If you're thinking about getting your first set of custom in-ear monitors (IEMs), or looking to upgrade or replace your current setup, you may have been researching for a while and had plenty of advice online and from other musicians, colleagues and industry professionals about what is best to get.
We love custom in ear monitors and it’s an exciting journey, but also often a big investment and long term commitment, so I designed our processes at DCA to get you 100% comfortable with your customs before you dive-in! So, here are my top 5 reasons why getting customs in your ears at a 1:1 consultation with Dakin Custom Audio (DCA) could make all the difference.
Here’s why taking this step is a game-changer!
1. Specifications Can Be Deceiving...
Let’s face it—when you’re shopping for custom IEMs, the specs can be overwhelming. You’ve got frequency response ranges, driver types, numbers of drivers, crossovers and impedance ratings thrown at you from all sides.... But in my experience: those numbers don’t always tell the whole story and what costs more, isn't always better for you!
In a 1:1 consultation, our aim is to help you see where the meaningful differences are to you. Getting to hear firsthand how different specifications translate into real-world sound quality is so telling and talking through what that means on stage for you really puts things in perspective.
It’s not just about the specs; like with all music gear it’s about how those specs work together to create an experience that resonates with you. Which leads onto my next point...
2. Trust Your Ears!
Nothing beats the good old adage, “trust your ears.” While online reviews, trusted opinions and and specs can provide some insight, they can’t replace your personal listening experience. Everyone's hearing is different and we all prefer different things - so I make a point to NEVER recommend a custom in ear monitor for a certain role, player or genre without people getting them in their ears first.
During the consultation, you’ll have the chance to demo different IEMs and see what truly appeals to your unique taste and directly A/B between manufacturers to see what flavour suits your preferences. It’s all about finding that perfect sound signature that inspires you from the get go, and makes your mix and music come alive. Plus, with expert guidance from DCA, we'll get to know how things work in your world and tailor the session to your level of technical understanding too to help you decipher what you're listening to (not tell you what you should be listening for!
Get Independent Advice Based on Current Industry Experience Tailored to You.
Let’s be honest: the internet is a wonderful place but online forums can be a mixed bag and you can never be sure exactly what perspective advice is coming from. You’ll find a wealth of opinions, but not all of them will align with your specific needs.
I personally like to get to know all our clients as individuals, no matter if you're playing 100+ wedding shows a year, or just a headline arena tour every other year, in a 1:1 consultation with DCA, you’ll receive independent, professional advice based on current industry experience.
We are always learning, performing and gaining as much industry experience as we can so we
can try and stand in your shoes and find something that fits. No more sifting through endless threads for answers—just clear, transparent and personalised guidance.
The Perfect Fit with Impressions on the Day
Another great thing about popping in to see us, is at every 1:1 consultation you will to get your 3D ear impressions taken right on the spot. This ensures that your impressions are perfect and your custom IEMs will fit like a glove! Comfort is key, especially for those long sessions. So we will guide you through the impression process, making sure you get the best possible fit. A snug, well-fitted monitor means better sound isolation and a more immersive experience.
5. It’s a big Investment, so get 100% Comfortable with Your Custom In Ear Monitors... Before They Arrive!
Above all else, I setup DCA to make custom in ear monitors accessible to everyone, and I know that any pair of Custom IEMs is a significant investment. So I want you to be completely confident in your choice. The last thing you want is to receive your new monitors and feel like you didn’t get exactly what you wanted or they don't do the job you need, even though everyone says they will.
A consultation allows you to explore your options thoroughly, ensuring you’re 100% comfortable with your decision before placing an order. It’s about making sure you’re not just happy with your purchase, but will be able to hit the ground running the second they land on your doorstep!
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So, are you thinking of getting some new custom in ear monitors?
As you can see, we believe there is a set of custom in ear monitors out there suited to everyone. The same way you'd find your perfect guitar after trying 1000 in a local shop, we always encourage people to treat your in ears the same and we want to help with that wherever we can!
Does our approach sound good to you? Well at DCA we conduct demos at our HQ in Birmingham but also at our offices in London and all across the country and our nationwide Demo Clinics!
Do you feel ready to take the plunge into the world of custom IEMs? Well, whatever the answer is, we love hearing people's stories so please reach out to Dakin Custom Audio for more information and chat to us about our Demos and 1:1 consultations.
And for more information on in ear monitor technology and general advice, please check out our other Blog posts!
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