Shure SE115 earphones: Tough and pretty

By Donald Bell on 07 January 2009, 10:48am

Shure unveiled its new SE115 line of in-ear headphones on Tuesday at Macworld 2009.

Aside from being colourful (they're offered in red, blue or pink), the SE115s share the same design as the SE110 headphones, with the exception of the audio-driver technology, which has changed from a balanced armature driver to a dynamic driver.

Shure was kind enough to let us try on a pair, and the sound was undeniably beefier than on the SE110s, but lacking in the crispness associated with the balanced armature driver found in its predecessor.

We only listened to a few songs through the Shure SE115, so will reserve full judgement until we get to spend more time with them. First impressions, however, weren't Earth-shattering.

Sonically, we think Apple's £54 dual-driver in-ear headphones offer better detail and overall balance. Nothing can beat Shure, however, when it comes to construction quality.

Still, at a US price of $99 (£65), the Shure SE115s are great for bass heads and offer the same impressive build quality and professional cabling you'd find on any of the company's higher-end models. You also get Shure's unique 'black foam' ear-tip fit kit and a generous two-year warranty. UK pricing is still to be confirmed, but Shure expects them out here in the spring.