Dennyf Posted October 24, 2004 Share Posted October 24, 2004 Just tried a pair of the Etymotic Research ER-20 High-Fidelity Earplugs as recommended by Scary Muddy Cat in this thread. They worked great for me! Compared to conventional plugs, they allow for a much more natural sound. So natural at first I didn't think I had them inserted correctly, or that I wasn't really getting much protection (until I took one out mid-song . . . it went right back in), but I had no ear fatigue at the end of the night. Comfort-wise . . . well, they're flanges, which to me are not as comfortable as foam plugs, or my former-favorite Bilsom down plugs. But they're not exactly UNcomfortable, and the sound quality more than makes up for it. For example, one side-benefit was that other band members noted that I was speaking more naturally at appropriate volumes when we were on break. (With other plugs, I tend to speak too quietly). As with all plugs, proper insertion is critical. And I suppose if you've never worn plugs, you're still gonna find they affect the way you perceive the audio spectrum. I don't think there's anything that you can stick in your ear that won't to some degree. But as an almost-lifelong plug wearer, I can say these are the best over-the-counter plug I've tried, fidelity-wise, and I've had some experience in the hearing-protection field. I'm going to get a few more pairs to keep in my van and guitar cases and brief case. I'm also more eager to get a pair of custom-molds, now that I've heard how well the technology works. To sum up, highly recommended. Thanks SM Cat! band link: bluepearlband.com music, lessons, gig schedules at dennyf.com STURGEON'S LAW --98% of everything is bullshit. My Unitarian Jihad Name is: The Jackhammer of Love and Mercy. Get yours. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
g. Posted October 24, 2004 Share Posted October 24, 2004 Wear 'em more and the flanges conform easily to your ear canals - unless they are especially narrow. If I go through a period where I don't need them, when I use them again they are a little tight feeling. That, and I'm no longer used to having something in there... . Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Major Tom Posted October 24, 2004 Share Posted October 24, 2004 I used those quite a bit in my gigging days. They do work well. A little insertion "trick" that worked well for me - I would put a little spit (yes, spit, and just enuf to wet it) on my finger, and then put it onto the plug - they go in much easier. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NMcGuitar Posted October 24, 2004 Share Posted October 24, 2004 I got a pair of those a few months ago. They really are quite good, and they are comfortable enough (in both feel and sound) that I actually started using earplugs for the first time in my life. Then... I started to sing more in my band, and I just can't seem to get used to it. With the plugs in I hear myself much louder than everything else (which makes perfect sense), but that, in turn causes me to have trouble getting a proper vocal volume, and really makes it hard for me to blend with another singer. So I stopped using them. I really should just try to get used to 'em, since I do want to keep my hearing for a while... May all your thoughts be random! - Neil www.McFaddenArts.com www.MikesGarageRocks.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bbach1 Posted October 25, 2004 Share Posted October 25, 2004 A very similar product here along with a bunch of other choices. I've ordered a set of their's but don't have em yet. bbach Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mudcat Posted October 25, 2004 Share Posted October 25, 2004 I guess I've finally made a worthwhile contribution to this forum. You're welcome! Mudcat's music on Soundclick "Work hard. Rock hard. Eat hard. Sleep hard. Grow big. Wear glasses if you need 'em."-The Webb Wilder Credo- Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mdog114 Posted November 7, 2004 Share Posted November 7, 2004 I've used E.A.R. plugs for years. They give me a nice, balanced attenuation and don't bother my ears. "Never back-up more than you have to" REAL MEN PLAY TELECASTERS! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bbach1 Posted November 7, 2004 Share Posted November 7, 2004 Originally posted by mdog114: I've used E.A.R. plugs for years. They give me a nice, balanced attenuation and don't bother my ears.What? bbach Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mdog114 Posted November 7, 2004 Share Posted November 7, 2004 They're a jelly-like earplug brand that are sold through mail order and retail music stores. They come in a small round plastic container to store them in. They have a hole down the middle and don't seem to shut off the sound the way foam plugs do. "Never back-up more than you have to" REAL MEN PLAY TELECASTERS! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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