Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc. Part number: SE310W
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- If you're looking for a premium listening experience, check out the Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones. They sound fantastic and will probably outlast your MP3 player.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com Marketplace |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/02/2009 |
| SoundEarphones.com | | In stock (Get Better Price) | as of 12/02/2009 |
CNET editors' review
Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (white) price range: $249.99 - $269.99
- Reviewed by: Jasmine France
- Reviewed on: 03/05/2007
The good: The Shure SE310 earphones sound fantastic, and the durable cable features a modular design that accommodates two lengths for wear. The variety of eartips ensures that you can create an effective seal within the ear, letting you block out ambient noise and listen to your music at a lower volume (which protects your hearing).
The bad: The Shure SE310s are expensive, and some users may find the earplug-like fit uncomfortable.
The bottom line: If you're looking for a premium listening experience, check out the Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones. They sound fantastic and will probably outlast your MP3 player.
When a company creates a product that's sufficiently remarkable to garner a spot among CNET's testing equipment, chances are that's a good direction to look for further quality products. Such is the case with Shure, whose E4c earbuds quickly become our headphone of choice for MP3 player audio testing. In fact, the entire E series is impressive, which is why the company didn't stray far from that blueprint when it created its new Sound Isolating line, the SE series. Shure's latest earphone collection, which offers new sound signatures and an improved design, includes the SE210, SE310, SE420, and SE530 (just a renamed E500). The $249.99 SE310 is the subject of this review.
On first glance, you might not notice the design tweaks that Shure has made to the SE line. But closer inspection will reveal that the SE310s have a more curvaceous earpiece than that of the E series. The material is also slightly different, giving it a more tactile feel. The model color--black or white--also applies to the color of the earpiece, rather than that of the cable. In the case of the white, the coloring is more silver than white, but I actually prefer the pearlescent sheen. These are subtle changes to be sure, but welcome.
Less subtle is the new modular cable. The main Y cable is just 18 inches long to accommodate listeners who carry their MP3 players in a shirt pocket or clip it to a bag strap. But Shure also includes a 37-inch cable extension for those who still prefer to stow their devices in a pants pocket or bag. The rest of SE310's Deluxe Fit Kit includes a sturdy canvas case, a "wax guard" (for cleaning the earpieces), and various ear tips: one triple flange, three sizes of soft flex, and three sizes of foam. The latter is now tapered for an easier fit, coated for easier cleaning, and black rather than yellow.
The innards of the SE310 aren't much different from those of the E4c. In fact, the technology is the same. Shure has just changed the name from High-Definition Driver to Hi-Definition MicroSpeaker to clarify that it is indeed a piece of hardware, as most people think of "drivers" as software. Unlike the V-Moda Bass Freq, which uses an inexpensive coil speaker (hence the low price), the tiny units in the SE310 are balanced armature speakers, which allow for more precise sound.
There is one internal factor that differentiates the SE310 from the E4c, and that's the size of the port. That is, the size of the hole where the music comes out is larger on the SE310, which means the earphones offer an enhanced low-end response. Truthfully, I expected it would be pretty hard to tell the difference, but I could indeed detect a noticeable difference: the SE310's bass response is weightier and more encompassing than that of the E4c.
As far as overall audio quality is concerned, the SE310s sound as you might expect from a $250 pair of headphones: fantastic. I experienced excellent response, range, and warmth across all genres of music. The triangle in Jem's "Finally Woken" pinged away with excellent clarity, and the underlying bass in The Chemical Brothers' "Block Rockin' Beats" made me feel rather as if I were inside a speaker. I did notice one potentially negative quality: the bass can overshadow other low-end sounds in beat-heavy tracks. In Kanye West's "Gold Digger" for example, there's a blues piano accompanying the rhythm. The piano is quite clear with the Shure E4c, but slightly less so with the SE310.
So the question remains: should you upgrade from the Shure E4c to the SE310? Well, that depends. The E4c earphones offer a more balanced sound spectrum overall; as a result, you get a bit more detail in your music. However, if you want to experience more bass response, the SE310s will please your ears the most.
User reviews
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Review for high-end audio enthusiasts
by rvikul on November 12, 2007
Pros: Comfortable, good sound isolation, decent sound quality
Cons: Takes some getting used to, expensive
Summary: Comfort: These earphones are surprisingly comfortable. I have never had in-canal earphones before so I was quite anxious. The foam plugs are very comfortable.
