In-ear monitors have made a major difference in live sound and ear protection of performers. Here, we have covered some of the most common in-ear systems and stage monitors. Stage Monitors are still preferred by some performers and as back ups, and in some cases stage monitors are still the quickest to add to a stage plot or line up. Both have strong points and weak points as each application is different.
In-Ear Monitor Systems & Stage Monitors
1. Shure P9TRA+425CL Wireless Bodypack Receiver with SE425CL
The P9TRA+425CL’s innovative CueMode lets the mix engineer monitor and store up to 20 separate channels on one bodypack — and make changes to the performers’ monitor mix mid-performance. The system literally configures itself, analyzing frequencies and automatically choosing the clearest, strongest one. This package also includes the P9T transmitter and SE425-CL earphones. If you need in-ear monitoring, then you’ll dig the power and flexibility of Shure’s P9TRA+425CL.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 506-542 MHz
- Stereo/Mono: Stereo
- Included Transmitter: P9T
- Included Receiver: P9RA+
- Included Earphones: SE425CL
- Number of Frequencies: 20
- Auto Frequency Scan: Yes
- Operating Range: 300 ft. Line-of-sight
- Earphone Type: In-ear
- Earphone Freq Response: 20Hz-19kHz
- Earphone Cable Length: 64″
- Transmitter Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Transmitter Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ (loop output)
- Transmitter Power: 15V DC power supply
- Transmitter Dimensions: 7.75″ x 6.5″ x 1.6″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: 2 x AA batteries
- Receiver Dimensions: 3.3″ x 2.6″ x 0.9″
- Receiver Weight: 5.4 oz.
REASONS TO BUY
- Energetic
- Solid midrange performance
- Immersive sound
REASONS TO AVOID
- Does not pack quite as much bass as some competitiors
2. Sennheiser EW IEM G4 Wireless In-ear Monitoring System
The Sennheiser EW IEM G4 a high-quality rack-mountable transmitter with 1,680 tunable UHF frequencies, and a bodypack receiver. Its increased bandwidth and power make it a reliable unit while out on the road or playing large stages, with a transmission range up to 330 feet and backward compatibility with previous evolution systems for enhanced versatility. Sennheiser’s IE 100 Pro earphones yield ultra-precise, dissonance-free audio reproduction. The IE 100 Pro in-ears are a ergonomic earmold design and flat profile.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 470-516 MHz (A1 band)
- Stereo/Mono: Stereo
- Included Transmitter: SR IEM G4
- Included Receiver: EK IEM G4
- Included Earphones: IE 4
- Number of Frequencies: 1,680
- Auto Frequency Scan: Yes
- Operating Range: 300 ft. Line-of-sight
- Earphone Type: In-ear
- Transmitter Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Transmitter Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ (loop out), 1 x RJ-45 (ethernet)
- Transmitter Power: 12V DC power supply
- Transmitter Dimensions: 1.7″ x 8.35″ x 6.61″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: 2 x AA, 1.5 V or BA 2015 accupack
- Receiver Dimensions: 3.32″ x 2.57″ x 1.22″
- Receiver Weight: 0.27 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- 1,680 tunable UHF frequencies
- Transmission range up to 330 feet
- 2 x 1/4″, 1 x RJ-45 (ethernet)
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
3. Audio-Technica ATW-3255 In-ear Monitor System
The ATW-3255 In-ear Monitor System from Audio-Technica delivers quality sound for live performance venues, houses of worship, and theaters, the ATW-3255 System includes a wireless receiver, a wireless transmitter, and one pair of in-ear monitor headphones. The system delivers exceptional stage-quality sound with many backend features designed to fight RF interference, even in dense RF environments.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 470.125-607.875 MHz
- Stereo/Mono: Stereo/Mono
- Included Transmitter: ATW-T3205
- Included Receiver: ATW-R3250
- Included Earphones: ATH-E40
- Number of Frequencies: 49
- Operating Range: 300 ft. Line-of-sight
- Earphone Type: In-ear
- Earphone Freq Response: 20Hz-19kHz
- Earphone Cable Length: 5.2′
