Before we get started, in-ear headphones fall into two design types: universal models that come with user-replaceable tips that accommodate a range of different size ear canals, and custom-molded models that are made to order, and fit only the owner's ears.
Universal picks start with the stellar $79 Hifiman RE-400 and go all the way up to the outrageously fantastic $799 Sennheiser IE 800.
Before buying a custom design you must first visit an audiologist who makes "impressions" of your ear canals. The procedure is easy enough, and takes around 10 minutes. Audiologist fees range between $50 and $100, but customs produce superior noise isolation than universal fit in-ear headphones. If you commute or spend a lot of time in noisy environments, customs are well worth the extra expense. Custom prices start around $400.
Check out the Audiophiliac's best in-ear headphones of 2014.
Be respectful, keep it clean and stay on topic. We delete comments that violate our policy, which we encourage you to read. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion.