For decades, many musicians relied on large stage monitors, often known as wedges, to hear themselves perform. Positioned on the floor and aimed upwards at the performer, these speakers became an iconic feature of amplified live music. They also provided a convenient place to plant a foot during a dramatic guitar solo.
Unfortunately, they were far from perfect.
As concerts grew larger and productions became more sophisticated, stage volumes increased dramatically. Musicians had to compete with drums, guitar amplifiers, bass cabinets and other monitor speakers, all producing high sound levels. Hearing the details of a performance could be difficult, while prolonged exposure to loud sound created growing concerns about hearing damage.
Audiologists and hearing specialists were among those raising the alarm. Working closely with musicians, they saw first-hand the effects that excessive noise exposure could have on hearing health and recognised the need for a better solution.
How in-ear monitors changed live music
That solution arrived in the early 1990s with the development of in-ear monitoring (IEM).
Instead of relying on loud speakers positioned around the stage, musicians could receive a customised audio mix directly through earpieces worn in the ear canal. Each performer could choose exactly what they wanted to hear, whether vocals, drums, keyboards or a click track. Because the sound was delivered directly to the ear, overall stage volumes could be reduced significantly while clarity improved dramatically.
The result was a quieter stage, better communication between performers and sound engineers, and greater control over what musicians actually heard during a performance.
The essential role of audiologists in in-ear monitoring
Audiologists played a vital role in making in-ear monitoring possible. Custom ear impressions and precision-fitted earpieces ensured comfort, sound quality and effective isolation from surrounding stage noise. Their expertise helped transform in-ear monitoring from an experimental technology into a practical tool for professional performers.
Few people realise that Hearing Healthcare Practice founder Robert Beiny was involved in some of the earliest development work on in-ear monitoring systems in the UK. Working alongside musicians and audio engineers, he helped develop and refine early systems at a time when the technology was still in its infancy.
Why professional musicians use in-ear monitors today
Today, in-ear monitoring is the norm across the music industry. From arena tours and West End productions to television broadcasts and festival stages, professional performers rely on custom in-ear monitors to hear their performance clearly while helping to protect their hearing.
While stage monitors have not disappeared completely, it is now unusual to see a major touring act that does not use in-ear monitoring for at least some members of the band. For many performers, it has become an essential part of modern live production.
Specialist hearing care for musicians
At Hearing Healthcare Practice, that connection with the music industry continues. We provide custom in-ear monitor moulds, musicians’ earplugs and specialist hearing care for performers of all kinds, from orchestral musicians and theatre performers to rock bands, pop artists and touring professionals.
Looking after your hearing as a musician
If you’re a musician looking for expert audiological services, whether that’s custom hearing protection, musicians’ earplugs, bespoke moulds for in-ear monitors, hearing assessments, or simply advice about protecting your hearing throughout your career, we’d be delighted to help.
Contact Hearing Healthcare Practice to discuss your requirements and discover how our specialist musician services can help you hear your best, both on and off the stage.