Having had the chance to really test out the headphones over the last couple of months or so, I've got nothing but high praise for them - with one caveat: the tips that come with the headphones are terrible. The large/small flanges, the foam tips, the weird mushroom-looking ones - they are either extremely uncomfortable for extended listening, or provide poor isolation and fit, and really don't do the sound quality any favours. Now, like with most canalphones, the proper positioning is key, but if you'd rather spend your time listening to your headphones and not growing callouses in your ear canals getting used to the bad tips Etymotic provides, shell out for a pack of Klipsch Gels which fit the HF5 perfectly (you get four pairs, and since they are silicone and washable, the four-pack will last you a very long time). They will provide solid isolation with infinitely more comfort, and really let the headphones shine.

As for the sound - it's solid, well rounded, with very clear detail and resolution. The bass is there, detailed and clear (especially with a solid seal), and highs are nice and crisp, and best of all, the sound is not fatiguing. There is some microphonics going on with the cables, but a shirt clip provided alleviates that significantly.

Etymotic also provides a nice little carrying case with the headphones, as well as a pair of replacement filters.

All in all, I'm very happy with the purchase, and in this price range the HF5 is definitely a solid buy.