6 Best In-ear Monitors for Drummers

The boom of a miked kick, the loud crack of a snare, the relentless splash of the cymbals — it’s no doubt that drummers have the hardest time hearing the rest of the band while onstage! Thankfully, in-ear monitors have proven to be an integral solution when it comes to having a smooth show night after night. And here at Sweetwater, we have an impressive array of IEM candidates to help keep your performance on the rails. Transmitters, receivers, quality earphones — they’re all here. From modest to maxed budgets and spanning low-stakes gigs to big tours, have a look at our favorite IEMs for today’s drummers!

Audio-Technica ATW-3255

The Audio-Technica ATW-3255 is a supreme choice for drummers who require personalized control over their monitor mix without having to settle for “close enough.” Equipped with EQ, limiter, gain, and balance controls, the ATW-3225 allows you to shape the tonal contours of the band, affording you the most accurate performance possible. The 7-hour battery life will cover any lengthy show bill; meanwhile, it will deliver phenomenal sound quality, courtesy of its built-in workhorse receiver headphone amp and your choice of four comfortable silicon ear tips. The transmitter allows for mono and stereo operation with balanced XLR outputs, a loop output, and a network port, covering all your bases for performances large and small. Does the rest of the group also need to get in on the action? You can use 3000 Link mode to enable seamless compatibility with other 3000-series wireless products.

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Sennheiser XSW

Looking for a pathway into the world of in-ear monitoring without all the complexity (or the hefty price tag)? The Sennheiser XSW is tough to beat! Its intuitive design makes for easy operation with fewer onstage distractions — case in point, its navigable preset frequencies. Need to make adjustments specific to your preferences behind the kit? Manual mode gives you access to a limiter and an EQ for fine-tuning. In terms of sounds quality, you’ll notice how clearly the XSW transmits audio, operating wirelessly in the professional UHF range and offering noise-isolating earbuds for seamless integration with your drumming style. The XSW is also rackmountable and comes with everything you need to count off right from the start, including a power supply for the transmitter and AA batteries for the receiver.

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Sennheiser EW IEM G4

More demanding drummers will surely appreciate the superior quality and versatility of the Sennheiser EW IEM G4. This road-ready system is ultra-reliable and operates up to 61 channels, featuring 42MHz of bandwidth and 1,680 usable frequencies. Its infrared interface synchronizes quickly and offers an OLED screen with an accompanying jog wheel for easy directing between tracks. On the receiver side of things, its compact footprint is designed to be virtually unnoticeable — ideal for use behind a crowded kit! The headphone cable functions as a secondary antenna, virtually eliminating audio dropouts from disrupting your performance. There’s also a multi-level limiter for setting the ceiling right where you need it, in addition to a Hi Boost control. You can even instantly find available frequencies with auto scanning and an enhanced AF frequency range, while an HDX compander delivers some of the clearest audio signals possible for up to eight hours at a time. Water resistance, backward compatibility with other G Series systems, a rackmount kit, and more — this IEM is the real deal.

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Galaxy Audio AS-1200P4

For a smaller-budget wireless setup, the flexible Galaxy Audio AS-1200P4 perfectly fits the bill. This IEM supplies 210 selectable UHF frequencies, supplying you with clean and uninterrupted functionality throughout the entire show. You can transmit in stereo and mono with a pair of L/R XLR/1/4-inch combo inputs; its large antenna allows for an impressive 300-foot range, meaning you’ll be covered for reliable monitoring in just about any live setting. In terms of its monitors, Galaxy Audio has equipped the AS-1200P4 with EB4 earbuds to deliver that hi-fi quality you’re counting on, thanks to single titanium dynamic drivers. Additionally, its rackmount kit makes for easy usage with an existing unit, and its backlit LCD display screens are bright and easy to read against even the most vibrant backdrop lighting.

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Galaxy Audio AS-1400

Need a few more options onstage? The Galaxy Audio AS-1400 may be up your alley. You can expect the same excellent EB4 single titanium driver earbuds, 300-foot range, backlit LCD screens, and stereo/mono operation — but with some upgrades! The AS-1400 features a premium transmitter and receiver pairing that provides up to 275 available frequencies for a bit more freedom onstage. You’ll also have access to Mixed Mono Mode, giving you more in-depth control over your volume and overall monitor mix from your bandmates out on the front line. A power source, batteries, multiple earbud sizes, and rack accessories are all included with the AS-1400, ensuring you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable, reliable show right out of the box.

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Shure PSM300 P3TRA215CL

Shure products are built for superb sound quality amid even the most demanding stage atmospheres, and the Shure PSM300 P3TRA215CL is certainly no exception. The set of SE215 sound-isolating earphones is fantastic for preserving your internal metronome, with a given 90dB of dynamic range for the most precise and noise-free experience onstage. A pair of AA batteries provide six hours of continuous usage, while the compatible and separately sold Shure rechargeable battery extends its life even further. The quick scanning function finds a frequency fast; a shelving EQ with a high/low boost and a limiter wait on standby to dial in that perfect signal balance. MixMode even allows you to craft a personal 2-channel mix with easy blending. Plus, the rugged metal construction of this set, combined with its 300-foot wireless range, adds some much-needed performance reliability for standing up to the challenges of extensive touring.

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Find the Right Fit?

As drummers, receiving cues from our bandmates is just as important as sending them out. That’s why we need gear that can make the grade in terms of reliability and sonic accuracy! Most wireless IEM systems come in a standard transmitter/receiver/earbud combination, but their subtle differences can make all the difference when it comes to adapting to your show specifically.

From high-tech EQs and endless frequency options to more intuitive and budget-friendly setups, rest assured there is a perfect IEM for you. Whether you’re a monitoring pro or seeking a better experience onstage, we always recommend getting in touch with your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700. They’ll be more than happy to help you find the right choice for your needs.
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