SoundMagic E11C Review: A Captivating Budget Earphone Choice

Explore why SoundMagic E11C remains a top wired earphone pick, blending great sound and comfort in an affordable package.

A Brief but Bright Beginning

Sometimes, the freshest brands surprise us the most. Founded in 2005, SoundMagic E11C is a relatively new player in the vast audio world, yet it quickly carved out a niche, especially with budget-friendly in-ear monitors. Their knack for delivering quality on a dime has earned them plenty of praise, and the SoundMagic E11C is a shining example of that legacy.

Launched back in 2018, these earphones still hold their ground in 2025. As a music lover who’s cycled through countless buds, I can confidently say: the magic is very much alive. E11C continues to be a favorite for anyone hunting for wired in-ear headphones that don’t skimp on quality or sound.

Design and Comfort: Familiar Yet Updated

SoundMagic wisely sticks to a winning design formula while making subtle improvements. The E11C sports a refreshed driver that promises better audio precision and features a new silver-plated copper cable—a tasteful upgrade from the once-iconic red wire.

The rest is classic SoundMagic: a cylindrical aluminum body that feels sturdy yet lightweight. Inside the box are silicone tips in small, medium, and large sizes, now with a cool silver highlight to match the cable. Plus, there’s a storage case—perfect if you can resist the temptation to just toss your earphones in your bag carelessly.

Just a heads-up for smartphone users: these buds have a standard 3.5 mm jack. So, if you’re on a modern device with USB-C or Lightning ports, you’ll need an adapter.

On the left cable, you’ll find a three-button remote with a built-in microphone. It’s a straightforward control hub compatible with both Apple and Android devices. Volume adjustments, track changes, and calls all flow smoothly, plus the remote is light enough to avoid any cable noise—something I greatly appreciate during my daily commute.

Sound That Speaks Volumes

Though the driver received an overhaul, the hallmark SoundMagic sound remains unmistakable. Put simply, the E11C delivers a seriously good listening experience. The trick is to find the right ear tips for a snug seal—this not only blocks out pesky background noise but unlocks the full frequency range.

Take Drake’s God’s Plan: the sub-bass thumps with satisfying depth and warmth, while the hi-hats snap crisply at the top end. Drake’s processed vocals sit comfortably in the midrange, showcasing one of the buds’ fortes—crystal-clear sound.

Turn the dial to the more complex T69 Collapse by Aphex Twin, and the earphones handle it with aplomb. The highs stay clean and controlled, letting the punchy beats come through with energy but without harshness.

Specs Snapshot

• Type: In-ear
• Wireless: No
• Weight: 11 g
• Mic/Remote: Yes
• Connector: 3.5 mm
• Cable Length: 1.2 m

Rhythm and Timing: The Dance Test

For a timing check, I threw on Algol by Troy—a dance track with a steady 4/4 beat. The E11C performed beautifully, keeping the rhythm tight and the groove intact. Only when stacked against the award-winning Beyerdynamic Byron did I notice a slight edge in timing precision in favor of the Byron. They sound a bit more focused and immersive.

But honestly, that’s a minor quibble. The SoundMagic E11C’s rich, full-bodied audio leans on clear, forward highs, while the Byron opts for a tighter sound with a firmer bass. It really boils down to personal taste.

A cool bonus is the E11C’s high sensitivity of 112 dB. This means they crank up nicely without demanding much juice from your device—a win for battery-conscious listeners.

Final Verdict: Budget Brilliance

SoundMagic’s E11C earphones continue to impress with their entertaining, open sound and user-friendly remote and mic combo. For anyone on a budget who wants quality wired earbuds that deliver a lively listening experience, these remain a smart pick.

Ratings:

• Sound: 5/5
• Comfort: 5/5
• Build Quality: 5/5

"SoundMagic E11C continues the tradition of delivering entertaining, open sound complemented by a handy remote and microphone. Hard to argue with that."

FAQ

• What type of headphones are SoundMagic E11C?
  They are wired in-ear (inside canal) headphones designed for balanced sound and comfort.
• Can I use the E11C with modern smartphones?
  Yes, but you’ll likely need a 3.5 mm to USB-C or Lightning adapter, as they come with a standard 3.5 mm jack.
• Does the E11C have a microphone and remote?
  Yes, there is a three-button remote on the left cable with an integrated microphone compatible with both Android and Apple devices.
• How’s the sound quality for bass-heavy music?
  The E11C delivers warm, deep sub-bass that hits nicely on tracks like Drake’s God’s Plan, making them suitable for bass lovers.
• Are the ear tips replaceable?
  Yes, the package includes three sizes of silicone tips to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

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