If you’ve been looking for the best in-ear monitors for live streaming, we’ve compiled some of the top products recommended by professional live streamers.

In-ear monitors (IEM) were traditionally used by musicians, members of live music bands, audiophiles, sound engineers, and sound mixers to ensure each person gets to hear the quality of sound production (or music) in their own ears (instead of depending on a single set of speakers everyone has to rely on).

Usually, musicians and sound engineers would use IEM (in-ear monitors) to allow them to receive inputs from various musical instruments and vocals together. It helps make sense of all of the incoming sound sources.

Now, however, the use cases for audio have increased. Live streams, podcasts, video production, live on-stage events, and music and entertainment-related events, to name a few. Of course, this is why most brands and creators want to know about using in-ear monitors.

Why Use In-Ear Monitors For Live Streaming?

Let’s say you use multiple audio input devices, music, and several scenes (each with distinct video or audio clips). You’d find yourself in a similar situation as a musician or a sound engineer on a staged live event or a music concert, wouldn’t you?

Using in-ear monitors, such as wired or wireless earphones, Bluetooth-enabled TWA (Truly Wireless Audio), and headphones -- is all about monitoring various sound inputs you are using for live streams, accessing the audio that goes into your every stream, and thereby producing a high-quality audio output for your broadcasts.

Now, please note that in-ear monitors don’t come with active noise cancellation (they block noise from your surroundings). But, they render audio at a much higher quality than regular in-ear devices.

Some in-ear monitoring devices also come with different drivers (not just one primary driver that your earphones or headphones come with). This helps better process sound inputs of varying frequencies.

That’s where in-ear monitors shine through and find their use for audiophiles, live streamers, podcast creators, video producers, and more.

In addition to improved audio fidelity, in-ear monitors also create a more professional-looking live stream broadcast.

For example, Christian Karasiewicz and Charles Matthews both wear in-ear monitors here at StreamYard, during the Live Stream Reviews show, but you may not think they're wearing headphones. Here is a recent episode:

Now that you have a general idea, here are some recommendations for the best in-ear monitors for live streaming:

Best In-Ear Monitors For Live Streaming: Our Top Recommendations

1. Sennheiser IE 100 PRO

By using a single dynamic driver (10 mm broadband inducer), the Sennheiser IE 100 PRO does away with the need for multiple drivers in their new in-ear monitor. This means you get precise monitoring without distortions. Available in colors such as black, clear, and red, it offers several options.

The IE 100 PRO Wireless in-ear monitors also offer a Bluetooth® add-on for wireless connectivity.

While slightly more expensive, the Sennheiser IE 100 PRO dynamic driver system allows you stress-and-distortion-free audio reproduction. Not to miss, a high level of wearing comfort!

It also comes with a secure fit with foam tips and flexible silicone. In addition, its slim, ergonomic design, and excellent shielding, make it one of the best choices for in-ear monitors.

One other benefit is that you can remove the ear tips and cable. This way if a piece breaks, you can swap it out, rather than having to purchase another.

2. Shure SE215 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones

Shure already has a shelf full of products that come highly recommended by the live streaming community: microphones, mic stands, and more.

The Shure SE215 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones have a single dynamic driver in a neat, portable design. So, what you get is high-quality audio in your ears with a professional look.

Specifically, the wireless model features Bluetooth 5 connectivity and provides up to 10 hours of battery life. Plus, it offers connectivity for up to 30 feet (10 meters) of wireless range with a dedicated headphone amp for improved high-fidelity audio.

Although technically not a complete Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) experience, the sound isolation feature can help block out at least 37 decibels of surrounding or background noise. Which means you're up for an immersive sound experience with these in-ears.

3. Audio Technica ATH-E70

Loaded with three drivers, the Audio Technica ATH-E70 in-ear monitors sit tight in their midranges. And they do so while providing you sound balance, quality, and output.

Whether you are doing live streams, podcasts, or a complete offline live event (staged), the Audio Technica ATH-E70 offers a balanced and accurate soundstage.

This product comes with the brand’s famed A2DC (Audio Designed Detachable Coaxial) connectors and specially designed housings, flexible memory cable loops over your ears for a better fit, and a balanced armature.

4. Mackie MP-220

Mackie MP-220 may be a budget in-ear monitor but comes with a dual-driver setup (one for highs and one for lows). This way, the sound frequencies are evenly distributed among the dual drivers. Consequently, it delivers a uniform and better sound quality.

Boasting a snug fit, good value proposition, and a sturdy build, it also offers up to 40dB of sound isolation. Additionally, you get three different ear tips (foam, silicone, and double flange) in three different sizes (small, medium, and large). So, you can expect optimum comfort if you choose to use them.

5. Mee Audio M6 Pro 2nd Generation Noise-Isolating Musician’s In-Ear Monitors With Detachable Cables

Known for elegant design, reliability, and fantastic audio quality, the M6 Pro in-ear monitors are a hit amongst musicians and audiophiles.

These 2nd-generation in-ear monitors feature custom personalization (along with custom-engraved faceplates).

The product’s modular construction offers complete portability, secure fit thanks to the Comply™ T-Series memory foam tips, decent outside noise reduction, safe listening, better sound quality, a range of connectivity options, etc.

The M6 Pro features an ultra-thin diaphragm with an aluminum coil to allow precise movement. Now, this is a great feature compared to traditional drivers found in earphones and in-ear monitors.

The 2nd generation also has revised tuning above 2KHz, more accurate midrange, smooth treble, and a thumpy bass. Furthermore, the M6 Pro also come with a customizer to help you pick and choose specific aspects such as in-ear monitor colors, faceplates, ear tips, accessories, and so on.

6. KB Ear KB10

Unlike most products on this list, the KB10 is a much more affordable option among the best in-ear monitors for live streaming.

Instead of a single dynamic driver, the KB Ear comes with what they call “balanced armature” -- one driver per ear side.

As a result, it provides:

  • A non-aggressive treble
  • A decent coherence around the sound spectrum
  • Excellent midrange
  • An astonishingly clear vocal quality

For the price range, this product is quite sensitive and doesn’t need an external amplifier to unleash its potential.

However, the treble extension is average, and the bass won’t necessarily make the bass heads happy. While it’s certainly not for professional live stage events, it’s still a perfect choice as far as best in-ear monitors for live streams go.

7. MEE audio M6 Wired In-Ear Headphones

If you're looking for an inexpensive pair of in-ear headphones, be sure to check out the MEE audio M6 wired in-ear headphones.

While they're not going to produce the same quality as the M6 Pro in-ear monitors, they're a great pair of headphones to get started with.

The MEE audio M6 wired headphones have a 3.5mm headphone jack and come in clear or black options. This way you get some reliable yet inexpensive in-ear headphones, achieve the streamlined look in-ears offer, and upgrade when you're ready.

Pro Tip: With all in-ear headphones, be sure to add a 3.5mm extension cable. It will ensure that you can move around when live streaming, without worrying about breaking your in-ear monitors.

The Takeaway

Live streamers often have to struggle with sound as they go live. Not anymore! The best in-ear monitors (IEMs) featured on this list will help you produce awesome live streams delivering high-quality sound monitoring.

If you’re looking for more tools to enhance your live streaming setup, here’s a guide you must check.

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