IEM is designed for musicians and audio engineers for a mix of stage and vocal instrumentation. Prices vary, but you’ll find the best IEM under $500, such as Shure Sound isolating triple drive, Westone W40 Four- Driver True Fit Earphones, and FiiO FH7 5-Drive (1DD+4BAs) Hybrid In-Ear Earphones, plus the other three products reviewed here for value for your money.
Yes, revolutionary changes are coming into the music industry each year, and music enthusiasts are adopting these trends. IEM is among the smartest devices that have made music tours, singing, and performance easier. So, if you’re a producer or musician, IEM is a must-have device for your consistent and precise monitoring on stage and in the studio.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional or a beginner, a great set of IEM will improve your monitoring. It enables a consistent mix while giving you control over what you hear on-stage. Unfortunately, its heavy fold-back and loudspeakers monitors can cause pain, ear damage, and fatigue when worn for longer working hours. However, good-quality IEM sometimes proves to be a financial burden. But don’t worry, we’ll help you out; here, we present a compiled list of the best IEM under $ 500 that will suit your needs without breaking your bank.
Read on!
What The Best IEM Under 500 Dollars?
Shure Sound Isolating Triple Driver Earphone: Best Top Choice
There is nothing greater than indulging in music by wearing these premium-quality earphones. The model is spacious, offers an exceptional listening experience, and provides high-quality sound. Additionally, they are easy to maintain and comfortable for long time wear.
FiiO FH7 5-Drive (1DD+4BAs) Hybrid In-Ear Earphones-Best Durable Option
These elegant shells, like water waves, are made of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy. A fix-axis CNC machine also trims it. FiiO FH7’s durability is outstanding, and it will serve you for quite a while.
Westone W40 Four- Driver True Fit Earphones– Best For Versatility
Well, these are the right match earphones to satisfy all your music needs. The model features great innovation to designing, and it has proven its versatility and high performance. Moreover, they are compatible with apple and android devices for great versatility.
Audio-Technica ATH-E70 Professional In-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones-Best Lightweight
It’s among the lightweight model on our list that offers excellent music quality and sound isolation. Apart from its comfortable fit, the model allows precise balancing and a perfect mix of sounds as if you’re in the studio.
Moondrop Blessing2 1DD 4BA Hybrid Technology In-Ear Monitor Earphones– Best Affordable
It’s the affordable model in our list that features an effective hybrid configuration that tunes the sound for soothing bass. This beautiful and durable model is worth the price.
Simgot EK3– Best For Elegant Design Option
The model appearance is elegant, which gives it an overall handsome look to the personality of a music lover. Apart from that, its popularity is also due to bright vocals, balanced tuning, and natural sounds.
Comparison Table Of The Best IEM Under $500
| Product Name | Weight | Brand |
| Shure Sound Isolating Triple Driver Earphone | 15.4 0unces | Shure |
| FiiO FH7 5-Drive (1DD+4BAs) Hybrid In-Ear Earphones | 1.15 Pounds | FiiO |
| Westone W40 Four- Driver True Fit Earphones | 0.45 0unces | Westone |
| Audio-Technica ATH-E70 Professional In-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones | 6.6 0unces | Audio-Technica |
| Moondrop Blessing2 1DD 4BA Hybrid Technology In-Ear Monitor Earphones | 1.1 pounds | Moondrop |
| Simgot EK3 | 10.4 Ounces | SIMGOT |
Top Six Best IEM Under $500 Reviewed In 2021
$500 is a significant amount when it comes to buying IEM products. We are also aware that several in-ear BA monitors on the market are over a thousand dollars. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a great device within that budget. We know you’d wish to get the best one for your hard-earned money. In our article, we’ll look at the affordable quality IEM that cost under $ 500. Be assured that you’ll not be let down by choosing any of the models discussed below.
Shure Sound Isolating Triple Driver Earphone
Key Features
1. Detachable cable
2. Sound isolating design
3. Triple high-definition drivers
4. Three hundred sixty degrees’ movement of MMCX connectors
5. 37 dB, voice cancellation
Product Specs
| Dimension | 4.5 x 4.5 x 3.25 inches |
| Weight | 15.4 ounces |
| Item model number | SE535-CL |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Fit type | Over-Ear |
Pros
1. Very comfortable to wear
2. It’s easy to maintain.
3. Spacious and high-end performance
4. Natural bass
Cons
1. It doesn’t deliver deep bass.
There is nothing greater than indulging in the music by wearing excellent quality earphones. Shure sound isolating triple driver earphone does all that by providing high-quality sound and its specious.
The detachable cable system offers multiple connectivity options. They are easy to maintain, and; you don’t need to clean them by using different complex tools for prolonging life. When exploring the best IEM under 500, sound-isolating design is what we also look at. Thankfully, this device can cancel 37dB of voice to provide you exceptional listening experience.
