I am definitely not a bass freak. The full-range response, good dynamics, clarity, and balance are what I'm looking for. It's just that some of the headphones offering that were said to be lacking in bass (Phonak Audeo PFE, Etymotic ER-4S/P). A warm, rich bass is all I like, but clarity and precision are equally important. A lot of the reviews I read also placed the Ety ER-4 series about the ER-6 series. Could anyone who has actually tried both of these briefly explain the difference in the quality of sound that they provide?
After more research I am currently considering the following models (in this order):
Earsonics SM3 ($360)
Westone UM3X ($320)
Etymotics HF5 ($120)
Etymotics ER-4/6 (pending advice from you guys)
Phonak Audeo PFE ($160)
On the high end I was recommneded the Westone UM3X as having "Good clarity; warm, rich bass; lots of details; very comfortable and from what others have said, if you use the triple flange tips they're very good at isolation" which is exactly what I'm looking for. After-which someone posted "I'd recommend the EarSonics SM3... From what I've heard, they are similar to the UM3X, but crisper and more balanced." and the SM3s also rated best on head-fi's Top Tier IEM charts.
I'm seriously considering what episiarch said about making a lower investment and shopping around, getting good custom tips, etc. so I'm still considering the Etys. The HF5s looking pretty good, I'm just wondering if they fit the above description of good detail and clarity with warm, rich bass; if not, I'm open to another Ety model that could offer this? If not, I don't see any reason not to get the Phonak Audeo PFEs, do you guys? Thanks again for the advice so far.