- Transmitter Inputs: 2 x XLR
- Transmitter Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ TRS
- Transmitter Power: 12V DC power supply (Included)
- Transmitter Dimensions: 8.3″ x 7.5″ x 1.7″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: 2 x AA batteries
- Receiver Dimensions: 3.2″ x 2.5″ x 0.91″
- Receiver Weight: 3.6 oz
REASONS TO BUY
- Great sound & RF performance
- Affordable pricing
- Includes quality ATH-E40 IEMs
- Networkable
REASONS TO AVOID
- Documentation is confusing
- XLR-only inputs; no TRS/Combo
- Online manual hard to find on website
4. Galaxy Audio AS-1400 Wireless Personal Monitor
The Galaxy Audio AS-1400 includes an AS-1400T transmitter with flexible XLR / 1/4″ inputs, a headphone output with volume control, input level control, and an LCD display for checking your levels. The AS-1400R receiver features Mixed Mono Mode, delivering individual control over your monitor mix and volume, along with an LCD display with at-a-glance information on channel, battery level, and RF level. On top of that, this system includes great-sounding EB4 earbuds with titanium drivers. You’ll appreciate the high-end performance afforded by the AS-1400.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 516-558 MHz
- Stereo/Mono: Stereo, Mono, Mixed Mono Mode
- Included Transmitter: AS-1400 Transmitter
- Included Receiver: AS-1400 Receiver
- Included Earphones: EB4
- Number of Frequencies: 275
- Operating Range: 300 ft. Line-of-sight
- Earphone Type: Earbud
- Transmitter Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Transmitter Outputs: 1 x 1/4″ (headphones)
- Transmitter Power: 12-18V DC power supply
- Transmitter Dimensions: 1.7″ x 8.2″ x 7.1″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: 2 x AA batteries (up to 7 hours)
- Receiver Dimensions: 4.3″ x 2.5″ x 0.87″
- Receiver Weight: 0.32 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- 275 Frequencies
- Up to 300 ft. Line-of-sight
- Stereo, Mono, Mixed Mono Mode
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
5. Xvive U4 Wireless In-ear Monitoring System
The Xvive Audio U4 wireless in-ear monitoring system has a large volume knob that makes it easy to make volume adjustments without looking down at the receiver. Plus, it has five hours of battery life, over 90 feet of wireless range, and less than 5ms of latency.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 2.4 GHz
- Stereo/Mono: Mono
- Included Transmitter: U4T
- Included Receiver: U4R
- Auto Frequency Scan: Yes
- Operating Range: 90 ft. Line-of-sight
- Transmitter Inputs: 1 x XLR
- Transmitter Power: Rechargeable Lithium-ion
- Transmitter Dimensions: 3.8″ x 1.1″ x 1.2″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: Rechargeable Lithium-ion
REASONS TO BUY
- Price / Inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
- Coverage is only up to 90′ line of sight
6. Galaxy Audio AS-950 In-ear Monitor System
The Galaxy Audio AS-950 wireless in-ear monitor system puts your band’s onstage monitoring wars to an end. With this simple 16-channel system, you get one AS-950T transmitter, an AS-950R bodypack receiver, a pair of earbuds, and a host of accessories. The receiver contains an RF and low-battery indicator, while the transmitter features L/R level display, stereo XLR and 1/4″ inputs, and a headphone output with volume control.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Range: 470-494 MHz
- Stereo/Mono: Mono or Stereo
- Included Transmitter: AS-950T
- Included Receiver: AS-950R
- Included Earphones: EB4
- Number of Frequencies: 16
- Operating Range: 200 ft. Line-of-sight
- Earphone Type: In-ear
- Earphone Freq Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Earphone Cable Length: 51″
- Transmitter Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Transmitter Outputs: 1 x 1/4″ (headphones)
- Transmitter Power: 18V DC power supply
- Transmitter Dimensions: 1.73″ x 8.34″ x 3.77″
- Receiver Output Jack: 1 x 1/8″
- Receiver Power: 2 x AA batteries
- Receiver Dimensions: 3.54″ x 2.51″ x 0.9″
- Receiver Weight: 3.35 oz. (without batteries)
REASONS TO BUY
- 16-channel system
- 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Mono or Stereo