This gold-plated MMCX connector offers 360 degrees’ rotation for easy movement anywhere you want. They are perfect for long-time use and over the ear, feature keep the wire away from getting in the way. The device fits securely, so there is no need for adjustment from time to time. Moreover, they are travel-friendly and suitable for every music lover out there.
FiiO FH7 5-Drive (1DD+4BAs) Hybrid in-Ear Earphones
Key Features
1. 4 Knowles DFK+SWFK BA driver unit plus 13.6 mm large beryllium diaphragm dynamic driver
2. Litz monocrystalline copper-plated silver wires
3. Excellent construction
4. S. turbo V2.0 design
5. Soothing sound filters
6. 3-spin fit ear tips
Product Specs
| Dimension | 8.11 x 6.1 x 3.19 inches |
| Weight | 1.19 pounds |
| Item model number | FH7 |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Fit type | In-Ear |
Pros
1. It comes with an MMCX cable.
2. Noise cancellation
3. Excellent design
4. Rich and warm sound
5. Perfect bass structure
Cons
1. Very delicate MMCX cable
This model is designed to handle ultra-high frequencies and deliver premium, high-end performance. The shell-like water waves of this model give the whole device an elegant look. They are made of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and are also trimmed by a five-axis CNC machine. In addition, the model comes with exotic-inspired sound tubes to perform at the highest capacity while making frequency response great.
A robust three-point structure prevents distortion while keeping you focused. To enable you to get the purest sound out of this IEM without experiencing painful sharp noise. On top of that, they are durable.
The device is suitable for the type of genre you choose to play. The sounding of this model is soothing to ears due to three sound filters that make the ideal environment to perform. Moreover, 8-strands of silver wires enhance the good quality. In comparison, MMCX connectors can be switched easily to priorities your comfort.
Westone W40 Four- Driver True Fit Earphones.
Key Features
1. It has four balanced armature drivers with a three-way crossover.
2. MMCX audio cable
3. MFI 3-button cable
4. Noise cancellation
5. Silicone comfortable foam tips
6. Impact-resistant monitor vault
Product Specs
| Dimension | 4.25 x 2.25 x 7.25 inches |
| Weight | 0.45ounces |
| Item model number | W40 |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Fit type | In-Ear |
Pros
1. Ergonomic and compact design
2. Soothing wound.
3. Very precise bass
4. Comfortable
Cons
1. Hard to clean tubes
Westone W40 is among the top IEM model under $ 500 that produces a sound that will take your listening experience to a great new level. Its magnificent innovation to its great designing always proves its high-end performance and versatility. Moreover, this incredible model is compatible with apple and android devices to enable its full functions.
The model is precise in mid-range, articulate lows as well as impressive high making it special. Whereas its compact, low-profile, and ergonomic design makes it a perfect match to satisfy your music needs. Additionally, its twisted MMCX audio cable offers voice cancellation features.
Silicone and comfort –foam tips enhance the comfortability of this product, making it suitable for long hours of use. At the same time, the four-armature balanced drives generate exceptional frequencies without changing their layout composition.
Audio-Technica ATH-E70 Professional in-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones
Key Features
1. 3-balanced armature drivers
2. Flexible memory Cable
3. Detachable cable
4. 6.3m (1/4) plug-on adapter.
Housing for noise cancellation
Product specs
| Dimension | 3.43 x 3.9 x 5.39 inches |
| Weight | 6.56 ounces |
| Item model number | AUD AATHE70 |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Fit type | In-Ear |
Pros
1. Durable detachable cable
2. Maximum sound isolation
3. Comfortable to wear for a longer period
4. Flexible cable for natural sound
Cons
1. Product durability is questionable.
Users enjoy excellent music quality and sound isolation from Audio-Technica ATH-E70. In addition, the model comes with three balanced armature drivers responsible for providing a full range of frequency by balancing the sound.
Plus, the custom and comfortable fit of memory cable fit on the ear is perfect. The wires fit securely over the ear, meaning there is no need for regular adjustments. Furthermore, its accuracy enables precise balancing and a better mix of sound like you’re in the studio. It gives the feel of a live concert due to its soft beats and natural bass.
Lastly, sound isolation is up the ladder, and there are no chances of distortion. The housing is perfect for users who like to focus on every beat, with the detachable cable offering flexibility and durability to balance music.
Wearing the IEM for a long period doesn’t hurt your ears due to silicone ear tips. Carrying cases are also provided for comfortable carrying and storage.
Moondrop Blessing2 1DD 4BA Hybrid Technology In-Ear Monitor Earphones
Key Features
1. 1DD + 4BA configuration Hybrid and three frequency division
2. Stainless steel CNC covers.
3. 3D printed high-precision filters
Product Specs
| Dimension | 4.3 x 7.48 x 7.87 inches |
| Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Color | Silver |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Fit type | In-Ear |
Pros
1. Noise cancellation
2. Exquisite and comfortable design
3. Comfortable for long-time use
4. Soothing cinematic sound
Cons
1. Large earbuds
The model features a hybrid configuration to tune the sound for soothing bass while offering quality music. You will be amazed by its appearance; the product looks beautifully elegant. It has a 3D printed high-precision filter used for cleaning out the music for a smooth and distortion-free sound. Moreover, it comes with VDSF for dynamic density and high-quality sound.
