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Paradigm SHIFT Details Earbuds and Adds Sport Ear Hooks

By Rachel Cericola

Back in September, Paradigm announced that they were branching out to portable audio under the Paradigm SHIFT brand. In the same announcement, they promised that the E1, E2m and E3m earbuds would be coming soon. The company says that all three models are starting to ship, and have detailed specs and prices for each product.

The E1 is the entry-level model, at $49.99 each. Critically tuned to Paradigm's Monitor Series 7 speakers, the E1 features 8mm super-neodymium drivers, a sensitivity rating of 103 dB, and a rated frequency response of 10 Hz - 18 kHz.

For $99.99, the E2m bumps the sensitivity rating up to 104 dB and the frequency response to 10 Hz - 19 kHz. Another difference is that the E2m is critically tuned to Paradigm's high-end Reference Studio speakers, and features a two-piece sealed construction.

The last in the earbud lineup is the E3m. For $129.99, this model is crafted from one-piece CNC precision-machined aluminum and has a sensitivity rating of 105 dB and a rated frequency response of 8 Hz - 19 kHz. Like the other models, the E3m is critically tuned to one of Paradigm's current speaker products. In this case, it's the high-end Reference Signature speakers.

Paradigm-E3M_1.jpg
The E3m is critically tuned to one of Paradigm's high-end Reference Signature speakers.

Designed for portable personal audio, PC and gaming, all three models are built for comfort -- and killer bass, of course. That's supposedly enhanced by a rigid connection between the tip and actual earbud, which lessens the loss of low frequencies.

All three are available in black and white finishes, with an airtight seal for noise isolation. Each one comes packing three sizes of tips, a tangle-resistant 1.2-meter cord, and a padded travel pouch. The E2m and E3m also have an in-line remote and microphone on the cord, for taking calls, as well as pausing and playing music.

"We've taken every possible step to ensure the new Paradigm SHIFT earbuds stand out in the over-crowded, over-hyped world of personal audio," said Mark Aling director of marketing for Paradigm SHIFT. "We feel earbuds should sound as good as they look. Considering the depth of research and expertise put into performance, aesthetics and comfort, Paradigm SHIFT will quickly earn its place as an elite brand, inspiring a new generation of audio enthusiasts."

Besides the earbuds, Paradigm will soon ship Sport Ear Hooks. This optional accessory is sold in pairs and fits snugly around each ear to hold Paradigm SHIFT's earbuds in place. These will be available in winter 2012 for $12 per pair.

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