Etymotic ER-20 XS High-Fidelity Earplugs Review

There are a handful of items that go with me to every concert. One of those things, arguably the most important, is earplugs. I had the pleasure of testing the Etymotic ER-20 XS earplugs at two two completely different concert scenarios in Denver last week.

First up was Tool at the Pepsi Center. Huge venue, with upper level side stage seats. From oppressively loud, to crappy mixes, you never really know what you’re going to get at any show, especially when your seats are in the rafters. Tool had their sound pretty dialed, and I wouldn’t say it was on the “too loud” end of the spectrum. Still, there was a very noticeable difference between having these earplugs in and going without at this show. This was especially noticeable with the highs and lows. And I can say, my ears would have been ringing had I not worn earplugs to this show.

The second show for me last week was The Infamous Stringdusters and Funky Meters at Fillmore Auditorium, a big contrast to the Tool show in many ways. The Fillmore is a much smaller venue than Pepsi Center, and I was also photographing this show, which put me right in front of the speaker stacks as is almost always the case when I’m shooting shows. No way I can pull that off without some sort of ear protection. Again, I noticed a difference in overall sound quality at this show, especially during the Funky Meters’ set, which was quite loud, even from an enclosed lounge at the back of the venue.

Fit

These earplugs come in two sizes, standard and large. The standard size earplugs fit me perfectly. I have no issues with them working their way out during the show, and the soft tips are comfortable enough that I completely forget that they’re in my ears. They’re low profile and hardly noticeable.

Tech Specs

ER-20 XS earplugs provide 20 dB of sound reduction.

Learn more about Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) here. And here’s some information on the importance of hearing protection.

Features

The ER-20 XS comes in a clamshell case that keeps the earplugs secure and easily opens with a squeeze at both ends of the case. I like the inclusion of a neck cord, and immediately attached the cord to my earplugs. But this is my one and only minor gripe with these earplugs. My cord got tangled when I pulled the plugs out of the case to put them in my ears after the lights went down before Tool took the stage. Attempting to untangle the cord resulted in a knot that was impossible for me to untangle in the dark. I ended up ditching the cord that night and untangling it later. I’d really like to see a thicker braided neck cord to help avoid tangles.

Bottom Line

If you attend concerts or festivals, even if it’s one or two a year, this is the best $20 you’ll ever spend.