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The bottom line: In-ears are a great solution for e-drummers, with most of the models tested eliminating much (in some cases, all) of the stick and pedal noise. There is, however, a big difference between the lower-end buds and the top-end canalphones which effectively seal the ears and totally block outside sound. Reproduction was excellent overall – with many models outperforming top-end traditional headphones. And all were easy to wear and less obtrusive than their bulky over-the-ears equivalents. Of course, some people will not like putting things in their ear. It is important to ensure that you choose the right tip and the appropriate size to ensure isolation and comfort. The better (more expensive) models tended to offer more choice in tips, with the pro models obviously in overkill area. And there are always after-market options as well. Of the models tested, there’s no doubt that the multi-driver JHA 16Pro was the overall performance leader, and if you’re a professional using your IEMs on a daily basis, you wouldn’t think twice about going totally custom – especially if it’s tax-deductable. Eargasmic as they were, for the average punter, it’s a big premium over the Shures or Westones, and it’s quite hard to quantify if they’re twice as good. And for the more budget-constrained who may be tempted by the Westones, Shures or Ultimate Ears, the step down to Etymotic ER4S is actually smaller than the price saving implies. The Etymotic held its own on all fronts (even down to the disconnectable cables – if that’s important to you). Some might favour the more substantial look and feel of the bigger models, but for me, less was more and the ER4S was plenty, although obviously it doesn’t equal the clarity, detail and broad soundscapes of its more expensive rivals .
One lesson I learned during testing was that draping the cables over the back of one’s ears rather than letting them dangle down your face cuts down on amplified cable noise. It may look odd, but it sounds much better. I’m loathe to say that earphones are a personal choice and what sounds good to me might not ring true for you, so instead I’d suggest that anyone in the market for new in-ear monitors make sure they at least listen to a couple of models – and avoid untested purchases, whether online or in a store. Of course, it may be hard to find stores that allow you to put their stock into your waxy ears and you probably can’t try your friends’ earphones either. And, clearly, it’s even more difficult to audition custom devices that require a mould and one-off production. You’ll also need to decide where your priorities lie. Are you interested in dedicated e-drum earphones, or are you likely to use them with your stereo, on flights or with your iPhone? The kind of uncoloured reproduction you’re looking for as a drummer might not be appropriate for your heavy metal CDs, so there will have to be some trade-off if you’re looking for broad application. The other tip is not to limit your search to a narrow price range. You may well find that the top-end prices are justified by their performance, but on the other hand, you may be pleasantly surprised by some of the cheaper options. And be aware that with some models, the purchase cost may not be the total cost of ownership. You may be up for filters or replacement tips and while these may only cost a few bucks, they may not be easy to find – and certainly will not be readily available if you suddenly need one during a gig. digitalDRUMMER, AUGUST 2011
digitalDrummer would like to thank the manufacturers who provided review samples, especially those who shipped them great distances. Thanks also to the local distributors who helped out!
Of the bud-style earphones, the beyerdynamic DTX 101iE was a pleasant surprise, combining clarity and clout in an affordable package. And the entrylevel Woodees punched far above their weight, delivering surprising detail and depth for a very modest price tag.
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