Those who are live on stage have special requirements for their headphones because “normal” in-ears are out of place here: high-level stability, no distortion and robustness are the most important properties that so-called monitoring headphones have to offer. That they have to seal perfectly is just as important as their – usually – specially adapted frequency response for live environments.
The Best In Ear Monitors for Singers Reviews – Guide and Buy
Shure SE846
- SOUND ISOLATING TECHNOLOGY - Own your audio space with sound isolating design that blocks up to 37 dB of noise to eliminate distractions. Enjoy the most immersive listening experience with a design that keeps earphones in and noise out during exercise or travel.It’s the right way to listen and the only way to really hear.
- CUSTOMIZED FIT - Includes three sizes (S, M, L) of the flex and black foam sleeves. Experiment with the size and style that creates the best fit for you.
- SECURE, OVER-THE-EAR DESIGN - Wireform fit ensures earphones stay in place and cables remain out of the way.
- STRIKING FULL-RANGE SOUND - Full range sound from a four high-definition drivers provide extended high-end clarity and unparalleled low-end performance for a state-of-the-art listening experience. Three-way system configuration for dedicated low, mid and high frequency distribution.
- DURABLE REINFORCED CABLE - Detachable cable is durable enough to withstand everyday wear, yet allows for easy replacement in case of damage. Gold plated MMCX Connector has a lock-snap mechanism allowing 360-degree rotation for comfortable fit.
The Shure SE846 promise well-equipped in-ears for professional applications, which also allow private music enjoyment on the go. First-class workmanship and an immense package of accessories make the earphones a flexible tool that is fun and justifies the purchase price. In the end, what counts: attenuation and wearing comfort are great, and the sound of the earphones is first class.
Since their frequency behaviour can be adjusted, these in-ears are up to almost any playback situation and any musical genre. If you want to treat your ears to real sound luxury and have the necessary change, testing the Shure SE846 is, therefore, a must.
Shure KSE1500
- The first application of electrostatic technology for Sound Isolating Earphones (patent pending) featuring a single MicroDriver design
- Extremely high correlation to the source audio provides unmatched audio clarity and detail
- 4-band parametric EQ features five preset settings and four customizable settings to manage audio playback preferences
- Integrated USB-rechargeable battery can conveniently charge from provided wall charger or computer, even when streaming USB audio from computer
- Lightweight, ergonomic earphone shape minimizes ear fatigue while comfortable Sound Isolating sleeves block up to 37 dB of ambient noise
The Shure KSE1500 offers the highest level of sound enjoyment for demanding PA professionals and hardcore hi-fi fans who are willing to pay a high-end price for this system with a mega-extensive range of accessories. Impressively transparent basses, multi-faceted mid-range resolution and the finest highs make the hearts of sound purists beat faster when playing almost all musical styles.
Sennheiser Pro Audio In-Ear Audio Monitor, IE 500 Pro Clear
- The best possible control in the loudest surroundings thanks to a linear frequency response
- Detachable twisted cable with reinforced ear hook and break-proof ducting (patent pending)
- Delivers higher SPL, maximum robustness and resistance against structure-born noise
- Perfect fit due to compact, extremely lightweight earmold in a superior ergonomic yet rugged design
- Highest flexibility and wearing comfort with silicone & memory foam ear tips in all sizes, individually adaptable to your ear canal depth
Ergonomic fit, adjustability of the pad depth and low structure-borne noise transmission of the interchangeable cable are factors that give me thumbs up for these in-ears. And the scope of delivery with soft case, ear pads and cleaning tool also convinces me.
Sennheiser’s IE 500 Pro In-Ears are really loud monitoring button headphones that offer a wide frequency range and reproduce the mids so precisely that they ensure high speech intelligibility. In one production or another, however, sibilance can be unpleasant. To listen to hi-fi productions with these headphones, the mid-range boost could be too much of a good thing for one or the other user. Beyond this mini point of criticism, the offered sound is well-positioned. The Sennheiser IE 500 Pro are impressive monitoring in-ears that, in my opinion, are worth every penny.
