We discuss various IEM molds here and I'd like to clarify my stance, for what it's worth on custom molds vs generic molds.
First and formost, I will always recommend going the expense of getting custom IEM molds made. I've had a set of 1964 Quads for over 2 years and I experience the same fit each and every time I use them. I don't have to worry about losing generic inserts or changing them when they get grody (deep Southern word for "nasty"). Now, 1964 Ears, or 64Audio, I think they are called now, makes a set of the A series custom IEMs for $399. One of our church drummers just ordered a set (Young college student, incredible drummer, even bigger heart for the ministry and counseling kids, doesn't make a lot of money) and we'll know in a little while how they work.
However, discussions and questions come up here about generic molds and while I seriously adhere to the belief above, I do know that with some diligence and work, a decent fit and seal can be had with the generic molds. Once, I broke the cable (snagged it on a door handle, lucky it didn't damage the IEM mold) and had to wait on another one from 1964. While I waited, I borrowed a set of Westone UM Pro 30s (triple-driver) to get through the weekend at church. I gotta say, I was rather impressed. They were PLENTY loud, and while not as low-end-tilted as the Quads, I was able to get happy with them rather easily. I used the yellow foam inserts rather than the gray, various-sized inserts. So I bought a set of UM Pro 30s as a back up. Plus at times, they serve to be a user's first IEM experience. They aren't cheap, around $350 these days, I think. But I do highly recommend, bassists and drummers should go no less than triple-drivers to be happy
A friend of mine bought the UM Pro 40s, I think they were 0ver $500. I asked him why not just go custom? He doesn't fancy the idea of custom-made molds. Fair enough. Who am I to discourage him?
So, to wrap up....
If you simply don't want to go with a custom mold solution, there are options out there that can be satisfying...I guess...
. Seriously, I could live with the UM30s and wouldn't mind terribly doing so. But I'm very glad to have my 1964 Quads and can't imagine having to go with less.
Part of me wanting to write this is to caution users against the lesser-known and less-expensive IEMs. This year, more than ever, I've seen folks go with something like the SE215s as their first IEM experience and come away hating the experience.
However, to wrap up and to head off some grief from those folks...
If you are happy with an inexpensive set of generic IEMs like the Shure SE-215s, by all means,
carry on. You don't need my approval or otherwise. I've made up my mind and it won't be changed. I expect no less from everyone else....
First and formost, I will always recommend going the expense of getting custom IEM molds made. I've had a set of 1964 Quads for over 2 years and I experience the same fit each and every time I use them. I don't have to worry about losing generic inserts or changing them when they get grody (deep Southern word for "nasty"). Now, 1964 Ears, or 64Audio, I think they are called now, makes a set of the A series custom IEMs for $399. One of our church drummers just ordered a set (Young college student, incredible drummer, even bigger heart for the ministry and counseling kids, doesn't make a lot of money) and we'll know in a little while how they work.
However, discussions and questions come up here about generic molds and while I seriously adhere to the belief above, I do know that with some diligence and work, a decent fit and seal can be had with the generic molds. Once, I broke the cable (snagged it on a door handle, lucky it didn't damage the IEM mold) and had to wait on another one from 1964. While I waited, I borrowed a set of Westone UM Pro 30s (triple-driver) to get through the weekend at church. I gotta say, I was rather impressed. They were PLENTY loud, and while not as low-end-tilted as the Quads, I was able to get happy with them rather easily. I used the yellow foam inserts rather than the gray, various-sized inserts. So I bought a set of UM Pro 30s as a back up. Plus at times, they serve to be a user's first IEM experience. They aren't cheap, around $350 these days, I think. But I do highly recommend, bassists and drummers should go no less than triple-drivers to be happy
A friend of mine bought the UM Pro 40s, I think they were 0ver $500. I asked him why not just go custom? He doesn't fancy the idea of custom-made molds. Fair enough. Who am I to discourage him?
So, to wrap up....
If you simply don't want to go with a custom mold solution, there are options out there that can be satisfying...I guess...
. Seriously, I could live with the UM30s and wouldn't mind terribly doing so. But I'm very glad to have my 1964 Quads and can't imagine having to go with less. Part of me wanting to write this is to caution users against the lesser-known and less-expensive IEMs. This year, more than ever, I've seen folks go with something like the SE215s as their first IEM experience and come away hating the experience.
However, to wrap up and to head off some grief from those folks...
If you are happy with an inexpensive set of generic IEMs like the Shure SE-215s, by all means,
carry on. You don't need my approval or otherwise. I've made up my mind and it won't be changed. I expect no less from everyone else....