Sound quality: If you are into ...Summary: Comfort: These earphones are surprisingly comfortable. I have never had in-canal earphones before so I was quite anxious. The foam plugs are very comfortable.
Sound quality: If you are into high end audio (I have a Linn system) this is not the ultimate earphone pair. So dont expect these to blow you away. You might want to try the S510 phones. I have not tried them. These are very good in that they actually let you hear some of the mids, which i have found to be the most lacking in earphones and non high-end audio systems in general.
Price: I cant justify buying earphones that are more expensive than my mp3 player which is why I bought these. These are still slightly overpriced IMO.
vs. Bose QC2: I also own the Bose QC2s which in my opinion are decent sounding (I am not a fan of Bose speakers. In fact I hate them). The Shures are overall better in every aspect - portability, midrange response is much better, better noise isolation (the cancellation in the QC2 is only OK). I have almost stopped using the QC2 since I got these.
Summary: Overall, these earphones are a very pleasing upgrade to stock earphones. I ride the bus a lot and these help block out most of the noise so I can listen at low volume levels. At work, I cannot even hear myself typing on the keyboard when i have these on. Its just music. Its nice. I am not sure if the SE510s are worth it if all I am going to use these are with MP3 players like the iPod and Zune. The MP3 player's quality might then become the weakest link in the chain.5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Amazing Sound, Balanced Presentation
by oak3x on October 6, 2007
Pros: Detailed Sound, Comfortable
Cons: Price, Cord Configuration?
Summary: I have the privilage of owning these amazing In-Ear-Monitors by Shure...
With a passionate appreciation for all types of music, when it comes to audio products...I research and buy ...Summary: I have the privilage of owning these amazing In-Ear-Monitors by Shure...
With a passionate appreciation for all types of music, when it comes to audio products...I research and buy only top quality. These Shure se310's represent that type of product.
The Shure se310 present music in a balanced presentation, which means the low, mid and upper frequencies are all represented in a neutral format. In addition to the above, the signature sound is what Shure is known for...amazing detail and transparency. As a further bonus, they are extremely comfortable to wear and provide excellent sound isolation.
Over the past six months, I have purchased a number of other IEM's...but have continually come back the the se310's. As a comparison, I have owned:
Shure se530 - excellent detail...but presentation is tilted to the lower frequencies more
Shure se420 - similar to the se530, but a bit darker presentation (lack of highs?)
Shure E4C - literally a carbon copy of the se310's in presentation. The se310's give you a bit more detail and bass though
UE Super.Fi 5 - nice presentation, with a bit more emphasis on the lower frequency. Vocals sounded a little recessed. Not as comfortable as Shure
UE Triple.fi - excellent balanced presentation, similar to the se310's. Not as comfortable as Shure
Etymotic ER-4P - the benchmark IEM for years. Amazing detail, especially in the upper frequency. A little bass shy though.
All in all the Shure se310's are an excellent IEM, especially if you appreciate a balanced sound presentation like I do.
Only downsides are the price and Shure's new cord configuration (18 inch with additional length extension)3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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You get your money's worth.
by drtrumm on August 6, 2007
Pros: Great Sound; Compact
Cons: Can be difficult to get into ear for best results.
Summary: I am a flight attendant who commutes on airplanes to work. I've destroyed my ears with standard ear 'buds' (the ones that come with MP3 players), schlepped around noise ...
Summary: I am a flight attendant who commutes on airplanes to work. I've destroyed my ears with standard ear 'buds' (the ones that come with MP3 players), schlepped around noise canceling monsters that needed batteries, or even had noise canceling ear buds. I hated them all on the aiprlane, specially turbo-props, where you need a sound-killer. I was intrigued by the Shure's and gave them a try at the Altitunes in SFO. The gentleman there showed me how to insert them properly, and put on some tunes... ahhhhhhhh, a commuters nirvana. Once properly inserted, any Shure headphone is a noise dampening ear-plug. They are effective without music. But put on the tunes, and you will appreciate and not worry about the price. Crystal clear highs, encompassing lows. I heard things I haven't heard in my music before (while being on a TurboProp!!!). If you want sweet headphones and you are serious about cutting out ALL of the background noise wherever you to, don't hesitate. The best part is they are unobtrusive and fit in the palm of your hand.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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PLEASE Rate the ENTIRE new SE line
by FJKB on May 10, 2007
Pros: Hello !!!! The Sound
Cons: I do not own a pair yet.
