Head-Direct RE2 (headphones) - EDIT: Now $29US + $US shipping (YMMV on shipping fee)

[shneebs]

UPDATE:As Michael1996 noticed, these are now down to $29 + 10 shipping... I love my RE2's. I also noticed the RE0's are down to $79 as well and their website says they will not be marking them down any further...This is a significant discount from what they were going for.

I've been eyeing up the Head-Direct RE2's for a while now (based solely on the great reviews it gets...) and now they are on for the cheapest I've seen them yet. Head-Direct.com is having a Chinese New Year sale and have the RE2's on for $49US + shipping. Previous sale price was $79US (with free shipping). When you go through the checkout, it gives you two options: America ($5 shipping) or "Outside of America" ($10 shipping). I chose the $5 "America" option, and my transaction went through fine - already received my tracking number. (YMMV on the $5 vs $10 shipping.) These are shipped from Hong Kong.

http://head-direct.com/product_detail.php?p=23

What got me interested in these was the multitude of rave reviews these get - probably the best bang for your buck - especially at this price point. Here's a starting point to read up on them: http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/review-18-iem-reviewed-compared-final-update-nov-2-08-a-335851/ (Note that in this review, written approx 6 months ago, these were going for $99US!)

If anyone's interested, I'll post a review once I receive them. I'm currently running the $20 Creative EP-630 buds so my point of reference is nothing fancy. :)

Shneebs.

p.s. Here's some photos:

http://head-direct.com/upload/2008May07165457re2-2.jpg

http://head-direct.com/upload/2008May07165530re2-4.jpg

http://head-direct.com/upload/2008May07165742re2-3.jpg

[HarGow]

Wow, this is a steal. I hang out at head-fi sometimes, RE2s have pulled value picks at $80. @ $50, no brainer.

[1080p]

Thought you would charged duty fees? Yes/no?

[BDeals]

I am for sure jumping on it!!!!! I was really interested in RE1's as they are suppose to be quite a improvement over the RE2's. Thanks OP, for $50 bucks, can't go wrong. I believe group buy on these were at $69 bucks awhile back

[chrisp3]

can't wait for a review on these...my old sonys just broke and i been in the market for some new ones

[vladislav]

Consider these instead - NuForce NE-7M Stereo Earphones (http://www.amazon.com/NuForce-NE-7M-Earphones-Headset-Compatible/dp/B001BL8BO4/)

here's a head-fi review - http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/review-nuforce-ne-7m-iphone-iem-vs-denon-c700-klipsch-image-x10-ne-8-impressions-added-1-15-09-a-383617/

Bottom line - "I have still not heard an IEM under $150 that I think sounds better than this."

[ClubberLang]

hmmm does anyone own the above ear buds?

I am thinking of shelling out some money on some Westone UM2's ( can get them for 280 flat). IT's a lot of money.

[Popular]

consider these instead - nuforce ne-7m stereo earphones (http://www.amazon.com/nuforce-ne-7m-earphones-headset-compatible/dp/b001bl8bo4/)

here's a head-fi review - http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/review-nuforce-ne-7m-iphone-iem-vs-denon-c700-klipsch-image-x10-ne-8-impressions-added-1-15-09-a-383617/

bottom line - "i have still not heard an iem under $150 that i think sounds better than this."

+1

[sfrancis]

How is the noise isolation performance of this ear phone ? Can I use this in a fairly noisy environment without having to crank up the volume real loud ?

Thanks

[frogger]

Consider these instead - NuForce NE-7M Stereo Earphones (http://www.amazon.com/NuForce-NE-7M-Earphones-Headset-Compatible/dp/B001BL8BO4/)

here's a head-fi review - http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/review-nuforce-ne-7m-iphone-iem-vs-denon-c700-klipsch-image-x10-ne-8-impressions-added-1-15-09-a-383617/

Bottom line - "I have still not heard an IEM under $150 that I think sounds better than this."

Would amazon.com ship those to Canada? Only site I found them on up here was an Ottawa store specializing in Apple products.

[_RFDealt_]

Would amazon.com ship those to Canada? Only site I found them on up here was an Ottawa store specializing in Apple products.

I purchased my Sennheiser HD-555's from amazon.com, so yes. They charge an 'import deposit' but if nothing is charged at the border, they refund it back. Mine was about 20 USD for the 100 USD headphones but again, I got that back.

[vladislav]

Would amazon.com ship those to Canada? Only site I found them on up here was an Ottawa store specializing in Apple products.

They are not sold by amazon, they are sold by nuforce and yes they will ship to Canada. Amazing IEMs.

[JT94]

They are not sold by amazon, they are sold by nuforce and yes they will ship to Canada. Amazing IEMs.

Awesome. Here I come NuForce!

[shneebs]

Here's a "Nuforce vs RE2's" thread at Head-fi.org:

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/vote-nuforce-7m-50e-70-head-direct-re2-w-fiio-e3-79-c551-396923/

The poll does indeed show the Nuforce NE-7M's in the lead (24 vs 17 at time of writing). "LeftyGorilla" has tried both, and after reading all of their posts, found that he (she?) prefers the Nuforce buds, but only after several changes to flanges... Oh well, I already ordered the RE2's....

Shneebs.

[vladislav]

Awesome. Here I come NuForce!

By the way, get NE-8 if you are more into analytical phones and NE-7 if you are more into bass colored ones. For me the choice was NE-7 since I listen to lots of electronic music but NE-8 might be better for others. I'd still say you can't lose with NE-7 either way. There's nothing even close to that price with that quality.

[sxz]

Does the NE-7M work with just a regular stereo plug? I noticed it has an extra channel for the mic.

[Tomikans]

it's good to see people here know their head-fi. ;)

+1 on the re2's. I had them ever since the group buy. These have been through hell and back, and they still sound awesome.

I recommend these headphones and at 49 dollars.. it's a steal.

