Etymotic Research
Etymotic Limited Edition ER2
Best in-ear monitors for audiophiles seeking superior noise isolation and clarity.
Experience true high-accuracy sound with the Etymotic Limited Edition ER2, designed for both studio professionals and discerning listeners. These in-ear headphones offer an exceptional noise isolation of 35dB to 42dB, the highest documented on the market, allowing you to immerse yourself in the music without external distractions. Featuring durable metal earpieces with an anodized finish and detachable cables for easy replacement, the ER2 provides a comfortable and secure fit with an assortment of included eartips. The ER2XR variant delivers impactful bass while maintaining Etymotic's signature clarity in the midrange and highs, making them ideal for musicians and bass-loving audiophiles alike.
$109.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
454
/ 6142
#454 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-81%
Below average
Noise Isolation
3542
/ dB - dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking studio-grade neutrality and precise sound reproduction
- Commuters needing total silence in noisy public environments
- Practical listeners prioritizing long-term durability and repairable components
Who should skip it
- Users with sensitive ears who dislike deep-insertion designs
- Active listeners distracted by cable movement and friction noise
- Casual users wanting a simple, plug-and-play earphone experience
Performance breakdown
Noise Isolation
Industry-leading attenuation effectively silences the world around you.
Sonic Accuracy
Delivers a transparent, reference-grade sound profile for critical listening.
Build Durability
Anodized metal housing ensures longevity for daily professional use.
Fit Customization
Diverse eartip selection accommodates various ear shapes for secure comfort.
Maintenance Ease
Detachable cables simplify repairs and extend the product's lifespan.
Bass Impact
The XR variant provides satisfying low-end weight without sacrificing clarity.
Key Specs
Noise Isolation
35 dB - 42 dB
Connectivity
Wired
Connection Type
MMCX, Proprietary
Earpiece Material
Metal with anodized finish
Cable
Detachable
Features
- Exceptional noise isolation (35dB - 42dB)
- High accuracy sound experience
- Durable metal earpieces with anodized finish
- Assortment of eartips for a perfect fit
- Detachable cables for easy replacement
- Includes Lightning adapter
- Includes dual flange tips
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Etymotic Limited Edition ER2 for its exceptional sound quality and unparalleled noise isolation. Listeners frequently highlight the accurate, neutral audio reproduction, which reveals intricate details in music. The deep insertion design, while unique, provides outstanding passive noise cancellation, making these earphones ideal for immersive listening in any environment. Many consider them a remarkable value, delivering premium audio performance that rivals much pricier alternatives.
Know before you buy
The ER2 uses passive isolation, which physically blocks sound rather than using electronics to cancel it. By achieving 35dB to 42dB of reduction, it often outperforms active systems in blocking out high-frequency sounds like human speech or office chatter.
Because they are designed for a deep, secure fit to maximize isolation, they may feel different than standard earbuds. The package includes an assortment of eartips, so you can experiment to find the size and material that provides the most comfortable seal for your ear shape.
Yes, the ER2 features detachable cables. This design allows you to easily swap out a damaged cable rather than replacing the entire pair of headphones, extending the overall lifespan of the product.
The ER2XR (Extended Response) is tuned to provide a more impactful bass response. While it maintains the high-accuracy clarity Etymotic is known for, it is specifically designed for listeners who prefer a slightly warmer, bass-forward sound profile.
The ER2 includes a Lightning adapter in the box, making it compatible with iPhones that lack a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack. You can plug them in and start listening immediately without needing additional accessories.
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Ready to buy?
$110