Best Wireless In-Ear Monitor Systems: Buyer’s Guide

If you are in a hurry and just want to find out the best wireless in-ear monitor systems, then I’d recommend the Sennheiser Pro Audio G4-Twin-A1 In-Ear Monitor System as the best one.

Musicians, performers, and audio engineers are usually the ones who use in-ear monitors (IEMs). This device comes with a pair of earbuds that block out the noise surrounding the user. 

Using the earpiece, the performer can listen to their instrument or vocals during the performance. In-ear Monitors are called “monitors” because they were designed for performers to monitor a combination of sounds that come from different places. 

There are several choices of wireless in-ear monitors in the market, and choosing can be overwhelming for beginners. Here, we’ll be reviewing the following wireless in-ear monitors to introduce you to some great products.

Here are the Best Wireless In-Ear Monitor Systems we’ll be reviewing:

• Sennheiser Pro Audio G4-Twin-A1 In-Ear Monitor System
• Shure PSM300 P3TRA215TWP Wireless In-Ear Monitor System
• Galaxy Audio AS-1410-4 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System
• Xvive U4 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System
• Nady Pem-04 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

Why Choose a Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

By using wireless in-ear monitors, the stage volume is lowered. This allows the performer to clearly hear their music/vocals. Moreover, this protects the performer’s ears from too much stress from too many loud noises.

Having in-ear monitors allows you to omit the use of stage monitors. This is because what’s happening on the stage can already be relayed through the earpiece. Stage monitors do not come with sound-isolating technology compared to in-ear monitors. Using in-ear monitor systems can dramatically reduce stage volume for easier sound management.

Wireless in-ear monitors are literally “in-ear” in the same way that earplugs fit into the ear canal. In-ear monitoring systems are shaped to fit comfortably in the ears. This is very important as performers often use these for several hours.

In-ear monitors are portable, and wireless in-ear monitor systems allow the performer to move freely around the stage.

How Does a Wireless In-Ear Monitor System Work?

To put it simply, in-ear monitoring systems use high radio frequencies to transmit sound, which in this case is called a mix. The performer wears a wireless receiver pack (a belt pack), and this is where the earpiece is plugged into. The wireless receiver receives a mix from the transmitter that is connected to a mixer or the sound desk. 

The antennas on the receiver pack pick up the signal and convert it into audio. The earphones allow the performer to listen to and adjust the volume of the monitor mix. 

Things to Consider in Buying a Wireless In-Ear Monitors

A good wireless in-ear monitoring system can greatly improve the overall quality of your performance. This is an investment you have to plan before getting one. Last June 13, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission issued an ordinance that says older wireless systems that operate under frequencies 617-652 MHz and 663-698 MHz are no longer allowed in the United States.

However, the products that are allowed to be used are still a lot and you might need some guidance in choosing the best wireless in-ear monitoring system for you. Here are some factors you might want to consider before purchasing.

Multi-channel mixing

One thing you have to take into account is the product’s leverage in terms of personalization. Multi-channel mixing allows the user to take control of the audio monitoring process. This enables the performer to make adjustments as they please. When done right, multi-channel mixing will allow you to hear yourself better and help you achieve your desired results.

Frequency Range

Each wireless in-ear monitoring system operates at a different frequency range. Some wireless systems even have an alternative variety that works in a different frequency band. 

There is also a risk of interference as these frequency bands are unlicensed. It would be wise to consider the system’s frequency range so you can maximize the use of an in-ear monitoring system that can work simultaneously. By doing this, you can have a backup in case the frequency range is compromised. 

Lastly, it’s important to familiarize yourself with how the whole system works in case there’s a time when you have to set the frequencies yourself.

Frequency Response

Different kinds of musicians focus on different ranges. The wireless in-ear monitoring system frequency response determines what kind of frequencies the earpiece can produce. The lower starting range produces bass sounds, while the top range indicates high frequencies. This may be on a case-to-case basis, so you would have to decide which in-ear monitor wireless systems to purchase based on your needs. 