I'll most likely give mine away once i have purchased a higher end IEM. (i'm eyeing on the RE0's.)

[ClubberLang]

Someone help me out. I have owned Shure e2c's, Se 210's an Shennhieser CX300's. I currently use the Shure SCL-3. I am looking to upgrade. I was thinking of shelling out big money on Westone UM2's. Will I be satisfied with the RE2's?

[vladislav]

Does the NE-7M work with just a regular stereo plug? I noticed it has an extra channel for the mic.

Yes it will work with most stereo plugs. I did hear that some old mp3 players had a problem with these. Zune/iPod/etc will all work with these no problem.

[coriolis]

Someone help me out. I have owned Shure e2c's, Se 210's an Shennhieser CX300's. I currently use the Shure SCL-3. I am looking to upgrade. I was thinking of shelling out big money on Westone UM2's. Will I be satisfied with the RE2's?

Been using my Shure E4g's for the past 2 years, and the wiring is finally starting to crack and I'm looking to get a backup pair of IEM's to use. I might just get both of these and try it out myself, or go for SCL4's since I've been nothing but delighted with my E4's.


Comments on these two(RE2's and NE7)?

[coldpower27]

Someone help me out. I have owned Shure e2c's, Se 210's an Shennhieser CX300's. I currently use the Shure SCL-3. I am looking to upgrade. I was thinking of shelling out big money on Westone UM2's. Will I be satisfied with the RE2's?

Well these obviously can't compare to the UM2, but I think they are great for their price bracket comparable to something like the Westone UM1..

[vladislav]

Comments on these two(RE2's and NE7)?

Head-fi links have been provided, nothing more we can really say that hasn't been said in those dozens of pages.

[nickmar]

The NE-7M's are indeed fantastic headphones and they work great with the iPhone. I purchased mine from http://www.themacgroup.ca/ (located in Ottawa).
According the the Mac Group's website, they appear to have the NE-8's in stock too.

Nickmar

[sfrancis]

The NE-7M's are indeed fantastic headphones and they work great with the iPhone. I purchased mine from http://www.themacgroup.ca/ (located in Ottawa).
According the the Mac Group's website, they appear to have the NE-8's in stock too.

Nickmar

Thanks. Never used IEM but would like to give it a try. Wonder if they have a sample in their store.

Still try to decide between RE2 and NE-7 after some reading on the head-fi links provided (thanks guys). I mainly listen to vocal, soft rock, classical etc. not much hard rock. Bass is not a huge concern. RE2 may fit me better ?

Product link:

https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=web2.19&product=NE-7M

[discostupid]

I bought Yuin PK3s from this site around August 08 for $40 US + $5 shipping. They are the best earphones I've ever had. Come in a sweet little wooden box. Looks so elegant compared to the average earphones packaged in butt fugly hardmold plastic. The earphones themselves are basically non-descript black, which is perfect. I prefer people to think I have $5 earphones.

The only micro-complaint I have with them is that they intermittently buzz ever so slightly (the casing is not 100% flush and vibrates). But it's fairly rare. Also I should have splurged for the PK2s.

[sfrancis]

Another detailed review of RE2:

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/pictorial-review-head-directs-re2-312513/

[shneebs]

After reading many posts on Head-fi.org, a lot of people rave about two Fiio compact headphone amps... the Fiio E3 & E5. Not just for added volume, but for an improvement in overall sound. Both are carried on Head-Direct.com, but can be had cheaper at places like FocalPrice.com and Dealextreme.com... under $7US for the E3 - uses a single AAA battery, and under $20US for the E5 - has a rechargeable lithium battery, etc... DX & Focalprice offer free shipping too. Might have to try one... especially if the bass on the R2's I ordered is a bit weak (as some people have reported on head-fi.org) - the E5 has a bass boost option...

E3 -> $6.80US @ DX:
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.14823 (black)
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.14303 (white)

E5 -> $19.50US @ DX:
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.18350 (black only)

Shneebs.

[vladislav]

As to Fiio you want E5. Read about E3 hissing issues.

If you want great bass and are looking for IEMs for a reasonable price get NE-7.

[shneebs]

If you want great bass and are looking for IEMs for a reasonable price get NE-7.Refer to previous post...
Here's a "Nuforce vs RE2's" thread at Head-fi.org:

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/vote-nuforce-7m-50e-70-head-direct-re2-w-fiio-e3-79-c551-396923/

The poll does indeed show the Nuforce NE-7M's in the lead (24 vs 17 at time of writing). "LeftyGorilla" has tried both, and after reading all of their posts, found that he (she?) prefers the Nuforce buds, but only after several changes to flanges... Oh well, I already ordered the RE2's....
Shneebs.

[bluegreenshxt]

Hey for those that ordered...do your flanges fit on the RE2s?
I noticed half of the included flanges are too small for the earbuds :|

Apart from that I like them a lot so far (just received today, still burning in).
Of course...I don't have much experience with headphones...so take it with a grain of salt...

Btw, for those looking to test the FiiO E3. I'll let mine go for $5. - More bass for sure but I find that it raises the noise floor significantly...although I'm using my cellphone as the source...I think you do need higher impedance headphones...

[whoa-albert]

Yeah, did anyone order? I'm thinking of ordering. They look like they'll fit as well as a pair Sony MDR-EX51, which is a good thing.

I ended up ordering Sound Magic PL-30 at half the price. =/

[clem24]

Btw, for those looking to test the FiiO E3. I'll let mine go for $5. - More bass for sure but I find that it raises the noise floor significantly...although I'm using my cellphone as the source...I think you do need higher impedance headphones...

I've got the E3, 4G iPod Photo driving Portapros. It makes a diff. The Portapros are quite high impedance, and tend to distort in the bass department without them. The Fiio is dead quiet. To test, just plug in your headphones without a source. Sounds like your cellphone is the culprit.

DX is sold out of the E5, but I want to get my hands on one so that I can send a line signal to it as it has volume control. Should improve it even more.

