Shure SE846 SE846 Gen 2
A quad high-definition driver array with a true subwoofer low-pass filter delivers 4 Hz bass extension, while four swappable nozzle inserts let you select balanced, warm, bright, or extended sound signatures. Sound-isolating technology blocks up to 37 dB of ambient noise, and the lightweight, over-the-ear ergonomic design with a comprehensive sleeve kit ensures a secure, fatigue-free fit for long sessions. The SE846 Gen 2 is best for studio musicians and critical listeners who need reference-grade audio customization and exceptional passive isolation in a wired, Hi-Res-certified package.
About This Earbuds
Four custom-engineered drivers tailored to blend precisely with each other deliver extended high-end clarity, while the groundbreaking low-pass filter design gives you the performance of a true subwoofer — all without sacrificing a solitary detail. Customize your audio even further with a selection of four unique sound signatures, including a new "extended" option. This is unparalleled aural acuity based on decades of dedication. It’s why more musicians trust Shure and true audiophiles fall in love. Detachable cable enables the ability to convert to wireless or integrate other wired accessory options, and a comprehensive sleeve assortment provides a perfect fit. Sophisticated listening for the refined ear. Includes SE846 PRO Gen 2 Sound Isolating earphones with extended, balanced, warm and bright sound signature filters, detachable 3.5mm cable, Comply sleeves (XS, S, M, L), soft flex sleeves (S, M, L), foam sleeves (S, M, L), triple flange sleeves, yellow foam sleeves, 1/4" adapter, premium carrying case, and user guide. Free 2-YEAR WARRANTY included.
- NEW & IMPROVED FEATURES: With the addition of a new filter, the SE846 Gen 2 offers 4 different sound signatures that offer a more expansive listening experience than the original SE846.
- STATE OF THE ART SOUND: Whether you are gaming, streaming, listening to music, or taking calls, the SE846 PRO Gen 2 provides a unparalleled listening experience.
- IMMERSIVE AUDIO: Own your audio space with Sound Isolating design that eliminates noise and keeps your experience pristine. It’s the right way to listen and the only way to really hear.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - Ergonomic low-profile design with optimized nozzle angle ensures long-wearing comfort and fit. Over-the-ear design keeps cables out of the way.
- FOUR HI-DEF DRIVERS - provide extended high-end clarity and unparalleled low-end performance for a state-of-the-art listening experience. Three-way system for dedicated low, mid and high frequency distribution. Hi-Res certified by the Japan Audio Society.
- CUSTOMIZABLE FREQUENCY RESPONSE - Customizable frequency response puts you in control of your audio experience. Select balanced, warm, bright, or the new extended audio through removable nozzles for three unique sound signatures.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX - SE846 PRO Gen 2 Sound Isolating earphones with sound signature filters, detachable 3.5mm cable, comprehensive sleeve assortment for a perfect fit, 1/4" adapter, premium carrying case, and user guide.
The 30-Second Version
The Shure SE846 Gen 2 is an audiophile masterpiece with jaw-dropping sub-bass and modular tuning, but you'll need a fat wallet, a good amp, and a hatred for wireless.
Overview
The Shure SE846 Gen 2 is a statement piece for people who think wireless earbuds are a compromise. Four drivers and a clever low-pass filter create a subwoofer-like rumble that's rare in an in-ear monitor. But at a price that hovers around $900, you're buying into a pure-wired, no-frills audio religion—and you'll need a decent amp to reach salvation.
Performance
What surprised me most is the low end. Most multi-BA setups struggle to deliver physical bass weight, but the SE846 Gen 2's low-pass filter conjures sub-bass that feels like it's massaging your eardrums. The new extended filter opens up the treble enough to make acoustic guitars sparkle without getting sharp, and the passive isolation is so good you'll forget ANC exists. Just plug them into a good DAC/amp; a phone dongle leaves half the magic on the table.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Monstrous sub-bass that hits like a real subwoofer 94th
- Interchangeable nozzles let you tune the sound signature 80th
- Outstanding passive noise isolation 79th
- Removable cable means you can swap in a Bluetooth adapter or balanced connection 70th
Cons
- Extremely expensive for a wired-only IEM 9th
- Demands an external amp to sound its best 30th
- Filter swaps are more of a party trick than a daily ritual 33th
- Over-ear design annoys glasses-wearers and small ears
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Design
| Form Factor | in-ear |
| Wearing Style | over-the-ear |
| Ear Tips | XS, S, M, L |
| Weight | 0.2 kg / 0.3 lbs |
Audio
| Driver Type | dynamic |
| Drivers | 4 |
| Impedance | 9 |
| Hi-Res Audio | Yes |
| Codecs | Shure SE846 Earphone,Clear |
Noise Control
| ANC | No |
Earbud Battery
| Charging | proprietary |
Microphone
| Microphone | Yes |
Features
| Bone Conduction | No |
Value & Pricing
The retail spread is wild—we saw listings from $890 to over $1,300, with the best Amazon price landing around $950. That's a lot of cash for an item that doesn't even charge itself. If sound quality is your only religion, the SE846 Gen 2 delivers a transcendental experience. But at this price, a handful of wireless flagships go on sale, so you're really paying for the purity of a wire and the Shure name.
