In Ear Monitors with Single Receivers

In Ear Monitors with Four Pack Receivers

Things to Consider When Buying Wireless In Ear Monitors

Are In-Ear Monitors Worth The Money?

Before answering this question, we first have to address the IEMs vs Stage Monitors debate. There is no clear winner between the two, because they both have distinct pros and cons. But the trend seems to be siding on IEMs, more musicians and productions have been switching over.

IEMs (In Ear Monitors) provide excellent sound isolation. This allows each musician on stage to have their own personalized mix that won't bother others. This can drastically reduce stage volume, which allows musicians to hear themselves better. Portability is another advantage of IEMs. You no longer have to move heavy floor wedge cabinets around the stage.

The primary drawback of IEMs is their cost, as they can be relatively expensive. Certain models such as the Empire Ear Odin are priced over $3,000. Thankfully, there are now more affordable options for entry-level use. But even the cheap ones can still be beyond the budget of some bands and productions. Another important drawback is the listening experience. IEMs do not generate the same air movement as amps or stage monitors. IEMs are also prone to hardware, battery, technical and connection problems. But the same can be said with Stage Monitors.

On the other hand, Stage Monitors provide a more natural listening experience. When set up properly, they allow musicians to hear the natural acoustics of their instruments, gear, and venue. There's also more interaction between band members since they can hear each others' monitors. Stage monitors are also generally cheaper and durable. This makes them the practical choice for those with budget limitations.

One major disadvantage of stage monitors is their size and bulk, which makes them impractical for events or situations where portability is a top priority. They are also more prone to feedback and can be difficult to control in noisy large venues.

Since you're here looking for IEMs, you've probably dealt with the problems of traditional amps and speakers as mentioned above. If you're looking to address these issues, then IEMs are definitely worth investing on. To cater to those that can't shell out too much, we've included the best budget IEMs in this guide.

The Importance of FCC 2020 Compliance

As of July 13, 2020, FCC regulations have been implemented. This means that some older wireless systems are no longer able to be legally used in the United States. The frequencies that you can no longer use are 617-652 MHz and 663-698 MHz. All of the in ear monitors we have recommended allow you to operate outside those frequencies and are compliant with the regulations. For more information on the compliance of wireless systems read this FCC consumer guide. The regulations that apply to wireless microphones also apply to wireless in ear monitors.

Wireless Frequency Range

This specification details the range of frequencies that the wireless system can operate in. With careful planning, you can use this information to maximize the number of IEM systems that you can simultaneously use on stage. By buying those that can work together, you can have the entire band using in ear monitors.

Since these systems operate using unlicensed frequency bands, they can be prone to interference, so the more the range of operation, the easier it is to switch to clean frequencies as you move from venue to venue. Note that some of these in ear monitors have alternate versions that operate using different frequency bands. While most wireless in ear systems have built-in automatic scan and sync features, there may be times when you'll have to take control and set frequencies yourself. This is particularly true where multiple stages or venues are close to each other as often found in venues like casinos.

Frequency Response

This specification indicates the frequencies that the system and earpiece can reproduce. The lower the frequency response starting range, the more bass response it can produce, while the top range dictates the high end (treble) it can handle. Most musicians will prefer earpieces with a balanced sound reproduction. Flat frequency response lets you hear your sound accurately and prevents any unwanted coloration.

IEMs that emphasize low-frequency sounds are well-suited for performers like bassists, drummers, DJs. You should go for in ear monitors with extended low-frequency response with rich bass and powerful sound. Some have replaced the earpiece and earbuds altogether, just to hear the lows better. Unfortunately, the small dynamic drivers found in IEMs limit the bass. Bass frequency response may not be as extensive as that of studio headphones.

What you'll consider as great sound will depend on what you need to hear through the in ear monitors. Sound quality can suffer when the in ear monitors are driven too hard, or when certain frequencies are pushed too much. So always remember to keep the volume and EQ at manageable levels.

Multi-Channel Mixing

In ear monitors with multi-channel mixing allows performers to personalize their own monitoring experience. You can make adjustments in real-time, while still giving the sound engineer control when needed. When properly adjusted, you can hear your playing more effectively. And this can dramatically improve your playing and performance. In ear monitors with this feature are great for big-stage productions.

Earbuds

Earbuds play a very critical role, they have to fit properly to play the sound directly to your ear canal. Ear tips also have to block out ambient sound and at the same time hold the earpiece assembly in place.

The included earphones and earbuds with IEMs are usually generic. They may or may not be a perfect fit for your ear. Thankfully some offer different size buds, in case the default one doesn't fit well. To get the most out of your IEM system, you can go for "custom molded" earbuds that are meant to perfectly fit your ear. The caveat to custom in ear monitors is that these personalized earbuds can be expensive. As an example, the 64 Audio U12t with balanced armature driver is priced at just under $2000.

Receiver Battery

Most IEM receivers are powered by two AA batteries. These batteries are widely available and are easiest to replace, so you won't have to worry about battery life. Still, the cost of having to replace these batteries can add up when the receiver is used regularly. Some manufacturers have opted for built-in rechargeable batteries, which can be cost-effective in the long run. One crucial thing to consider when opting for units with built-in batteries is that some of them will not be readily replaceable. Some units require you to send them to the manufacturer or service center for replacement. Doing it yourself will most likely void any warranty the unit has.