TEST: Inear Prophile-8

If this continues, we will see the extinction of one of the traditional products when it comes to showing the viewer on TV that you are in the recording studio. Microphone in front of the nose and, of course, headphones on the earpieces, a vocal recording must be taking place here. The increasingly popular Inear systems have so far "only" ensured that the monitor systems on the stages have lost their status by about 90%, the classic high-end studio headphones, however, was not yet threatened in its classic habitat.

But this could soon change. With the InEar ProPhile-8, the Hessian manufacturer from the small Roßdorf near Darmstadt brings a monitoring system to the market, which starts with the claim to become nothing less than the future studio reference earphones. We are curious about that.

Design

Conceptually, Inear's InEar ProPhile-8 is based on the system of the StageDiver series. The same series has calculated an average value from over 500 of their manufactured systems, which in 90% of all cases optimally closes the auditory canal of the average earthling. A universal fit is therefore guaranteed, which can be personalized via the enclosed, different rubber plugs. The product comes with 4 pairs of silicone earmold pieces in sizes XS, S, M and L, as well as 3 foam earmold pieces in sizes S, M and L. If you have a very unusual ear canal, you'll have to resort to the custom version, which is also in the works and will be released soon.

However, one has deliberately decided against a continuation of the product name StageDiver, because the InEar ProPhile-8 in many respects leaves the paths of a normal Inear system. First, there are the 8 drivers, which are far above the average of competing systems and are also responsible for the naming. The second special feature is a 4-way crossover, which is manually switchable in its characteristics from the outside.

In contrast to the regular StageDiver series, comparatively little has been changed in the appearance, but the surface has been kept matte and somewhat roughened. This gives a more grippy feel and prevents fingerprints on the surface. As with its predecessors, the InEar ProPhile-8 comes with the tried-and-true black twisted-pair cable, which connects via a 2-pin plug. Since the plugs are led to the housing from above, there is very little cable noise, a very pleasant point in terms of comfort.

Also to be highlighted is the accessories scope of the product. In addition to the aforementioned earmold pieces, the scope of delivery includes several cleaning cloths, a cleaning pen for earwax, a right / left set of 16-fold replacement earpiece filters each, dry capsules and a mini jack to TRS adapter. The whole thing comes in a Pelicase-level high-end case, which is equipped with a strong carabiner.


Practice

The InEar ProPhile-8 is ready to deliver a real alternative to classic monitor speakers, at least as far as the frequency range is concerned. Of course, it can't deliver the typical stereo triangle due to the extreme left/right sound sources, but it should be able to deliver a linear and relaxed listening position. According to this intention, the product comes with a switchable treble and bass boost, but less to equalize spatial over- or underpresence as with monitor speakers, but more to accommodate personal taste. Thus, 4 different presets can be set via two small switches. A high frequency boost of +2dB and a bass boost of +3dB are switchable.

The first sound impression is already excellent. Already in the neutral position, the InEar ProPhile-8 shines with a very good and, above all, neutral resolution, which extends over the entire frequency spectrum. Many subtleties that are sometimes swallowed by impulse or phase problems in classic monitor mode can be analyzed in detail here and make some final mixes seem frighteningly insignificant.

Adding the bass boost activates a subtle volume enrichment, which provides an increased feel-good character without triggering a mega boost. The only danger here is that you might feel too comfortable and not drive the mix sufficiently over the biters a la MS-10 to make even inferior speakers sound.

In terms of treble boost, the InEar ProPhile-8 applies a boost starting at 6-7 kHz, which still extends slightly down into the high-mid range. In this respect, the boost is not a "whisperer", but rather a classic booster, which intervenes discreetly, but still audible in the action. Soundwise also great cinema.


Conclusion

With the InEar ProPhile-8, the Hessian company once again scores across the board. The claim to develop an Inear Monitor System as a studio reference has succeeded across the board. Although the retail price of just under 1,300 euros will shrink the customer base to a minimum, but the same get probably the best-sounding inear monitor system on the market.

Top score!

Additional informations.

- Inear Monitoring Germany is a renowned company specializing in the production of high-quality in-ear monitors (IEMs) and related audio equipment. With a strong focus on precision, comfort, and sound accuracy, Inear Monitoring Germany has earned a reputation as a leading provider of personalized monitoring solutions for professional musicians, audio engineers, and music enthusiasts worldwide. This report provides a comprehensive overview of Inear Monitoring Germany, covering its history, product range, technological innovations, and industry impact.

Company History Inear Monitoring Germany was founded in 2010 in Paderborn, Germany, by a team of audio professionals with a passion for delivering exceptional sound experiences. Since its inception, the company has been dedicated to pushing the boundaries of in-ear monitoring technology, blending craftsmanship with cutting-edge audio engineering techniques. Over the years, Inear Monitoring Germany has built a strong presence in the music industry and has become a trusted brand among musicians and audio professionals.

Product Range Inear Monitoring Germany offers a wide range of products designed to cater to the specific needs of musicians and audio enthusiasts seeking unparalleled audio quality and personalized monitoring solutions. The company's product lineup includes:
3.1 Custom In-Ear Monitors Inear Monitoring Germany specializes in custom-fit IEMs, crafted meticulously to provide a precise fit and exceptional sound reproduction. Using state-of-the-art 3D scanning and printing technologies, the company creates custom molds for the IEMs, ensuring maximum comfort and isolation. The IEMs are available in various driver configurations to suit different musical preferences and performance requirements.

