Your buyer’s guide to the best In Ear Monitors
Our expert Chris Haslam gives valuable advice on buying and using your hi-fi
The number of different earphones available today is mind boggling, and although wireless active noise cancelling designs steal the headlines, if you’re looking for the very best in pocketable quality, In Ear Monitors (IEMS) could be just the ticket.
Traditionally favoured by musicians and audio engineers, IEMS are also popular with on-the-go audiophiles, who appreciate the adjustable ear-hook fit and noise isolation. Because they sit on your ear concha with the tip covering the entire ear canal, they offer supreme isolation, comfort and immersive listening.
Most IEMS are wired, so you will need a compatible smartphone, hi-res audio player or DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) to really benefit, but that also means you get the best possible audio quality from your music. Some Bluetooth adapters that add wireless versatility to classic monitors are starting to become available – try the new ifi Go Pod – but for most, the performance boost will outweigh the inconvenience of a cable. While major brands such as Sennheiser sell excellent designs, there are a host of niche companies including Dunu, Fiio, IKKO, Campfire Audio, Jomo and UM Unique Melody all specialising in miniature
In Ear Monitors offer the very best in pocketable audio quality
drivers and epic levels of detail. Good IEMS aren’t cheap – budget at least £200-£500 to really hear the difference – but for just £119 the Shure SE215 (shure.com) is a considerable upgrade to a pair of standard earbuds.
One feature of high-quality IEMS is the number of drivers they manage to squeeze inside the tiny casings. More drivers typically ensure a broader range of frequencies – my favourite indulgence, the Campfire Audio Ara (£1,299; campfireaudio. com) has seven drivers.
It’s also possible to shop around for a sound profile that suits your ears. If you want warm and bass-rich, neutral or treble-heavy, you’ll be able to find a suitable match.
Because there are no batteries or codecs to consider, obsolescence is less of an issue too. Many brands offer spare components, multiple ear tip options and cable choices, with the ability to upgrade and repair. Look out for designs featuring MMCX connectors, which can be swapped out when you need a change.
Custom mouldings are also popular – especially with musicians – and while these can be expensive, Uk-based Snugs.com offers a more affordable option, and once you’ve had your ears mapped you can buy perfectly formed eartips to fit almost any in-ear headphone.