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Best In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) 2024 Our Top 10

In-Ear monitors (IEMs), in-ear headphones or earphones are small headphones that are inserted into the ear canal. IEMs offer the best isolation from outside noise even when compared to noise-canceling headphones. Because of this, they are ideal for travelers and people who wish to enjoy their music in loud places. When properly designed, the sound quality of in-ear monitors can rival even the best of full-sized headphones. With the number of IEMs in the market, choosing a pair youll love can be a daunting task. Depending on your budget, were going to present the best in-ear monitors available. For lower budgets, check out our guide on best IEMs for less than $100.

In-Ear Monitors Buying Guide

What are In-Ear Monitors?

In-ear monitors, IEMs, Canal phones, closed-earphones, are a type of in-ear headphones created to give a user an immersive listening experience while keeping out most of the ambient noise out.

Astell & Kern AK100 II with Shure SE846

In the headphone market, IEMs (see also the best IEM systems) are considered the professional version of the earbuds.

In-ear monitors come with several advantages that make them a preferred choice by audiophiles, music lovers, recording engineers, or even musicians on stage.

First, it is noise isolation. Singers/musicians on stage often use IEMs because they allowed them and to hear themselves and fellow singers/musicians when performing. For live performers, In-ear monitors also deliver mixes into the performers ears. This, coupled with better isolation, makes it possible for a performer to hear themselves better, unlike performing with stage wedges.

For audiophile and music lovers, In-ear monitors are a preferred choice because they deliver better sound quality than conventional earbuds, have better noise isolation and are much more comfortable to wear for more extended periods without hurting.

Learn more about IEMs. Read our article on In-ear monitors vs. earbuds.

Straight or Over-Ear Design

In-ear monitors are more or less like our regular headphones. They are designed with the same concept in mind but for a different purpose.

FiiO FH5 IEM | Sound Gear Lab

There are two basic designs/styles when it comes to choosing an in-ear monitor. There are the ones that go into the ear and let the cable hang straight down, known as straight design and there are the ones that wrap over the back of the ear, known as over-ear design.

Choosing between a straight or over-ear design is a matter of taste and personal preference.

While straight IEM models are cheaper, there are very few models that deliver quality sound. Straight IEMs are also easier to put in your ear and also work well.

Over-ear IEMs are popular and remain a preferred model for audio enthusiasts and live performers. Like straight IEMs, over-ear IEMs have wires, but instead of the cables hanging loose they are designed to go over or behind the ear. By the wires going over-ear, the IEM is secure, and this also conceals the cables, so they are harder to spot.

With high-end IEMs or CIEMs, the straight design is rarely used. Though over-ear IEMs are a little expensive, they are worth it.

Wireless or Wired

Like headphones, IEMs are also available in wired and wireless designs.

Wired In-ear models are the popular option. Their design allows a user to connect to any playback device and use the IEM without a hitch. Wired IEMs are also cheaper and also come with better sound quality. However, unlike wireless IEMs, you will have a deal with the wires, which can be a hassle to control at times.

Wireless IEMs are convenient as you do not have to deal with wires. Wireless IEMs are better suited for musicians or live performers who move a lot, and a wired IEM would not suffice. Though they come with their convenience, wireless IEMs will cost extra, and you will more likely need to consider other features like; the battery life, connectivity, and sound quality.

Our advice would be to go wireless when it matters. For musicians and live performers, wireless IEMs are a convenience. However, for audio enthusiasts, if it will not make a difference, you better spend that extra money on getting better IEMs.

read more about wired and wireless headphones on our headphone buying guide.

Removable Cables in IEMs

If you have ever lost a pair of headphones because the cable was destroyed, then you will appreciate being able to swap old and defective wires for new ones. That is one benefit of IEMs that come with removable cables.

Another benefit with removable cables is being able to add more functionality and features to your IEMs. So, if you need a longer or a shorter cable, want to add an inline remote with mic, or make your earbuds wireless by adding a Bluetooth cable, there are a variety of removable wires to go with a set of IEM.

There are different removable cables that you can select in the market, depending on the type of connectors your IEM will have. The types of pin connectors in the market include 2-pin connectors, MMCX connectors, A2DC connectors, etc. It is worth noting that most of the modern removable cables are using MMCX connectors.

Driver Types

In-ear monitors come with different types of drivers that create the spectrum of sound. The drivers found in IEMs are the same as those found in speakers and headphones, but they are smaller. The type of driver that comes with an IEM helps in determining the quality of sound that will be produced.

The different types of headphone drivers that come in IEMs are; dynamic drivers, balanced armature drivers, planar magnetic drivers, and electrostatic drivers. All these drivers have their advantages and disadvantages. The drivers present in IEMs will also influence the price of the IEM. Electrostatic IEMs are the most expensive, followed by planar-magnetic IEMs. Dynamic and balanced armature IEMs are more popular, and most are budget-friendly.

