We’ve tested dozens of monitors, wireless in-ear monitors, and headphones all over the audio world in the last year. We’ve also talked to a host of DJs and manufacturers, to gather all the research on what makes the best DJ kit.
We also regularly survey our social media community asking what they consider to be the best DJ gear.
We’ve combined all that data and the DJ gear we picked below is trusted by us and has proven to be some of the best in-ear monitors you can choose.
What Are In-Ear Monitors?
When it comes to the vast majority of performance-based developments that have come out, very few are quite as helpful or impactful as in-ear monitors.
Because the main music speakers are facing the crowd, having some type of in-ear monitoring system available to the performer is key to ensuring that their performance is at the right level and the audio quality is spot on.
As an example, without a speaker or monitor of their own, a performer would also catch on to any problems several seconds after the crowd did, and always from a lesser perspective.
What Are Floor Monitors?
Floor monitors have long been a great way to resolve this issue as they normally offer that needed speaker setup for performers (singer, DJ, band, etc.) so that they can be made better aware of any sound or level imbalances.
Not only that but they are often played out at the higher sound quality, meaning they can note specific instruments or vocals outside of the music as a whole.
The challenge with these devices, however, is that they are incredibly restrictive in terms of what the performer can or can not do while also needing an additional sound tech engineer on standby to tweak and adjust the levels based on what the performers say.
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In-ear monitors effectively fix both of these issues while also being much more reasonably priced.
Unlike outer ear headphones, in-ear monitors are put in the ear canal, allowing the performer to move around the stage much more freely without having to worry about the loss of sound quality and what can be heard.
The snug fit provides extra sound isolation and noise reduction. This external noise reduction assists a musician to find the perfect sound signature whilst wearing them.
They are also able to play with the sound and volume without needing much help from the sound engineers. For many out there, selecting the best in-ear monitors, while useful, are difficult to parse out in terms of what’s quality and what isn’t.
Many have argued that you’d pretty much need to be a sound engineer to determine which are the best in-ear monitor picks out there. That is where this in ears buyer’s guide comes in.
Here, we plan to lay out the best in-ear monitors currently on the market today while going over their strengths, weaknesses, and the overall reasons why you should or should not get them.
Without question, by checking out the in-ear monitors on this list, you will be able to find an in-ear monitor that works perfectly for you so you can get back to performing with the correct and absolute best in-ear monitors for you,
Best In-Ear Monitors: Our Top Picks
That is where this in-ear monitors buyer guide comes in. Here, we plan to lay out the best in-ear monitor system options currently on the market today while going over their strengths, weaknesses, and the overall reasons why you should or should not get them.
Without question, by checking out the in-ear monitors on this list, you will be able to find an in-ear monitor that works perfectly for you so you can get back to performing with the best in-ear monitors available.
1. Shure PSM3000 (Editors Choice)
The Shure PSM3000 comes in as the best in-ear monitor Editor’s pick. Shure in-ears have always been a highly renowned producer of high sound quality monitors and the PSM3000 is an ever-present return to form.
Seen by many as one of the most impressive entry-level in-ear monitors on the market to date, the PSM3000 is ideal seen for anyone serious about music performance and amazing sound.
These in-ear monitors have a metal receiver that is equal parts lightweight and durable are great when you’ve been performing for a while and other monitors would begin to get uncomfortable. In addition, Shure is also known for producing some very capable headphones alongside in-ear monitors and noise-cancelling systems.
This means that not only will your sound quality be top-notch and stellar, but the in-ears you’ll be listening to it will fit well and feel as comfortable and engaging as possible. The only real downside that the PSM3000 has is that it doesn’t have an LCD display available. This, while not particularly terrible, can make accurate level readings a bit more difficult than on other systems.
What We Like:
- Headphones feel great
- System is lightweight
- The system is highly durable
What We Didn’t Like:
- Doesn’t include an LCD screen
- Frequency only reaches 300ft
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2. Phenyx Pro PTM-10 (Premium Pick)
The Phenyx Pro PTM-10 is our best in-ear monitors premium pick. These custom IEMS is an awesome in-ear monitors system with an incredible understanding of sound engineering and overall performance.