[bluegreenshxt]

Yup...it's the source. My cellphone and integrated notebook sound card made the E3 wayy too noisy. It's pretty quiet on its own...as well as with my audio dac+preamp...slight hiss when nothing's playing but I likee how it sounds :D. (Except really...I have no use for it cause I'm only using the buds with my cell :()

I'm surprised how good the earphones sound for the $ though...love the details... I've heard JVC air cushions and some other generic phones which have all had some type of annoying bass hump/other annoying characteristics.

[sfrancis]

Bought the NE-7M recommended here and very happy with it. Thanks for the tip !

[fillin']

What's the shipping costs for the NE-7M? The website does not include the shipping costs when you check out. I live in Toronto btw.

[reckless]

What's the shipping costs for the NE-7M? The website does not include the shipping costs when you check out. I live in Toronto btw.

I started to checkout on the macgroup site, but they want $30 to ship the NE-7M to me and I am in London, ON!!
It's cheaper shipping direct from NuForce!

[evoviii]

Ordered two pairs of the RE2, one for myself and bday present for friend.

Looking over the reviews, it looks great bang for buck entry level IEM. Seems they are being shipped from China, which may explain the shipping sortof. I'm guessing the company operates out of Vancouver but ships from China, much like Dealextreme.

[mucat]

Thanks, OP!! Just ordered one pair of RE2.
From what I read, RE2 has better mids and highs. NE-7 has better lows. So I guess depending on the music and personal preference.

[balou911]

eh, so ive been using my pair for over a week now, and i dont think they are any better sounding over the sony mdr-ex71's ive got. the cable is much better though, doesnt taggle as easily.

[EM_K19]

I've got the E3, 4G iPod Photo driving Portapros. It makes a diff. The Portapros are quite high impedance, and tend to distort in the bass department without them. The Fiio is dead quiet. To test, just plug in your headphones without a source. Sounds like your cellphone is the culprit.

DX is sold out of the E5, but I want to get my hands on one so that I can send a line signal to it as it has volume control. Should improve it even more.

E3 with already bass-heavy Portapros? :-0 Then again, I guess it may be alright with bass light sources like an Ipod...

[xanatos]

Thanks OP, had been thinking about these.

In fact, they're showing as being on sale for $39 USD, plus $10 USD shipping.

They added a specific note that Canadian Customers should click "Outside America".

I ended up ordering the RE2 from head-direct.com, and then the Fiio E5 Amp from deal extreme.

[kud0s69]

Tagging this thread for later :)

[themagekiler]

Better or worse then the sennheiser cx55 from dell deals, just got them today unopened wondering if I should return for these instead.

[unpossible]

i ordered these a little over a week ago @ $39 US...did my research and apparently (according to head-fi) it's the best bang for the buck :D

[_RFDealt_]

Better or worse then the sennheiser cx55 from dell deals, just got them today unopened wondering if I should return for these instead.

Apparently (based on reviews), comparing the cx55 to the re2's is like comparing a toyota to a lexus, except imagine the lexus (the re-2's in this analogy) costing the same.

For the record they are cheaper than this ancient OP, $39 now. Bought a pair. Still waiting lol.

p.s. I also have the fiio e5's but am waiting for the headphones to come before using em.

[user01]

I don't normally judge but judging from the pictures, it looks cheap (as in crap) and it's from HK so you can never tell if it's real or not.. :|:|:|

[ASharp]

I don't normally judge but judging from the pictures, it looks cheap (as in crap) and it's from HK so you can never tell if it's real or not.. :|:|:|

:confused: How can they be fake? They're made and sold by Head-Direct. Why would they sell fakes of their own products? :|

With regards to quality, check out the reviews. They're not bad. Quite good for the price.

[ktc123]

Yeah, did anyone order? I'm thinking of ordering. They look like they'll fit as well as a pair Sony MDR-EX51, which is a good thing.

I ended up ordering Sound Magic PL-30 at half the price. =/


I got both the PL-30 and RE2, and just got the FiiO E5 last week,

the RE2, with higher impedance, benefits more from the E5,

but the E5 still improved the sound delivered from my Cowon D2,

my personal preference...PL-30

P.S. just for the heck of it, also ordered the fake CX500, mine delivered excellent sound, low impedance, almost on par with RE2 and PL-30, when listening to classical music;

[user01]

:confused: How can they be fake? They're made and sold by Head-Direct. Why would they sell fakes of their own products? :|

With regards to quality, check out the reviews. They're not bad. Quite good for the price.

Sorry my bad, I forgot to quote post #27. I am referring to the DealExtreme ones:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8148157&postcount=27

:razz::razz::razz:

[shneebs]

With regards to quality, check out the reviews. They're not bad. Quite good for the price.Well, after having used the RE2's for over a month now, I can vouch for the quality - they sound great! The bi-flange silicone ear pieces REALLY seal out the outside world (but you have to jam them in there). I also added the $20 Fiio E5 amp from DX - a nice addition.

Shneebs.

[evoviii]

Sorry my bad, I forgot to quote post #27. I am referring to the DealExtreme ones:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8148157&postcount=27

:razz::razz::razz:

Head direct sells the Fiio E5 for just a few bucks more, which leads me to believe they are sourcing from a similar place. I mean if dealextreme's was fake it should be a much more susbtantial discount.

Though I would agree with most of other dealextreme's products though at the same time the pricing difference is huge and well you get what you pay for.

[cocaholic]

After reading the reviews and contemplating whether the NE-7's were worth an extra $15 USD, went ahead and ordered the RE2's. $39 is a steal. Thanks OP!!

[frostiex]

Listening to a pair right now....very good sound...bass a little lacking. Been using for a day now....seems to be getting better sound...

[way2quik]

the shipping is 5USD regardless of where you are in N.A I assume.
Seems like a good price since the Canadian dollar is on the rise.

[alextruong]

how does this compare to the Creative EP630 ??