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
7. RCF ST 15 SMA II 15-inch 1,200-watt Powered Stage Monitor
The RCF ST 15 SMA II provides world-class RCF coverage in a roadworthy form factor. RCF specially tunes this powered stage monitor’s 15-inch woofer and 1-inch compression driver to provide a flat, full-spectrum response so that you’ll hear your sound precisely as your audience does. The exceptionally efficient 2-channel 1,200W amplifier pushes out a formidable 131dB max SPL, with a host of DSP features to adjust your sound for a diverse range of applications. Lastly, the ST 15 SMA II has been thoroughly road-proofed, constructed from a lightweight yet durable Baltic birch plywood cabinet, scratch-resistant black textured finish, and heavy-duty powder-coated metal grille.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Type: Stage Monitor
- Powered: Yes
- LF Driver Size: 15″
- HF Driver Size: 1″ Compression Driver
- Power Amp: LF 400W RMS, 800W Peak, HF 200W RMS, 400W Peak
- Total Power: 600W RMS, 1200W Peak
- Frequency Response: 45Hz-20kHz
- Crossover Frequency: 1400Hz
- Maximum Peak SPL: 131dB SPL @ 1m
- Horizontal Coverage Angle: 90 Degrees
- Vertical Coverage Angle: 60 Degrees
- Enclosure Material: Baltic Birch Plywood
- Mounting Options: Floor Wedge
- Power Source: Standard IEC AC cable
- Height: 14.25″
- Width: 26.5″
- Depth: 18.62″
- Weight: 44.75″
REASONS TO BUY
- Full-spectrum response
- 131dB max SPL
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
8. Turbosound TFX152M-AN 1100W 15 inch 2-way Flashline Series Stage Monitor
The Turbosound TFX152M-AN is loaded with a powerful Class D Klark Teknik amplifier. This monitor wedge delivers 1,100 watts of clear sound. Custom coaxial drivers ensure that the sound is consistent and thanks to onboard Klark Teknik DSP, getting the perfect balance from your TFX152M-AN is easy. Top it off with Ultranet digital-audio connectivity, and you’re ready to integrate your TFX152M-AN into your high-tech PA rig.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Powered: Yes
- LF Driver Size: 15″ low mass voice coil driver
- HF Driver Size: 1″ Titanium dome compression driver
- Total Power: 1100W Class D
- Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Outputs: 1 x XLR
- Maximum Peak SPL: 127 dB SPL @ 1m
- Horizontal Coverage Angle: 60°
- Vertical Coverage Angle: 40°
- Enclosure Material: 15mm plywood with fibre glass composite ends
- Height: 13.8″
- Width: 20.9″
- Depth: 22.3″
- Weight: 47.3 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Class D Klark Teknik Amplifier
- Klark Teknik DSP
- Ultranet digital-audio connectivity
REASONS TO AVOID
Clarity issues when pushed loud
9. JBL EON715 1300-watt 15-inch Powered PA Speaker
The JBL EON715 Powered PA speaker delivers a studio-monitor-quality sound, providing you with remarkable performance for nearly any live application. An LCD screen makes accessing PA functions easy and onboard EQ parameters can even be controlled via Bluetooth for convenient command of this innovative PA speaker’s silky highs and chest-thumping lows. You also get full True Wireless Stereo (TWS) operation.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Powered: Yes
- Power Configuration: Bi-amped
- Channels: 3-channel mixer
- LF Driver Size: 15″ Ferrite Woofer
- HF Driver Size: 1″ Neodymium Tweeter
- LF Driver Power Amp: 1000W Peak, 266W RMS
- HF Driver Power Amp: 370W Peak, 85W RMS
- Total Power: 1300W Peak, 650W RMS
- Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo
- Outputs: 1 x XLR (thru)
- Bluetooth: v5.0
- Wireless: Bluetooth
- Frequency Range: 45Hz-20khz (-10 dB)
- Crossover Frequency: 1.9kHz
- Maximum Peak SPL: 128dB
- Horizontal Coverage Angle: 90 Degrees
- Vertical Coverage Angle: 60 Degrees
- Signal Processing: Ducking, Speaker Delay, Parametric EQ
- Enclosure Material: Polypropylene
- Mounting Options: 4 x M10 Suspension points, 36mm Pole socket, Universal Yoke mount
- Power Source: Standard IEC power cable
- Height: 27.63″
- Width: 17.24″
- Depth: 13.81″
- Weight: 37.25 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Onboard EQ parameters
- Bluetooth
- True Wireless Stereo (TWS)
