Best IEMS for Strings

Below, a selection of industry professionals share why their chosen Cosmic Ears In-Ear Monitors are best for Strings players.

Benedict Morris (Violin with Talisk)

“The clarity and separation I get with my Cosmic Ears C4A is crucial for me. Every nuance and articulation I use in my playing is crystal clear while also being able to distinguish it from the other musicians I'm performing with live. The range of frequencies are also well balanced so when I'm in a higher register (which is more often than not) it's bright but never harsh or piercing. Above all, I always feel that I'm connected to my instrument and can produce the same level of playing and performance as I would with floor monitors or acoustically, making the C4A best for me as a strings player.”

Kate Couriel (Violin with Seb Lowe)

"Cosmic Ears in-ears give me the authentic feeling of playing live with the band, whilst still protecting my ears. The C4A model is best for me as a strings player."
Image: @byfbarber (instagram)

Jo Quail (Composer & Virtuoso Cellist)

"As a cellist working extensively with live looping, polyrhythmic structures, and click tracks, the Cosmic Ears C8As provide the clarity and definition I rely on both in performance and in the studio. I notice an exceptional frequency separation—particularly in the low mids—and this allows me to focus on and track multiple layered lines with precision, while still keeping the line I’m playing at that moment in clear isolation.

I also use them for all my sound design and sound modelling work, which form an essential part of my compositions, and my C8As have a consistent and transparent response across the full frequency spectrum, giving me complete confidence that what I craft in the studio will translate accurately to concert halls and live venues.

In addition to my solo and electronic work, I also write for and perform with orchestras and choirs, where I have a different set of monitoring requirements. The C8As continue to deliver here — providing the detail and balance I need to hear nuanced instrumental and vocal textures clearly. They are also brilliant in live band settings when I play a guest spot, where I need to hear my own cello with clarity above a dense mix — often including drums, guitars, backing tracks, bass, subs, and general stage noise. My C8As are also incredibly comfortable, which is essential during long sets, making them the best IEMs for me as a strings player and composer."

FAQ

Can Cosmic Ears IEMs accurately reproduce the natural resonance and timbre of string instruments?

Yes, of course. Our high-quality custom IEMs with our proprietary ModTec balanced armature drivers can reproduce the complex harmonics and overtones of string instruments with remarkable accuracy. Our Cosmic Ears C4A, C6R, and C8A models feature enhanced mid-range clarity specifically beneficial for string players.

How do Cosmic Ears IEMs affect my perception of bow pressure and articulation?

The isolation of Cosmic Ears custom IEMs will allow you to hear subtle bow articulations far more clearly than stage monitors or fills. Many of our strings customers report improved control over their bowing technique after adapting to IEMs, as they can better hear the relationship between bow pressure and the resulting tone.

Will Cosmic Ears custom IEMs help me hear myself better in ensemble settings?

Yes - this is one of the primary benefits for string players. Cosmic Ears IEMs allow you to have a personalised mix where you can emphasise your own instrument while still hearing the ensemble at a comfortable level, preventing the common problem of overplaying to hear yourself.