In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)
IEM use provides the wearer with benefits and risks:
- Custom molded IEMs can provide good isolation, comfort, and a desirable appearance.
- Wearing in-ear monitors in both ears appears louder than using a singular IEM. This effect is due to binaural summation, where 90 dB + 90 dB sounds like 96 dB. Binaural summation also makes the bass sound 'fuller'.
- When only one IEM is worn, the wearer loses the summation effect and tends to turn the single IEM up.
- It is common for musicians using IEMs to set levels at the same volume as they experience foldback on wedges. Being isolated from acoustic sounds does mean that levels can be reduced.
- IEM wearers can be trained to accept lower levels of sound over time, particularly as lower levels and shorter exposure times improve hearing longevity.
- Wearing headphones, IEMs, or earphones can increase hearing fatigue (TTS).
Earplugs
Balancing safety with the amount of audio level desired by the wearer, not every occasion requires earplugs that provide maximum sound isolation. Earplugs follow a graded system to indicate the level of possible isolation possible. While foam earplugs can provide significant SPL damping, they are commonly not fitted correctly, which compromises their effectiveness.
Various musician earplugs profess a flatter attenuation so the wearer can still appreciate musical elements at a lower volume. Custom versions can be more visually discreet and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Various musician earplugs profess a flatter attenuation so the wearer can still appreciate musical elements at a lower volume. Custom versions can be more visually discreet and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
How to Fit Ear Plugs
When using earplugs, obtaining a good seal is essential to achieve the sound isolation required.
For foam-type earplugs, ROLL into a small thin ‘snake’ with fingers using one or two hands.
PULL the top of the ear up and back with the opposite hand to straighten out the ear canal. The rolled-up earplug should slide right in.
HOLD the earplug in place for 20-30 seconds until it fully expands to fill the ear canal.
A gentle pull on the plug will test the fit and the seal
Afterwards, remove the earplug carefully so as to not damage the skin on the walls of the ear canal.