By Mike Sokol
Evaluating the ATW-T3205 transmitter and ATW-R3250 beltpack that are bundled together in the ATW-3255 variant of the system, and it also includes ATH-E40 monitor earbuds.
Wireless in-ear monitor systems have been one of the greatest live audio inventions of this century. No kidding!
A quick bit of perspective. Look at photos/video of any stage from the 1970s through the ‘90s, you’ll likely see a lot of monitor wedges on the floor pointing back at the musicians. Of course, all those floor wedges contribute to extra SPL on stage, which complicates separating the various instruments in the mix, as well as making a small room uncomfortably loud. (Refer to my Semi-Silent Stage Series of articles for an overview of just how loud it can get.)
Enter wireless IEM systems. In the beginning they were “toys of the rich and famous,” and few local acts could afford them. But in the last several years, advancing technology and scale of production has made IEM systems much more affordable to the masses of musicians.
While one can still pay many thousands of dollars for a tour-grade IEM system, a recent affordable entry, the Audio-Technica 3000 Series, costs less than US$900 (street price). And that’s probably less expensive than the active floor wedge you were thinking about buying.
Read the full review at www.prosoundweb.com