[frostiex]

how does this compare to the Creative EP630 ??

Funny, u asked...cuz I have the 630 right before these...at the beginning..I didn't like it...after a while I went back to the 630...and man...how did I think the 630s are good? It is soooo muddy. mind u...before I got these...I used to praise the 630s. but after listening to them...I can't stand them anymore...I jsut realize how much detial I was missing....the 630 sure does have way better bass...but it is muffling everything else along with it...I like the RE2s better. I have a Fiio E5 on order. That should help out on the bass department. I also have a pair of PL30 and PL11 on order for testing.

Over all, I like the RE2s so far. I used to not believe in breaking in...but man...I am now a believer...

[evoviii]

I was debating on getting the E5 figured I'll listen to the RE2's first and see. Looks like I'll probably the get the E5.

[frostiex]

the one that that I really not fon of the RE2 is how hard the cable is....I don't understand that.....:confused:

[coldpower27]

Funny, u asked...cuz I have the 630 right before these...at the beginning..I didn't like it...after a while I went back to the 630...and man...how did I think the 630s are good? It is soooo muddy. mind u...before I got these...I used to praise the 630s. but after listening to them...I can't stand them anymore...I jsut realize how much detial I was missing....the 630 sure does have way better bass...but it is muffling everything else along with it...I like the RE2s better. I have a Fiio E5 on order. That should help out on the bass department. I also have a pair of PL30 and PL11 on order for testing.

Over all, I like the RE2s so far. I used to not believe in breaking in...but man...I am now a believer...

That's the thing with earbuds, you never understand what your missing till you hear high end stuff. I thought EP630's were good before, and then I got the Westone UM-2's and wow what an incredible upgrade in sound quality.

I have the Westone 3 now and they are even better. But yeah... one thing also to keep in mind, is that you get acclimated to a sound signature as you use it. so you need to listen to new buds for a day or 2 before side by side comparisons...

[Sheed30]

Funny, u asked...cuz I have the 630 right before these...at the beginning..I didn't like it...after a while I went back to the 630...and man...how did I think the 630s are good? It is soooo muddy. mind u...before I got these...I used to praise the 630s. but after listening to them...I can't stand them anymore...I jsut realize how much detial I was missing....the 630 sure does have way better bass...but it is muffling everything else along with it...I like the RE2s better. I have a Fiio E5 on order. That should help out on the bass department. I also have a pair of PL30 and PL11 on order for testing.

Over all, I like the RE2s so far. I used to not believe in breaking in...but man...I am now a believer...

After you receive the PL30 and PL11's please come back and give us your impressions on these and how they compare to the RE2 and 630's.....

[user01]

How's the custom fees? Just curious. Might order one if there's no custom fees or extra charge... :razz::razz::razz:

[galanz]

How's the custom fees? Just curious. Might order one if there's no custom fees or extra charge... :razz::razz::razz:

No customs, taxes or duties for me.

[Whitewind]

Didn't buy the RE2's but I did buy the RE1's. It included free shipping and free E3 fiios amp (which I am probably not going to use). Hope they are as good as ppl claim:lol:

[alextruong]

i finally ordered the RE2 from head direct and a Fiio E3 from DX (head direct are selling E5 for 22 which is 5$ more than DX)

[shoppingx]

ordered one on 3/15, received on 3/26, shipped from NY
not custom or tax

[Roll]

Thanks, just ordered a pair...but shipping was $10.00 as mention on their order as- Canada..ah, is not in America..gee

[dsb101]

anyone know how long the sale will last?

[shneebs]

Thanks, just ordered a pair...but shipping was $10.00 as mention on their order as- Canada..ah, is not in America..gee

See my original post:

When you go through the checkout, it gives you two options: America ($5 shipping) or "Outside of America" ($10 shipping). I chose the $5 "America" option, and my transaction went through fine - already received my tracking number. (YMMV on the $5 vs $10 shipping.)

$5 shipping worked for me when I selected "America" shipping option but shipped them to Canada.... unless they've updated their website...

Shneebs.

[mucat]

My RE2 is here, all the way from Shanghai, faster than Newegg shipping, sweet. I was using EP-630 before, very bassy, a bit too bassy for me actually. With RE2, everything is clearer, truer, more natural. I am in heaven. And the detail, now I wish I have more than a pair of ears.

[raggydiaper]

if i buy the RE2s from Head

dx has the E5 on pre order,

how much of a difference is there between E3 and E5 with the RE2?

Thanks

[galanz]

I received mine last week and am very impressed for the price thus far. Much better sounding than my CX300's, now to compare against my Super Fi 4' and Ety 6i's.

[frostiex]

I am still waiting on my pl-30 and pl-11. My friend loaned me his E3 and man...these RE2's are GOLD. The bass is now deep and tight. I love my RE2s

:cheesygri

[mucat]

Man, this RE2 is very good, I am using my Fuze with it right now. So sweet.

Anyone tried the VS-R02PRO? I read a review, it seems to be not bad also.
And it comes with Fiio E3 for $39US.

[_RFDealt_]

I'm using the RE-2's with my FiiO E5 and they sound great. I can't say what they sound like without amping because I'm using them through a line-out dock (i.e. using the iPod but not through the headphone jack) and I need the amp to control volume.

That being said, there is a bit of added warmth when you use the bass boost of the E5. I like it.

[clem24]

if i buy the RE2s from Head

dx has the E5 on pre order,

how much of a difference is there between E3 and E5 with the RE2?

It showed pre-order when I ordered mine a few weeks ago. I got it within 2 weeks. Sound wise, there isn't much of a diff between the 2 (at least from what I can tell). The E5 has the advantage of having volume control (but I would think it's NOT enough to drive a line level output, but don't quote me on this cause I haven't tried yet but since I've gotten it, it's stayed at max), power button (nice feature), built in battery (the lithium battery lasts longer than the power hungry E3, but once it dies, then so does your E5), physically flatter and wider but I would say they both take up identical real estate, and has an EQ button (basically like "loudness" switch on a car deck - yuck). I can't say the E5 is worth almost triple the price of the E3.

