In-ear monitors or IEMs are essential for musicians to hear their best while
also protecting their hearing. Frequent exposure to loud sound as a musician can
cause hearing loss and tinnitus or ringing in the ears. In this video I'll
discuss the top four benefits of in-ear monitors.
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Hi I'm Dr Derek - audiologist, audio engineer, and musician with
ProFitHearing.com bringing you the best insight in today's
latest hearing aids, headphones, and audio technology to improve your life. If you
have concerns about your hearing, always consult with your local physician or
audiologist. Today, I'm talking about the top four
benefits of in-ear monitors also called IEMs for short. Whether you're a vocalist
or an instrumentalist, in-ear monitors can make all the difference in how you
hear and experience your music. First, let's take a look at some examples
of in-ear monitors. One option is the Shure SE sound
isolating earphones. They're offered in different versions and price points. The
SE215 professional sound isolating earphones as well as the other Shure SE
models come with different size ear tips so that you can find the best seal for
your ears. You also have the option of buying
custom molded in-ear monitors. An example is the Westone Audio IEMs. They require
an ear impression from a hearing healthcare provider.
The in-ear monitor is then built into a customized shell that is shaped to your
ears. Custom molded in-ear monitors are the
best solution for a comfortable fit and consistent seal in the ears.
Whichever in-ear monitor you choose, make sure they seal securely in your ears for
the best sound quality and hearing protection. I'll leave a link to the
products discussed here in the description below. OK so let's talk
about the top four benefits of in-ear monitors.
benefit number one: hearing protection In-ear monitors can protect your ears
from loud sounds around you. They help block out environmental sound and allow
you to hear your music at a softer, safe listening level. Do not use in-ear
monitors at loud volumes. In-ear monitors are ideal for live
performance with other musicians on stage.
Music venues use stage monitors which are speakers that sit on the stage so
that musicians can hear themselves and each other. Use of these speakers on
stage can quickly lead to excessively loud and unsafe sound levels which can
cause hearing loss in tinnitus. Also, use of stage monitors can lead to accidental
loud feedback. Feedback is that loud high-pitched whistle that you might hear
when sound from the speakers accidentally gets amplified by the
microphones on stage. It's important to always wear your left
and right ear monitors when you're performing music. If you wear just one,
this will unnecessarily expose one ear to loud noise on stage which puts that
ear at risk of developing hearing loss and tinnitus. So, if you're taking out one
of your in-ear monitors just because you feel cut off from the sounds around you
or you feel like some of the sounds are unnatural, make sure to ask the sound
engineer to adjust your sound mix. benefit number two: personalized sound mix
Not only will you be able to listen at a
softer, safe listening level, but you can also have a personalized sound mix when
you're wearing in-ear monitors. The sound engineer can help create a mix tailored
to your own personal preferences. The sound mix can also be in stereo so that
certain instruments are placed more to the left or to the right ear for
improved sound quality. You can also request the sound of the room be added
to your mix so you feel more connected to your audience.
Now if you already use in-ear monitors, let me know by hitting the like button.
Comment below, what specific in-ear monitor do you use or do you want to
learn more about? I'd love to hear about your experience with in ear monitors in
the comments below. benefit number three: improved singing
Singers will find that they can hear themselves much easier when using in-ear
monitors. This not only can reduce vocal strain, but it can also help singers
monitor their vocal pitch. In-ear monitors help you sing in tune
and improve your timing with other musicians.
benefit number four: mobility on stage Use of in-ear monitors especially when
they're connected to a wireless audio system can give musicians more
flexibility on stage. They're no longer required to stand in front of a stage
monitor to hear themselves. In-ear monitors allow musicians to move around
more on stage so they can more easily interact with their audience and their
band members. Remember not only do in-ear monitors
sound great, but they're also able to help protect your ears from loud sounds.
Listen to music with in-ear monitors at a safe, soft listening level to help
prevent hearing loss and tinnitus. So what in-ear monitors do you use or
are you most interested in? Let me know in the comments below. If you received
value from this video and you want more content like this, please hit the like
button and subscribe. Thanks for watching, and I'll see you in the next video.