Not only is it an incredible device in terms of sound reach and sound quality, but it includes a bright and fully functioning LCD display that makes level reading much easier and more accurate.
The Pro PTM-1o’s display is bright enough to be read in all lighting conditions and environments, including dark or poorly lit areas and stages. Similarly, the Pro PTM-10 has a display on the system’s receiver, making channel and volume levels equally readable.
In terms of sound quality, the Pro PTM-10 in-ear monitors have a 900MHz frequency band, effectively allowing your sound to easily reach well into the 600-feet category range. This means that audio quality drop-outs or longer distances are much less of a potential issue here than for many other options on this list.
The only real drawbacks you’ll note are the system’s lower quality included headphones as well as the receiver itself being a bit on the hefty side. While neither of these things is particularly concerning, they are something worth keeping in mind.
What We Like:
- 600ft range
- The display is readable in all environments
What We Didn’t Like:
- Headphones are not high quality
- The receiver is fairly big and heavy
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3. LEKATO MS-1 (Value Choice)
The LEKATO MS-1 is our best in-ear monitors value choice. They are one of the newer in-ear monitoring editions out here that is shaking things up in a lot of good ways.
Presenting itself as something very different compared to other best-in-ear monitors on the market, the Listener Pro offers up several different features that give it its own unique set of benefits for performers.
One great example of the changes made is the altering of the transmitter’s static box for a “2-in-1 system” that functions both as a transmitter as well as a receiver, all while looking the same as every other device has.
This isn’t all that the LEKATO MS-1 in-ear monitors bring to the table. They also have rechargeable batteries, meaning the constant investment in AAs will drop considerably. Not only that, but the monitor system comes with one of the longest ranges available.
This transmitter-receiver device is both thin and lightweight as well as hardy and durable. This means that it’s both extremely difficult to accidentally damage while also feeling unnoticeable while performing.
Not only, but the device comes with two antennas, ensuring you can reliably use the 2.4GHz range no matter how near or far you are while performing.
The downside to the LEKATO MS-1 in-ear monitors largely breaks down to the lack of a display screen. It does do its job well enough, however, the tactile buttons are pretty responsive.
What We Like:
- Durable / Lightweight
- Long range signal
- Batteries are rechargeable
What We Didn’t Like:
- No display
4. Sennheiser Pro Audio IEM G4-A1
The Sennheiser Pro Audio IEM G4-A1 in-ear monitors are a pretty good brand with a lot of benefits to the device. Not only is it a hit with performers, but it’s been highly received by sound engineers as well!
Sennheiser’s system has both, an awesome sound experience, as well as a high-quality headphone/earphone to listen with. Sennheiser has routinely been known to offer some very impressive head and earphone devices.
Another area where the IEM G4-A1 has a major succession is in its ergonomic volume knob and systemic setup. It’s also very easy to access and monitor any changes in your reading through the device’s LCD display for the receiver.
One of the biggest challenges that anyone will notice with the IEM G4-A1 is its frequency range. Only managing to go between 470MHz to 516MHz is not great, and often leads to very, very restricted performances, something only very few performers will run into.
What We Like:
- High-quality in-ear headphone
- The LCD display is good quality
- Easy to adjust and use
What We Didn’t Like:
- The frequency band range can be too low
5. XTUGA IEM1100
The last one on our in-ear monitor’s list, the XTUGA IEM1100 may not be in the top 3 as they do offer some key advice and features.
These features can vary quite a bit, from the IEM1100’s broadcast range to its more accurate and useful LCD display. XTUGA’s IEM1100’s range isn’t too bad for what most people use the system for, going from 550MHZ to over 580MHZ.
Though not the most impressive option out there, an upper limit of 580MHZ ensures you can do a lot of things without too many issues. In addition, the IEM1100 comes with an impressive LCD that displays and helps many monitor their track’s music and stomach best.
The various drawbacks you’ll notice with the IEM1100 are all physical and have to deal with the system’s build as opposed to anything with the features.
As an example, the IEM1100’s in-ear monitors volume is controlled by way of a button instead of a set of knobs. This creates a very awkward listening experience, especially when trying to ensure your levels stay the same.
