Best earplugs for musicians in 2024 recommended by musicians

Shopping for the best earplugs for musicians in 2024? We all think our ears are invincible, but unfortunately, that isn’t true. Over a billion people aged 12–35 years old lose their hearing due to exposure to loud music and other excessive sounds. So whether you're a DJ, drummer, guitar player or studio musician, this list of the best earplugs for musicians will help you make more informed decisions for your hearing.

1. Minuendo — Our #1 choice of the best earplugs for musicians

These are our favorites for a reason. The emphasis on precise material use and minimal design keeps these earplugs light and comfortable for all-day wear.

Minuendo uses membrane technology that mimics nature and behaves like a second eardrum. Typically, for earplugs with attenuation, the attenuation is normally fixed. However, Minuendo lossless earplugs’ uniqueness lies in its built-in attenuators, which allow you to easily switch the attenuation.

This technology is completely passive, which makes Minuendo earplugs very convenient and practical to use. The level of attenuation ranges from 7dB to 25dB, so you can easily switch between more or less sound depending on your situation.

Key features:

• Adjustable attenuation from 7-25dB
• Variable passive Hi-fi filter
• Sleek design for everyday wear
• Comfortable for long durations of use
• Includes 11 sets of ear tips for you to fit your perfect fit

Price: US$169 (now on discount, find out more)

2. Decibullz Custom Molded Professional High-Fidelity Earplugs

This company specializes in moldable earplugs and has been making custom earplugs for years.

Decibullz aims for “true, tuned, and flat attenuation that reduces loud noises evenly across all frequencies to safe levels.” As a result, these custom molds are popular amongst music professionals and those who expect high sound accuracy.

Key features:

• Accurate passive reduction
• True custom fit
• Full clarity of sound

Price: US$99.99

3. ER-20 High Fidelity Earplug | Etymotic

Etymotic Research was the first company to ever look into noise-isolation high-fidelity in-ear earphones, way back in 1991. Today, they remain one of the leading brands when it comes to noise isolation. These earplugs are not only for musicians but for a variety of other professionals.

Most Etymotic earplugs are made for different professions and use cases. For musicians, these earplugs enhance the musical experience and allow them to hear their instruments.

Key features:

• Low-cost, ready-fit
• Sound quality is mostly preserved
• Reduces approximately 20dB
• Standard fit fits the majority of users

Price: US$13.95 to US$24.99

4. Etymotic Research MP9-15 MusicPRO Electronic Earplugs

These Etymotic earplugs are great for music performers and directors. Simply flip a switch to get either 9dB or 15dB hearing protection. The MusicPRO 9-15 are active earplugs that restore sound that is lost when the ear tips seal off the ear canal. It comes with a neck cord, batteries, protective case, perfect for musicians on the go.

Key features:

• Switch between 9dB or 15dB
• Active attenuation
• Enhances soft sounds
• Assortment of ear tips

Price: US$299.99

5. Alpine MusicSafe Pro Earplugs

The brand name includes the word music, that's how we know it's dedicated to musicians.

Alpine Acoustic Filters only attenuate harmful sounds, allowing you to communicate with your bandmates at a normal level, even with your earplugs on. However, the only negative with earplugs at a lower price range is that you can only reuse them a specific number of times — 100 times to be exact.

Key features:

• 3 high-fidelity Gold (22 dB), Silver (19 dB) and White (16 dB)
• Comes with a handy case, cleaning spray and a carrying cord
• Silicone free

Price: US$22.99

6. EarDial HiFi Earplugs — Invisible High-Fidelity Hearing Protection

If you are looking for earplugs that you can wear comfortably for hours, then you can check out EarDial. Made out of soft hypoallergenic silicone, it's not only comfortable but also extremely discreet. Moreover, it comes with a very low profile design, featuring a short stem and high-transparency color.

Key features:

• Invisible smart earplugs
• High fidelity, precise noise filtration
• Soft hypoallergenic silicone
• Compact aluminum case
• Companion app

Price: US$33.99