overall , I have have a somewhat different experience with sennheiser 's product than most . although it seem many be enamor with this particular manufacturer 's high quality earbud , I have to say I have yet to be impressed . mind you , this do not extend to Senn 's high-end model , which be understandably phenominal . but as a purveyor and reviewer of lower end earbud , I have to admit sennheiser seem to like to snub they customer a bit . I hate the much beloved cx300 -- overly boomy , otherwise not too great , and asymmetrical cable length -- and these one be not too much better . in the bud ' defense , the sound be crisp and clear -- treble just sing out to you , and mid range be deliver both capably and with full presence without overwhelming the listener . the `` powerful bass '' quality be a joke , however . my $ 13 pair of Panasonics outbump these $ 20 baby hand down , and generally be just more satisfying to listen to . the treble have a slightly less sharp edge that just seem to work with my ear better . build quality on these be unimpressive , too : the cord be thin and cover in a somewhat sticky rubber coating . this make not only untangle the cable a mess , but it also make use the build in cable separator a complete and utter pain , not even worth the trouble of fight against the friction . the driver casing feel cheap , also . it probably will not crack in you hand or anything , but it be clear the plastic they use be a bit lighter and fluffier than what one would have hope . but then again , for $ 20 , they be not go to surround it in tank armor . still , I think you could do a bit better for the cash . overall , I can not really give these a thumb up .