What Hi-Fi? Verdict
Best in-ears up to £40, Awards 2013. The E10s look and sound like they’re worth much more than £35, which makes them an absolute steal
Pros
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Very affordable
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good build and styling
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a very detailed, dynamic and exciting delivery for the cash
Cons
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At this price, nothing
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Blimey, what a treat these little SoundMagic in-ears are. For a start, they look like they’re worth way more than £35, thanks to a well-made metal casing that looks snazzy in any of the three finishes.
They punch well above their weight in terms of sound quality, too. Play Seasick Steve’s brilliantly raw Happy (To Have a Job) and the E10s reveal all the incidental noise of the room and the soft hiss of the unashamedly unpolished, acoustic recording.
MORE: Awards 2013
Video review
MORE: Best in-ear headphones
When he breaks it down to the more raucous action, they keep pace brilliantly, producing solid, precise leading edges and marshalling the different beats with ease.
The bass drum is weighty and insightful, the treble sparkles, and the vocals are clear and nuanced.
Another bonus is the effective noise-isolating fit the E10s achieve.
In other words, these are exceptional for the money, and the new affordable choice for those looking to upgrade those bundled buds.
