In-ear monitors (IEMs) are devices used by musicians, sound engineers and audiophiles to listen to music or to hear a custom crafted mix of vocals and stage instrumentation for live performance or studio mixing. They are often custom fitted for an individual's ears and provide a high level of noise reduction from ambient surroundings.
In-ear monitors are professional grade earphones which fit into the ear and are commonly optimized to suit the needs of performers and serious audiophiles. For live performers, IEMs are connected to a receiver which receives the monitor signal from a wireless transmitter that is typically hardwired to the monitor mixer. These receivers are usually wireless via radio-frequency, but can also be wired for stationary performers (such as a drummer or keyboardist).
The most common professional stage in-ear monitor system employs the use of a wireless system to send the mix to the IEMs. This system contains a transmitter and a receiver pack that is worn by the performer. There is generally a transmitter for each monitor mix and there is always a receiver for each IEM. The transmitters usually output either one stereo mix or two mono mixes. When the transmitters are set up for two mono mixes, one transmitter can be used for two different mixes. Any number of receivers can receive a single mix. The output from a receiver is generally too weak to power two monitors at the same time.
The Transmitters and Receivers transfer audio wirelessly via a VHF or UHF radio frequency. Generally speaking, UHF systems sound much better than VHF systems and are therefore more expensive to purchase. UHF systems usually are less susceptible to frequency interference which adds to their level of quality.
The in-ear monitors themselves are the last stage of the signal path in the system. The IEMs are often custom molded by an audiologist and therefore are more comfortable to wear and allow the sound to be sent directly into the users ear canal. They also provide a better seal, and thus a lower level of ambient noise. Depending on the quality of the fit and length of the canal portion of the earpiece, a custom fit in-ear ....
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Posted by Joy Bastow of Let's Talk Earz
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