Hearing at gigs

[cosmo]

My IEM's have an ambient port in each. It lets me hear everything around me while still getting the mix. There's various little plugs that are easily changed that control how much of the ambient sound gets through, and it let's me hear my drums and enough stage noise around me that I still feel part of everything.

 

[jordan_saltmarsh]

So, after decades pursuing a corporate career, I’ve been working with a blues rock band doing covers. The past two weekends we had our first gigs. Not paying gigs but just an opportunity to play live which I appreciate. Both gigs were problematic because I could not hear the lead guitar or vocals, which made it very difficult to play the tunes properly. It is patently obvious I need some kind of monitor to hear my bandmates. There are the stage wedges and there are in ear monitors. I’m wondering what my fellow drummers recommend I get because I refuse to play another gig until I can properly hear my bandmates.

I’m starting to do some research with my only limitation that I don’t want to spend gobs of money. But I also don’t need to go with the cheapest option. I need the best option for reasonable expense. Conceptually I’m leaning towards in ear monitors but thought I would reach out and see what you folks prefer. Thanks in advance for suggestions and recommendations.

Hey MntnMan62,

This is a great question and looks like several people have chimed in on it...I'll give my two cents:

In ear monitors took a bit of getting used to but it not only allows me to hear the other members in the band but also protects my hearing. Huge win on that--no more going home with ringing ears. Getting the best mix on the fly is something that can always be difficult if you are with a new sound guy each time. Mostly, I like to hear my drums (especially kick, snare, hat and toms), bass to lock in with, guitar/piano to really catch the melody, and vocals a bit underneath. Just a general mix. Kinda have learned to deal with a mix not being fantastic from night to night, but often, when you work with the same sound guy and can connect to a mixer with your phone, this is a game changer!

Stage wedges definetly have their perks--can hear the stage and crowd, your self. Downfall is how loud it can get. I generally run with EARasers--if I am playing with a wedge.

I have to turn my wedge a bit louder to hear everything but at the same time, I'm protecting my ears. Hope that helps!