Best earphone for the value

I haven't heard the CA Io and because it uses dual Balanced Armatures, I don't know if it will have the same sound signature of the CA IEM's that use dynamic drivers or hybrid designs.  A lot of people love the CA Andromeda's, and they've developed a quite a following.  

I do own the 12 Balanced Armature JH Audio Layla's.  They are very good, but not my go to IEM's.  It's hard to make an analogue here.  I guess it just comes down to personal preference.  

The build quality of the CA's are better than the Periodic's.  The Periodic Be's should be slightly easier to drive than the CA Io's.  It's easier to get a good fit with the Periodic than the CA's.  The Ca's really require a deep fit to sound there best.  Sometimes I have to fiddle with them to get them to fit just right.   If you don't get the fit correct they can be a little uncomfortable over time.  The Periodic's are real easy to insert in your ears and they are more comfortable over a longer period of time.  Disclaimer: I have small ears and your experience may be different.

It's really going to come down to your personal preference.  I would recommend that you try before you buy.  CA has a 15 days from receipt, no questions ask, return policy.  I believe Periodic has a 30 day return policy.  

I hope this helps, but I've probably just made the decision harder.

@shkong78 you really need to try them to see, this is where attending an audio show like the upcoming T.H.E. Show in LA is a good idea so you can see and try a bunch of options. 

@ folkfreak

It will be good idea to attend T.H.E. show in LA to experience various earphones.



There appears to be 4 or 5 nice earphones at 300$.

I would like to choose one or two and compare them at my familiar settings.

Thomas

If you ever want earphones that, to me, seem to have no signature sound and are in your price range, you may try SONY MDR-EX800ST. I do not know how to describe their sound. They are not bad, don’t get me wrong, they just exist. Check the reviews. They are a little older model so it is likely that these new guys may outdo them, but for a bit over $200, I think they are really good. I know, not an esoteric headphone-focused brand. I would buy them again.

If you get a chance, Final E4000 and 5000 fall under $300 and are worth giving a listen. E4000 is around $150.

Too many choices for you. All are probably good.