To learn more about headphone drivers their advantages and disadvantages, read this post on the different headphone drivers.

How Many Drivers Are Enough?

Like studio monitors, having more drivers in an IEM generally means you will be getting better audio quality. This is because each driver present in the earpiece will handle a narrower frequency response, e.g., bass, treble, or midrange, and this will result in more efficiency and clarity.

While an IEM with one driver is not bad for starters, having or upgrading to an IEM with more drivers is better. Without getting technical about it, the more drivers you have, the better the efficiency. Even if the drivers cover the same frequency response range, each additional driver added shares the workload hence combined, and they function optimally. This results in clearer highs, more articulate mids, and a deeper low-end which is suitable especially for drummers and bass players.

Shure SE215 In-Ear Monitor

Foam vs. Silicone Ear Tips

The earbud part of an in-ear monitor that goes into the ear comes into direct contact with the ear canal. To increase comfort, improve audio quality, and offer better noise isolation, they are fitted with either foam or silicone ear tips.

Foam ear tips tend to be denser and offer a higher degree of noise isolation than silicone ear tips. However, foam ear tips place a lot of pressure on the canal, which makes them uncomfortable over time. To improve the comfort of foam ear tips, you can try foams made out memory foam. Foam ear tips also do not handle sweat very well, which leads to faster destruction when exposed to sweat. In the market, compared to silicone ear tips, foam tips are more expensive.

Silicone ear tips are the most common type and come at relatively lower prices. Silicone ear tips use suction to stay in place, and this makes them suitable for active performers. Though they are not great in noise isolation like foam tips, silicone tips are lighter, and its hypoallergenic properties make it a great choice for many people.

Our ears come in different shapes, so IEM manufacturers include a variety of ear tips you can choose from. You can test the different sizes and materials to find, which fits better to deliver optimum results.

IEM Fit Universal Vs. Custom IEMs

The fit of an in-ear monitor plays an essential role in use, comfort, and sound isolation. There are two types of IEMs you can choose for yourself universal fit or custom fit (CIEMs).

Audeze iSINE 10

Universal fit as the name suggests are IEMs that fit most of the users ears. Universal fit IEMs are cheaper but might not offer effective noise isolation.

Custom in-ear monitors or CIEMs for short are made according to an individuals ear shape. They are more expensive but are better at noise isolation and comfort. Check out our complied list of CIEM makers.

The choice between Universal or Custom IEMs comes down to what you need and the price you are willing to pay. Learn more about CIEMs and Universal IEMs.

8 Best Portable Audio Interfaces (For All Budgets)

• Audio interfaces are lighter and beter than ever
• We review 8 of the best portable audio interfaces on the market
• Including brands like Universal Audio, Apogee, RME, and more

Audio interfaces have been evolving rapidly over the years, and now audio interfaces are more portable, lighter, and higher-quality than ever.

These days, we have the luxury of recording studio-quality music from the comfort of our bedroom or even being able to produce a full track while traveling.

Well look at the best portable USB audio interfaces on this list, ranging from starter audio interfaces to professional-level audio interfaces!

What Are The Best Portable Audio Interfaces?

Audio interfaces nowadays are mostly very compact, and USB-powered. And on this list, we have chosen the most well-reviewed, trustworthy, and compact audio interfaces that are offered at various price points.

Our top overall pick for this list is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen, the best portable audio interface for traveling and using on the go.

As for the most lightweight and easiest to carry, Apogee Jam Plus is the lightest portable audio interface.

The RODE AI-1 is our value pick, giving you the best bang-for-your-buck. Here is the full list of all the audio interfaces that we are going to cover on this list.

1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen (Our Pick)
2. Apogee Jam Plus (Most Lightweight)
3. RODE AI-1 (Best Value)
4. Audient iD4 MKII
5. Revelator io44
6. Apogee Duet 3
7. Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition
8. RME Babyface Pro

1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

The Scarlett 2i2 is agreat starting point for musicians looking for a trustworthy, portable audio interface. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is our all-around pick for the best portable audio interface.

Its a compact and light interface with just two inputs and from phantom power to monitoring, gain control, and preamps, itll have everything you need all under $200.

Features

• Two inputs for microphone, bass, guitar, or synths
• Two upgraded 3rd-generation Scarlett mic preamps
• USB bus-powered with high-quality 24-bit/192kHz converters
• Direct Monitor for monitoring with low-latency

Review

The Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen features two inputs that can house microphones, guitar, bass, and keyboards, and each input comes with a separate Gain knob, and two other knobs for Instrument Mode, and Air Mode.

This interface is USB-powered so all you need to do is plug the Scarlett 2i2 into your computer USB port, and even the setup and installation process is extremely straightforward.

