Question
I had a patient who was being fitted with a custom monitor that will be worn in the ear. He asked what the difference was between a custom and a universal fit ear monitor. I assumed the sound quality would be better; what are the other reasons?
Answer
Fit and comfort are the biggest reasons, other than sound quality. Consistent fit and seal, allow the monitor to stay in place and add to the comfort of the earpiece and provide consistent attenuation, making the custom fit monitor a better investment. Westone's Elite Series custom fit monitors that are worn in the ear come with a removable cable. This allows the cable to be replaced if damaged and eliminate the need to send it in for a repair.
If cost is preventing a customer from purchasing the Elite Series of monitors, then Westone's Universal Series is an excellent choice. The Universal Series UM1 and UM2, provides the musician pro quality sound at a reduced price.
Also a custom fit earmold can be made to fit the UM1 or UM2 to offer the customer additional comfort and consistent seal. The Westone Style #56 or UM56 is what you would order for these products. It is important to state which model the earmold is to fit, to insure that we are making the correct earmold.
About Westone:
Westone Music Products is a division of Westone Laboratories, Inc., (www.westone.com) a company that has over forty years of unparalleled knowledge and experience with the human ear. With over eight million custom products for the ear made, our experience and skill are unsurpassed.
In addition, Westone has been a leader in needs of musicians monitors that are worn in the ear since the early 1990's, having been behind the two most successful musicians monitor product lines in use by touring professionals the world over. Specializing in both custom-fit and universal-fit musicians monitors, with in-house hearing healthcare professionals and musicians on the design and production teams, Westone is the in-ear expert.
More information can be found www.westone.com/music/
Dale Douglass is a Product Specialist and in charge of Artist Relations for Westone Music Products.