In-ear monitors are the refined version of the traditional on-stage monitors. They are earpieces that the performer uses to monitor exactly what is happening on the stage. Their greatest advantage is that they reduce the onstage volume ordinarily produced by a sophisticated audio system that comprises of floor wedge speakers. The reduced on stage volume allows the performer to clearly hear the key aspects of the on-stage sound from any position on the stage.   There are two types of IEM’s, the wired kind and the wireless ones. The wireless kind are more common because they allow the musician greater stage mobility. One drawback of the in-ear monitors is that they use technology that isolates all sound that does not pass through them. This may create a scenario where the performer is no longer able to hear the sound in room especially the sound coming from the crowd as they react and engage to the music but there are ways to overcome this disadvantage. The in-ear monitors can take time to get used to and here are a few tips to guide you as you try them out.  
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Wear the Devices Correctly

It is important to wear the IEM’s correctly ensuring that they wrap around your ear. You should also make sure that you insert the earpiece properly. You risk not being able to hear all the sound that is coming through the devices when you wear them incorrectly. The connecting cables should remain unseen because you want the audience to feel as though you are connecting with what they are experiencing. For the wireless in-ear monitors, the cables connect the earpiece to a belt that receives the mixer feed transmitted from a wireless monitor.  

It Takes Time Before You Become Comfortable With Them

You should practice wearing them by wearing them even when you are not performing like wearing them when listening to music on your phone. This will help you get used to them. You should also ensure that your mix is correctly set up before rehearsals and ask for help if you encounter any problems. This will help you have a smooth rehearsal with few interruptions.  

Start With Low Volumes and Then Increase the Volume Slowly

Always begin with a low master volume and then adjust this volume gradually. Adjust it to a level that makes you feel comfortable. Your mix should include only the instruments that you need to hear because having all the instruments in the mix can cause you to get confused.  

Use Both Ear Pieces

Using one earpiece for long periods can send the confusing signals to your brain that can cause damage to your ears. The main reason why people wear only one earpiece is that they want to hear the sound coming from the audience. One way you can do this without damaging your ears is by including the sound from an audience ambient mic into your mix.  

Final Thoughts ...

The in-ear monitors are important tools that can help any musician to focus all their energy into giving a great sounding musical performance.  

Click here to browse our selection of in-ear monitors!

   

Your Turn to Sound Off!

Do you prefer traditional stage reference monitors or in-ears?

Let us know in the comment section below!

   

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