The upgraded interface has sample rates of up to 192kHz, and this recording quality is close to studio-quality, except its super portable and affordable.

The design is also eye-catching and easy for beginners to use. One standout feature is the halo indicators on the gain knobs: basically, the light around the gain knob will turn red when the signal is clipping and remains green when its not.

One of the big reasons why musicians purchase high-end audio interfaces is the exclusive access to expensive plugins, which is the case with Universal Audios Apollo series.

Well, this wont give you UAs plugins, but you still get an impressive array of plugins and software including Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, Splice, Addictive Drums 2, AUTO-TUNE ACCESS, and more.

2. Apogee Jam+

Up next, we are going to look at the smallest and lightest audio interface on this list.

Apogee Jam+ is focused on creating the smallest and most portable interface possible, and it is very similar to iRig by IK Multimedia. This interface makes the most lightweight interface on our list.

Apogee might be well-known for its high-end and excellent Apogee Duet interface, but they have created the ultimate portable audio interface for traveling musicians.

By plugging straight into your favorite computer with no additional power, you can record good quality audio on the fly with the Apogee Jam+.

Features

• Apogees renowned converter technology provides 24-bit/96kHz recording
• Line input to record guitar, bass, or keyboard
• Overdrive mode for virtual amps and effects
• Output Blend feature for zero-latency monitoring and recording

Review

With a metallic and rugged look, Apogee Jam+ has a rather simple but inviting design. Jam+ is as simple as it gets just one input, one knob, and one button.

This is perfect for guitarists and bass players who are always traveling and need to record while on the move. Its extremely lightweight and you can store the Jam+ in small bags and guitar cases.

All you need to do is plug the Apogee Jam+ into your Macbook, PC, iPad, or even iPhone to start using the device.

Although its tiny, Apogee converter technology allows you to convert up to 24-bit/96kHz of audio, which is a similar quality to full-sized USB-powered audio interfaces.

The downside of this small size is that you cant connect microphones into this interface, so this interface is only really for guitar, bass, and keyboard players.

For guitar and bass players, the Apogee Overdrive mode allows access to incredible virtual amps and effects, available at your fingertips. And there is also in-house software included Positive Grid BIAS FX Jam software for producers needing a DAW.

Looking for the best audio interfaces for recording drums? Check out our guide here.

3. RODE Ai-1

The next interface on our list is the RODE Ai-1, and this interface is as straightforward as it gets. The RODE Ai-1 is the best value interface on our list.

RODE is a trustworthy name in the music industry well-known for their microphones, and they have released their first-ever audio interface that has proven to be amongst the best, especially for the price.

Features

• XLR input with phantom power
• Mic input, and a line/instrument input
• Connection to monitor speakers and headphone

Review:

The first-ever audio interface by RODE is definitely among the best portable recording interfaces, and it comes in an eye-catching all-black design.

From the first glance, the design is straightforward and youll be able to figure out how to use it in a matter of minutes.

The RODE Ai-1 has one input, and this single input can house both microphones and instruments, and the input also comes with phantom power for condenser microphones.

Next to the input, there is a knob for gain control and another knob for monitoring. On the backside, there is a USB-C connecting port, and monitor outputs to connect monitor speakers.

On top of that, the tiny interface also has a headphone amp that is great for mixing on the road. So for traveling music producers and recording artists, this interface is a one-stop-shop.

While were on the topic of tiny audio interfaces, you could also check out the Rode AI Micro.

4. Audient iD4 MKII

Audient iD4 MKII is an interface that we have to include on this list, as its a great bridge between affordable and expensive audio interfaces.

When this interface first came out, it was revolutionary and it changed the expectation of what a cheap audio interface could do. Although not as small as previous interfaces, Audient iD4 is one of the best portable interfaces you can buy.

Features

• Access to ARC software suite with DAW, virtual instruments, plug-ins
• High-performance converters up to 120dB of dynamic range
• Fast USB Transmission through USB 3.0
• Studio-quality monitor outputs

Review

It is hard to believe Audient iD4 MKII is so affordable because it looks like it belongs in a luxurious studio. With one Hi-Z input and one XLR input, Audient iD4 MKII resembles high-end interfaces like the UAD Apollo series.

Audients iD4 MKII is powered by USB 3.0, which transmits signals way faster and the high-performance converters will give you amazing recording quality.

The new and improved dynamic range in the ADC and DAC sections allows you to monitor flawlessly through headphones or a set of monitor speakers.

On top of that, the included ARC software suite allows you to use the industrys leading DAW like Cubase and gives you access to virtual instruments from Waldorf and Gforce.

5. PreSonus Revelator io44

A brand new device in the PreSonus family, the PreSonus Revelator io44 makes the job easier not just for musicians but also for live streaming through platforms like Facebook Gaming, Twitch, or any other gaming platform.

