I've owned these earphones for over a year with no problems. I use the foam tips as in the picture and get a good seal in my ear with them. This reduces sound leakage meaning you could turn these earphones UP without everyone on the subway hearing. More importantly- the earphones reduce sound from outside so music isn't ruined by noisy buses and bin lorries. The sound is bassy and if you pay attention you might notice that the high frequencies are muted which saves your ears with the drivers being so close. Vocals come across clearly through these boys, even the antlers on hospice come through. Vivo Wish by Joshua Sabin sounds very powerful through the ate-s, they can handle the rumbles but don't disappoint with the more delicate parts. Listening to magician (suture) by Milo, the ate-s show off when the instruments come together half way through. (good drums)