Shure E2C louder than Apple phones ?

Not necessarily a huge difference when compared in a quiet room. More likely about the same or just slightly louder. The other difference will obviously be in the seal that you get with the E2C.

The claimed efficiency is the real key when look ing at headphone volume levels. The E2C has 105db/mw@1khz, the Apple has 104db/mw @ (presumably) 1khz.

You'll then notice that the POS Sony EX71 has a claimed 100db/mw, once again presumably with a 1khz test tone. Makes you wonder why some people bother with the EX71, doesn't it? Quieter, not that isolating, sounds s**t. More cause of wonder is why then said people rant about the volume of the iPod :rolleyes:

Did you read my post? The Sony's are less efficient.

There is a HUGE difference between sound output between the sony EX's and the Shure E2's--I dis a direct comparison, and it is really a substantial difference. There is a noticeable, but less pronounced difference between the Apple buds and the Shure's (With the Shure's being slightly louder at the same volume setting).