Earbuds

How’s the earpiece? Consider the material of the earbuds and their fit. Does it feature a universal fit or a custom mold fit? Custom foam earbuds, taken from a mold made of the individual’s own ear canal, are another option. Take note that performers would have to wear these for several hours straight so comfort is principal. I would recommend getting one that’s custom mold fit, but it could be pricey.

Receiver Battery

Lastly, you might want to decide what type of battery you would like to use for your wireless in-ear monitor system. Most receivers use two disposable AA batteries. Although you can easily buy these, they can be costly in the long run, especially if you have several in-ear monitor wireless systems. Alternatively, you can go for receivers that use built-in rechargeable batteries. These may cost more but can be more cost-effective in the future.

The perfect wireless in-ear monitor system depends on what you need and what you’re comfortable with. Here are some great choices you can check out.

Sennheiser Pro Audio G4-Twin-A1 In-Ear Monitor System

For my top recommendation, I would suggest the best-selling Sennheiser Pro Audio In-Ear Monitor System. This product has superb quality, well-made material, and great value for your money. 

These in-ear monitors have a transmission range that reaches up to 100 meters. Also, it handles up to 42 MHz bandwidth with 1680 available frequencies to tune into in a stable ultra-high frequency range. Moreover, this wireless system can use 16 simultaneous channels per frequency range, making it one of the more stable choices.  

The half-rack stereo transmitter in a full-metal housing with an OLED display has easy and flexible wireless synchronization between transmitter and receiver via infrared. The belt pack weighs 6.4 pounds and has a dimension of 15.94 x 13.78 x 2.87 inches. These wireless in-ear monitors use two AA batteries, which are provided when you buy the product.

The Sennheiser EW IEM G4 is also worth considering if you want good-quality in-ear monitors. Although their price range is on the expensive side, the Sennheiser EW IEM G4 is a notable choice for IEM systems.

Pros:

• The price range of these IEM systems offers great value for money
• The sound produced is clear, consistent, and great quality audio
• Offers up to 16 Simultaneous channels per frequency range
• Features a half-rack stereo transmitter enclosed in a full-metal housing and an OLED display
• Fully compatible with Sennheiser WSM control software

Cons:

• One flaw is that there’s a noise produced when the volume is turned down. To fix this,  you might need to buy an attenuator, which would mean an additional cost.
• The antenna is put on the back of the transmitter instead of it being outside the rack.

Shure PSM 300 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

The Shure PSM 300 In-Ear Personal Monitoring system is perfect for musicians. This product features sound-isolating earpieces that are designed for clear stereo mixes. The PSM 300 features a customizable two-channel mix and volume that lets the user focus on every note in detail. You can also expect to use this for some time as it uses a sturdy metal chassis for the transmitter.

The Shure PSM 300 P3TRA215TWP weighs 6.38 pounds and is 18.5 x 15 x 3.9 inches in dimensions. Unlike the first product we reviewed, the PSM 300 wireless system requires four AA batteries, which are also provided upon purchase. The Shure PSM 300 In-Ear Personal Monitoring system is the ideal personal monitoring for entry-level music enthusiasts.

This personal monitoring wireless system will allow you to take back control of your mix and protect your ears, all while providing the best possible sound quality.

Pros:

• Up to 7 hours of use from two AA batteries
• Features up to 15 channels and up to 24 MHz of tuning bandwidth
• It produces great quality 24-bit digital wireless audio  
• This wireless system can use up to 15 channels and up to 24 MHz of tuning bandwidth
• Features easy-to-use pre-programmed Groups and Channels

Cons:

• Purchasing the PSM 300 personal monitoring wireless system does not include External Line Return or XLR inputs.
• There may be occasional interference when using the auto-channels feature
• You may also experience trouble with the batteries falling out or becoming loose when the user is excessively moving around

Galaxy Audio AS-1410-4 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

The Galaxy Audio AS-1410-4 Wireless In-Ear Personal Monitor System is lightweight. It weighs only 5.45 pounds. This is also an affordable in-ear monitor system that is perfect for beginner musicians and performers. These in-ear monitors offer reliable quality and allow you to use 16 selectable ultra-high frequencies.