But the good news is, both are cheap enough that you can order them both (i.e. the E3 is the price of a 12" sub)!

[s12345]

Already have Ety 6i so ordered RE-0.
For shipping they charge $23.87.

Meanwhile I cannot find my iRiver clix player

BestBuy has IPod Touch for 230, but I am also looking for
other alternatives, worthy RE-0..

[ktc123]

I received mine last week and am very impressed for the price thus far. Much better sounding than my CX300's, now to compare against my Super Fi 4' and Ety 6i's.

I'm thinking of getting a Ety 6i from Amzon.com (I have relatives in the USA)

the 6i has good reviews on headphone.com for its price range

...appreciate your (or anyone else's) opinions of RE2 vis-a-vis 6i

thx in advance!

[Roll]

$5 shipping worked for me when I selected "America" shipping option but shipped them to Canada.... unless they've updated their website...Shneebs.

The site had been updated saying that:

Canada Customer must select "out of America" option and pay $10 shipping

March 29 ordered..received April 3th. Listen for 2 hours already on my Cowon D2...clearer sound than EP-630. Brighter sound and no 'bloated' low end. Cable pick up more noise with the wire moving around. Cable is stiffer. Very nice purchase and the price is very good...Thanks

[gte357s]

Someone help me out. I have owned Shure e2c's, Se 210's an Shennhieser CX300's. I currently use the Shure SCL-3. I am looking to upgrade. I was thinking of shelling out big money on Westone UM2's. Will I be satisfied with the RE2's?

No, you won't, so, don't waste your money. I have a sennheiser CX400, then bought the Shure I2C-M, and looking for upgrade. Then I found a shop in HK that they have almost all the headphone for you to try out. I tried everything, Sony, Sennheiser IE7, IE8, UE super.fi.5, triple.fi, Shure 110, 210, 420, 530, Westone UM2, 3 ... I can only hear minor differences doing A/B test comparing 1 drive, 2 drivers and 3 drivers. I like the Westone 3 the most, then the second is Shure 530. The Westone 3 seems a bit coloured, but it is very riched, and bass is good. Those 2 drivers doesn't really improve that much. For Westone3 and Shure 530, it is very good, I think about 30% better SQ better than the I2C-M, but it is triple as much, ~$500. I don't think this will be better than the Shure e2c and 210. The UM2 is actually pretty good, the one I like the most with 2 drivers, better than the UE super.fi 5. So, if I want to upgrade, it is only worth while to upgrade to 3 drivers, but I can't justify paying $500 for a pair of headphone, so, I gave up on upgrade.

[lpsaad]

No, you won't, so, don't waste your money. I have a sennheiser CX400, then bought the Shure I2C-M, and looking for upgrade. Then I found a shop in HK that they have almost all the headphone for you to try out. I tried everything, Sony, Sennheiser IE7, IE8, UE super.fi.5, triple.fi, Shure 110, 210, 420, 530, Westone UM2, 3 ... I can only hear minor differences doing A/B test comparing 1 drive, 2 drivers and 3 drivers. I like the Westone 3 the most, then the second is Shure 530. The Westone 3 seems a bit coloured, but it is very riched, and bass is good. Those 2 drivers doesn't really improve that much. For Westone3 and Shure 530, it is very good, I think about 30% better SQ better than the I2C-M, but it is triple as much, ~$500. I don't think this will be better than the Shure e2c and 210. The UM2 is actually pretty good, the one I like the most with 2 drivers, better than the UE super.fi 5. So, if I want to upgrade, it is only worth while to upgrade to 3 drivers, but I can't justify paying $500 for a pair of headphone, so, I gave up on upgrade.

great info!

[Sheed30]

For anyone here in Canada who ordered the RE2's did you have to pay any duty or taxes when the RE2's cleared Canadian customs? Were the RE2's shipped from New York or elsewhere?

[mucat]

For anyone here in Canada who ordered the RE2's did you have to pay any duty or taxes when the RE2's cleared Canadian customs? Were the RE2's shipped from New York or elsewhere?

Mine came all the way from Shanghai, no duty, no taxes.

[ktc123]

Mine came all the way from Shanghai, no duty, no taxes.

ditto that, got mine awhile ago, no duties,

also ordered some headphones from focalprice as well, no duties either;

[Roll]

No duty..shipped from the States..marked as a gift in those air mail cardboard envelope u see in our postoffices

[pswart]

By the way, get NE-8 if you are more into analytical phones and NE-7 if you are more into bass colored ones. For me the choice was NE-7 since I listen to lots of electronic music but NE-8 might be better for others. I'd still say you can't lose with NE-7 either way. There's nothing even close to that price with that quality.

How would the NE-7's compare to the Ultimate Ears super.fi 5 Extended Bass Earphones?

I know that they are quite a bit more expensive, but I'm wondering if I would be better off getting the Ultimate Ears...

What about if I got the NE-7's and a FiiO E5?

[barok]

Ordered 03/30 and got it 04/03. Didn't have to pay any extra duties/taxes.

Current burn-in is 4 hours, so far it met my expectations. Mids are very noticeable and bass are so so. I heard you'll need to have at least 50 + hours for burn-in to fully hear to capabilities of these babies.

[fillin']

How would the NE-7's compare to the Ultimate Ears super.fi 5 Extended Bass Earphones?

I know that they are quite a bit more expensive, but I'm wondering if I would be better off getting the Ultimate Ears...

What about if I got the NE-7's and a FiiO E5?

I've heard that you cannot connect the NE-7's to the E5, which is why you won't find people using this combo.

On another note, I have just gotten my NE-7's today and they sound fantastic. I'm not a big audiophile or whatnot, but I'm totally in a different world using these IEMs. And the fact that you can barely feel them (cord is very light) just makes them that much better. Totally glad I picked these up.

