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In this blog post, I will help you decide whether the Shure SE846 earbuds are a good fit for you and for your intended purposes.
This Shure SE846 review is also an addition to the article I wrote about Shure's best in-ear monitors for drummers. That article includes a comparison between Shure's best-selling iems. It is another good resource I would recommend reading.
Shure SE846 review – The most sophisticated earbuds for…?
As a professional drummer, I have been using several Shure in-ears during the last couple of years. The models I have tried out for my latest review are the SE535, AONIC 4 and AONIC 5.
Where to Buy the Shure SE846
The Shure SE846 are one of the most sophisticated in-ears, and they are available in many online stores around the world.
Click here to find them in an online shop near you.
I also own one of the cheapest models, which you can read more about in my Shure SE215 review.
Yes, I compared them all against each other, and I finally came to a wise conclusion:
Every single product is very worth every penny in its pertaining price segment!
So the good thing is, that you can't really make a mistake – no matter which model you decide for.
The Shure SE846 – of course – isn't really comparable with the other models I mentioned. It's price alone doesn't allow a direct comparison, because it's much more expensive.
How much?
Here are some facts about the Shure SE846:
Shure SE846 earbuds
The Shure SE846 are the most sophisticated earphones I have ever tried (so far). Right from the first hearing impression, I felt, that anything I listened to became more detailed and spacier. I even discovered sounds and details in songs I know for ages, which I haven't noticed before.
This top of the line model is available in the colors clear, blue and black.
The Shure SE846 earbuds are equipped with four balanced-armature high-definition micro drivers, which allow a very detailed sound pattern and a vital aural impression.
Quality
Due to the costly price, my expectations were high! The overall built-quality is very good and absolutely flawless. Everything works as promised and every single accessory in the box has its place and right to exist.
I had the feeling that the Shure SE846 plus its contents would meet buyers expectations – even at a price around $900,-.
Contents
In addition to the Shure SE846 headphones and the EAC64CL cable, you will get several ear-tips for the ideal fit, a soft transport case, a cleaning tool, 3 nozzle inserts (balanced, warm, and bright), and a 1/4” adapter.
Cost
Yes, the Shure SE846 earbuds are quite expensive. They cost $899,- which is double the price of the most popular model, SE535.
Summary
The Shure SE846 in-ear monitors are one of the best earphones available at the moment.
In comparison to the second most expensive in-ears made by Shure - the Aonic 5 and the SE535 – the SE846 has an even more detailed sound due to the 4 balanced-armature micro drivers. Another great feature of the SE846 are the interchangeable nozzle inserts (filters) for a balanced, warm and bright sound. This feature is also available in another Shure headphone at a much lower price:
The Aonic 5.
Pros
Cons
Shure se846 nozzle inserts
The nozzle inserts (filters) allow changing the sound character of these high-quality earbuds. There are 3 nozzle inserts you can choose from:
Shure SE846 filters
These are Shure's nozzle inserts, key and filters
White & Blue: The Shure SE846 plus filters
Changing the nozzle inserts
Here's a little guide on how to change the nozzle inserts using the “nozzle key” (image 2):
- Place the nozzle key (included with earphones) over the nozzle.
- Turn the key counter-clockwise to loosen and remove the threaded collar.
- Pull gently on the nozzle with your fingers to remove.
- Using your fingers only, grasp the end of the nozzle insert and gently slide it out.
- Caution: Do not use any tools or your teeth, as this could cause damage to the nozzle insert.
Shure SE846 frequency response
If you need in-depth analysis of the Shure SE846 frequency response, I recommend having a look at this website.
There's probably more information about the frequency response than you were looking for. Still, this resource will give you the insights, you may need to make a final buying decision.
In addition, here are some specifications:
Shure SE846 specs
Shure se846 wireless – does it make any sense?
Yes, the Shure SE846 is also available as a wireless version here.
If you already own a pair of these in-ears, you can still transform it to “True Wireless” buying these adapters.
BUT:
Using the Shure SE846 with Bluetooth adapters is like throwing pearls before swine!
As you can read here, there's no Bluetooth codec which can nearly deliver the same sound quality as a wired connection can do!
If you really want the best sound possible coming out of these Shure in-ears, please use a wired connection (cable), a decent headphone amplifier and the best “sound” source available.
I don't want to sound too heretical here, but when buying a Shure SE846, neither Spotify nor Deezer nor a smartphone aren't the ideal source for your music!
Of course, there are some occasions – like running – in which “wireless” is a great option. While running or doing any sport, a “hands-free” option is nice to have and sound quality – in this case – can be neglected.
Are the SE846 the BEST Shure earbuds?
Are the SE846 the best Shure earbuds ever created?
Technically, I would say yes.
Pricewise, no.
So, the decision whether the Shure SE846 are the best earbuds is quite individual and so is the decision whether its sound quality is the best in comparison to other Shure in-ear models.
If you have the money to buy an over performing in-ear headphone, go for it!
If your budget is tight, but you still want great sounding earphones for making music or listening to your favorite music, check out the SE535 and the Aonic 4 & 5 which I wrote about here.
Conclusion and final thoughts
I hope that this Shure SE846 review made it easier for you to make a final buying decision.
I'd be happy to read in the comments, which model you picked. Maybe you can also mention why you bought these in-ears and why you preferred it over another model or manufacturer.
For me personally, the Shure SE846 is really fantastic, and I enjoy using it while playing drums, while running and for listening to music.
Still, I would not spend that much money to buy my own pair of these high-end in-ears, because I am really happy using the cheaper products.
What do you think?
Please let me know in the comments.
Talk soon and enjoy making music!
