So after years of using various off-the-shelf earplug solutions for nightclub & DJ use I finally took the plunge and saw a hearing specialist for a pair of custom molded earplugs. I opted for a -10db reduction as I often found the -20db off the shelf offerings too much for my use cases. I also expected that with a custom molded solution I’d get a more complete seal which would maximise that -10db when compared with the non-molded -20db.
After a $70 mold and then $295 for the final product and a 7 day wait I had my fancy new molded earplugs. I got to test them out over the next few weeks in a few scenarios.
Nightclub General Use
The custom molded earplugs immediately felt more secure while bopping around the club and were still comfortable after 4+ hours use. I noticed a slight improvement in being able to communicate with other people and a definite improvement in sound quality.
DJ Use
I had practiced a little at home with the earplugs in before and certainly found it less of an issue than off the shelf models but still faced issues feeling disconnected from the music and not confident in my mix. I tried again DJing at the club and only made it about 15 minutes into the set before I was compelled to take them out. I think its really just a matter of time and patience to get used to earplugs while mixing and retaining the confidence and energy that comes with mixing freely without earplugs.
Summary
I don’t think custom molded earplugs are for everybody. To the average music lover, clubber and even DJ the $300+ price tag outweighs the benefits over the off the shelf models. I’ve seen DJs that can mix fine with off the shelf earplugs while I still struggle with any earplugs. It comes down to what you get used to and where you draw your own line between price, protection and comfort.