Are you a die-hard music fan? Does a bang of heavy metal keep you on your toes? If you love rock and roll, the best earplugs for concerts may become part and parcel of your routine.
The primary function of earplugs is to lower down the sound level. Earplugs can come to your aid in two situations. First, they give you everlasting peace of mind and help you to enjoy good music. Second, they allow you to have a sound sleep and let you rise with a fresh mind the next morning.
To help concert goers and those with sensitive ears enjoy concerts and other music events, we evaluated over 50 pairs of concert plugs over 4 months. Out of the lot, we found 7 pairs of earplugs that are the best earplugs for concerts and other loud events.
Roundup of the Best Earplugs for Concerts
| Overall Best | Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs |
| Best for Customizable Fit | Loop Experience 2 Ear Plugs |
| Best for Adjustable Noise Reduction | Loop Switch Earplugs |
| Best for Custom Molding | Decibullz Professional Moldable Earplugs |
| Best for High-Fidelity Sound | Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs |
| Best for Clarity | Eardial HiFi Earplugs |
| Best for Professional Musicians | Alpine MusicSafe Pro Music Earplugs |
Types of Earplugs for Concerts
The following are some major types of earplugs exclusively designed for concerts:
1. Foam Earplugs
Foam earplugs are the most accessible and inexpensive type of non-customized earplugs. The foam plugs are pressed and fit into the ear canal and can provide the most adverse decibel attenuation level.
A foam earplug requires proper insertion, which can somehow trouble the fit, effectiveness of the earplugs, and overall comfort. They need not be your first preference if you need to insert and take them off quite often (for instance, if you are a performer at a music festival).
2. Flanged Earplugs
These earplugs are cone-shaped and comprise numerous rims, fitting like a seal on the ear canal. They come with a universal fit and are easy to use.
The upside of the flanged earplugs over the foam ones is that they are essentially effective for use as long as they are inserted at an appropriate depth into the ear. However, for some, these earplugs may not be as comfortable to wear for quite a long time.
3. High-Fidelity Earplugs
Using high-fidelity earplugs is another viable alternative for performers and musicians. They lessen the noise level live shows, while maintaining sound clarity. They vary from conventional earplugs in that they muffle the clamor to retain sound precision.
Thus, you find no problem in hearing your favorite singers performing on stage. Only the volume is toned down to a lower level to add to your comfort. High-fidelity earplugs are of different types, including the ones that can be reused. Universal-fit earplugs are quite accessible, but they are not suitable to wear for long hours.
4. Custom Earplugs
These earplugs are made by an audiologist, to suit a user’s specific hearing requirements. Some of these custom earplugs are great to wear for prolonged hours as they do not exert pressure along the sides of your ear canal.
Professional create custom earplugs according to the shape of your ears, with the noise reduction rating (NRR) of your preference.
How to Get Custom Earplugs for a Concert Goer
Follow these steps to get custom earplugs based on your requirements:
- Find an audiologist certified for designing custom earplugs
- Before you hire them, check if their charges include impressions, earplugs and filter, alterations and adjustments
- Get ready for the impression process. It typically involves the audiologist inserting a cotton block in your ears to guard your eardrums and using a syringe to fill your ear canals with the impression material.
- Once the impression process is complete, the audiologist will ask you to select the filters of your choice. Many custom earplugs also comprise removable filters.
5 Things to Consider when Buying Earplugs for a Concert
When choosing earplugs for a concert, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure both an enjoyable music experience and adequate hearing protection. Here are some key elements to keep in mind:
1. Sound Attenuation
Concerts are designed to provide an immersive audio experience, and you’ll want earplugs that minimize sound distortion while still protecting your ears. The best concert earplugs feature optimal sound attenuation, allowing you to enjoy the music without sacrificing quality.
Many high-quality earplugs have a resonance channel that matches the length of your ear canal, enabling a natural-sounding experience. Additionally, look for earplugs with attenuation filters that offer varying levels of sound reduction, so you can adjust them to your comfort.
2. Hearing Protection
Protecting your hearing is paramount, especially at concerts where sound levels can reach up to 105 dB or more. Premium earplugs reduce the volume without compromising the clarity of the music, striking a perfect balance between sound quality and protection.
The right earplugs will allow you to enjoy the concert without the risk of long-term hearing damage, even at high sound levels like those at heavy metal or rock concerts.
3. Comfort and Fit
Comfort is crucial when wearing earplugs for extended periods, like during a concert. The fit of the earplugs is largely determined by the size and material of the ear tips.
Silicone ear tips are soft and non-irritating, providing a comfortable fit, while memory foam ear tips offer a snug fit by conforming to the shape of your ear canal. Look for earplugs that are designed to stay securely in place without causing discomfort, even during prolonged use.
