In addition to being a private violin teacher and having a degree in music from USC, Alecia started writing music-related articles and product reviews six years ago and has enjoyed this experience greatly. She likes to learn new instruments and write new compositions in her free time.
Marcus has a vast experience in digital audio and sound design. Thanks to his knowledge, he actively helps musicians with technical problems, improving their audio quality and promoting their tracks so that thousands of listeners can enjoy really good music.
Last updated: April 10, 2024
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Did you know that in-ear monitors allow drummers to listen to the music they are playing and the sound from other band members? There are numerous brands in the market, each with unique features. Drummers need earpieces with specific elements to make their work more manageable. Before buying any of the brands present in land-based and virtual stores, one should review the features and read testimonials left by previous buyers to ascertain the ear monitor’s quality.
Herein, we review seven of the best in-ear monitors for drummers. We focus on the key elements to rate the different brands accordingly. The features we focus on include sensitivity, impedance, frequency, and noise attenuation. All these elements are crucial in the functioning of the ear monitor and the comfort of the users. Some brands have additional features to improve the monitor’s performance, and it is essential to assess those as well.
The Shure SE215 Wired Sound Isolating Earbuds is a favorite among drummers for various reasons. The manufacturer is a renowned company in the business with years of experience availing top-notch audio products to the target consumers.
This ear monitor is an ideal choice for drummers due to the clear sound and deep bass. These features make it easier for the drummer to improve their performance to match the energy of the rest of the band members.
Another element that has propelled the popularity of this piece among drummers is the amount of sound isolation they offer. This Shure creation isolates up to 37 dB of sound. This means that the drummer can hear any monitoring as they play the drums.
The sensitivity for this unit is 107 dB SPL/mW, while the frequency is 22 Hz – 17.5 kHz / 21 Hz – 17 kHz (SPE). The impedance is 17 ohm indicating that this set requires little power to deliver high audio levels.
This ear monitor comes in a portable package that makes storage more manageable and guarantees durability.
Why is it special?
This unit has clear sound and allows for easy transition between iOS and Android devices.
This unit is a suitable choice for drummers and bassists due to the many desirable features. It is one of the best in-ear monitors for drummer’s bass players. The in-Ear Monitors by BASN has a total of four drivers, which elevate the overall performance of the unit. It comes with two upgraded balanced armature drivers and two dynamic drivers. This construction allows the monitors to add more definition, enhance the details, and ensure a balanced sound feature.
The sensitivity for this monitor is 108 dB, and the frequency is 16 Hz – 25000 Hz. This unit has a low impedance of 32 ohms. The high sensitivity and low impedance make pairing a breeze. The user can easily pair this in-ear monitor with an amplifier or smartphone. Important to note is that this set is compatible with an array of devices and any 3.5mm audio cables making it a versatile choice.
The all-metal CNC carving that the manufacturer includes in the design is sweatproof, ensuring that the ear monitor does not fall out when one is busy playing.
Why are we impressed?
The in-ear monitor comes with detachable cables and a swift rotation connect alongside a one-year warranty.
What negatives must you be aware of?
The producing company should avail all necessary information.
Not all the ear monitors for drummers in the market have been engineered for real-world dependability. This BASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones is among those with sought-after features that make them the perfect pick for frequent use.
This unit delivers good sound to the drummer to make their experience worthwhile. Low ends, precise mids, and clear-cut highs are what you get when you buy these in-ear monitor headphones regarding the sound.
Although the sensitivity information for this product is missing, it does not mean that the quality is bad. This is a vital feature that one cannot overlook, and it is best to reach the manufacturer’s customer support team to get this info before placing an order.
This earpiece comes with stereo MIC MMCX cables that are removable and replaceable. If you are after an ear monitor to easily upgrade and replace the wires, this unit may be the ideal pick for you.
The frequency for this set ranges from 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, and the impedance is 16 ohm. It isolates up to 38 dB of sound, and the silicone sleeves they include help improve this aspect.
What are its best features?
The stereo MIC MMCX cables, carrying case, and one-year warranty are among the features we like about this ear monitor.
Sennheiser is a company with years in the business, and the products they bring to the market are top tier. It is among companies that use skilled hands and premium quality material for their sound products guaranteeing longevity and high performance of their pieces.
This IE 40 PRO model from this company has a host of desirable qualities that make it comfortable and easy to use. The unit has high sensitivity standing at 115 dB. The drummer can regulate the sound to ensure that they do not hurt the eardrums. The frequency is 20 – 18000 Hz, and the impedance is 20 ohm. The noise attenuation for this ear monitor goes up to 26 dB.
This unit is one of the best sound isolating in-ear monitors for drummers. It resonates easily when at maximum sound levels thanks to the state-of-the-art dynamic 10mm broadband transducer, which allows for accurate monitoring.
The driver system in this earpiece reduces acoustic stress significantly. It also allows for distortion-free reproduction of sound. The innovative diaphragm delivers a warm sound that is clear-cut even in loud environments.
Why are we impressed?
The unit is from a renowned manufacturer with an array of innovative features and an ergonomic design.