Bought them at amazon.com total $50 USD +15 USD shipping / no tax/duties
compare with Macgroup.ca 70CDN + taxes + purolator $30 shipping cost.

[Sheed30]

Mine came all the way from Shanghai, no duty, no taxes.

ditto that, got mine awhile ago, no duties,

also ordered some headphones from focalprice as well, no duties either;

No duty..shipped from the States..marked as a gift in those air mail cardboard envelope u see in our postoffices


Thanks guys....

Wonder why some are shipped from China and others from the US?

[barold]

ordered 3/30/09
received 4/6/09
shipped from US, marked as gift, value @$10
Bought it based on the raves from you folks - recently bought a pair of active noise reduction phones and was disappointed - at the current price, was willing to take a gamble with these. Haven't yet listened, but was actually surprised to see they've downgraded the quality of the cable and plug - no more nickel plated plug - and it's a single line (which I expected). will post opinion later.

[deeplove]

anyone who owns a pair of RE2 also own a pair of mylarone earphones (x3, x3i, bijou3)?
how do they compare? I'm wondering if its a worthwhile upgrade. I currently own a pair of bijou3

[pswart]

How would the NE-7's compare to the Ultimate Ears super.fi 5 Extended Bass Earphones?

I know that they are quite a bit more expensive, but I'm wondering if I would be better off getting the Ultimate Ears...

What about if I got the NE-7's and a FiiO E5?

From one of the replies I heard that NE-7's and the Fiio E5 doesn't work (thanks!) but has anyone out there heard both of these headphones? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[s12345]

My RE0 arrived. Still do not feel or hear much improvement compared to earbuds from Sony 728 mp3 player or Ety6i (when with foam covers).

Standard buds even seems to fit and sound more comfortable.

Fiio E3 amplifier mainly enriches bass and low middle. Might add some noises/distortion.

[EM_K19]

I have the E3, and though I initially liked it, I realized that it was mainly just a bass booster and not too much else. It's good as a quick fix for people with players that have no/bad EQ settings (e.g: Ipod, Zune) for cheap price, but for a serious amp I'd recommend ibasso T4 instead. Still on the cheap side for a portable amp (low, mid $100 mark) but the detail and soundstage boost it gives is amazing.

[gzmajun]

great post
but i perfect neForce NE-7

[Ticco]

I'm wondering if you can find the NuForce NE-7M in some audio specialty store in Toronto?

[willeh]

My order took forever, I ordered on the 28th and received it on the 9th. Like a few people that posted, I have the creative EP630's also and it is an upgrade over it. I'd like to know where you can get the nforce headphones also...

[Handa]

Ordered today and it was shipped today apparently... according to Google checkout. Anyway, hope I don't have any problems with these and my 1st gen iPhone. I've had some bad luck with earphones in the past year or so :)

[Fatman]

Fang at head-direct is a great guy and this is a great deal at $49.


He carries some of my own products. Let's see if anyone can guess...;)

[coriolis]

For the nuforce NE-8/Ne-7M, the only place is from Amazon.com with a $15 shipping fee. I want the NE-8 but at $69.99 + $15 shipping, its almost $100 Canadian after conversion.

[SuckaB]

what shipping company does he use?

[Ticco]

You guys think the price will drop even lower in the future? Like end of the year?

[ipopov]

Head-direct has RE2 and Fiio E5 Combo for $49.

http://www.head-direct.com/product_detail.php?p=71

[traderNik]

Hope this thread has seen enough discussion of the Ne-7M to justify this post. I just got mine today and I have to say that I have never heard a set of IEM's for anywhere near this price that sound so good. If you love overly boosted bass, take a pass. If you like clarity and neutral response, these are amazing. You're getting that experience you get when listening to your fav music through a pair of Grados for the first time - things you never heard before come popping out.

I am going to match these with a set of Comply T400 tips which apparently give a better seal and a bit better bass response.

Just a heads up if you're considering the NuForce. The guys at head-fi say they get even better with burn-in.

[The Trees]

Hope this thread has seen enough discussion of the Ne-7M to justify this post. I just got mine today and I have to say that I have never heard a set of IEM's for anywhere near this price that sound so good. If you love overly boosted bass, take a pass. If you like clarity and neutral response, these are amazing. You're getting that experience you get when listening to your fav music through a pair of Grados for the first time - things you never heard before come popping out.

I am going to match these with a set of Comply T400 tips which apparently give a better seal and a bit better bass response.

Just a heads up if you're considering the NuForce. The guys at head-fi say they get even better with burn-in.

Where did you get the Nu-Force? Also how much with shipping as I think I am going to order a pair.

[kud0s69]

Where did you get the Nu-Force? Also how much with shipping as I think I am going to order a pair.

http://www.amazon.com/NuForce-NE-7M-Earphones-Headset-Compatible/dp/B001BL8BO4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1243407917&sr=1-1

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41UsKR-n6%2BL._SS400_.jpg

[coriolis]

http://www.amazon.com/NuForce-NE-7M-Earphones-Headset-Compatible/dp/B001BL8BO4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1243407917&sr=1-1

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41UsKR-n6%2BL._SS400_.jpg

Yeap, with $15 shipping.

Alternatively, the Mac group, an Ottawa-based Mac shop also carries it for $69.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-7M) or the NE-8 for $84.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-8).

[Roll]

Alternatively, the Mac group, an Ottawa-based Mac shop also carries it for $69.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-7M) or the NE-8 for $84.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-8).

Thanks...will think about this...just not happy with the RE2. It has been at least 40 hours wear..oh well

[blarg]

Alternatively, the Mac group, an Ottawa-based Mac shop also carries it for $69.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-7M) or the NE-8 for $84.99 here (https://www.themacgroup.ca/store/index.php?c=root&product=NE-8).

Hmmm how much is shipping for the Mac group?