Summary: CNETs reviewing only one out of the 4 different models in the new SE line is worthless. There are obviously significant differences between the $150 "starter" model and the $500+ ...
Summary: CNETs reviewing only one out of the 4 different models in the new SE line is worthless. There are obviously significant differences between the $150 "starter" model and the $500+ top of the line phones. By not reviewing the entire line you are doing your readers a great disservice.
In Ear Earphones such as these are not easily auditioned by the normal buyer making CNETs and it's users advice even more appreciated in deciding between the vastly different models and price points. When I bought my E4s I was originally looking at the 2s or 3s but your advice allowed me to justify spending the extra cash to both myself and my wife.4 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Changed my life
by MidCenturyTechSlut on August 16, 2007
Pros: Truly fabulous sound
Cons: Sometimes I have to take them out
Summary: These are just awesome, didn't rank them a 10 because I don't know what perfection is. The sound quality is so good that I have gone back and ...
Summary: These are just awesome, didn't rank them a 10 because I don't know what perfection is. The sound quality is so good that I have gone back and re-ripped all the music I had at bit rates below 192. They also screen out enough outside noise that I use them for chamber music on the subway. They seem superior to my Bose noise-cancelling headphones in every respect. I float happily through crowds. I only wonder what the top-of-the-line ones are like!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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iPod Users and EC3 Users READ ON!
by ww05002 on July 15, 2007
Pros: Fantastic cord options, excellent bass, more comfy, tighter slpiknot
Cons: More pricey, and no warranty for accidental damage which is offered for other "toys" in this price range. -I also will still be using the yellow buds.
Summary: I use them for iPod and iPod/MP3 only. So, please take that into account as you read on.
I come from a history of knowing that it costs what ...Summary: I use them for iPod and iPod/MP3 only. So, please take that into account as you read on.
I come from a history of knowing that it costs what it costs when it comes to entertainment. I have an 37inch LCD for my PC, a 58inch plasma for TV and a 106inch HC gray screen/1080P DLP for my movies. All linked with harmony890. That being said...I needed the best I could get when it came to my 80GB iPod. And I really liked the price point of the EC3's and 4's but after an electric skateboarding accident, I had to replace the iPod (free with my warranty) and the headphones (not free). I searched to find the best deal on EC3, but came across the 310's.
After hearing them with my new iPod (same songs/bitrate) I can truly hear a difference. The bass is Sooo much more pronounced. I felt like I had that rumble feeling which I have only gotten from over the ear cans... and the highs are equal if not better. than the 3's or 4's. The comfort is better due to the strap on the back being improved, and most of all I thank the company for being smart enough for putting out a product that has an extension cable to it. The buds come as 18inchs with a 3ft cable for extension. (for breast pocket or back pocket optional use) ...Had I had this during my spill on my skateboard, I would have only needed to replace the extension cable, not the whole thing. (due to the stereo tip being damaged).
I do , however, like the yellow earpieces better (personal preference) but the new black ones are decent ...the price is about right, but possibly a little high...but the main thing I would like...(TAKE NOTE HERE SHURE!!!) -is the option to warranty this product for accidents. When you have a price this steep I would wish I can insure my purchase. A shuffle for 79.00 even has an option for it...why not headphones for 250.00-500.00????
Aside from that...
Thank you Shure. Thank you for a product I can enjoy, to better hear my music.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Sound With Proper Fit
by dahnb on July 3, 2007
Pros: Excellent balance; great bass for buds; short plug perfect for t-shirt pockets
Cons: Minor- buds need frequent adjustment if your doing anything physical
Summary: For $200+ they better sound good! I demoed a few other buds in their price range & could have lived with most of them.
I got the Shures because they ...Summary: For $200+ they better sound good! I demoed a few other buds in their price range & could have lived with most of them.
I got the Shures because they were the most comfortable for me & I love the short cord.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Major disappointment in noise cancelling and durability
by traveldrew67 on November 25, 2009
Pros: Really cool and compact design.
Cons: I laugh at myself for believing these could actually do any noise canceling. They fit poorly and the sound quality (and I bought one of the expensive pairs) is no better than the $30 earbuds. At the gym, I still hear all the noise...Save your $$
Summary: Save your money and really review on line what is best. I even was stupid enough to replace the set of ear buds that broke. Why or why? I listen ...
