The stethoscope effect is normally referred to as Microphonics. The e5s don't, mainly because they loop over the back of your ears. The earphones I had prior (Etymotic ER-4P[^]) were quite prone to it though, so it does depend on the earphone. As for sound, they're excellent. The E5s have a dual-driver design so you get an extremely articulate performance, I initially didn't like them as much as the Etymotic earphones, but I've gotten used to them now and they are awesome. I did have a pair of the Sony's at one point, but never really used to use them. If you're not getting any bass I would imagine you've not had them quite in your ear properly, they are regarded as being quite bass heavy. -- Paul "Put the key of despair into the lock of apathy. Turn the knob of mediocrity slowly and open the gates of despondency - welcome to a day in the average office." - David Brent, from "The Office" MS Messenger: paul@oobaloo.co.uk Download my PGP public key