Question about earbud sound isolation

[E-Stat]

I've always had the suspicion that most companies that make earbuds are not interested in sound isolation for fear of being sued (ipod-wearing skateboarder couldn't hear truck comming, etc.).

I use Shure E-3Cs that offer good isolation on my travels by air. You put them in the ear canal to create a good seal. (they come with three different size inserts to accomodate different sized ears) They work great on screaming children as well!

With other cans I've tried - namely the Senns and Bose - I've always had to turn the volume up too high which is not only bad for one's ears, but would probably be even worse with earbuds.

On a recent trip, I met a guy who had the Bose headphones and tried them out. The Bose phones had dismal sensitivity and offered really no better sound insulation.

The Shures are highly recommended.

rw