Revelator io44 has premium circuity, as well as a top-quality preamp that makes this one of the best USB audio interfaces around.

Features

• Streamlined controls for smooth operations
• Stereo line input for connecting mixer or DJ deck
• 2 stereo loopback channels for streaming audio
• Onboard DSP for fast processing

Review

PreSonus Revelator io44 has a unique design and unique features that make this interface stand out amongst the rest.

It is a USB-powered audio interface that is designed for recording music, live streaming for gamers, and live performance. Its a very refreshing piece of technology that can be used for so many different things.

Revelator io44 has one input for both microphone and instrument, inputs for headset and line-in, and main out for monitor outputs.

It also comes with two stereo loopback channels, which can be used to stream audio from multiple sources at once, and you can also use the onboard steaming mixer for real-time control.

When you purchase Revelator io44, you get access to software like Studio One Artist, Abelton Live Lite, as well as an extensive collection of studio-quality plug-ins. One downside might be that this doesnt have separate controls for input gain and monitor volume.

6. Apogee Duet 3

Apogee is a high-end quality audio interface that is sold at a mid-range price, and for musicians using Apple computers, Apogee Duet 3 is one of the best options for studio-quality USB audio interfaces.

With studio-quality AD/DA, excellent analog circuitry, and hardware DSP, Apogee Duet 3 will provide professional musical artists and producers with everything they need.

Features

• Top-quality Apogee AD/DA conversion and digital clocking
• 2 world-class mic preamps and Advanced Stepped Gain Architecture
• Onboard hardware DSP
• Beautiful analog circuitry and efficient design

Review

Apogee Duet 3 is presented in an eye-catching contoured body topped with scratch-resistant gorilla glass and is the most futuristic-looking audio interface on this list.

Apogee Duet 3 offers connection through separate breakout cables and has 2 instruments inputs, 2 mic inputs, and 2 balanced outputs.

The amazing Apogee preamps allow you to get a solid tone out of drums, vocals, guitar, strings, and brass it can do it all.

The advanced analog circuitry functions within a 0-65dB gain range, and this provides amazing bandwidth with the lowest possible distortion.

The newly added onboard DSP lets you shape your sound right at the input stage before going to the DAW, which will take the recording quality to a new dimension.

(We tested the Apogee Duet 3 head-to-head with the UA Apollo Twin X DUO in Apogee Duet 3 VS Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO (Compared!))

7. Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition

UADs Apollo Solo has become an industry-standard interface for professional musicians, and its a great starting point for a high-end audio interface.

Apollo Solo is a studio-grade, portable, and easy-to-use interface that offers access to the worlds unparalleled UAD plugins.

Features

• USB3 or Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with 2 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs
• Studio-grade AD/DA
• State-of-the-art UAD Powered Plug-ins
• Powerful preamp and Unison technology

Review

UADs Apollo Solo provides the best possible recording quality that an audio interface can provide. This interface can be found in both USB3 and Thunderbolt 3 versions.

Its extremely sleek and luxurious, and although its much more expensive than the other interfaces, Apollo Solo provides an unparalleled recording experience.

The Thunderbolt connection gives you super-low latency and large bandwidth for higher sample rates and bigger project sizes.

The Apollo Solo has two inputs for microphones and a separate Hi-Z input for guitars and basses. The preamps on this interface are super high quality and combined with the world-leading UAD plugins, your music can go up another level.

The Apollo Solo Heritage Edition will provide 5 award-winning UAD plug-ins and Realtime Analog Classics plug-in bundle, which are probably the best replication of the legendary analog hardware.

8. RME Babyface Pro

Last on our list, we feature another high-end audio interface that has become many professional musicians go-to portable interface.

RME Babyface Pro is a bus-powered USB audio interface that will provide studio-grade recording quality and has some serious firepower for such a small interface.

Features

• USB 2.0 audio interfaces with 12 inputs and 12 outputs
• 2 digitally controlled microphone preamps
• Great analog, digital, and MIDI connectivity for easy studio integration
• SteayClock/femtosecond technology for stable clocking
• TotalMix FX for 288-channel mixer with 46-bit internal resolution

Review

This sleek and relatively small audio interface gives you 12 inputs and 12 outputs including 2 instrument inputs, 2 mic inputs, and MIDI input.

The design is almost misleading because it is extremely simple, but the RME Babyface will blow you away with its sheer power. Its very impressive for such a small interface.

RMEs SteadyClock FS circuit and powerful preamps will provide the best possible recording quality and up to 24-bit/192kHz A/D Resolution.

This interface will definitely have a bit of a learning curve when first starting out, so this interface is recommended for professional musicians looking for a portable interface.

RME Babyface gives you access to a premium plug-in bundle with Scuffham S-Gear, Brainworx bx_opto, and Brainworx bx_masterdesk and more.