What We Like:
- LCD Display is clear and easy to monitor
- Mono & dual-mono listening
- Includes travel bag
What We Didn’t Like:
- No knobs. Just buttons.
- No Stereo option
In-Ear Headphones Vs. In-Ear Monitors
Once you’ve decided on the right in-ear monitor system, you may consider yourself finished.
The truth is, while you could walk away with just the monitor system itself, you’re probably going to want to look into the device’s headphones as well. This is because the in-ear headphone options that come included with most in-ear monitors are generally of lower overall quality and may result in you not using your system to its fullest potential.
As an example, if you plan to perform for long periods, be particularly active, or if you’re looking to use your in-ear monitors through a lecture-type setting, you’ll want to also consider things like your headphones being comfortable or properly stable when in use.
Ultimately, by ensuring your headphones are of good quality, you ensure your monitors and performance aren’t impeded or slowed down, but instead able to be maximized.
Below, we’ve also curated a list of headphones that can match the high sound quality of the earlier monitors so that your listening experience is at its highest and most performative level.
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Best In-Ear Headphones: Our Top Picks
Looking for a pair of in-ear headphones that deliver superior sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation? In this section, we’ve put together a list of our top picks for the best in-ear headphones currently available on the market.
Our team has tested and researched various models to bring you a selection of in-ear headphones headphones that cater to different needs, from daily commutes to live DJ sets. So, whether you’re a professional DJ, fitness enthusiast, or someone who enjoys listening to audiobooks or podcasts, our list has something for everyone.
Keep reading to discover our top picks and find the perfect pair of in-ear headphones that fit your lifestyle and budget.
1. SIMGOT MT-1
The SIMGOT brand has been known to produce more impressive and high-quality in-ears headphones. Known for going through intense and rigorous engineering testing, the SIMGOT earphones are great for just about any in-ear monitor experience.
The MT-1, in particular, takes that up a level with a highly dynamic and capable driver capable of providing high-quality balanced sound along the lines of music performance. Not only that but the MT-1 earphones are given an ergonomic ear cavity fit so that your ears don’t chafe, your ear canal is safe, or begin to hurt after a while of listening.
Similarly, these custom in-ear monitors won’t fall out after a while. SIMGOT’s in-ears are fully detachable for universal use while also being color-labeled for the left and right, making them universal in their usage.
The one downside to them is the weight difference, with the SIMGOT weighing a bit more compared to other in-ear headphone brands on the market. This isn’t a particularly big issue, as the weight difference isn’t that huge. Still, if you want something super lightweight and barely noticeable, that is something worth keeping in mind.
- Amazing sound quality
- Super comfortable
- Fits any ear shape
2. ADV Model 3 Live Edition
ADV headphones are, as a brand, an impressive option that was engineered to be unlike any other headphones out there. They are very different from most of the average and more generic-looking earphones on the market, appealing to those that want something that stands out in all the right ways.
The Model 3 is particularly exceptional as a set of earphones, as they pride themselves on being extremely lightweight and detachable. The cable itself is regarded as a “memory wire” due to its impressive ability to mold itself along the person’s specific ear shape and design, making something ultimately more comfortable and unique.
The Model 3 headphones have a cable that is over 1.5m in length, making it longer than many other brands out there. This also means that the sound quality is also at an increased point of clarity while being very easy to use and listen to.
The Model 3’s earbuds are made from the same memory mold material as the cable while also having silicone to further ensure that they feel as comfortable and engaging as possible.
The only real downside is the fact that, because the headphones largely use memory mold and silicone in their development instead of a hardier plastic or metal, they are more likely to wear themselves out compared to other materials, requiring more frequent replacements.
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Best In-Ear Monitors: The Verdict
The headphone, studio monitor, and in-ear monitors space are incredibly varied with a lot of things that go into a quality listening experience outside of just the music or performance itself.
By getting the best in-ear monitors and in-ear set of headphones, you put yourself in the best position to produce some of the best music, not only from a place of clarity and balanced sound quality but also for the audience by keeping things at their most engaging.
After looking at the different in-ear monitors and headphones included, which one is the most appealing to you? Let us know in the comments down below!