4. Aesthetics
While functionality is key, the appearance of your earplugs can also matter, especially in social settings like concerts.
Discreet earplugs that don’t stick out from your ears are ideal for concerts, live shows, and other loud events. Many of the best concert earplugs are designed to be stylish and unobtrusive, allowing you to enjoy the event without drawing attention to your hearing protection.
5. Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a critical factor to consider when choosing earplugs. The NRR is a government-approved measure that indicates the level of sound attenuation provided by the earplugs, expressed in decibels (dB).
The NRR represents the average noise reduction across different frequency bands, typically ranging from 125 Hz to 8 kHz. The higher the NRR, the greater the noise-canceling ability of the earplugs. Selecting earplugs with an appropriate NRR ensures that you receive the necessary level of protection for your specific concert environment.
Why Do Musicians Wear Earplugs at a Concert?
Whether it’s a DJ spinning tracks, a violinist in an orchestra, or a guitarist on stage, musicians often wear earplugs during live performances to protect their hearing while still being able to hear the music and their instruments clearly. Here’s why:
Protection from Harmful Noise Levels
Exposure to high decibel levels can cause irreversible hearing damage. Even at levels as low as 85 dB, hearing loss can occur if the exposure is prolonged. Most concerts operate at around 100 dB, where the risk of hearing damage becomes significant after just 15 minutes without protection. Musicians, who are often exposed to these levels for extended periods, wear earplugs to safeguard their hearing.
Specialized Earplugs for Musicians
Musicians’ earplugs are specially designed to attenuate high-decibel sounds without distorting the quality of the music. Unlike regular earplugs that block sound, these earplugs reduce the volume while maintaining the clarity of the music. This is achieved through acoustic filters that lower the sound levels across the entire frequency range (20Hz to 20kHz) evenly, ensuring that musicians can still hear the music accurately while wearing them.
Custom Earplugs for Enhanced Performance
Many musicians opt for custom earplugs tailored to their specific needs. These custom earplugs are more expensive but offer a perfect fit and optimized sound reduction, making them ideal for professional use. They provide a “flattened” sound experience, where the earplugs reduce the volume uniformly across frequencies, preventing any distortion and allowing the performer to hear the music just as it is intended.
Preventing Long-Term Hearing Damage
Musicians are at a higher risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during performances. Earplugs serve as a crucial preventive measure, helping to protect the delicate inner ear cells from damage. Research consistently shows that continuous exposure to high-decibel environments can lead to permanent hearing loss, making earplugs an essential part of a musician’s toolkit.
In summary, wearing earplugs is a proactive measure for musicians to protect their hearing, ensuring that they can continue to perform and enjoy music throughout their careers without risking long-term hearing damage.
Top 7 Earplugs for Concert-Goers
The following are the 7 best earplugs for musicians, as well as concert-goers, to enhance their acoustic experience:
1. Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs
Overall Best
What Impressed Us
- Customizable attenuation levels for different environments
- Comfortable and secure fit
- High-fidelity sound quality
- Reusable design
- Smart carry case for easy storage and transport
What Disappointed Us
- Some users may find the filters difficult to change
- The earplugs may not be suitable for users with very small ear canals
Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs emerge as the overall best for concertgoers due to their exceptional balance of sound clarity and noise reduction. These earplugs are designed to reduce noise levels significantly while preserving the quality and clarity of the music, making them ideal for both attendees and performers.
Eargasm earplugs feature a unique attenuation filter that reduces noise to safe levels while maintaining a full spectrum of sound. They are made from soft, hypoallergenic silicone that ensures comfort even during prolonged use. The clear design is discreet, appealing to those who prefer a low-profile look.
Additionally, these earplugs come with a durable aluminum case for easy storage and portability. They are also available in two sizes to ensure a secure fit for all ear types, enhancing their usability and effectiveness at any live music event.
In conclusion, the Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs are the best choice for anyone looking for reliable hearing protection without sacrificing sound quality at concerts and live events.
View on Amazon: Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs
2. Loop Experience 2 Ear Plugs
Best for Customizable Fit
What Impressed Us
- Effective noise reduction without compromising sound quality
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Stylish design
- Reusable and easy to clean
- Convenient carry case
- Affordable price
What Disappointed Us
- May not be suitable for those seeking high-fidelity sound
- Some users may find the earplugs affect their ability to hear conversations
Loop Experience 2 Ear Plugs stand out as the best for a customizable fit due to their unique, rounded design and multiple ear tip sizes. This design not only ensures comfort but also significantly enhances the effectiveness of sound filtering.
