Switching from traditional stage wedges to wireless IEMs can tone down stage noise and make the FOH engineer’s life easier. But making that jump isn’t easy, especially when you’re worrying about earpiece fit, run time, latency, interference, and cost. In this article, we’ll go over five of the best in-ear monitor systems to keep the transition as smooth as possible.
The Top 5 Best In-Ear Monitors System
The XS Wireless IEM is an entry-level set featuring Sennheiser’s IE 4 earphones, known for their strong bass response. To boost the performance, it’s possible to switch to the IE 100 Pro (max SPL of 115 dB). However, even without the upgrade, the set is still reliable and gig-ready.
The UHF system itself revolves around the XSW IEM SR transmitter and the EK receiver, synced via an infrared sensor. Since the XSW was made to be an entryway, the presets are fairly intuitive. Still, there are a few advanced features like EQ, limiters, and manual frequency control.
Pros
- Rugged construction suitable for outdoor performances
- Swift shifts between mono, stereo, or focus mode (balancing personal mixes)
- Headphone jack on the transmitter with separate volume control (for confidence checks)
Cons
- Slightly bulky receiver
- Could use an earphone upgrade
- Some users reported hearing white noise (interference)
Audio-Technica’s ATW-3255 is packed with advanced features, from the diagnostic cue mode to the Wireless Manager software. In terms of hardware, the system includes a T3205 transmitter, one R3250 receiver with a built-in headphone amp, and ATH-E40 earphones. The ATH-E40 isn’t the best Audio Technica has to offer, but it still delivers well-defined audio, thanks to its push-pull drivers.
The receiver itself has a built-in antenna. However, the headphone cable acts as a secondary antenna, and this helps keep the sound crisp and clear. All in all, you can expect an operating range of around 300 feet.
Pros
- Link Mode boosts compatibility with other 3000 Series products
- Comes with four silicone ear tips, cable loops, and a carrying case
- Supports charging stations for more convenience (sold separately)
Cons
- Rack hardware/screws can be a little flimsy
- On the pricey side
The entry-level PSM300 uses Shure’s P3T transmitter with one-touch scan/sync to the P3R bodypack, which you can use to switch between MixMode and stereo. Under normal conditions, the analog RF connection can cover 300 feet. Finally, you have the SE112 earphones with a single, dynamic driver and discrete design.
Pros
- Slim bodypack receiver
- Comes with three pairs of noise-isolating, comfortable soft flex sleeves
- SE112 earpieces can block up to 37dB of ambient noise
Cons
- Bass might be a bit lacking
- Not ideal for slipping in pockets (knobs might move around)
- Some people reported dropouts and signal issues
Galaxy Audio offers the wireless AS-950 in two frequency versions (N and P2). It’s also possible to buy the bundle in various configurations. For this review, we went with the P2 band pack of a transmitter, four EB4 earphones, and four AS-950R receiver units.
The expected operating range between the RF transmitter and each beltback is around 200 feet. The beltback itself features a built-in limiter and multi-function LCD. Moving on to the EB4s, their frames are aluminum alloy, but they run on a single titanium driver and deliver a frequency response of 20Hz to 20KHz.
Pros
- Set of four receivers and earphones at a reasonable price point
- Front phone jack on the transmitter for testing
- Easy setup out of the box (using the quick start guide vs. the manual)
Cons
- Pickups up warbling or static occasionally on metal-to-metal contact
- Could hiss if connected to a passive speaker
- Channel button could be pressed accidentally
Although Xvive offers a U4T9 version with T9 in-ears, the U4 system doesn’t come with an earphone—you only get the 2.4 GHz transmitter and a single receiver. However, you can use the units with any in-ear model with a ⅛” plug. It’s also worth noting that the receiver unit runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion unit rather than the typical pair of AA batteries. Some users love it, but others find replaceable batteries better in the long term.
Pros
- Highly portable and lightweight
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Low latency (less than 5 ms)
Cons
- Doesn’t support stereo
- Wi-Fi interference is a common concern
- Supposed to cover 90 feet, but some people found that the signal drops after 30 feet or so