SE846 Gen 2 Sound Isolating Earphones
Best high-fidelity monitors for discerning audiophiles seeking customizable sound.
Immerse yourself in superior sound with the Shure SE846 Gen 2 Sound Isolating Earphones. Engineered with four custom drivers, these earphones deliver exceptional high-end clarity and deep, resonant bass thanks to a groundbreaking low-pass filter. Tailor your listening experience with four distinct sound signatures, including a new extended option. The ergonomic, low-profile design ensures comfortable wear, while advanced sound isolation blocks up to 37 dB of ambient noise. A detachable cable offers versatile connectivity, making these earphones a sophisticated choice for discerning audio enthusiasts.
$890.00
More SE Series Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
356
/ 5702
#356 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+51%
Above average
Type
Sound-Isolating Earphones
/ Sound-Isolating Earphones
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking studio-grade clarity and deep, precise bass response
- Listeners who enjoy fine-tuning their audio profile for specific genres
- Commuters and professionals needing total focus in noisy environments
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level or mid-range audio gear
- Casual listeners wanting a simple plug-and-play experience without extra hardware
- Users who prefer lightweight cables and low-maintenance hardware connections
Performance breakdown
Audio Clarity
Four balanced armature drivers deliver surgical precision across the entire frequency range.
Bass Response
The innovative low-pass filter provides deep, subwoofer-like impact without muddying mids.
Noise Isolation
Passive seal effectively silences chaotic environments for a focused listening experience.
Customization Options
Interchangeable filters allow users to fine-tune the sound signature to preference.
Build Durability
Professional-grade construction designed to withstand the rigors of daily touring use.
Ergonomic Comfort
Low-profile housing stays secure and comfortable during extended listening sessions.
Key Specs
Type
Sound-Isolating Earphones
Model
SE846 Gen 2
Number of Drivers
4 per Earpiece
Impedance
9 Ohms
Frequency Response
15 Hz to 20 kHz
Sensitivity
114 dB SPL at 1 kHz
Noise Attenuation
Up to 37 dB (Passive)
Connectivity
Wired, 3.5mm Jack
Features
- Four custom-engineered drivers for precise audio
- True subwoofer-like bass performance
- Four customizable sound signatures
- Blocks up to 37 dB of ambient noise
- Ergonomic, comfortable low-profile design
- Detachable cable for versatile connectivity
- Hi-Res Certified audio quality
- Durable, professional-grade build
What customers say
Reviewers consistently highlight the SE846 Gen 2's superior build quality and exceptional acoustic performance. The sound profile offers deep, controlled bass and clear treble, delivering excellent fidelity without harshness. A major benefit is the industry leading passive noise isolation, making these earphones highly reliable for professional monitoring and daily use in loud settings. Although the initial investment is substantial, users agree that the durable construction and top tier sound fully justify the premium price for serious listeners.
Know before you buy
The SE846 Gen 2 includes interchangeable physical nozzles that allow you to adjust the frequency response. You can choose between balanced, warm, bright, or the new extended signature to tailor the audio profile to your personal preference.
With an impedance of 9 Ohms, these earphones are highly efficient and can be driven easily by most smartphones, tablets, or laptops. While a high-quality dedicated DAC or amplifier can further refine the audio, it is not strictly necessary for daily use.
The SE846 Gen 2 uses a secure, deep-fit seal to block up to 37 dB of ambient noise. Unlike active noise cancellation, which uses electronics to mask sound, this passive isolation is highly effective at blocking high-frequency sounds and does not require battery power.
Yes, the earphones feature a detachable cable system using a standard MMCX connector. This allows you to easily replace the cable if it wears out or upgrade to a different cable type, such as one with a microphone or a balanced connection.
The low-profile, ergonomic design is shaped to sit flush against your ears, which helps prevent fatigue during extended use. Because they are lightweight and come with a variety of sleeve options, most users find them comfortable for several hours at a time.
To take full advantage of the Hi-Res Certified drivers, these earphones perform best with high-quality, lossless audio files or high-resolution streaming services. While they will improve the sound of standard compressed files, they are designed to reveal the nuances in high-fidelity recordings.
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