So you have your favorite pair of in-ear monitors but now you need a proper system to get your mix into your IEM’s. But sifting through the mess of in-ear monitor systems can be tough. So I compiled a list of the 5 best in-ear monitor systems for live performance from the top brands in pro-audio.
5 Best In-Ear Monitor Systems For Live Performances
Behringer Powerplay PM1 Personal In-Ear Monitor Beltpack
The Powerplay PM1 from Behringer is a simple device. It takes the signal from a balanced XLR and amplifies it to a 3.5mm jack for your IEM. I feel like this is a must have wherever you go. If you can get the sound engineer at your performance or gig to give you an XLR feed of your monitor mix… Do It! It’s easy, affordable and you’ll get the best sound possible with no wireless transmitters and receivers to deal with. It’s only $29 and gets the job done well.
Behringer Powerplay PM1 Personal In-ear Monitor Belt-pack
Behringer P1 Powerplay Personal In-Ear Monitor Amplifier
Options are good. The P1 Powerplay from Behringer is a step-up from the PM1. It has 2 XLR inputs, a stereo/mono toggle switch, balance knob and volume control. You can clip it on your belt or mount it on a microphone stand. The PM1 is also a wired option for live in-ear monitoring. Although it may cut down on mobility, a wire is always the best way to get your mix if possible. The Behringer PM1 retails for $49.99 and has good ratings online.
Shure P3TR112GR PSM300 Wireless Stereo Personal Monitor System
When it comes to wireless in-ear monitor systems Shure is a top name. Trusted for generations in quality live pro-audio equipment, Shure delivers a top-notch package with the PSM300 Wireless Monitor System. It’s durable, easy to use and one of the best systems you can get for the price. It operates up to 300 feet and uses 1/4″ inputs on the back. You’ll also find a mono/stereo switch and line/aux level switch for different types of inputs. The PSM300 retails for $699 and comes with a pair of Shure SE112 in-ear monitors which can serve as a nice back-up if you’ve already got a pair of IEM’s that you love.
Shure P3TR112GR PSM300 Wireless Stereo Personal Monitor System with SE112-GR Earphones, G20
Audio Technica ATW3110A UHF 3000 Series UniPak Wireless System
Audio-Technica is a well respected name in the pro-audio community and the ATW3110A UHF 3000 Series UniPak Wireless System is a great, affordable in-ear monitor system. This system uses automatic frequency scanning to find the best one for transmission via 200 selectable UHF frequencies.It features balanced and unbalanced input jacks and is relatively simple to set up and use. The ATW3110A retails for $399 and makes for a nice wireless monitoring device for those working on a budget.
Audio Technica ATW3110A UHF 3000 Series UniPak Wireless System
Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3 A Band in ear monitor system
Sennheiser is one of the most trusted names in pro-audio. Everything from their microphones to headphones are revered by audiophiles worldwide. The Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3 A-Band in ear monitor system is an exceptional device. It features 42 MHz bandwidth with 1680 tunable UHF frequencies for interference-free reception. It has 2 balanced XLR inputs as well as an ethernet port for connecting to wireless system manager software. Connect seamlessly to your source audio and the receiver clips to your belt for portability. It also comes with a pair of Sennheiser IE 4 Earphones. The Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3 retails for $999 and is definitely a wise purchase if it’s within your budget.
Sennheiser EW 300 IEM G3-B-US in ear monitor EW system
Summary
Whether you’re rocking a pair of Westone, Sennheiser, Audio Technica or Shure IEM’s there’s some nice choices out there to get you clean amplified signal delivered to your in-ear monitor. Having this as a part of your touring rig will let you rest a little easier at night knowing that you won’t have to rely on the venue for the proper monitor system. And you’ll cut down on-stage feedback considerably. Whichever you choose, make sure you get the monitor system that best fits your needs and budget. And stay away from freaky generic systems that may or may not work well. You deserve better than that.
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