These earplugs use an advanced acoustic channel that mimics the ear canal, providing natural sound reduction that keeps music and speech clear without the muffled effect typical of lower-quality earplugs. The Loop Experience 2 is particularly popular among concert-goers and musicians for its ability to reduce harmful decibel levels without distorting sound.
The inclusion of soft silicone and memory foam tips in various sizes allows users to find the perfect fit, making these earplugs suitable for extended wear at festivals or long rehearsal sessions. Their stylish design and various color options also make them a fashionable accessory.
In summary, the Loop Experience 2 Ear Plugs offer an excellent balance of comfort, style, and effective sound reduction, making them a top choice for those who value customization and quality in hearing protection.
View on Amazon: Loop Experience 2 Ear Plugs
3. Loop Switch Earplugs
Best for Adjustable Noise Reduction
What Impressed Us
- Effective noise reduction up to 18 decibels
- Comfortable and durable design
- Multiple ear tip sizes for a secure fit
- Ability to switch between modes for customizable noise reduction
- Stylish and discreet design
What Disappointed Us
- May feel heavier due to the switching mechanism
- Some users may find the earplugs slightly uncomfortable due to the added weight
Loop Switch Earplugs are the best choice for adjustable noise reduction, featuring a unique switch mechanism that allows users to toggle between different levels of sound attenuation. This flexibility is ideal for concertgoers who experience varying sound environments.
The design incorporates a dual-chamber filter that lets users choose from high or low noise reduction settings with a simple twist. This feature is particularly beneficial for attending different types of concerts or when moving between indoor and outdoor venues.
Constructed from soft, durable silicone, Loop Switch Earplugs are designed for comfort and longevity. The discreet profile fits snugly in the ear, providing effective noise reduction without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
Conclusively, Loop Switch Earplugs offer unparalleled flexibility and performance, making them an outstanding choice for anyone looking for versatile and adjustable ear protection at musical events.
View on Amazon: Loop Switch Earplugs
4. Decibullz Professional Moldable Earplugs
Best for Custom Molding
What Impressed Us
- Semi-custom fit
- Clear sound quality
- Comfortable design
- Easy to use
What Disappointed Us
- Not as effective as custom earplugs
Decibullz Professional Moldable Earplugs are distinguished as the best for custom molding, allowing users to achieve a perfect, personalized fit. These earplugs are thermoplastic and can be remolded multiple times to fit the unique contours of each ear, providing exceptional comfort and effective noise isolation.
The custom-fit design ensures that these earplugs stay securely in place, making them ideal for active users, such as musicians moving around on stage or concert attendees dancing. They effectively reduce harmful noise levels while preserving sound fidelity, making them popular among professionals and audiophiles alike.
Moreover, Decibullz earplugs come with a compact carrying case and are available in various colors, adding to their practicality and style.
In conclusion, the Decibullz Professional Moldable Earplugs offer superior customization and protection, making them an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable and comfortable ear protection tailored to their needs.
View on Amazon: Decibullz Professional Moldable Earplugs
5. Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs
Best for High-Fidelity Sound
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound reduction while maintaining sound quality
- Discreet and comfortable design
- Easy to install and remove
- Suitable for musicians and concert-goers
- Affordable price
What Disappointed Us
- Some users may find the universal size too small
- May cause discomfort if not fitted properly
Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs excel in providing high-fidelity sound, making them the top choice for audiophiles and music professionals. These earplugs are engineered to reduce noise across all frequencies rather than merely muffling mid and high tones. This balanced sound reduction preserves the clarity and richness of music, making concerts and rehearsals more enjoyable and safe.
Etymotic’s proprietary design features a triple-flange construction and high-fidelity filter that replicates natural ear response, ensuring that music and speech are clear and undistorted. The earplugs are made from hypoallergenic materials, ensuring comfort and minimizing irritation over long periods.
The compact and discreet design makes these earplugs barely noticeable, and they come with a cord and carrying case, enhancing their usability and portability.
In summary, the Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs are perfect for those who do not want to compromise on sound quality while protecting their hearing, making them an indispensable tool for serious musicians and concertgoers.
View on Amazon: Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs
6. Eardial HiFi Earplugs
Best for Clarity
What Impressed Us
- Discreet and comfortable design
- High-fidelity sound quality
- Effective noise reduction
- Soft and hypoallergenic materials
- Compact and portable case
- Useful companion app
What Disappointed Us
- Some users may find the fit inconsistent
- May not be suitable for those seeking complete noise blockage
Eardial HiFi Earplugs are the best for clarity, designed to provide precise noise reduction that maintains the full spectrum of sound frequencies. These earplugs are ideal for music lovers who want to protect their hearing without missing any part of the performance.
