I have always used Shure in-ear monitors, and even had custom molds made for some of them. However, I bought a set of these N20U earbuds after being so happy with my AKG Q701 over-ear phones. I much prefer these to the Shure. My last set of Shure, the SE425, were not comfortable at all....they are too big and press against the ear, even with the custom molds they are uncomfortable. These N20s fit just right and you almost forget they are in. I compared them side by side to the 425s and I prefer the warmer sound of the N20s. These are my headphones of choice for on-the-go, while the 701's remain my favorite for at-home phones.