While setting up a personal floor monitor so you can actually hear yourself play when you're up on stage with the band isn't a bad idea, you'll quickly lose out on the desired effect if everyone in the band turns up their monitor to eleven. So, instead of personal mixer, why not go for the more fuss-free solution in the form of a complete wireless in-ear monitor system?
Wireless In-Ear Monitor Systems: No Cables and No Feedback
An important advantage of in-ear sets is that every musician gets to listen to a clear mix at a comfortable volume level. On top of that, wireless systems are a great way to get rid of any cable spaghetti, and unlike normal monitors, there's no risk of feedback.
Complete In-Ear Monitor Kit: What's Included?
Most complete wireless in-ear systems include three things: a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver and a set of in-ears headphones. In some cases, the in-ears will need to be picked up separately. Wireless transmitters are often flat, 19" rack-mountable units that you install near the mixing disk, so far away from the stage. After the wireless transmitter has been hooked up to the mixer via an AUX Send or a different output, the sound tech will be able to dial in a custom monitor mix so you only hear what you need to hear.
Wireless Transmitters and Receivers
Wireless transmitters operate within a specified radio frequency band, which obviously needs to match the frequency band of your wireless receiver. Wireless receivers generally come in the form of a beltpack that can be worn by the musician. A huge advantage of wireless systems is that multiple receivers can be connected to a wireless transmitter to receive the same monitor mix.
The Best Frequency Band for Your Wireless System
The optimal wireless frequency band depends on your location, since every country and region offers different available frequency bands, some of which require a permit to use. The 2.4GHz frequency band is the only frequency band that can be used for free all over the world. For that reason, it's also the most crowded frequency band, so bear in mind that it comes with a higher risk of signal interference. If you want to be assured of interference-free signal transmission, go for a system that lets you switch between different frequencies. See our Wireless Microphones and Frequencies Info Page to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About In-Ear Systems
What do I need for in-ear monitoring?
A complete in-ear system includes a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver and a set of in-ear headphones. The wireless transmitter requires an analogue link-up with your mixer so it can send out the monitor mix - in most cases, you can use the AUX Send output for this.
What's an in-ear system?
An in-ear system is what musicians use so they can listen to their own (and/or their band mates') performance in real-time. Floor monitors are designed for the same purpose but come with the risk of feedback and also create more 'clutter' on stage.
