jady, you may want to take a look at the Philips SHE9850 IEM too and compare it to the Phonak PFE. In my opinion, the Philips sounds uncannily similar to the Phonaks (maybe because both are based on balanced armature drivers). I would judge them very competitive in clarity and detail, with the Philips being slightly more forward and spacious, and better for rock music due to a keener attack. The Phonaks are on the other hand, much more musical from the word `go' and perfect all rounders, never sounding harsh on all genres. I'd like to think of the Phonaks as the `Gentleman's' earphones. Always in control.

The Philips is undemanding on amplification. The Phonaks can perform better with a bit of aid.

More telling, the Philips is only half the price of the Phonaks.