The Etymotic Research ER-6i Isolator is a compact, earbud-style set of earphones that are ideal for travel and personal listening. If you''''ve ever been a skeptic of earbud sound quality, the ER-6i will shatter the headphone myth that bigger is better.
The ER-6i features a noise isolation of 34-36 dB that far surpasses that of active noise-canceling earphones. This makes the ER-6i a perfect choice for travelers, because these earphones will actively cancel the white noise caused by traffic, trains, or airplanes. These tiny earbuds are perfect for CD, DVD, and MP3 players, as well as laptop computers. Plus, the ER-6i is designed to plug directly into most airline audio systems, so you''''ll never have to pay for those cheap, airline headphones again.
![]() ER-6 series earphones come with everything you need for a perfect audio experience |
The quality of these earphones is outstanding. They deliver such rich sound quality that even the most finicky audiophile will be impressed. The ER-6i earphones have a flat, real-ear response for reproducing CD and MP3 recordings. The sound accuracy is comparable to professional earphones, and provides surprising performance considering that the ER-6i is so compact and weighs less than an ounce.
Etymotic Research delivers outstanding comfort with the ER-6i. The flanged eartips fit snugly into most ear canals, but Etymotic goes one step further by providing disposable foam eartips. The foam eartips provide extra comfort and may offer a better seal in the ear canal. The ER-6i is designed to deliver excellent sound reproduction and big, rich bass tones. A good seal in your ear canal will ensure that you hear every detail of your favorite tunes. The ER-6i flanged eartips are easy to remove and should be cleaned regularly for the best listening experience. Etymotic Research provides you with the tools you need to keep your ER-6i clean and working properly.
![]() The ER-6i earphones have 8 dB higher sound output and increased bass compared to the ER-6 for a slightly "beefier" response |
Etymotic Design Means 100% Sonic Accuracy
A perfect recording of a live performance played through earphones with 100% accuracy would produce the same sound at the eardrum as a live performance. A complicating factor is that the acoustic resonance and "horn effects" of the ear can distort a flat signal entering the open ear from a headphone. A perfect earphone will create that same frequency characteristic (called the "target curve") at the eardrum.
Target curves on Etymotic Research graphs indicate 100% accuracy. Commercial recordings often have a high-frequency boost that compensates for the high frequency roll-off in studio monitor loudspeakers and high-quality stereo loudspeakers and earphones. The ER-6i earphones compensate for the high frequency boost added to high-quality recordings. This modification (approximately 5 dB at 10 kHz) is necessary to avoid earphones sounding too bright on commercial recordings. In addition, the ER-6i adds 8dB sound output and increased bass for a slightly "beefier" response for those who like strong bass but still want 100% accuracy on the high end.
Other in-the-ear earphone manufacturers do not report accuracy scores, but Etymotic Research has tested all competitive products. The accuracy scores of Etymotic Research earphones are higher than those of most loudspeakers, and well above all competitive earphones, except electrostatic headphones that cost thousands of dollars.
What''''s in the Box
ER-6i earphones, cord with stereo plug, one pair two-flange eartips, one pair foam eartips, two replacement filters, filter changing tool, shirt clip, and pouch.
Product Description
The 6i Isolator Earphones are designed specifically for use with the Apple iPod and other small portable players, providing greater sound output and enhanced bass. The 6i Isolator Earphones feature in-the-ear secure fit for optimal performance, highly accurate music reproduction with greater sound output and enhanced bass and exceptional noise isolation.

