A Few Options For Preserving Your Most Precious Asset
There is no doubt that acoustic drums are extremely loud. If you want to have any kind of longevity as a musician, you absolutely need to protect your hearing. Fortunately there are many options for doing just that these days. Earplugs have evolved over time, and now come in a variety of different shapes, colors, and styles. I have listed a few of those below.
Standard Foam
Foam earplugs are probably the most tried and true of all of the models of earplugs that are available out there. They provide more than sufficient hearing protection in most musical situations. I keep a huge bag of these with me at all times, no matter what I am doing. You can get some huge boxes of these at Home Depot if your in the market for an economy pack.
Plastic with Hole
This style of plug can be great for certain things due to the level of noise that they let in. They come hollowed out in the middle, thereby only blocking a portion of the sound. This can be good for really quiet playing, or on gigs where you need to be extra conscious of dynamics.
Attached Plastic/Foam
This is just a standard set of plastic or foam plugs that is attached by a cord. It’s the same level of hearing protection, but much easier to keep track of.
Vic Firth Cans
These come either with the headphone option, or without. The headphones can be great for recording, as they block just the right amount of sound when in the studio, and are comfortable enough to wear for long sessions. These cans are fairly inexpensive, and durable, making them a solid investment for any drummer.
Custom Plugs/Monitors
If you have the money, this is the best way to protect your hearing. There are a few companies that make custom molded ear plugs, and in ear monitors. I purchased my in ears from a company called In Ear Systems. I have taken them on the road, and regularly use them for multiple artists I trigger backing tracks for, and they have always worked great for me. Their in ears come with a detachable cable feature, so you only have to buy a new cable if yours breaks, and not a whole new set of monitors. I have linked their site HERE so go check them out if you are in the market.