Summary: Save your money and really review on line what is best. I even was stupid enough to replace the set of ear buds that broke. Why or why? I listen to opera and classical mainly and that is how they sold me on these things. I just ordered the new Bose Q15s and will see how they do on my next plane ride. Really, no reason to spend the kind of money that Shure wants. They simply do not work very well.
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Good while they lasted...
by Splicer on October 27, 2009
Pros: Very good sound, worth what i paid, customer service was great for me.
Cons: Had one for about 6 months, one side began to have distorting sound in it, sent in and they shipped me another pair. 6 months later now black isolating cable has ripped and is now exposing the wire.
Summary: Best earphones I have owned so far, had about 6 months lifespan before something went wrong on first set and then again in the second set. Loved them every minute ...
Summary: Best earphones I have owned so far, had about 6 months lifespan before something went wrong on first set and then again in the second set. Loved them every minute they worked.
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Speaker faulty to unconcern from Shure
by ask4it on September 23, 2009
Pros: great fit, originally a decent sound
Cons: left speaker began to sound fuzzy, even at fairly low volume. Contacted shure who basically said 'tough'. An expensive mistake. They even had the cheek to tell me where I could buy a replacement pair. Beware
Summary: a lot to pay for no interest in customer satisfaction.
Summary: a lot to pay for no interest in customer satisfaction.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
- Part number: SE310W
- Description: Sound Isolating Earphones are a special type of earphone developed originally for musicians trying to monitor their performance in loud onstage environments. They work by using soft foam or flex sleeves to seal out background noise, allowing small, high-performance MicroSpeakers to deliver incredibly precise sound directly into the ear. This isolated listening area creates a quiet, intimate experience often allowing listeners to hear subtleties in recordings that they may have never noticed before. Building off the success of its E Series Sound Isolating Earphone line, Shure offers its SE310 model, representing the next generation of premium audio accessories. Shure SE310 builds on everything that is great about its predecessor, while offering consumers a number of unique attributes including new sound signatures, modularity, style and ergonomics. The SE310 utilizes a Hi-Definition MicroSpeaker with Tuned BassPort technology, which showcases extended range audio, enhanced bass for optimal high frequencies, and enhanced low-end performance.
General
- Product Type Headphones
- Series Sound Isolating
- Weight 1 oz
- Color Black, White
- Available Body Colors Black, white
- Additional Features Gold plated stereo plug, Sound isolating design
Headphones
- Headphones Type Headphones - Binaural
- Headphones Form Factor In-ear ear-bud
- Headphones Technology Dynamic
- Connectivity Technology Wired
- Sound Output Mode Stereo
- Response Bandwidth 22 - 19000 Hz
- Sensitivity 111 dB
- Impedance 28 Ohm
- In-Cord Volume Control Yes
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x Headphones ( Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm )
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included 1 x Headphones cable - External - 3 ft, 1 x Headphones cable - Integrated - 1.5 ft
- Included Accessories Carrying case, 3 foam sleeves, 3 soft flex sleeves, Triple flange sleeves
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 2 years warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 2 years
Product series
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Shure SE210 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, White, 1 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug, 2 years Limited warranty Parts and labor
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Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, Black, 1 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold plated stereo plug, Sound isolating design, 2 years Limited warranty
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Shure SE420 Sound Isolating Earphones (white)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, Black, 1.1 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold plated stereo plug, Sound isolating design, 2 years Limited warranty
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Shure SE530 Sound Isolating Earphones
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, 1.1 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug, 2 years Limited warranty Parts and labor
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Shure SE530PTH Sound Isolating Earphones
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, Ear-bud, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, 2 years Limited warranty Parts and labor
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Shure SE210 Sound Isolating Earphones (black)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, Black, 1 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug, 2 years Limited warranty Parts and labor
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Shure SE310 Sound Isolating Earphones (black)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Ear-bud, Black, 0.1 lbs, Stereo, Gold plated stereo plug, Sound isolating design
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Shure SE420 Sound Isolating Earphones (black)
Manufacturer: Shure Inc.
Specs: Headphones, In-ear ear-bud, Black, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold plated stereo plug, Sound isolating design, 2 years Limited warranty Parts and labor
Manufacturer info
- Shure Inc.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Shure Inc. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.shure.com
- Address:
5800 West Touhy Avenue, Niles, IL. 60714-4608 - Phone: 1-847-600-2000
- Email: info@shure.com
- Fax: 1-847-600-1212
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