What negatives must you be aware of?
Some design elements, such as the 3.5mm jack with a 90-degree fitting, are limiting.
If you choose to buy the KZ ZS10 Pro Earbuds Headphone, it is essential to note that the manufacturer sells them with or without a microphone. The pricing difference is not much; hence, getting the earpiece alongside a microphone may be the best choice for those who do not own a mic.
The pricing for this ear monitor is among the things that attract drummers and other users to it. It is an affordable piece featuring the latest technology in the audio world.
The construction is another element that makes this ear monitor stand out. The manufacturer uses stainless steel and resin to make the different parts of the piece. Combining these two materials improves the aesthetic value of the piece and assures durability. A stainless-steel case is among the things that you will receive in the package. It makes it more manageable to carry the ear monitor around as well as storing the same.
This unit has five drivers, four balanced armature drivers, and one piece of 2nd Generation 10mm double magnetic dynamic driver. The mid and high-range armature drivers enhance the quality of the sound and define the music better.
What do we love it for?
We like that this unit comes with a separate PCB frequency crossover board that improves the sound quality significantly.
What were we disappointed with?
The sound has a scratchy feel at high frequencies.
The BASN Bsinger BC100 in Ear Monitor Headphones is an option you should consider when you want value for your money. The cost of acquiring this ear monitor is on the lower side compared to other models in the market with the same features.
The low cost does not mean that the performance and sound quality is bad. This unit is among those that have the best sound isolation in the market. The noise attenuation goes up to 25 dB, which is a good range for most sets. Sound isolation technology is another feature that improves the quality of sound considerably. It prevents ambient noise from distorting the sound or interfering with the listening experience.
Professional drummers can use this earpiece to monitor their music. Additionally, one can use them for personal listening, expanding the applications for the same. The earbud monitors offer detailed sound allowing the drummer to adjust their drumming accordingly.
The frequency ranges from 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, and the impedance is 18 ohm. The sensitivity, on the other hand, is 93 dB. The ear monitors utilize a detachable MMCX cable that is easy to replace and customize.
Why did it make our list?
This unit is lightweight with an ergonomic design.
What is not ideal about it?
The producer should improve the bass sound of the monitor.
High resolution and clarity are among the top desirable features that this SIMGOT MT3 Hi-Res in-Ear Monitor Headphones offers. The manufacturer uses 10mm high magnetic circuit coil driver technology to ensure that the sound is clear, and the drummer can hear the details in the sound without any hassle.
This set has the newest upgraded oxygen-free copper silver-plated 400D DuPont Kevlar braided detachable reinforced cable. It is a detachable cable constructed with soft and supple material that makes handling easier and guarantees a long lifespan.
Information regarding noise attenuation is missing. This info is critical, making it necessary for you to find the details before ordering the unit. The resistance is 18 ohms and the sensitivity 101 dB. The frequency for this unit is between 15Hz and 40kHz.
Sound isolation technology is what the manufacturer uses to prevent ambient noise from disrupting the listening experience. These in-ear monitor earpieces are ideal for stage performance, but the uses do not end here. You can use this set to listen to music on the go.
What do we love it for?
The manufacturer gives a one-year warranty for this set. The after-sale services is another aspect that we like about this unit.
What were we disappointed with?
All necessary info should be readily available.
Things to Consider
Different brands release in-ear monitors for drummers into the market. Not all the models are ideal for the task at hand. Knowing the features to review is essential if you want to get the best wireless in-ear monitors for drummers or any of the other alternatives available in stores. Our buying guide tackles the top merits of ear monitors as well as the features to consider before buying them. We also answer a few questions that most buyers have regarding products in this category. Read through to the end to know more about ear monitors and the fundamental features to review when buying them.
Advantages of in-ear monitors for drummers
Drummers require ear monitors for various reasons. Buying any of the market variations gives them a chance to explore the numerous benefits that come with these devices. Here are some of the advantages of ear monitors for drummers.
Allows drummers to listen to the sound
Drummers require feedback on the work they are doing to know whether they are on the right track or not. Some glitches are easy to miss when one is not using ear monitors, as some notes are subtle but crucial in the set. The drummer gets to hear their sound and that from other players in the same group if they wish to do so. This helps improve the overall quality of the sound from the drums. Hearing the sound without the ambient noise makes monitoring easy, and the drummer can change accordingly to get the music back on track.
Protects the eardrums
Ear monitors are essential for drummers as they can control the sound that gets into the inner ear. The user gets to adjust the level of loudness they are exposed to as they can hear the sound without increasing the volume. Ambient sound can be loud to the ears, especially when one is close to the stage where the instruments are played. Using ear monitors, drummers have a chance to protect their inner ear from damage due to loud sounds.
The drummer has more control over the sound they produce for the listeners as they get to hear what they are playing first-hand without the distortion of ambient sound. Additionally, they can concentrate on what they are doing to deliver better performance to the audience as they cannot hear the crowd’s feedback.
