Digital Trends

Shure E2C Canal Phones

July 20th, 2003 | by Brandon King

Introduction

In order to review the Shure E2c, we need to give a brief explanation of what a canal phone is. Canal phones are a cross between ear buds and earplugs. They actually fit into the ear canal, and the tiny speakers vibrate the air between the drivers and the eardrum, producing sound. Since the phones seal off the movement of air in and out of the canal, outside sounds are muted and only the vibrations of the driver are pushing air against the eardrum.  Historically, one annoyance with canal phones has been micro phonics — unintentional sounds that are amplified by the design of the canal phones. Contact with the wires may produce a scraping sound and footsteps a deep thudding.

The Shure E2c series of headphones is their low-end E Series model. The models vary by the speakers used. The E Series are sound isolation earphones deisgned for regular consumer audio use. There are two properties that define the E Series: sound isolation and high-energy micro-speakers. Sound isolation is achieved by a form-fitting soft, flexible sleeve that conforms to the inner shape of your ear. Each product in the E Series also utilize small, high-energy micro-speakers to bring what Shure says is "incredibly precise sound quality directly in your ear."

According to Shure, the sound isolation is important because it makes it possible to hear greater detail at a lower listening volume than is possible with earbuds or most headphones intended for portable use. They say that low-volume listening can actually be less fatiguing over extended periods and safer than competing with background noise by turning up the volume on your headset. This makes isolating earphones an ideal choice for commuting, travel, exercise, study, work or any activity where you desire portable, high fidelity sound.

Ear isolation is totally different from noise cancellation, and according to Shure, if done correctly, can block most unwanted background noise.

Shure has been around for over 78 years and is known for creating high-quality studio and stage audio equipment for musicians. They entered the consumer market recently after musicians started telling them that they use their Shure headphones to listen to their personal electronics.

Along with the headphones, Shure includes a "personal fit kit", which includes several sizes of silicone "flex sleeves" and several sizes of foam sleeves, for a comfortable fit.