64 Audio A6t
- Detailed high end and deep, rich bass with fast and smooth overall response
- Precision tuned Hybrid-Dynamic Balanced Armature Array matched to a custom rare-earth driver
- A custom-molded-like fit is provided by the 3D-printed DHT (Digital Hybrid Technology) shell
- Durable MMCXi cable with bendable ear guides is detachable for ease of replacement
- The monitors can be driven by a smartphone for everyday playback
The A6t is a high-quality in-ear earphone that is aimed at musicians who want to combine high demands on sound quality on stage with the advantages of a tailor-made fit. The sound of the system is outstanding due to the fact that it is equipped with six balanced armature drivers and pressure relief, but it costs at least 1,500 euros. At the same time, as an audiophile music listener, you are guaranteed to be right here.
InEar StageDiver SD-4
- Works with:iPhone 5, iPhone 4, iPhone 3G/3GS, Xperia arc, iPhone
- Color: Black
- Each one comes with 4 drivers per ear
The InEar StageDiver 4 is a thoroughbred in-ear earphone for monitor use. The sound is trimmed so that musicians hear each other on stage, and you do that extremely well with this listener. But not only is the sound convincing but with the SD 4, the entire package is right: starting with the fit, through the features, to the fact that the receiver is available in two sizes. All of this makes the SD 4 an excellent tool for the working musician. For many, the only downer is the price, but good tools have never been cheap.
Sennheiser In-Ear Audio Monitor (IE 400 PRO Clear)
- Detailed and balanced in-ear monitor sound that packs a real punch
- Detachable, stage-proof Cable with break-proof connection (patent pending) and reinforced ear hook
- Perfect fit due to compact, extremely lightweight earmold in a superior ergonomic yet rugged design
- Highest flexibility and wearing comfort with silicone & memory foam ear tips in all sizes, individually adaptable to your ear canal depth
The IE 400 Pro passed their practical test without question. Scope of delivery and design are top, comfort and usability of the seat and handling leave nothing to be desired. In terms of sound, the in-ears convince with fine highs that convey a good sound stage, as well as with rich sub-bass. Like their smaller sibling, the IE 40 Pro, these button headphones also deliver quite succinctly in the mid-range.
The distortion-free playback, with which I was already impressed by the IE 40 Pro, can also be found in the IE 400 Pro. All those who want a strong bass for monitoring on stage and have no problem with the fact that voice and speech signals can hiss here and there can feel addressed. The bottom line is that the buyer receives an enormous amount of “value for money” because it is a mature product.
Westone UM Pro 50 High Performance
- FIVE BALANCED-ARMATURE DRIVERS WITH THREEWAY CROSSOVER: The UM Pro 50 features five proprietary balanced-armature drivers with a 3-way passive crossover, and is the flagship In Westone’s line of Universal-Fit In-Ear Musicians’ Monitors. Thunderous low’s, combine with a rich, detailed mid-range, and shimmering articulate highs, in a balanced and harmonious presentation that meets the demands of the biggest names in the music industry, and of the most discerning music lover.
- THE MOST COMPACT, LOW PROFILE, ERGONOMIC DESIGN IN THE WORLD: Designed and built to perform in the most demanding environments, the compact, low-profile, ergonomic design of the UM Pro 50 is incredibly comfortable, and can be worn for hours and hours. Westone’s silicone and comfort foam eartips enhance the performance of our IEMs by providing superior noise isolation and ensuring a superb fit.
- TWISTED MMCX AUDIO CABLE: Westone’s professional-quality MMCX Audio Twisted Cable is manufactured using high-strength, high-flex, ultra-low resistance tensile wire, which is reinforced with a special aramid fiber. Twisted to help reduce cable noise and keep the cable light-weight, flexible, and comfortable, our cable features MMCX Audio Connectors and 3.5mm stereo plug. Built to withstand the rigors of the road, Westone’s MMCX Audio Cable is perfect for use on-stage, or for personal listening
- TECHNICAL SPECS: The Westone UM Pro 50 features five balanced-armature drivers and a 3-way passive crossover, with 115 dB @ 1mW sensitivity, 20Hz - 20kHz frequency response, and an impedance of 45 ohms @ 1kHz
- Connectivity technology : Wired
The Westone UM Pro 50 delivers an excellent overall performance. In terms of sound, due to its target group in the stage area, it is not strictly attuned to neutrality, but rather with its emphasis in the bass area, strives for the equally full and contoured sound image with which Westone has established itself in the professional field over the years. Nevertheless, the listening experience is excellent due to its richness of detail and precision, even when it comes to pure musical enjoyment. Here you can immerse yourself deeply and genre-spanning in the music!