Features to consider before you buy in-ear monitors for drummers
It is impossible to walk into a store and purchase an ideal ear monitor for drummers. One should be privy to information regarding the elements to review to ensure that they get the finest. Here are some of the features that you must consider before you buy ear monitors for drummers.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to how loud in-ear monitors will play at specific power levels. Efficiency or Sound Pressure Level is the other name that sellers use to describe this feature. Units with high sensitivity ratings produce a louder sound than those with low rankings. If the rating is 86dB and below, then it is considered relatively low. On the other hand, if the rating is above 110dB, it is on the higher side.
You should find a balance between the high and low ratings to ensure that the in-ear monitor you buy is not too loud or produces very low sound.
Whether it is too high or very low, the sensitivity may cause damage to the ears due to loudness or the strain that the drummer must undergo to listen to the sound. KZ ZS10 Pro Earbuds Headphone is one of the in-ear monitors that we review with a high sensitivity ranking of 111 dB.
Impedance
This is a crucial feature that dictates numerous other factors necessary for using in-ear monitors for drummers and other band members. This feature is a must-know for anyone buying units in this category. It determines what you need to have if you want to use the in-ear monitor. Essentially, impedance is electrical resistance, and it is the feature that tells you how much power you require to achieve reasonable listening volume for your sound. This feature is measured in ohms, and you should check this aspect before buying any of the units you are interested in. BASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones has the lowest impedance of 16 ohms among all the brands we review. This means that this unit requires the least power to use.
Frequency
Frequency response is the range from bass to the mids and trebles. The first numeral in a representation, such as 20 to 20,000 Hz, represents the bass spectrum, while the second number is on the treble end. Understanding this feature is essential as it affects the choice and usage of the in-ear monitors you buy.
The standard for most IEMs is between twenty to twenty thousand cycles per second.
Some brands go beyond this number, and it does not affect the device’s performance in any way. Higher frequency response does not always equate better sound. Most of the units we review have the standard frequency range, as is the case with BASN Bsinger BC100 in Ear Monitor Headphones.
Noise attenuation
Sound attenuation is the reduction of energy from the waves. Interruption reduces the volume and quality of the sound waves. Noise attenuation, therefore, is the reduction of unwanted sound that will otherwise alter the propagation of media from the drums to the drummer’s ears. This is a feature that manufacturers include in the design to allow the sets they release to the market to perform the functions they are designed for. Some units isolate up to 38 dB, while others are on the lower side. Some sellers do not provide this information making it hard for you to make an informed choice. Do not buy a unit whose noise attenuation feature is not explicitly listed without contacting the manufacturer. SIMGOT MT3 Hi-Res in-Ear Monitor Headphones are among units that are missing this information.
Warranty
Warranty is an essential aspect of any purchase of sound equipment. Not all manufacturers give the buyers a guarantee that they will get replacements or repairs under certain circumstances. In-ear monitors for drummers are among audio tools that require you to have a warranty from the manufacturer. They may come with manufacturing defects or failure to perform as it should due to missing parts or any other issues that are not normal wear and tear. In-Ear Monitors by BASN is one of the brands that with a review that comes with a one-year warranty. It is crucial to read through the terms and conditions of the guarantee to know what it entails and what is covered.
Some in-ear monitors are suitable for concerts while others are not. The features will help you pick the right fit for your needs as they determine the usability and performance of the unit you select. Concerts involve a lot of activity, such as movement, that will dictate the type of in-ear monitor for a drummer to buy. Models with sweatproof cables and ergonomic designs ought to be on the top of the list as they provide comfort to the user while they work. Another feature that one should think about is the connectivity and compatibility of the ear monitor they buy to the existing hardware. The sensitivity, noise isolation, resistance, and frequency are among the other factors you should evaluate. The choice you make regarding this feature is what determines whether the set you have is concert appropriate or not.
Yes, in-ear monitors require regular cleaning for various reasons. They need to remain clean to ensure that that dirt and sweat pile up does not clog the ear monitor resulting in bad sound. The ear is among delicate parts of the body, and infections can be catastrophic. Failing to clean in-ear monitors may lead to infections that will affect the general well-being of the drummer. Besides cleaning, replacing the sleeves time and again will help keep the set you acquire in mint condition. The cleaning procedure is different for the various brands that you will come across. Most if not all manufacturers provide a manual to guide users on using the in-ear monitor and how to clean it. Follow the instruction from the producer to the letter to prevent damaging the in-ear monitor you buy.
Our Verdict
The different in-ear monitors for drummers that we review in this article are all from reputable companies with experience in producing audio equipment. The designs and technology that these manufacturers use are innovative to warrant the comfort and safety of users. Our editor’s pick from the seven brands we review is the Shure SE215 Wired Sound Isolating Earbuds. This in-ear monitor features that ensure the sound is clear for the drummer. It comes with a portable package that makes movement and storage more manageable.
The in-Ear Monitors by BASN is our premium pick due to the many sought-after features that this unit has. The design includes a CNC carving and detachable cables that work towards ensuring that the user is comfortable. The best value pick in our list of the seven best in-ear monitors for drummers is the BASN Bsinger BC100 in Ear Monitor Headphones. This unit is lightweight with an ergonomic design.