vs Competition
Purely on sound, the SE846 Gen 2 is in a different league than any wireless bud. The Sony WF-1000XM5 and Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 are wonderful for commuting, but they can't touch this Shure's sub-bass texture or detail retrieval. If you're open to another wired IEM, the Sennheiser IE 600 gets you 85% of the performance for hundreds less, though it lacks the nozzle-swapping party trick.
| Spec | Shure SE846 SE846 Gen 2 | Technics Reference Class EAH-AZ100-K | Sony WF-1000XM5 WF-1000XM5 | Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0010 | Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 | Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro SM-R630NZAAXAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | in-ear | in-ear | in-ear | in-ear | in-ear | in-ear |
| Driver Type | dynamic | Planar Magnetic | dynamic | Dynamic | dynamic | Dynamic |
| Wireless | - | true | true | true | true | true |
| Active Noise Cancellation | false | true | true | true | true | true |
| Bluetooth Version | - | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.3 | 5.4 | 5.4 |
| Battery Life Hours | - | 10 | 8 | 6 | 30 | 6 |
| Case Battery Hours | - | 28 | 24 | 18 | 30 | 26 |
| Water Resistance | - | IPX4 | IPX4 | IPX4 | IP54 | IP57 |
| Multipoint | - | true | true | true | true | true |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
| Product | Anc | Mic | Build | Sound | Battery | Comfort | User Sentiment | Connectivity | Social Proof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shure SE846 SE846 Gen 2 | 29.5 | 36.3 | 33.3 | 94.4 | 47.2 | 70.4 | 79.2 | 9.1 | 80.2 |
| Technics Reference Class EAH-AZ100-K Compare | 96.5 | 96.8 | 78.9 | 96.5 | 82.6 | 70.4 | 91.9 | 99.1 | 89.4 |
| Sony WF-1000XM5 WF-1000XM5 Compare | 96.5 | 96.8 | 78.9 | 99.3 | 76 | 93.4 | 48.9 | 100 | 80.2 |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra 896637-0010 Compare | 96.5 | 90.3 | 78.9 | 96.4 | 47.2 | 93.4 | 91.9 | 97.8 | 96.9 |
| Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 Compare | 96.5 | 99.7 | 33.3 | 91.9 | 97.7 | 93.4 | 91.9 | 89.9 | 89.4 |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro SM-R630NZAAXAR Compare | 96.5 | 96.8 | 98.9 | 89.9 | 73 | 93.4 | 0 | 97.8 | 89.4 |
Common Questions
Q: Do these need a separate headphone amp?
Strictly no, but honestly yes. You'll get sound from a phone adapter, but to hear the sub-bass slam and open treble, a decent amp or high-powered DAP makes a night-and-day difference.
Q: Can I use these wirelessly?
No. They're fully wired, with a detachable MMCX cable. You can buy a Shure Bluetooth adapter, but that kind of defeats the purpose of these audiophile drivers.
Q: Are the different sound filters worth it?
They're fun to play with, but the differences are subtle. Most people end up sticking with the balanced or extended filter and never swap again. If you're not a tinkerer, the novelty wears off fast.
Who Should Skip This
If you want ANC, wireless freedom, or a pair of earbuds that disappear in your pocket, look elsewhere. The Sony WF-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra give you most of the convenience at half the price. This one is for folks who treat music like a ritual.
Verdict
The SE846 Gen 2 is an audiophile masterpiece for a very specific person: someone who wants reference-grade wired sound, loves tinkering with tuning, and doesn't mind a cable. It's not for the casual listener, and the price will make most people's eyes water. But if your ears demand the absolute best IEM sound under a grand, this is a benchmark.
