Sure they are expensive [sorry about the intended pun!] but generally you get what you pay for and so the perceived value of these earphones is extreemly high.I have used many in-ear type earphones in the past but none of them have ever come remotely close to the audio quality of these. These are great with both iPod and home based hifi. The ambient sound exclusion capabilities of these phones when you take the time to set them up properly is excellent and greatly increases the musical experience.The bass is tight and well defined, the midrange is right where it should be and full of detail and the high end is crisp, taught and full of detail with being harsh.Do I like these earphones? You bet I do!Are they worth the money?Yes I think so, expensive but well worth it if you are prepared to take the time to get the fit right.5 star sound and 5 star value.