Sound finds the ER4SR very flat, highly accurate, and exceptionally isolating, making it well suited for critical listening and gig use. The review also notes that the deep-insertion fit may feel intrusive for some users.

Read the full review

whathifi.com

What Hi-Fi says the ER4SR is highly capable and very informative, with excellent midrange detail and strong accuracy. Its main drawbacks are limited bass impact and comfort that may not suit everyone.

Read the full review

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