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
10. Yamaha BR12M 600W 12 inch Passive Floor Monitor
The Yamaha BR12M is the perfect pick for small stages, school events, rehearsal spaces, and beyond. Thanks to a lightweight design and quality construction, the BR12M is a solid choice for onstage reinforcement.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Powered: No
- LF Driver Size: 12″
- HF Driver Size: 1″
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Total Power: 600W
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4″
- Frequency Range: 65Hz-20khz
- Maximum Peak SPL: 97dB
- Horizontal Coverage Angle: 40 Degrees
- Vertical Coverage Angle: 90 Degrees
- Enclosure Material: MDF
- Mounting Options: Pole, Floor Wedge
- Height: 16″
- Width: 22.4″
- Depth: 13.1″
- Weight: 34.4 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable
- Good For Small Areas
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
11. Peavey PV 12M 500W 12 inch 2-way Floor Monitor
The PV 12M is a two-way system with a 12-inch Sheffield Pro 1200+ premium woofer and a 14XT 1.4-inch titanium-diaphragm compression driver (no piezos) coupled to a constant-directivity horn with Sound Guard IV high-frequency driver protection. The PV 12M is rated at 500 watts program and 1,000 watts peak power handling capability and allows the PV 12M to be angled at either 30 or 45 degrees from the floor in addition to being pole-mounted. Two 1/4-inch, full-range parallel inputs allow easy daisy chaining of several PV 12Ms.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Powered: No
- LF Driver Size: 12″
- HF Driver Size: 2.5″
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Total Power: 1000W
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4″ (Parallel)
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ (Parallel)
- Frequency Range: 52Hz-21khz (-10 dB), 68Hz-17kHz (±3 dB)
- Maximum Peak SPL: 127dB
- Horizontal Coverage Angle: 40 Degrees
- Vertical Coverage Angle: 90 Degrees
- Enclosure Material: 1/2″ MDF
- Mounting Options: Pole, Floor Wedge
- Height: 22.38″
- Width: 17.75″
- Depth: 12.56″
- Weight: 37 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Titanium-diaphragm compression driver
REASONS TO AVOID
- Clarity issues when pushed loud
12. Behringer VP1220F 800W 12 inch Passive Floor Monitor
The Behringer Eurolive VP1220F is 12″ monitor wedge packs the same great sound as their VP1220, only in a handy wedge shape intended for the talent onstage. A solid 12″ low-frequency driver and a 1.75″ titanium horn to provide you with an extended frequency response and excellent clarity. The VP1220F features a rugged exterior, steel grille, and a heavy duty recessed handle and with both 1/4″ and speakON connectors onboard (including passthroughs).
SPECIFICATIONS
- Powered: No
- LF Driver Size: 1 x 12″
- HF Driver Size: 1.75″ Titanium compression driver
- Impedance: 8 ohms
- Power Rating: 200W Continuous
- Total Power: 800W Peak
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4″ (parallel), 2 x speakON (parallel)
- Frequency Range: 55Hz-20kHz
- Maximum Peak SPL: 93dB
- Height: 16.9″
- Width: 17.3″
- Depth: 22.6″
- Weight: 35.7 lbs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Titanium horn
- Heavy duty design
REASONS TO AVOID
- Clarity issues when pushed loud
13. Electro-Voice PXM-12MP 700W 12 inch Powered Floor Monitor
The PXM-12MP is a wedge for traditional monitoring purposes with 12″ coaxial driver and 55° firing angle supply a crisp full-range response in a wide arc and can be pole mounted. It has a robust 700-watt Class D power amp and powerful onboard DSP and a rugged steel grille.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Transducer: 12” coaxial
- Power: 700W total (500+200), Class-D
- Frequency Response: 64 Hz – 20k Hz (-3 dB)
- Crossover Frequency: 1.6k Hz
- Max SPL: 129 dB peak @ 1m
- Dispersion: 90° x 90° (HxV)
- Enclosure: 15mm plywood
- Weight: 29.8 lbs.
- Size: 16.1 x 19 x 13.1” (WxDxH)
REASONS TO BUY
- Compact, lightweight
- Wedge or pole-mounting
- Smooth, loud response
- Onboard delay ideal for rear-fill use
REASONS TO AVOID
- Menu can be confusing to first-time users
