Solution to background hiss with in-ear phones

[kauffee]

While this isn't a problem with the iPod (the 4G audio defect notwithstanding), I've had trouble using my canalphones with a number of other sources such as my desktop computer, laptops, and a few portable CD players due to the background "hiss" from these noisy sources. Well, I saw a post on head-fi the other day about using a level attenuator to add resistance and thus cut down on the noise. I'm happy to report that it seems to work very well. I got this one at my local Radio Shack for $6:
http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=42-2559

Basically, turning down the volume on the level attenuator and turning up the volume on the source seems to elminate the noise. This works well with both my UE5c's and E3c's.

[SketchySmurf]

Interesting. I get a ton of hiss (between tracks) from my shuffle. Anybody else try this fix out?

[SketchySmurf]

kauffee,
How are your ue5cs holding up? Mine are coming literally any day now. Just would like to hear about someone experiences x amt. of months out...

[kauffee]

They are holding up fine... no changes, really, except that the cord turned a little green. Rumor has it the new cords solve this problem, though.

[SketchySmurf]

kauffee,
Was there a break-in period for you? Just got mine in the mail this morning. I should post my impressions in due time

[kauffee]

No, I don't think so at all. Having had a number of canalphones at this point, my firm opinion is that there is no burn-in period for balanced armature drivers. I just don't think there's any change in sound. That being said, if you're not used to calnalphones and balanced armature drivers, you will definitely need some time to adjust to the way they present music.

I'm interested to hear your impressions. How's the fit?