Soundmagic E11C

£40

Soundmagic has moved swiftly up the sonic rankings since its founding in 2005, rising from obscurity to multipleaward winners. The company’s success is largely down to its affordable in-ear headphone range, not least of which is the E11C, here retaining the budgetearbud crown that it secured for the past two years.

The E11C earphones look the same as their E10C predecessors, having a typical cylindrical, aluminium-casing design and a choice of small, medium and large silicone tips. They also have a silverplated copper cable to help reduce the loss of signal quality.

On the cable for the left earphone are the remote control and three-button mic. It’s a standard affair that will work with Apple and Android phones, giving you volume and stop/start functionality. Soundmagic may have updated the driver, but the company’s sonic signature remains familiar. Simply, the E11CS sound really good. From the off, you’re treated to a well balanced, entertaining, energetic sound.

Listen to Drake’s God’s Plan and the deep, sub-bass notes hit as they should, with decent depth and warmth, while the hi-hats tick along clearly at the top end. Drake’s processed vocals sit comfortably in the midrange and, again, clarity is a strength from these in-ears.

Aphex Twin’s T69 Collapse proves a more challenging workout, but thanks to a crisp, not too bright treble, the track’s energetic drums are delivered with life and control. The E11CS are able to deliver a well-timed and enjoyable listen, combining precision with good dynamic range to keep rhythms in check.

The sensitivity rating of 112db is high, meaning the E11C in-ears can deliver plenty of volume. It also means they’ll use less of your device’s power at average volume, which is always a bonus.

At this price we simply can’t argue with an entertaining, upfront sound – and it comes with a remote control and mic, too.