With a street price between 540 and almost 700 euros, the UM Pro 50 is a small investment. In terms of sound, you are rewarded with comprehensibly higher sound quality than in the price range of around 200 euros. I don’t want to judge to what extent this leap in quality is worth several hundred euros to you. Often enough, the last qualitative percentage points require a particularly high effort. A look at competitors such as Sennheiser ( IE 800 S – to the test ) or Shure ( SE846 – to the test ) shows that you could also dig deeper into your pockets.
Westone AM Pro 30 Triple
- TRIPLE BALANCED-ARMATURE DRIVERS WITH THREEWAY CROSSOVER: The AM Pro 30 features Ambient Patented Technology combining passive ambient sound with the monitor mix, three proprietary balanced-armature drivers with a 3-way passive crossover. The AM Pro 30 has a soundstage that features powerful lows, articulate mid-range, and crystal-clear highs and the performance, power, and output for any stage that will meet the demands of the most discerning musician and music lover alike.
- THE MOST COMPACT, LOW PROFILE, ERGONOMIC DESIGN IN THE WORLD: Designed and built to perform in the most demanding environments, the compact, low-profile, ergonomic design of the AM Pro 30 is incredibly comfortable, and can be worn for hours and hours. Westone Audio's silicone and comfort foam eartips enhance the performance of our IEMs by providing superior noise isolation and ensuring a superb fit.
- TWISTED MMCX AUDIO CABLE: Westone Audio's professional-quality MMCX Audio Twisted Cable is manufactured using high-strength, high-flex, ultra-low resistance tensile wire, which is reinforced with a special aramid fiber. Twisted to help reduce cable noise and keep the cable light-weight, flexible, and comfortable, our cable features MMCX Audio Connectors and 3.5mm stereo plug.
- TECHNICAL SPECS: The Westone Audio AM Pro 30 features three balanced-armature drivers and a 3-way passive crossover, with 124 dB @ 1mW sensitivity, 20Hz - 18kHz frequency response, and an impedance of 57 ohms @ 1kHz. Features passive Ambient Patented technology.
- IN THE BOX + WARRANTY: Purchase includes; 1 pair Westone Audio AM Pro 30 In-Ear Monitors, MMCX Audio Twisted Cable, 5 pair Patented Ergonomic Silicone Eartips, 5 pair Custom-Fit Comfort Foam Eartips, Impact-Resistant Monitor Vault, Cleaning Tool, and a 2-year warranty.
The AMPro30 is a recommendation for everyone who has always felt too separated from the outside world while playing with in-ear monitoring. Ambient noises are not only perceptible during breaks but also when the music is playing – ideal for jam sessions, church services and all kinds of occasions where contact with the audience or fellow musicians is important. In terms of sound quality and workmanship, Westone has also done everything right – but all for a very high price.
Mackie MP-120
- Precision high-performance dynamic driver offers punchy bass and vocal clarity for the most demanding artists
- Shielded, Braided Cable is designed for extra durability and sonic performance
- Detachable MMCX connector that swivels for increased comfort and durability
With the Mackie MP-120, the traditional American manufacturer offers good in-ear headphones at an affordable price. The MP-120 works just as well as an everyday listener as it does as a stage monitor – if you can live with the withdrawn mids and the hissing tendency. Those who like crisp bass are well served here, and those who prefer not to indulge in the finely drawn highs, I give special praise for the fact that Mackie delivers its MP series headphones, which are of different prices, with identical accessories, which are really very high quality!
Mackie MP-360
- Balanced sound with exceptional clarity and stereo imaging with up to 40db of sound isolation
- The shielded, braided cable is designed for extra durability and sonic performance
- 4 different types of ear tips included and in three different sizes
- Hard case, 1/4" adapter, plus cleaning cloth and tool included
If you want to hear what’s really going on in your favourite tracks, put the Mackie MP-360 in your ears! In terms of concept, they are real IEMs, developed for musicians or sound engineers on and in front of the stage. Headphones are needed there that allow reliable sound assessments, and that is exactly what the MP-360 delivers. You will find a nice middle way between this analytical accuracy and a sound image that also allows relaxed listening to music.
Since the MP-360 sound good with almost every style of music, this makes it a real all-rounder; only fans of really deep and fat basses should keep their distance. But if you want to hear music the way the artist intended, you will be amazed at the many fine details that you can hear in songs with the MP-360.
