I appreciate taking the time for your post. I do use an iPod for music listing when I work out (more hours than you could believe). The S5i is my favorite for that. I used to use the S4i for workouts, but started using the S5i when they came out (they sound about the same). The S5i is much more sweat resistant. My Image ONE's sound better than any of my in-ear phones, but I don't use them for vigorous (and sweaty) work outs.
I guess the X10i just isn't the best matched with the iPod as compared to the S5i/S4i. I know my X10i is real as I ordered them through Klipsch. They do sound excellent, but just lack a bit of bass. I like the X10i if I'm listing to music on the go as the tiny size is nice. As you likely realize, I know about the seal which is the same with the X10's or S5's. I use the large ear gels (wish there was an extra-large size).
I'm not ready to buy Beats, or other brands. I was just wondering how the X7 differs (or is the same) as the X10 which is why I started this post. []