XtremeMac's FS1 High Definition Earphones are a more affordable alternative to Shure's E4cs.
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The XtremeMac FS1s come with a variety of earbud fittings, since you need a proper seal and fit to get the best-quality sound and the most effective noise cancellation. In the box, XtremeMac includes a carrying case that can hold the headphones, the cord, and the provided fittings: rubber sleeves (three sizes), foam cups (two sizes), and plastic flanges (one set). We had the best sound experience with the smaller foam cups. Users should try on all the fittings to decide which one to use. The headphone cord measures about 43 inches, which is slightly longer than the cord for the headphones that come with the iPod.
As always with headphones, comfort is a huge issue. After testing the XtremeMac FS1s out for a week, we found that pairing the headphones with the foam cups gave us the most comfortable fit.
You should also consider the Shure E3c and Etymotics ER6 earbuds, which cost the same as the XtremeMac FS1s. All three provide stellar performance and will definitely add to your overall listening experience. But if you listen to music that's bass-heavy or low-end intense, the FS1s are the way to go.