Mackie MP-240
- Dynamic plus balanced Armature hybrid driver design
- Shielded, Braided Cable is designed for extra durability and sonic performance
- Detachable MMCX connector that swivels for increased comfort and durability
As true monitor headphones, the Mackie MP-240 has committed itself to sound neutrality. If you are looking for a sound that impresses you, you are better off with the bass-stronger (and cheaper) Mackie Brothers MP-120 and MP-220. On stage, however, the MP-240 has two advantages: it still sounds pleasant at high volumes, and the individual frequency ranges can still be bent properly with the EQ of the monitor mixer if necessary. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether the black piano lacquer look matches the stage outfit.
Audio-Technica ATH-E50
- Excels at providing a consistent reference in every sonic environment, making it the ideal choice for the producer on the road
- Powerful single balanced armature drivers provide an accurate full-range response
- Flexible memory cable loops over ears for a custom fit and long-wearing comfort
- Specially designed housings provide maximum isolation, allowing you to focus on the music
- Detachable 1.6 m (5.2') cable offers exceptional durability and optimized audio performance
Many headphones are advertised with the word “professional”, and the Japanese audio specialist Audio-Technica also uses this word in the description of their in-ear headphones from the ATH-E series. But here, it is not used as a (sometimes daring) advertising statement, and it is the description of the targeted user: The equipment and sound of the ATH-E listeners are aimed at professional musicians and producers, and they are usually looking for headphones with a neutral, unadulterated sound character. There are currently three ATH-E earphones, the ATH-E50 tested here is the middle model. We also tested the top model ATH-E70 (for review).
Audio-Technica ATH-E70
- Three balanced armature drivers provide accurate and extended response across the entire frequency range
- Flexible memory cable loops over ears for a custom fit and long-wearing comfort
- Specially designed housing provides maximum isolation, allowing you to focus on the music
- Detachable cable offers exceptional durability and optimized audio performance
- Includes a carrying case, silicone ear tips, Comply foam ear tips and 6.3mm (1/4") plug-on adapter
The Audio Technica ATH-E70 is not a listener that plays its way into the foreground with power and pressure. But thanks to its well-balanced sound, you can always hear “what’s going on”, and it is, therefore, a great listener for everyone who needs to hear what’s going on: From this point of view, the term “professional” in the product description is quite appropriate because the ATH -E70 is a precise tool for musicians on stage or producers in the recording studio.
Shure SE 535 Wireless
- “-V” Designates the product's color variation (Bronze)
- Triple high-definition drivers for Spacious sound and rich bass for a cinematic experience
- Sound Isolating design featuring fit kit with a variety of sleeves blocks up to 37 dB of outside noise for immersive listening no matter where you are
- Bluetooth 4.1 pairs with most phones, laptops and tablets, with up to 8 hours of battery life and 30 feet (10 meters) of range
- Easily transition between Apple/iOS and Android devices with 3.5 mm connection in one switch
The Shure SE535 was previously suitable for moderators, speakers and singers. Now, in the wireless version with Bluetooth connection and remote control for smart devices, it gets an additional boost of everyday proximity for daily use on the road. As high-quality workmanship and scope of delivery, as these in-ears are, the use of their remote controls is just as complicated in practice.
Therefore, to be on the safe side, those interested in the Shure SE535 should make sure that they are comfortable handling the remotes. The fact that SBC is used as the Bluetooth codec instead of aptX is also a small downer. In terms of sound, on the other hand, even heavy mid-heavy guitar music can be heard differently with these in-ears,
Factors To Consider When Buying In-Ear Monitors For Singing
High-quality sound
There are a few factors that, taken as a whole, are responsible for the high sound quality of in-ear monitoring systems. These include optimal volume, resistance to feedback, protection of the hearing, reduced vocal stress and less interference with the audience mix.
Optimal volume
One of the most common requests to monitor engineers is, “Can you make me louder ??” A request that they cannot always comply with. There are many factors that determine how loud a signal can be when using stage monitors: the size of the amplifiers, the power of the loudspeakers and the gain. Another point that can make it difficult to hear yourself properly is the volume level on stage.
Singers often only rely on stage monitors – in contrast to guitarists, bassists or keyboardists, whose instruments are generally amplified. And drummers are naturally louder, even without amplification. The usual volume battles are sometimes inevitable, as every musician is always anxious to hear himself out of this confused music.
