The Best In Ear Monitor Systems for Musicians

What Is an In Ear Monitor System?

Really simply, in-ear monitor (iem) systems are audio devices that let musicians hear a mix that they have worked out, directly in their ears. This means that each person on stage can be hearing the same song, but set up sonically different, in the best way for them.  

These systems are small, making them portable, so that you can move around on stage while not missing a thing. Different from the old monitors, they produce a remarkable high quality sound directly to your ears while also blocking out the noise around you.  

They really are a must have if you want to step up your live music game. 

How In Ear Monitors Work and What You’ll Hear

There are three pieces to these systems - the transmitter, a receiver and earphones. 

The transmitter connects to yours or the venue’s soundboard and then will send audio signals to the receiver. 

The receiver which is in most cases worn by the musician (that little black box you see) then sends the sound to the earphones - by wires on not depending on what you have.

The benefits really come from the mix that is now going into your ears from the headphones. 

As mentioned earlier, the sound engineers will create custom mixes for each band member to suit their preferences.  

For example: 

• The singer might need to hear their own voice more and reduce the drums.
• As a guitarist, sometimes I want to hear the bass and drums to make sure that I am in time. 

What's even more amazing as these mixes can be changed on the fly - next time at a gig try and spot the hand signals the band are using in order to turn something up or down in their in ear monitors.  

Again, sound engineers can adjust the mix live using the console with no fuss at all. 

Key Features You Should Look for When Buying

Sound Quality

Look for clear, distortion-free sound that offers a balanced frequency range. Multi-driver systems often are best in providing clarity across the bass, mids and highs.

Build Quality

Durable materials like reinforced plastics or metal housings make sure that they will last in the long term. Custom molded monitors can often provide added durability due to their snug fit.

Battery Life (for wireless systems)

Aim for systems that can last over 6 hours to get through both a long rehearsals/sound check and performances without interruptions.

Wireless Range (for wireless systems)

Ensure the range covers at least 100 feet for larger venues. You might still be playing small venues but you might as well plan for the future now and not have to buy a second set.

Ease of Setup

Plug-and-play is essential. This is important when you don't have your own dedicated sound engineers.

Noise Isolation

Noise isolation is also important so that the noise from the crowd and stage doesn't bleed into your ears.  

Types of In Ear Monitors

Wired vs. Wireless Systems

Wired systems are a more budget friendly version. They are reliable but, with the wires, can limit a small amount of movement. I still see a lot of these in concerts today used by big name stars though, so it can't be too limited. 

Wireless systems will be more expensive but are more versatile. But, just like the earbuds you have at home, just don't forget where you leave them!

Universal Fit vs. Custom Molded

Universal fit monitors, like the name implies, can fit the vast majority of ears and should be right for most people. Like a one size all kind of jam. 

The custom fits, again more expensive, involves a process of having your ear specially molded. For me, maybe these are a bit of overkill for most people but they will offer better comfort and noise cancellation properties.