Yeah I wouldn't go back after that kind of experience either.
Kind off off topic but I wear a pair of these C3 custom earplugs/earphones when working around heavy machinery at work, Then take them home on the weekends to wear while shooting and or cutting grass etc. The wires plug in and out so you can just wear them as plugs, or plug I'm into your iPod and listen to music. Ive worn them for over 12 hrs straight with no discomfort at all. Definitely expensive but custom made in the USA for your ears. I never knew they existed. Sound quality is unbelieveable when listening to music. Ive had mine for about 5yrs now with absolutely no problems and I wear them everyday. Again price is crazy but if you wear them everyday and have the dual need for strictly plugs/earphones then you should check em out.