[coriolis]

Hmmm how much is shipping for the Mac group?

I recall it was $1+ or so, and in the end, very similar to the Amazon price. With the USD falling perhaps it'll be cheaper from Nuforce directly since tax comes to play with th Mac Group.

[coriolis]

On my BB can't edit my post, but shipping was $10+ not $1+.

[mgl888]

Thanks...will think about this...just not happy with the RE2. It has been at least 40 hours wear..oh well

What's wrong with it?

I just got mine. Very nice! Better bass than shure se310, and more clear than my ep630s. Perfect for my needs.

I do wish the isolation would be better though. It's on pare with the ep630s, but below the shures.

[Sash[DSL]]

What's wrong with it?

I just got mine. Very nice! Better bass than shure se310, and more clear than my ep630s. Perfect for my needs.

I do wish the isolation would be better though. It's on pare with the ep630s, but below the shures.
Is this using the biflanges or the single flanges?

[CingKrab]

What's wrong with it?

I just got mine. Very nice! Better bass than shure se310, and more clear than my ep630s. Perfect for my needs.

I do wish the isolation would be better though. It's on pare with the ep630s, but below the shures.

Have you tried foamies on them?

[Roll]

What's wrong with it?

1. Isolation...could be better and I did try the different ear piece..

2. No warmth in sound with my Cowon..

3. For me, the cord is just too long..

4. The cord is stiff..and picks up the 'brushing' sound when rub..more than I want

At first..I said wow due to the clarity like in the higher notes, but there is so much fun that I can take as in listening to a violin for more than an hour..my ear seem to bleed...

Great on my laptop with lectures but not with Billie Holiday

[IBOPM]

I had the ep630's for a long time. And then I lost them and bought a $20 Sony MDR-EX51 from Winners. I was like "wtf? This thing doesn't isolate ANY NOISE AT ALL". This is very important since I take 4 hours of TTC every day.

So I went on RFD and searched earphones and found this. I bought the RE2's immediately after reading the first 3 pages. Waiting for shipping now...

Do you guys think I will be satisfied?

[Homer88]

I had the ep630's for a long time. And then I lost them and bought a $20 Sony MDR-EX51 from Winners. I was like "wtf? This thing doesn't isolate ANY NOISE AT ALL". This is very important since I take 4 hours of TTC every day.

So I went on RFD and searched earphones and found this. I bought the RE2's immediately after reading the first 3 pages. Waiting for shipping now...

Do you guys think I will be satisfied?

Did you pay 5 or 10 for shipping? :cheesygri

[IBOPM]

Did you pay 5 or 10 for shipping? :cheesygri

10, simply because it told me to.

[TruE SkiLLS]

No, you won't, so, don't waste your money. I have a sennheiser CX400, then bought the Shure I2C-M, and looking for upgrade. Then I found a shop in HK that they have almost all the headphone for you to try out. I tried everything, Sony, Sennheiser IE7, IE8, UE super.fi.5, triple.fi, Shure 110, 210, 420, 530, Westone UM2, 3 ... I can only hear minor differences doing A/B test comparing 1 drive, 2 drivers and 3 drivers. I like the Westone 3 the most, then the second is Shure 530. The Westone 3 seems a bit coloured, but it is very riched, and bass is good. Those 2 drivers doesn't really improve that much. For Westone3 and Shure 530, it is very good, I think about 30% better SQ better than the I2C-M, but it is triple as much, ~$500. I don't think this will be better than the Shure e2c and 210. The UM2 is actually pretty good, the one I like the most with 2 drivers, better than the UE super.fi 5. So, if I want to upgrade, it is only worth while to upgrade to 3 drivers, but I can't justify paying $500 for a pair of headphone, so, I gave up on upgrade.

I'm surprised you dont hear much of a difference between different single driver IEMs... either you don't know what to hear for or maybe the difference might not seem to be a big difference.

[FullMetall]

I ordered them Tuesday, and only paid $5 shipping (missed the blurb about $10 shipping). Hopefully it will have gone through.

[[buck]]

Just FYI I ordered these a few weeks ago with the $5 shipping and everything went through fine. Shipped via EMS from China, took about 2 weeks.

[wakeup3]

1. Isolation...could be better and I did try the different ear piece..

2. No warmth in sound with my Cowon..

3. For me, the cord is just too long..

4. The cord is stiff..and picks up the 'brushing' sound when rub..more than I want

At first..I said wow due to the clarity like in the higher notes, but there is so much fun that I can take as in listening to a violin for more than an hour..my ear seem to bleed...

Great on my laptop with lectures but not with Billie Holiday

I totally agree with point 1, 3 and 4. I definitely prefer my EP630 than the RE2 because of these 3 reasons. RE2 MIGHT sound better, but these 3 reasons are such huge issues for me that I don't see myself using them when I go out commuting on buses, etc.

[IBOPM]

I totally agree with point 1, 3 and 4. I definitely prefer my EP630 than the RE2 because of these 3 reasons. RE2 MIGHT sound better, but these 3 reasons are such huge issues for me that I don't see myself using them when I go out commuting on buses, etc.

I used to have the EP630 and thought they had great isolation. Since I'm mostly concerned about the isolation. Is the isolation really that bad?

[FunkMasterD]

Can anybody compare the Head-Direct RE2 with the Shure SE110?

They are both around $50 bucks, and I am having a hard time deciding between the two.

Shure SE110 Sound Isolating Earphones $49.99@TD (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=736556)

Thanks.

[Roll]

For what u received with the RE2, it is a fantastic price. On my tube preamp at home, I would use the RE2 than the Shure/EP..but I just use either of my regular over the ear headphones-Sennheiser 600/HD250

If I was outside, I would use the Shure/EP thing...and at Starbucks...and my walks..

I have not play around with the RE2...maybe they do not seal well because of their design musical sound- due to the very small openings (7 small holes) on the opposite end that goes into the ear..so they are probably not closed end phones...