3.2 Universal Fit In-Ear Monitors For those seeking the convenience of ready-to-use IEMs, Inear Monitoring Germany offers a range of universal fit models. These IEMs incorporate advanced driver technology and ergonomic designs to provide excellent sound reproduction and a comfortable fit. They are available in different models, catering to various budgets and audio preferences.

3.3 Wireless Monitoring Systems In addition to IEMs, Inear Monitoring Germany offers wireless monitoring systems, allowing musicians to experience freedom of movement during performances. These systems provide reliable and low-latency audio transmission, ensuring seamless communication and immersive monitoring experiences on stage.

3.4 Earphone Accessories and Upgrades Inear Monitoring Germany also provides a range of accessories and upgrades for their IEMs, including replacement cables, eartips, cleaning tools, and custom artwork options. These accessories enhance the functionality, durability, and personalization of their products.

Technological Innovations Inear Monitoring Germany is committed to innovation and staying at the forefront of audio technology. The company continuously invests in research and development to improve the performance, comfort, and durability of their products. They work closely with audio professionals and musicians to understand their specific requirements and incorporate their feedback into product development. Inear Monitoring Germany's commitment to innovation has resulted in the introduction of advanced driver technologies, improved crossovers, and enhanced acoustic designs, delivering accurate sound reproduction and immersive listening experiences.

Industry Impact Inear Monitoring Germany has had a significant impact on the music industry, particularly in live performances, studio recording, and broadcast applications. Their IEMs have become the go-to choice for many renowned musicians, bands, and audio professionals who rely on accurate and reliable monitoring solutions. By providing personalized and high-fidelity audio experiences, Inear Monitoring Germany has helped musicians and audio engineers achieve optimal performances, precise mixing, and enhanced communication on stage.

Customer Support and Service Inear Monitoring Germany prioritizes customer satisfaction and offers excellent support and service. They provide detailed product information, consultation, and support to assist customers in choosing the right IEMs for their specific needs. The company also offers repair services, ensuring that customers' investments in their products are protected.

Conclusion Inear Monitoring Germany has established itself as a leading provider of high-quality in-ear monitors and wireless monitoring systems. Through their dedication to precision, technological innovation, and customer satisfaction, the company has transformed the way musicians and audio professionals experience live performances and studio recordings. With their commitment to delivering immersive and accurate audio solutions, Inear Monitoring Germany continues to shape the landscape of in-ear monitoring and set new standards for audio quality and personalized listening experiences.

- Choosing the right monitoring system is crucial for musicians and performers to deliver their best performances on stage. Two popular options are floor monitors and in-ear monitoring systems. In this article, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two monitoring methods to help musicians make an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences.

Floor Monitors:

Advantages:

Natural Sound Dispersion: Floor monitors project sound into the performance space, providing a more natural listening experience. Musicians can hear their instrument's sound reflected off the stage and interact with other performers, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration.

Easy Interaction: Floor monitors allow for easier communication between band members during live performances. Musicians can pick up cues and subtle changes in dynamics by hearing each other's stage sound.

Familiarity: Many musicians are accustomed to floor monitors, as they have been a staple in live performances for decades. The familiarity of using floor monitors can make the transition to in-ear monitoring systems more challenging for some musicians.

Disadvantages:

Sound Clutter: On stage, multiple floor monitors can create a cluttered sound environment. This can result in phase cancellations, feedback issues, and reduced clarity, especially in smaller venues or stages with poor acoustics.

Inconsistent Sound: The sound quality of floor monitors can vary depending on the performer's position on stage. Musicians located farther from the monitors may experience reduced clarity and uneven sound distribution.

Increased Stage Volume: Floor monitors contribute to increased stage volume, potentially leading to sound bleed into microphones and affecting the overall mix. This can be problematic for sound engineers trying to achieve optimal sound balance.

In-Ear Monitoring Systems:

Advantages:

Personalized Monitoring: In-ear monitoring systems provide individualized mixes for each musician, allowing for precise control over the audio they hear. Musicians can adjust their mix to emphasize specific instruments or vocals, resulting in enhanced clarity and focus.
Noise Isolation: In-ear monitors offer excellent noise isolation, minimizing external stage noise and reducing the risk of feedback. This isolation allows musicians to hear their performance with greater detail and accuracy, even in loud environments.

Portability and Mobility: In-ear monitoring systems are lightweight and portable, enabling musicians to move freely on stage without compromising their monitoring experience. This mobility is particularly advantageous for performers who require dynamic movement during their shows.

Disadvantages:

Adjustment Period: Transitioning from floor monitors to in-ear systems may require an adjustment period for musicians. The shift from hearing stage sound to isolated monitoring can initially feel unfamiliar and may affect performance and interaction with bandmates.
Dependency on Technology: In-ear monitoring systems rely on technology, including wireless transmitters, receivers, and personal mixers. Technical malfunctions or issues with battery life can disrupt the monitoring experience and require troubleshooting during performances.

Cost: In-ear monitoring systems tend to be more expensive than floor monitors, especially when considering the need for custom-molded earpieces and individual monitoring units for each musician. This cost factor may be a barrier for musicians on a tighter budget.

Conclusion:

Choosing between floor monitors and in-ear monitoring systems ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of musicians. Floor monitors offer a more natural sound dispersion and easy interaction among performers but may suffer from sound clutter and inconsistency. In-ear monitoring systems provide personalized monitoring, noise isolation, and portability but require an adjustment period and involve a higher initial cost. Musicians should consider factors such as stage setup, venue size, desired sound quality, and budget when making their monitoring system decision. Ultimately, both options have their merits, and selecting the most suitable solution will ensure optimal monitoring and performance experiences.