|  Etymotic
Research is a company that has expertise in electroacoustics and hearing science.
Basically they develop hearing products that include everything from hearing-aid
chips to hearing protection devices. Their earphones designs are used in audiology
clinics, research laboratories, recording studios, live performances and by many
consumers who want high quality audio for their portable music players. Etymotic
Research has recently introduced the ETY•COM Headset designed specifically
for cell phone use. Like other in-ear products we have seen, the ETY•COM
earphone is held in place primarily with the eartip that is placed into the ear
canal. The advantage of this design is the in-ear transducer also works as an
earplug that greatly reduces background noise. Since the headset is only placed
in one ear, the other ear is completely free to hear normal sound levels. Priced
at $69, the ETY•COM Headset is not cheap, but then neither is its performance.
 The
ETY•COM Earphones include a convenient carrying pouch along with an assorted
selection of eartips. Velcro keeps the carrying case flap in place. A filter and
filter-changing tool are also included. The filter not only smooths the frequency
response when installed, but also acts as a barrier for earwax entering the earphone.
Etymotic recommends replacing the filter if sound quality degrades, most likely
due to wax clogging the filter. Another good reason to keep your ears clean..
Performance
We used our inexpensive LG VX3200 cell phone connected to the ETY•COM headset
for our testing. My personal preference included the orange colored eartip that
worked much like earplugs used in noisy environments. This kept the headset firmly
in place. Simply squeeze the foam and in time it would expand to fit snugly in
the ear canal. These provided the best performance during my time spent with the
product. Sonically, the ETY•COM worked well and the microphone that extends
from the earpiece is small and didn't get in the way. This is one of the best
products we have used with our cell phone. Conclusion
The ETY•COM is a great design that worked well with our cell phone. The noise
isolation provided superior performance and the product was comfortable to use.
The adjustable microphone produced clear dialog to the listener while providing
hands-free operation. The small clip included on the cable prevented the cord
from pulling on the headset during normal use. We are sold on in-ear designs not
only for cell phones, but for music as well. We look forward to reviewing some
of the other Etymotic Research products geared for high quality audio reproduction. -
Kevin Nakano | 