..still, I am not in love with the cord with the length and what it picks up from the rubbing..

[wakeup3]

I used to have the EP630 and thought they had great isolation. Since I'm mostly concerned about the isolation. Is the isolation really that bad?

Well I've had the EP630, Panasonic RP-HJE200 and the Akg k26 and I think all of these have better isolation than the RE2. I don't think the isolation is THAT bad. But it's definitely not that good and considering the fact that I've been using the Ep630 for about a year now, it's hard to go back to a less isolated headphone. The cord also makes quite a lot of friction sound from small movements and this, to me, is extremely annoying.

[IBOPM]

Can anybody compare the Head-Direct RE2 with the Shure SE110?

They are both around $50 bucks, and I am having a hard time deciding between the two.

Shure SE110 Sound Isolating Earphones $49.99@TD (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=736556)

Thanks.

Reviews overwhelmingly in favour of RE2:
http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f103/help-me-choose-between-shure-se110-vs-re2-405963/

HOWEVER, I personally need better isolation than sound quality since I ride the TTC everyday. Hence I have decided to purchase both. Perhaps I can give an in-depth review once they get here.

btw, I PM'd Futureshop online to get the SE110 at the following cost:

$150.27 - $99.44 = $50.83 taxes in

[speedway84]

I ordered my RE2s on June 2 - paid 10 dollars shipping.

Tracked with the ems tracking (http://www.ems.com.cn/english-main.jsp) and it was shipped out of Shanghai on June 4th. The ems shipping shows up until the point it was released from customs in vancouver. (June 7)

Used my tracking code on the canada post website and found out it worked! It's in Missisagua today. Will probably have it tomorrow. Can't wait.

[FullMetall]

I paid $5 shipping and got them here in Thornhill. They seem pretty good, but the only thing I have to compare them against is the HD515 which are obviously much better.

I really don't see what makes them that good. Is it the fact alone that they are so cheap? They aren't a full sound by any means, and I don't think they do well with rock at all, and there is no bass.

[killoverme]

Needed some new headphones, stepped on my creative 630s. Using ipod ones i found laying around, not very good...

Hopefully these come soon =/

Ordered the combo, too... wanted to see the hype of the fiio e5.

$5 shipping worked for me too, shipped from China, havent recieved the package yet though

Edit: got it yesterday. They are better then the ipod ones, but eh... i have to get use to the rubber noise isolators again. the big white ones are comfortable though the others, not so much right now

[MooseOnLoose]

I bought some Head-Direct RE2's, like 'em fine, although I don't think the bass is as good as it was on my dead Sennheiser px200's.( I paid $100 for those, not a real comparison I suppose cuz they are over-ear) I paid the $5 shipping to Toronto for the RE2's, no probs.

But I don't like how noisy they are when the chord rubs on clothes... a tiny bit distracting when walking. My girlfriend was wearing them at the gym, and she really dislikes them for that purpose, because of the stiff chord, makes thumping sounds.

I decided to get her some Nuforce NE-7M's, ordered from The Mac Group mentioned in this thread. I managed to get $10 Fedex Shipping. If that does not show up as an option, call them. Or try ordering "for pick-up" and ask for the $10 fedex option in the "notes" field that comes up.

So comparison-wise, I was dissapointed... maybe the Nuforce's need "burn-in", I don't know, but I compared with the same music, and they sounded quite similar to the Head Direct RE2's to me... maybe a shade less bright, I actually think I preferred the RE2's, but they were not very different. I did not find the Ne-7m's bass to be better at all. I was looking forward to a Boom-Boom sound as an electronic pop hound. (I'll report back once they are burned in) There is no problem with the chord on the NE-7m, at least. And they come with 3 sizes of ear-buds, they are fine for us, no need to order others.

But unless the burn-in changes the Ne-7m's substantially, ($90 including the taxes and $10 shipping) for me I'd say the RE2's are much better value, UNLESS you need them for jogging, gym, or anywhere that the chord noise will bother. I can deal with the RE2's for walking, personally, and would not spend the extra for the NE-7m's just for that. If I get an Iphone, however, then I may get some for the mic as well.

My 2cents.

[takumi86]

hmm this this thread was bumped up. I've always wondered since the RE-0 is on sale for $99 (reg $169). why have no one posted it ? maybe it is not a hot deal ?

i bought one anyway.

[mrsolid]

Anyone know of a way to get your hands on a set of the NuForce NE-7Ms in Canada for anywhere near the $49 USD price available on Amazon? For some reason, shipping to Canada is $26 through Amazon, which is more than 50% of the cost of the headphones themselves! Purchasing within Canada is even worse, with The Mac Group selling these same headphones for $20 more than Amazon and then tagging at least $10 on top of that for shipping within Canada (from what I've read) for a grand total of $79 minimum. Kind of have my heart set on the NE-7Ms after the rave reviews I've seen all over the place but haven't yet found a way to actually obtain them for anything even close to the advertised $49 USD ($53 CAD) plus reasonable shipping. Thanks :D

[michael1996]

it is only $29 now.

[shneebs]

it is only $29 now.Nice catch - I just updated the title of the thread. I love my RE2's. Now thinking about the RE0's that are down to $79... hmmm....


Shneebs.

[chengbin]

If someone buys a RE2, could you buy the RE2 + E5 amp combo for $10 more?. I'm willing to pay $20 for the Fiio E5 amp. Contact me at chengbinzheng@gmail.com if you're buying it.

[shneebs]

If someone buys a RE2, could you buy the RE2 + E5 amp combo for $10 more?. I'm willing to pay $20 for the Fiio E5 amp. Contact me at chengbinzheng@gmail.com if you're buying it.Just order it direct from Dealextreme.com:

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.18350

It may take a few weeks, but they're a reputable seller. (Lots of "mentions" on RFD as either "DealExtreme" or "DX" for short)

$17.41US with free shipping from China.

Shneebs.