Should drop the SE535. I am not sure if I want to try other IEM brands because how well the SE215 fits me. I wear earphones few hours each day and they don't feel uncomfortable in any way even after long duration of use. Even when I lie on my side in bed, the IEM does not feel uncomfortable when pressed against the pillow. I also never have to worry about it falling out at the gym. I am sure the SE315 is just as comfortable but I am looking for a bigger upgrade at the moment.
Apr 21, 2017
A community member
Apr 22, 2017
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FaceMcBashyare you wanting someone to sell you on this or are you just thinking out loud?
FaceMcBashyThey dropped the SE535 a few weeks ago, actually. I did not get mine from the drop, but I had my SE535 from a few years ago, and here's what I think of them:
My impressions is that if you enjoy the SE215, you may not enjoy the 535. The 535s are revered in the audiophile community, but they're seriously not fun at all. They are extremely analytical to me, however. That may be what you're going for, though.
The mids are awesome. That's about all I can say about the 535s. The bass is seriously lacking - this is not a bass you can feel. Very minimal sub-bass. Instrument separation is pretty good. Highs are good, although this IEM is pretty sibilant and fatigued me often. Fit was great. Isolation was great.
In the $400 price range, I much prefer the Westone W series (W30 is what I have), and the SE535 is not worth it at all for just an average listener.
zoroashI bought the 535 when it dropped. I don't think I have listened to enough earphones to really appreciate it since the only other one I listened prior was the 215. The difference is noticeable but not as big as I would hope. Probably because both have similar sound signature. It doesn't offer anything dramatic but it is just very nice sound. I hate having buyer's remorse later down the road so that is why I skipped to the 535 so I won't be curios down the road and buy it after buying a 315 or 425.
FaceMcBashyI feel the same way. The $200-500 price range seems to have diminishing returns, it seems. I heard that Campfire Audio is great, but for now I think my favorite is going to be the Sennheiser IE80.
FaceMcBashyI have the 215's but then skipped the rest and went for the 846's when they dropped. Then ending up getting them cheaper somewhere else. But I'm STILL curious how the 535's sound...
zoroashWhat?!
The SE535 is far from analytical, it is warm, lush with liquid mids and very smooth treble. Are you using silicone tips, or foam?
Made sure you're getting a good seal?
I wanted more treble sparkle from them, and found the bass was never lacking. I think you need to try some different tips if you find it lacking.
I don't think the audiophile community would ever say they are analytical. The SE425 is much more monitor like, with slight roll off on both ends.
OstewartI had tried every tip, and every one that fit sounded the same as my description. One thing to note is I had the ltd edition red SE535, so there could be a difference there.
zoroashThe audiophile community doesnt really care for the 535 though. Its too rolled off and boring. Sure, when it first came out it was pretty good, but there are MUCH better options in its price range now.