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Home » Review » Ear Protection For Drummers: Essential Tips for Safe Playing

Ear Protection For Drummers: Essential Tips For Safe Playing

Last updated July 19, 2024

Ear Protection For Drummers: Essential Tips for Safe Playing

  • Proudly written by Pro-Drummer,
  • Dave Danford
  • 5 Comments
  • Acoustic Drums | Drums/Percussion | Percussion

Best

Earplugs For Beginners

D'Addario Comfort Fit Foam Earplugs comfortable to wear
  • Overall: Made from gentle-expanding soft foam
  • Best Feature: Designed with a tapered shape
  • TedScore™: 8/10
Click for Best Price

Best

Overall Earplugs

Shure SE215 Sound Isolating Earphones hear your music with the clarity
  • Overall: Designed with a discreet and low-profile shape
  • Best Feature: 360-degree earphone rotation thanks to a lock-snap mechanism
  • TedScore™: 9/10
Click for Best Price
Winner

Best

Earplugs for Professionals

Etymotic MusicPro Electronic Earplugs Adaptive Noise Reduction
  • Overall: Flexible neck cord
  • Best Feature: With filter tool and ACCU filters
  • TedScore™: 10/10
Click for Best Price

Banging on the drums might be a blast, but let me tell you, my ears rang like church bells after every gig before I woke up. The adrenaline rush of live performances often made me overlook one important piece of my kit: Ear protection for Drummers.

I learned the hard way that tinnitus doesn’t sound like an old sci-fi robot; it’s bleeping annoying!

Protecting your hearing isn’t just for those who turn their noses up at a good rock session—it’s essential for all drummers who want to avoid the ‘eternal encore’ of ringing ears.

A Young Drummer Wearing An Ear Protection

Ear protection comes in various forms, and choosing the right type is crucial. Shure SE215 Sound Isolating Earphones are a common choice; they’re discreet and can reduce noise exposure significantly.

But there are more options to choose from aside from the usual earplugs.

So keep reading as I spill the bean of the best gear to shield those precious eardrums.

Trust me!

It’s a game changer, and your future self will give you a standing ovation for hearing this out.

Table of Contents

Types of Ear Protection

A Drummer Wearing Earplugs While Performing

My experience has taught me that the precise feel and sound behind the drum set are paramount. Consistent exposure to high decibel levels can lead to hearing damage.

It’s a good thing multiple solutions exist to keep my hearing sharp and intact, so let’s explore the best options available.

1

Foam Earplugs

The classic, squishy fellows are super affordable and everywhere. Foam earplugs are popular due to their affordability and ease of use.

They’re dead easy to use: roll them tight, pop them in, and voilà, they expand to fill your ear canal, cutting out a decent chunk of decibels.

D'Addario Comfort Fit Foam Earplugs

D'Addario Pwep1 Comfort Fit Foam Earplugs, Pair Review
comfortable to wear
PERFECT FOR: Beginners

FEATURES: Made from gentle-expanding soft foam

OTHER INFO: Designed with a tapered shape
Check Price >
8/10
PROS
  • Comfortable and secure fit for extended wear
  • Cost-effective
CONS
  • Reduction in high-frequency sounds
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2

Custom Molded Earplugs

I once thought one size would fit all, but it was a turning point when I tried custom-molded earplugs. They conform to the unique contours of my ears, ensuring a snug fit and outstanding noise isolation.

Westone Audio MACH 60 - Six Driver Earphones

Westone Audio Mach 60 - Six Driver Earphones Review
the finest in-ear monitoring experience
PERFECT FOR: Professionals

FEATURES: Six balanced-armature drivers with passive crossover

OTHER INFO: Durable build with molded housings and metal faceplates
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Disposable earplugs
  • Ergonomic design reduces listening fatigue
  • Comprehensive frequency response and high impedance
  • Comes with an electronic kit
CONS
  • It is relatively expensive compared to standard earplugs
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3

In-Ear Monitors

Here’s the skinny on in-ear monitors or IEMs: It’s like having your cake and eating it, too. The quality gobsmacked me.

The clarity of each snare hit and bass kick piped straight into my ears while keeping the loud environmental noise at bay is nothing short of a marvel.

Shure SE215 Sound Isolating Earphones

Shure Se215 Sound Isolating Earphones Review
hear your music with the clarity
PERFECT FOR: Professionals

FEATURES: Designed with a discreet and low-profile shape

OTHER INFO: 360-degree earphone rotation thanks to a lock-snap mechanism
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Durable construction for long-term use
  • It looks virtually invisible when worn
  • Includes various sleeves for a customized fit
CONS
  • It is relatively expensive compared to standard earplugs
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
4

Earmuffs

Sometimes, I prefer earmuffs, especially when I require maximum isolation.

They may be less common among musicians due to size and fit, but they offer solid protection and can be combined with in-ear options for extra isolation.

