How to Pick the Right IEM for Different Usage

How to Pick the Right IEM for Different Usage

In-ear monitors (IEMs) are commonly used by musicians, performers and audio engineers to listen to the mix of stage instrument during live performances. In recent years, IEMs are presented for audiophiles and causal listening too. With so many different types of IEMs in the market, how do you pick the right one for your usage?

 

IEMs for Stage Performances

When it comes to using IEMs for performers or musicians, it is important that the IEM is able to enhance the overall accuracy of the mix (for performers) and reduce the overall volume offstage so as to avoid the crowd noise from drowning or disturbing what the performers or musicians need to hear on stage. Therefore high noise isolation is quite essential. Custom molded IEMs are not only comfortable to wear for long hours but also able to give a better seal, lowering the ambient noise. This will ideally prevent loud onstage instrument from causing hearing damage for onstage musicians wearing IEMs. While the main purpose of IEM is to provide a mix of different audio sources to stage performers, it allows each stage user to have their own monitor mix to each ear, in preference of the loudness and audio panning of individual instrument or voices hence reducing sound checks as the room acoustic isn’t a factor!

The current driver technologies used are IEMs are dynamic drivers, balanced armature (BA) or hybrid.

Here’re some tips to choosing a suitable IEM for some common instrument:

For Vocalists

A wireless and comfortable fitting IEM is definitely recommended for vocalists, as they are very much required for to walk around the stage, especially the lead singer. To synchronize perfectly with the musicians, try to get something with high noise isolation so you will not get distracted by the crowd noise or cheering. Over ear configuration is more preferred as it secure the IEM behind your ears and the convenience of hiding the cables so it’s less obvious. Consider choosing one with at least two or more drivers as it can deliver deeper bass and higher clarity across the frequency range.

The high quality, great clarity, customizable, 6 balanced armature BGVP DM7 is definitely something to consider!

Photo credit: https://www.oardio.com

 

For Drummers

A good pair of IEM will not only keep the drummer from pumping too much volume into the ears but able to listen, coordinate and improve to the playing techniques. Try to get something that has the ability to monitor the mix in stereo or wide soundstage in high clarity, as the drummer is an important person to keep the beat of the music in harmony for the rest of the players.

 

For Guitarists

Finally you can to listen to how your guitar sounds after going through the amp and into your IEM. This allows you to groove better and play tighter. Whether it’s a single driver or multi drivers IEM, the guitar belong to the mid range frequencies, choosing one that is dedicated to the mids will make your guitar come alive in your ears. If you are someone who wants to feel closer to your audiences, you may prefer something with less noise isolation and the crowd will be with you during the performances!  

 

For Live Performances Sound Engineers

Is IEM necessary for live sound engineers? It’s an option but definitely a plus when it comes to mixing as it’s good use of imaging, making it easier for the brain to hear the elements and placement of the mix. Sound engineers will need something that gives accurate frequencies to ensure the mix is not overly emphasized. 2-way or 3-way balanced armature drivers will provide a decent mix while limiting on the noise isolation. However, be more aware of other mic or RF frequencies, which might cause interference with your wireless IEM.

 

The KZ AS16 or CCA A10 might be your perfect choice of IEM:

KZ AS16

 

CCA A10

 

Photo credit: https://www.oardio.com

 

 

IEMs for Audiophile Listening

Wide frequency ranges, good soundstaging, solid bass, clean mids, clear and crisp highs, smooth and warmth sounding – Any definitions to heighten audiophile music for listening – will be the choice of your IEM for high end music enjoyment! Wired or wireless, custom made or universal fit, high noise isolation or not, can be secondary as the main concern is to enjoy music with great details, as how it’s intentionally mixed.

 

Tin HiFi P1

 

 

IEMs for Causal Listening

Depending on the kind of music you are listening, getting the right IEM can enhance your listening pleasure, expanding the soundstage of your music. If you are listening to music for long hours, IEM might be a better choice as it reduces fatigue and has better noise isolation as compared to earphones.

 

Tin HiFi T2 Pro

Universal VS Custom fit

We have been mentioning universal or custom fit IEM but how do you decide which one to go for?

Here’s a chart that compares the pros and cons:

Type	Description	Pros	Cons
Universal fit IEMs	Earphones that use silicone or foam eartips in differnt sizes to form a seal with the user’s ear canal.	• Convenient & easy to buy • Economical • More options	• Lower comfort level • Eartips can get lose or get lost frequently • Foam tips may wear off easily
Custom fit IEMs	Custom-made and fitted to the user’s ears.	• Excellent Quality • Great comfort • High noise isolation • Customerized artwork for your earpiece	• Requires 1-4 weeks of lead time • May require re-fits