The brilliance of the voice is often neglected when other instruments are added to the monitor mix. Pianos, acoustic guitars and other instruments that also rely on a monitor are then at odds with the singing voice to be considered in the mix. An in-ear monitoring system, which isolates the artist from high stage volume and poor room acoustics, allows him to achieve studio-quality sound – and that on stage!
The monitor mix can then be adapted to personal taste without the artist having to assert himself against the above factors.
Feedback resistance
If higher volumes are to be implemented using conventional monitor boxes, you can add more amplifiers and more speakers, but you cannot bypass the laws of physics. The concept of gain-before-feedback describes how loud a microphone can be before feedback occurs.
The further you move away from the microphone, the closer the microphone is brought to the loudspeaker or the further the loudspeaker is from the musician, the lower the resistance to feedback. Let’s imagine a typical stage scenario: the microphone is close to the mouth; that’s good.
The microphone is close to the speaker. That’s bad. The monitor is relatively far away from you, which is also bad. Feedback occurs whenever the sound that enters a microphone is reproduced by a loudspeaker and then picked up again by the same microphone. For a reasonable monitor volume, however, you definitely need some gain.
With in-ear monitoring, there are none of these feedback problems. The loudspeakers sit directly in your ear canal and, therefore, quite a distance from the microphone. And without the threat of feedback, the volume can be increased as required.
Protection of hearing
Long-term exposure to high sound pressure levels can impair your hearing. Many artists use hearing protection such as ear plugs to protect their hearing, but these often change the frequency response. In-ear monitoring provides protection that comes close to that of earplugs, but with the difference that small micro-speakers are stuck in the earplugs. The monitor volume has thus moved into the area of responsibility of the artist on stage. So loud levels should be a thing of the past. We also recommend using a limiter for even more effective hearing protection.
Reduced vocal stress
Another problem besides the volume is the great vocal stress on the singers with normal stage monitors. To compensate for their volume, many singers feel compelled to sing against it with more power than would be normal or healthy. Anyone who makes a living by singing can imagine the consequences of losing their voice. Protecting the voice should, therefore, always be a high priority. In-ear monitoring systems are the perfect protective measure for all singers.
Stereo monitoring
A distinct advantage of most in-ear systems is the ability to hear stereo. This does not necessarily fit always and everywhere, especially if only a limited number of mixes are available, but a monitor mix in stereo generally provides an accurate image of the environment. After all, we spend our entire lives in stereo, so it makes sense that a stereo mix would increase the perception of a natural soundscape. In-ear monitoring in stereo can also help reduce the volume.
Interference with the mix of the audience
But in-ear monitoring not only has advantages for the musicians on-stage. An undesirable side effect of stage monitors is that sound radiates from the stage into the audience. The loudspeakers, in particular, emit low frequencies in all directions. This situation complicates the already demanding task of the FOH engineer, who has to fight against the loud levels on the stage in order to drive a clean mix for the audience.
The low frequencies emanating from the monitors wash out the mix and can also impair the intelligibility of the vocals, especially in smaller locations. This is also a point that clearly speaks in favour of using in-ear monitoring.
Portable construction
Easy to transport – that is an important argument, e.g. B. for artists who travel a lot. Let’s imagine an average stage monitor system: 3-4 wedges of 20 kg each and then one or the other amplifier of 25 kg each – that comes together quite a bit. And an in-ear monitoring system? It fits comfortably in every pocket. Another nice side aspect of IEM is the aesthetics.
Finally, bulky stage monitors and cabling are no longer necessary; the stage looks much tidier. By the way, this point is especially important for bands that are B. performing at weddings, in churches or at important social occasions, where a professional appearance is just as indispensable as good sound.
Freedom of movement
Stage monitors create a sweet spot, so a certain point on the stage where everything sounds pretty good. But if you only take a step to the left or right, that is suddenly no longer the case. This is due to the directional nature of the speakers, especially at high frequencies. Using in-ear monitoring is like using headphones – the sound is always right where you are. And you have this effect in every location. Since professional earphones effectively block out ambient noise, only good sound remains.
Direct control
Probably the biggest advantage of in-ear monitoring is that you can control the mix directly. Sure, the musician still has to rely on the sound engineer to do the fine-tuning, but in-ear monitoring gives him the opportunity to make some adjustments himself. These include the volume or the ability to choose different mixes. If the entire mix should now be louder, the artist can regulate the volume directly on the bodypack instead of trying to convey this wish to the monitor engineer with wild gesticulations.