Eardial HiFi Earplugs feature advanced acoustic filters that reduce dangerous decibel levels while allowing softer, non-damaging sounds to pass through clearly. This means users can enjoy music and converse with others without feeling isolated from their environment.
Made from soft, hypoallergenic silicone, these earplugs are comfortable for all-day wear and come with a compact aluminum carrying case that keeps them safe and accessible. The discreet design fits snugly in the ear, making them barely visible during use.
In conclusion, Eardial HiFi Earplugs provide unmatched clarity, making them a fantastic choice for concertgoers who prioritize sound quality and hearing protection.
View on Amazon: Eardial HiFi Earplugs
7. Alpine MusicSafe Pro Music Earplugs
Best for Professional Musicians
What Impressed Us
- High-quality sound preservation
- Three interchangeable filters for different noise levels
- Soft and comfortable design
- Reusable up to 100 times
- ANSI and CE certified
What Disappointed Us
- May require some practice to fit properly
- Changing filters can be a bit annoying in crowded situations
Alpine MusicSafe Pro Music Earplugs are the top choice for professional musicians, designed specifically to cater to the needs of those who are frequently exposed to high decibel levels. These earplugs offer three interchangeable filters that allow musicians to adjust the level of noise reduction according to different playing environments.
The MusicSafe Pro’s advanced design ensures that music and speech remain clear, not muffled, while harmful noises are effectively attenuated. This selective attenuation helps musicians protect their hearing while still being able to hear their own instrument and blend with others in performance settings.
Made from AlpineThermoShape material, these earplugs are comfortable enough for prolonged use, adapting to the shape of the ear canal for a perfect fit. They also come with a durable storage case, ensuring they are protected and easily portable.
In conclusion, Alpine MusicSafe Pro Music Earplugs are the best for professional musicians, offering adjustable protection, comfort, and the ability to hear music clearly. This makes them an essential piece of gear for anyone playing music professionally.
View on Amazon: Alpine MusicSafe Pro Music Earplugs
Frequently Asked Questions About Concert Earplugs
Never forget to carry your noise-canceling earplugs or headphones while attending a heavy metal concert, especially if you are a frequent concert goer. Generally, the sound levels are of such high amplitude that you can still enjoy the music while donning hearing protection. However, make sure to check sound levels. Apps like DeciBEL and dB Volume Meter let you check sound levels at concerts.
Most concert and loud events can easily reach sound levels greater than 100 dB. At this level, your ears can get damaged in about 15 to 20 minutes. Even some of the loudest sounds ever recorded touch 100 dB. Therefore, you should wear earplugs at concerts.
Yes, foam earplugs block out most of the noise. However, you need to ensure you wear them property to leverage the complete noise reduction experience.
Earplugs are a safe and cost-effective way of blocking unwanted sounds while sleeping. Studies have shown that earplugs increase melatonin levels. Melatonin is a hormone that takes charge of your body when it is geared up for sleep.
The concert sounds often surpass 100 decibels and can cause irreparable hearing loss. Attending super-loud instrumental rock concerts is likely to cause a lot more damage.
Manowar, the heavy metal American band, has recorded the loudest concert extending up to 139 dB.
Noises more than 120 dB are too loud. They can cause immediate damage to your ears.
The sound level of concert speakers can range as high as 133 dB.
Can wearing earplugs damage your hearing?
Earplugs do come with some side effects if you are using them over some time. Earplugs can thrust earwax into your ear, resulting in an accumulation. This can cause ailments, including temporary hearing impairment and tinnitus.
Overused and dirty earplugs are prone to be infected by bacteria and can add filth to the ear canal. Pre-molded earplugs tend to become stiff, putting pressure on the ear canal. This can result in ear infection, excruciating pain, and even temporary or permanent hearing impairment.
Conclusion
After thoroughly reviewing the best earplugs for concerts, we highly recommend the Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs and the Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs for anyone looking to combine superior sound quality with effective hearing protection.
The Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs stand out as the overall best choice, providing an exceptional balance of noise reduction and sound clarity. These earplugs are designed to protect your hearing while ensuring that you can still enjoy the full quality of the music, making them ideal for concerts and live events.
The Etymotic High-Fidelity Earplugs are the top pick for high-fidelity sound, designed specifically for audiophiles and music professionals who demand the best audio experience. These earplugs reduce noise across all frequencies without distorting the music, preserving the richness and detail of live performances.
Both options offer durable, comfortable designs that ensure they can be worn throughout long events without discomfort, making them perfect for regular concertgoers and music enthusiasts who prioritize both hearing protection and sound quality.
If you have got questions, feel free to shoot them in the comments below.
