Etymotic Eartip Types and Compatibility: A Reference Guide

Quick answer

For most Etymotic earphones, start with the standard 3-flange eartip in the size that seals comfortably. Choose dual-flange if you want a softer feel with similar isolation. Choose long-stem only if your model requires it, such as ETY•COM, etyBLU, or ety8. Always verify the model list on the product page before buying.

Etymotic eartips are not universal. The right tip depends on your earphone model, your ear canal, and how much isolation you need. This guide gives you a compatibility checklist and decision rules so you can order once and get a good seal.

We will cover the main Etymotic eartip types, which models they fit, and how to choose between them. You will also find practical fit guidance and replacement timing. Use the product facts below to confirm exact model compatibility before you buy.

The main Etymotic eartip types

Etymotic offers three families of reusable eartips: 3-flange (triple-flange), dual-flange, and long-stem versions of the 3-flange. Standard 3-flange tips have three points of contact in the ear canal, which helps them seal better than single-dome silicone tips. Dual-flange tips are designed to be softer and more comfortable while sealing just as well as the traditional 3-flange. Long-stem tips place the eartip further from the earphone body and are required for specific models.

Foam tips are also available from Etymotic and other brands, but the supplied catalog here focuses on flange-style tips. Foam can be more comfortable for some ears and easier to insert, but it typically needs replacing more often and may not last as long as silicone flanges. If you are comparing triple flange vs foam etymotic options, consider how often you use your earphones and whether you prefer a reusable or disposable tip.

• 3-flange: best isolation, reusable, three contact points.
• Dual-flange: softer feel, similar seal, good for sensitive ears.
• Long-stem: required for ETY•COM, etyBLU, and ety8 models.

Compatibility: which eartips fit which Etymotic models

Compatibility depends on the nozzle and stem length, not just the brand. The ER38-18 Large Gray 3-Flange Eartips fit ER•4, hf3, hf2, Music•PRO MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15, etyBLU2, and ETY•COM. The ER38-18A Large Gray 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips fit ETY•COM, etyBLU, and ety8. The ER38-18CLL Large Clear 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips fit The BEAN, Music•PRO MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, and EB•15.

If your model is not listed, check the product page or your earphone manual. Do not assume a tip will fit because it looks similar. A tip that is too loose can stay in your ear when you remove the earphone, and a tip that is too tight can damage the nozzle. When in doubt, order the exact replacement part number for your model.

• Standard 3-flange: fits ER•4, hf3, hf2, MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15, etyBLU2, ETY•COM.
• Long-stem gray: fits ETY•COM, etyBLU, ety8.
• Long-stem clear: fits The BEAN, MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15.

How to choose the right size and fit

Etymotic eartips are generally available in large and small sizes, though not every product lists both. The goal is a complete seal without pain. If you feel pressure or your ear hurts after 20 minutes, try a smaller size or a softer dual-flange tip. If the tip feels loose or sound is thin, try a larger size or a deeper insertion. A proper seal is essential for bass response and noise isolation.

Insertion technique matters as much as size. Pull your ear up and back, then gently push the eartip into your ear canal. You should feel a seal, not a sharp pain. If you hear a hollow or distant sound, the tip is not sealing. If you hear your own footsteps loudly, that is normal with deep insertion. Give yourself a few days to adjust to the feeling of a deep-seal eartip.

• Start with the size you already use; if unsure, order one of each.
• Dual-flange is a good first choice for sensitive ear canals.
• Replace tips when they no longer seal or feel stiff.

When and why to replace your eartips

Silicone eartips can last for months with regular cleaning, but they do wear out. Replace them when they become stiff, torn, or no longer seal reliably. A poor seal makes your earphones sound thin and reduces noise isolation, which can lead to turning up the volume. If you use your earphones daily, inspect the tips weekly and clean them with mild soap and water, then let them dry completely before reattaching.

The Triple Flange Eartips - Long Stem | 10 Pack and similar 10-packs give you spares so you can replace one tip at a time or keep a backup pair in your bag. Buying a pack is more economical than ordering single tips, and it ensures you always have a clean set ready. If you share earphones, replace tips between users or keep separate sets.

• Clean weekly with mild soap and water; dry fully.
• Replace when stiff, torn, or no longer sealing.
• Keep a spare set in your case or bag.

Decision rules for buying Etymotic eartips

• If you own ER•4, hf3, hf2, MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15, etyBLU2, or ETY•COM: Buy the ER38-18 Large Gray 3-Flange Eartips. These are the standard-fit tips for these models. Check the model list on the product page to confirm.
• If you own ETY•COM, etyBLU, or ety8: Buy the ER38-18A Large Gray 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips. These models require the long stem. Do not substitute standard 3-flange tips.
• If you own The BEAN, MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, or EB•15: Buy the ER38-18CLL Large Clear 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips. These are the clear long-stem version for these models. Match the exact part number to your model.
• If you want a softer feel with similar isolation: Choose Dual Flange Eartips. They are designed to be more comfortable than 3-flange while sealing just as well. Available in sizes; pick the size that seals without pain.
• If you are unsure of your size: Order a pack in your best guess size and adjust. Most Etymotic eartips are sold in packs of 10, so you can experiment. A proper seal is more important than the specific tip style.

Product facts to know

• ER38-18 Large Gray 3-Flange Eartips: Package of 10 eartips. For use with ER•4, hf3, hf2, Music•PRO MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15, etyBLU2 and ETY•COM. This is the standard 3-flange tip for many Etymotic earphones. If you own one of these models, this is the direct replacement.
• ER38-18A Large Gray 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips: Package of 10 eartips. For use with ETY•COM, etyBLU and ety8. These long-stem tips are required for specific headset models. Using standard tips on these models may not fit or seal properly.
• ER38-18CLL Large Clear 3-Flange Long Stem Eartips: Package of 10 eartips. For use with The BEAN, Music•PRO MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15 and EB•15. Clear long-stem tips fit a different set of models. Check this list before ordering to avoid a mismatch.
• Dual Flange Eartips: The Dual Flange Ear tip is an evolution in Etymotic design. It is softer, more comfortable, and seals just as well as the traditional 3-flange tip. Available in sizes. Choose dual-flange if you find 3-flange tips too firm or uncomfortable but still want strong isolation.

Fit guidance: who should choose which tip

Best for

• Listeners who want maximum noise isolation and a secure seal
• Owners of ER•4, hf3, hf2, MP-9•15, HD•15, GSP•1, GSP•15, EB•15, etyBLU2, or ETY•COM who need standard 3-flange tips
• Users who prefer a reusable silicone tip over disposable foam

Not for

• Owners of ETY•COM, etyBLU, or ety8 who need long-stem tips instead
• Listeners who find deep insertion uncomfortable and prefer a shallow-fit earphone
• Anyone who wants a disposable foam tip for the easiest possible insertion

Use the compatibility lists above to pick the right Etymotic eartip for your model, then choose the size and style that seals comfortably. When in doubt, start with a 10-pack of the standard 3-flange or dual-flange tips and adjust from there.