New IEM Earbuds... UM2s good?

Armueller2001 · #1 03-04-2007, 04:49 PM

Hey guys I'm looking to upgrade from my Shure E3c's and I'm split between getting the Westone UM2's and the Shure E5's. I found the UM2's for about $250 (still seeing if i can find them cheaper anywhere). I will probably get custom molds for these. If I don't go that route, theres always the Shure E5's but they are real pricey.

Anyone try both (with or without custom molds?)

Seattle_BassMan · #2 03-05-2007, 09:41 PM

I have the UM2's and they sound good and I get a good bass response. However, I'm not really happy with how the sit in my ears....or don't sit in my ears. This could be a very personal, subjective kind of thing, but I find they move around in my ears quite a bit which completely changes the sound. Now, when they're sitting properly, they do sound really good. I'm thinking of having custom molds made (which can be done for about $100).

I've tried several different ear pieces (foam, flange, plastic), but so far nothing that really works for me.

As for the Shure's, as a Bass player I wouldn't get anything less than the E5.

Hope this helps

ldiezman · #3 03-06-2007, 08:32 AM

UM2s are Great man, so are E5s. I myself haven't gotten molds made either simply because I am lazy... but having molds made would be a good way to go eventually.

DB5 · #4 03-06-2007, 12:54 PM

I've been using the UM2s with the custom molds for over two years. Works great for me.

Jerry Ziarko · #5 03-06-2007, 05:10 PM

For an extra $100 you can't beat the fit. Improper fit will always cause a loss of low end response. There are basically two types of after market molds. Westone and Sensaphonics both make them. The Westone are less visible but I have heard good reviews of the Sensaphonics. I have used the E5's for years but I hear from many sources that the UM-2's sound as good if not better. Also I found a place where you can buy the UM-2's for $259!! Shoot me a PM and I'll send you the link.