Etymotic Revamps ER4

Etymotic has revamped its popular in-ear monitors and digitalDrummer compared the new version with the model it replaces.

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WE WERE IMPRESSED when we reviewed the mid-range Etymotic ER4S earphones in our August 2011 head2head. At the time, we noted the strong signal and “crisp, clear, balanced sound”.

Since then, Etymotic has revamped its ER4 range, with two new versions, the ER4SR and the expanded bass ER4XR which we tested.

While the in-ear monitors retain their distinctive minimalistic design, there are some noticeable changes. The original plastic Etymotic body has been upgraded to a black metal tube which feels sturdy but is still light-weight.

There’s a new MMCX connector to join the tubes to the replaceable cable – a step up from the previous two-pin connector which seemed a bit vulnerable.

The sturdy cable appears unchanged, although the junction point where the single cable splits into two twisted-pair leads is more streamlined and now bears a logo.

Another superficial change is the soft carry case, which is much more usable than the large hard plastic case previously provided.