Etymotic ER3SE
Technics EAH-AZ100
What Buyers Say
Etymotic ER3SE
The Etymotic ER3 SE is widely praised for its neutral, uncolored sound and exceptional passive noise isolation, often described as god-tier for the price. Users highlight the need for proper deep insertion and aftermarket ear tips to achieve comfort and optimal sound, while the cable microphonics are a common frustration. The XR variant receives mixed feedback, with some finding it muddier than the SE. Overall, these IEMs are a top choice for audiophiles seeking clarity and isolation without active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Neutral, uncolored sound
- Exceptional passive noise isolation
- Great value for money
- Replaceable cable
- Comfortable with proper tips
Cons
- Pronounced cable microphonics
- Uncomfortable stock ear tips
- Requires deep insertion
- No inline mic or controls
- Not suitable for side sleeping
Technics EAH-AZ100
Users are overwhelmingly positive about the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds, praising the exceptional sound quality, especially with LDAC and Dolby Atmos, and the surprisingly effective AI-powered call noise cancellation that blocks out background noise like screaming kids or car washes. Comfort, customization via the app, and solid battery life are also highlighted. The only potential downside mentioned is the high price, but most feel the premium features justify the cost.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with LDAC
- AI-powered call noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit for long wear
- Customizable EQ via app
- Solid battery life
Cons
- High price point
- ANC slightly weaker than AZ80
Scores
Specifications
| Etymotic ER3SE | Technics EAH-AZ100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | detachable MMCX cable | true wireless |
| Ear Tips | Assorted eartips | 5 x Eartip Pairs |
| Weight | — | 0.05 kg★ |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | balanced armature | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 10 mm★ |
| Drivers | 1 | 1 |
| Freq Min | 20 Hz | 20 Hz |
| Freq Max | 16 kHz | 40 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 22 Ω | 16 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 120 dB★ | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | Etymotic ER3SE Studio Edition Earphone,Black | AAC, LC3, LDAC, SBC |
| Surround | — | Dolby Atmos |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | ✓★ |
| ANC Type | — | adaptive |
| Transparency | — | ✓★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✓★ |
| Bluetooth | — | 5.3★ |
| Profiles | — | AVRCP, A2DP, HSP, HFP, TMAP, PBP |
| Multipoint | — | ✓★ |
| Wired Connector | — | Bluetooth |
| Range | — | 10 m★ |
| Earbud Battery | ||
| Battery Life | — | 8 hrs★ |
| Charge Time | — | 2.5 hrs★ |
| Fast Charging | — | 15 min. for 90 min. playback |
| Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Case Battery | ||
| Case Battery | — | 28 hrs★ |
| Case Charging | — | USB-C★ |
| Wireless Charging | — | ✓★ |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Mic Count | — | 6★ |
| NC Mic | — | ✓★ |
| Features | ||
| Voice Assistant | — | Google Assistant, Siri |
| Touch Controls | — | ✓★ |
| App | — | Android & iOS |
| Volume Limiting | — | ✗ |
| Gaming Mode | — | ✗ |
| Bone Conduction | ✗ | ✗ |
| Water Resistance | — | IPX4 |
Pros & Cons
Etymotic ER3SE
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong sound (68th percentile)
- Strong social proof (67th percentile)
- Below average mic (12th percentile)12th %ile
- Below average connectivity (13th percentile)13th %ile
- Below average comfort (29th percentile)
- Below average anc (31st percentile)
Technics EAH-AZ100
- Strong connectivity (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong sound (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong mic (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong anc (97th percentile)97th %ile
Pricing
Technics EAH-AZ100 offers 1.9x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 100 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 20 of 40 specs.