The earbuds of the Galaxy Audio AS-1410-4 In-Ear Monitors feature titanium drivers, extended bass response, and aluminum alloy construction. It has a longer battery life than stated. However, it’s still best if you could buy rechargeable batteries instead of using disposable ones. It is the perfect in-ear monitor for the entry-level user while providing high-quality audio sound for an economical price. 

Pros:

• It features 16 selectable UHF frequencies
• Provides reliable quality and exceptional value
• It comes standard with all WPM models
• Great value for money
• The pack is easy to carry around because it’s lighter than other in-ear monitors.

Cons:

• The earbuds are okay but not great. But you can always purchase something better to use with the system. But of course, this would be some additional cost.
• There may be slight issues with static and signal connection

Xvive U4 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

Another good choice to consider is the Xvive U4 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System. One of the best features of these in-ear monitors is their ability to send signals to multiple receivers simultaneously using only one transmitter. This works in a 90 feet range depending on RF signal absorption, reflection, and interference. These in-ear monitors offer high-resolution audio in 24-bit/48kbps.

The pack of these in-ear monitors is extremely light, only 1.94 pounds in 6 x 4 x 2 inches. This will make it very easy to carry around, even when the performer is running or jumping on stage. The Xvive U4 Wireless in-Ear Monitor System is capable of doing what it should at a low price. This would be a good choice if you’re a beginner trying out wireless in-ear monitors for the first time.

Pros:

• Features efficient power circuit and listening effect
• This model is newly released, and production is continuous.
• The housing is made of tough metal material
• Volume control is really good and very helpful in monitoring mixes
• Xvive offers 30 days of money back for one one-year warranty.

Cons:

•  It uses two Lithium Polymer batteries, which are included upon sale. However, they are not readily available compared to AA batteries. 
• Another flaw of this design is there might be some trouble with feedback. This may be remedied by buying XLRs. Of course, this would be an additional cost and would require some effort.

Nady Pem-04 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System

The Nady PEM-04 Wireless Personal In-Ear Monitor System gives artists the tools needed to enhance any live performance. The PEM-04 transmitter sends a clean, clear signal to either of the four included PEM receivers, allowing performers to hear themselves perfectly via comfortable earbuds over any background stage volume. 

The Nady PEM-04 has the ability to send up to four separate customized mixes to any Nady PEM receiver, which users can cycle through at any time for comparison. This customizable mix option makes the PEM-04 an excellent video production tool as a one-way communication system for multiple receivers.

Pros:

• 16 user-selectable UHF frequencies available for interference-free operation
• Clear signal operation in the 900 MHz Band with State-of-the-art PLL UHF performance with 120dB dynamic range
• Reliable long-range operation (up to 300 feet line-of-sight)
• Up to four different audio mixes can be heard
• Front-panel 1/4″ headphone output with independent volume control for monitoring

Cons:

• There may be slight issues with static and signal connection

Conclusion

Having a wireless in-ear monitor system that is dependable and of good quality may be a game-changer for church and worship or even in gigs. If you’re new to this, there are some considerations you might want to take into account before diving into the market and purchasing one. 

I recommend the Sennheiser Pro Audio G4-Twin-A1 In-Ear Monitor System as the best wireless in-ear monitor system on the market. The wireless G4 lets you create an extraordinary experience for yourself and your audience. The two robust bodypack receivers and reliable in-ear monitoring headphones deliver clarity for daily use on stage. What’s more? It is fully compatible with Sennheiser WSM control software for flexible frequency allocation.