The Best In-Ear Monitors

To help you hear your music better and as a result play even better, we present the best in-ear monitors that are currently available.

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More and more musicians now prefer in-ear monitors (also called IEMs) over traditional stage monitors, and we can't blame them because they want to have access to a more personalized monitoring experience. Hearing yourself better on stage or in the studio makes a lot of difference, helping you make the right adjustments in real-time, which results in you playing better and improving your performance.

It''s not surprising to find that the top wireless microphone manufacturers dominate this market, as they use their experience as leverage to create impressive and convenient wireless IEMs. With these top in-ear monitors, you can easily hear what you need at the mix levels that you prefer.

Shure PSM 900
Shure PSM 900

Although the competition was close, Shure PSM 900 gets our top pick, thanks to its reliability, intuitive controls and super quiet operation.

Since its release, the PSM 900, with its clear sound, and ability to make quick real-time adjustments, has satisfied both performers and sound technicians world over. Sporting a unique feature called CueMode, it lets the sound engineer monitor different stage mixes by simply pressing a button. Big brand backing and solid-RF performance also helped it secure the top spot. We concur with other professionals that the Shure PSM 900 is a worthy investment.

Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3
Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3

The full featured and versatile Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3 is a close competitor for the top spot. Utilizing Sennheiser's experience with audio equipment, the sound that this IEM produces is clear and transparent.

It doesn't stop at just sounding great, it comes with a 5-band equalizer for fine tuning, Ethernet connectivity for computer control and the LED indicators provide good visual feedback.

Although not as polished and quiet as the Shure PSM 900, this IEM gives more bang per buck with improved control over the sound. It is available in a tempting and reasonably priced package that has two wireless receivers.

AKG IVM4500M
AKG IVM4500

Another impressive wireless IEM that you should not miss is the AKG IVM4500M. AKG boasts that this IEM provides an all-in-one personal monitoring solution, and they are not bluffing. It comes with essential monitoring features plus digital sound processing.

With its unique signal processing capabilities (room algorithms and compressor), you can easily shape the sound to whatever you prefer.

Other features include antenna diversity for reliable wireless operation, HiQnet integration and quick frequency change functions. With all its features, a retail price of $999, is easily justifiable.

Audio-Technica M3M
Audio-Technica M3M

Although known for their microphones, Audio-Technica has also established its presence in the IEM market. Most notable of which is the Audio-Technica M3M, it empowers performers by giving them more control over their monitors.

The body receiver comes with volume and mix controls, allow you to dial in your preferred sound to hear yourself better.

The receiver, like the transmitter, also comes with a useful LCD display for checking the settings. With 1321 UHF channels to choose from, you are ensured signal and audio reliability. This is an easy choice for performers that want to have some control over their monitoring.

Galaxy Audio AS-1100
Galaxy Audio AS-1100

This is Galaxy's best selling product and it is easy to see why, it took off the bells and whistles and instead focused on providing all the essential in-ear-monitoring features, without the bank-breaking price tag.

If you have budget constraints like normal humans have, you should consider the Galaxy AS-1100 System, providing quality wireless monitoring at an affordable price point.

Everything about the Galaxy Audio AS-1100 is simplified, ideal for those that prefer plug and play, set and forget systems.

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