Durability is taken care of by stainless cover with the exterior allowing you to carve anything, thanks to its customization. In addition, the consistent phases throughout a band limit the connection problem.
The music layout also stays the same as the model is very spacious and offers refined sound for delivering natural sound.
Simgot EK3
Key Features
1. Four tuning models
2. 3 BA drivers
3. They have a silver-plated detachable cable
4. 3pairs of ear tips
5. It has a Medical UV cable resin cavity from Germany
Product Specs
| Dimension | 8 x 6 x 2 inches |
| Weight | 10.4 ounces |
| Item model number | EK3-Clear |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Fit type | In-Ear |
Pros
1. Free from ear irritation.
2. Flexible and adjustable cable
3. Bright and balanced sound
4. Natural sound
5. It’s a light and compact model
Cons
1. The model ear tips require improvement.
Simgot EK3 3BA+ 1DD in-ear monitor headphones have a great appearance with balanced and bright vocals. The four different tunings offer you a great music experience. They are made of medical UV integral molding, and it’s perfect to wear for a long time without ear irritation. The resin cavity is very light and stays fit in your ear by offering sound isolation.
Furthermore, the ultimate sound experience of this product features 3BA drivers that generate natural sound. While the comfortable, soft, and detachable cable improves sound performance. It’s flexible, and you can adjust in any position. The protective carrying case is among its accessories to keep them safe from any damages. In short, the overall appearance of the product is elegant to music enthusiasts.
Buying Guide For The Best IEM Under $ 500 In 2021
IEM devices are generated annually by several known audio giants and smaller companies. However, only a few match the potential of their price. Good IEM products might cost more, but the reverse is not always true. You need to have a quality IEM device to enhance your personal music experience. For you to get a perfect model under $ 500, the following are a few things you need to consider:
Comfort
Comfort should be your priority if you plan to wear the IEM’s for a prolonged period. Some of the features that play the overall dimension include weight, material, and shape, etc. You have to find a suitable pair that fits comfortably, as this might vary from one person to the other.
Frequency Response
As a producer or a musician, this is a very significant feature when buying an IEM. A great pair should generate a full audible spectrum ranging from 20HZ to 20,000 Hz with accuracy.
Noise Cancellation
We know how irritating one feels when sounds from the surroundings are not letting you focus on the track while listening to music. To avoid such disappointment, check for a noise cancellation feature when purchasing your product. It will help you enhance the music experience and feel every beat of your favorite song in your soul. Additionally, you’ll be safe from distortion and uncalled-for sharp motes.
Drivers
They are responsible for creating the perfect blend of beats while keeping the sound balanced. Yes, they are the ones that convert an electrical signal into the sound we hear. The number of drivers in an IEM is probably a crucial feature, as more drivers offer benefits like extended frequency brackets and extensive dynamic ranges. Lower frequency results in limited frequency range and lack of outstanding efficiency.
Compatibility
While purchasing an IEM, it’s pretty necessary to check its compatibility features with all your devices. A great model should be able to incorporate into your mobile setup and professional studio.
Wire
Depending on the use and instruments being played, it’s essential to decide whether the wireless or wired one will be perfect for your needs. For example, wired one is a suitable option for drummers and producers to avoid the risk of interference and audio failure—similarly, keyboard players, guitarists, and singers benefit more from a wireless model.
Cost
You’ll not want to waste your time looking for devices that are not within your budget range. However, since you have your budget, try to look for the product within the budget that you can maximize to the fullest; go for a product worth its cost under your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is It Possible To Customize My IEM The Way I Want Them?
It depends on the cover of IEM earbuds. If you’re using the one with stainless steel hardcover and exterior, it’s easy to customize. However, cheap quality ones may not be possible for you to customize.
2. How Long Should I Use An IEM Device To Avoid Ear Infections And Allergies?
Music enthusiasts often keep them plugged to their ears to listen to their favorite always. Although it’s advisable to use them for more than 4 hours of continuous playtime as it may cause infections. Irritation and itching are usual signs of allergy when using them for more than the stipulated time. So use suitable earbuds and keep the time track while using these products.
3. How Do I Choose The Best IEM Under $ 500 That Is Suitable For Me?
First, evaluate the music requirement before buying the suitable one. Then, pick the one with all the features you’re looking for. Meanwhile, you can consider the product which we have rated in our article. The buying guide will be of great use, too; look at the specific things to consider for the best IEM device.
Conclusion
IEM is an essential yet expensive investment, so it’s good to have thorough knowledge, especially when on a budget. With several brands and all the different features, finding the best isn’t an easy task. However, picking any of our top picks guarantees you quality and value for your money.
