I'm with you in not particularly liking the Apple ear buds. You might want to check out Newegg:
Newegg.com - Accessories, in ear buds
Scroll down a bit to get to the higher quality brands. I had a Sennheiser set which lasted well. I'd gotten them for about $19 on sale from about $40. But that sale seems to be gone.
I've also bought through
dealmac.com and have found good buys there.