MacGyver,

Based on what you posted as requirements/requests I would strongly suggest you take a listen to the Shure SE310 earphones. They are designed as more or less an identical item to the E-4C earphones, but have better sound due to far better isolation. They are heartier in terms opf cables and modularity as well. The long cable on the E-4C is now two separate pieces on the SE310 series.

I think the body of the earphones is also heartier feeling. Have gone through E3C and E-4C earphones before settling on these.

I think if you have no need to worry about the coin, go for their top of the line product one step up, but if you want awesome sound at a slightly better price, the SE310 earphones are hard to beat.

Mike