Vic Firth SIH2 Stereo Isolation Headphones

Vic Firth Sih2 Stereo Isolation Headphones Review
hearing protection you need to perform
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and Professionals

FEATURES: Isolation headphones with 20dB of passive noise deduction

OTHER INFO: 20HZ – 20kHZ Frequency response
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Headband padding adds comfort.
  • Snug fit
CONS
  • Other musicians may have different preferences
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
5

Hearing Protection for Live Shows

I look for high-fidelity earplugs designed for live shows for musicians. This ensures that I get just the right amount of protection without sacrificing the quality of the music I need to hear.

Etymotic MusicPro Electronic Musicians Earplug

Etymotic Research Mp9-15 Musicpro High-Fidelity Electronic Earplugs Review
Adaptive Noise Reduction
PERFECT FOR: Professionals

FEATURES: Flexible neck cord

OTHER INFO: With filter tool and ACCU filters
Check Price >
10/10
PROS
  • Instantaneously protects from too much sound
  • Enables clear and natural hearing of soft sounds and speech
CONS
  • It is relatively costly compared to standard earplugs
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 10/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Selecting the Right Ear Protection

As a drummer, selecting good hearing protection to safeguard my hearing from constant exposure to high decibel levels is crucial. 

Here's how I choose the best ear protection to meet my needs.

Comfort and the Right Fit

I always look for ear protection that feels good for hours on end. The best earplugs for musicians are those that you hardly notice because they fit so well.

Noise Reduction

I pay close attention to earplugs’ noise reduction rating (NRR). A higher NRR provides better protection from drum noise.

It’s about finding a balance that reduces the risk of hearing damage while accurately hearing the music—ear protection with an NRR between 20 to 30 decibels usually works for me.

Advice from Professionals

I always consult an audiologist for professional advice and tailored ear protection recommendations. They often suggest options I have yet to consider, such as custom-molded earplugs, which can be a game-changer for hearing protection.

Drummer Wearing In-Ear Monitor During Performance

Ear Protection for Drummers:
The Ultimate Solution

Drummer Wearing Earphones

Ear protection is non-negotiable for drummers. I’ve seen how vital it is to maintain hearing health over time.

Those foam earplugs you’ve spotted at gigs? Trust me, they’re a drummer’s best mate.

Custom-fitted options might cost a lot, but they snugly fit and provide top-notch protection. And let’s face it, they’re an investment in my craft and well-being.

In-ear monitors do double duty; they shield my ears and keep me attuned to the music.

Talk about multitasking marvels! I opt for over-ear muffs as they clamp down on the noise and let me focus on my drumming dynamics.

Remember, hearing loss is not curable.

Protect those ears so our music can always be a joy and never a muffled memory.

 

Before you go…

Explore the Top 10 professional drum sets for your next gig.

Ultimate list of 10 Best Professional Drum set

FAQ's

What ear protection do drummers wear?

The top choice for drummers’ ear protection is molded earplugs, often connected by a leash, such as the breathable and easy-to-insert Westone Audio MACH 60 – Six Driver Earphones, which allows drummers to move freely and muffle sound.

How do drummers avoid hearing loss?

During rehearsals or while playing drums, drummers can prevent hearing loss by wearing ear protection, such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, and performing at lower sound levels.

What earpieces do drummers use?

Most professional drummers, from session players to recording artists, utilize in-ear monitors, offering clear playback sound and reducing too much bass noise, delivering a pristine mix directly to your ears.

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  • Dave Danford
    Dave Danford

    Dave Danford is an established orchestral contractor actively working in the UK, providing orchestras and ensembles of professional musicians for concerts, events and theatre productions throughout the country. As a Percussionist he has performed with leading professional orchestras, for West End theatre productions, and as a soloist (including recitals and orchestral concertos).

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↓ Click here to leave a comment ↓
  1. Sami89 says:
    February 9, 2025 at 1:02 am

    If my band played any louder, we’d need earmuffs and a bunker, haha.

    Reply
  2. Derek_theDrumTech says:
    January 6, 2025 at 3:33 pm

    Interesting points about the molded earplugs, Dave Danford. While they’re great for isolation, some might find them less comfortable over long periods. Also, considering the cost and need to replace them as ears grow or change shape, one could argue high-fidelity earplugs offer a good balance between protection, comfort, and longevity.

    Reply
  3. TJ says:
    October 30, 2024 at 10:53 am

    man, gotta say, once i switched to in-ear monitors, my whole playing experience changed. glad to see them getting the love they deserve. big game changer.

    Reply
  4. Melissa Q says:
    September 28, 2024 at 3:00 am

    Dave, do you believe custom-molded earplugs are the best choice for students in school bands? I’m considering recommendations.

    Reply
    • Terrence says:
      March 13, 2025 at 1:06 pm

      I’ve been wondering the same for my students. Foam ones don’t seem to cut it anymore.

      Reply

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