If you are going to be at a loud concert, you definitely need to wear earplugs. It’s essential to identify the best hearing protection device when going to see a show.
Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs, with their soft round tip that’s simple to put in and isn’t going to make you regret wearing earplugs, is our top pick today.
If you’re going to a loud, long concert, the Eargasm – Slide gives you further protection, with two levels of coverage for all but the biggest concerts.
Moreover, the Decibullz – Professional earplugs provide the clearest and cleanest sound, as well as a low-profile handmade outer piece if acoustic purity is your top priority.
These are also suitable for other activities, such as sporting events or cycling; however, if you’re looking for ear plugs to protect yourself from extremely loud noises or to isolate background noise while sleeping, these products would not be ideal.
The Eight Best Earplugs for Concerts
We’ve examined a long list of hearing protection products, and our eight best earplugs for concerts are:
- Vibes – High Fidelity Concert Earplugs
- Decibullz – Professional
- Eargasm – Slide (open/closed)
- EAROS – ONE
- Loop – Earplugs
- Etymotic ER20XS
- EarPeace HD
- V-Moda Faders
Let’s look at these in further detail:
Best Hearing Protection for Concerts Reviews
Vibes – High Fidelity Concert Earplugs
Key Features:
- High fidelity sound –
- Reusable design
- Multiple size earbuds
- Noise reduction rating (NRR) of 15 dB
- Portable case – For easy storage and travel
These Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs provide proper ear protection with a noise reduction rating of 15, as well as excellent sound quality; however, they are also easy to insert and suit a wider demographic than previous designs, which is why they’re the best ear plugs on our list.
Vibes have a lengthy stem that allows these to be inserted deeper in your ear canal for a more secure fit without falling out.
Connecting a cord would make it much easier; however, most people don’t want wires dangling from their ears.) Like pointed triple-flange ends, the round silicone tips on these high-fidelity ear plugs don’t bother the edges of the ear canal.
These were the simplest high fidelity hearing protection plugs to get a good fit with, thanks to the three different tip sizes and the superb control provided by the lengthy stems.
With their reusable, comfortable, discreet design and impressive fidelity, the Vibes High Fidelity Ear Plugs are the best hearing protection for concerts and live music events.
Pros:
- Excellent high-fidelity sound quality
- Comfortable even after prolonged wear
- Discreet and virtually invisible fit
- Effective noise reduction protects hearing
- Durable and reusable for value
Cons:
- Attenuation could be higher for very loud events
- It may not fit smaller ear canals well
Decibullz – Custom Molded Professional Filters
Key Features:
- Custom molded shape
- Thermo-fit molding
- Acoustic filters
- Passive noise reduction
- Reusable design
- triple flange and foam tips
Decibullz is a new brand in the ear plug industry, and the Decibullz – Professional earplugs take a creative approach to fit.
These are more costly than anything other than electronic or audiologist-designed earplugs; however, we believe they are the ideal earplugs for performers or anyone who wants to spend a lot of money on a quality concert experience.
The bodies of all Decibullz products are composed of low-temperature melting thermoplastic because the exterior section of the custom earplugs turns to putty at around 150°F.
You may soak it in hot water for several minutes, remove it, and let it cool somewhat before pressing it into position and shaping it to fit your ear.
Overall, The sound quality when wearing earplugs from this brand astonished us. Other Decibullz filters are comparable but not exceptional.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable custom-fit
- Stays securely in place even during activity
- Preserves natural sound quality
- Effective noise dampening for hearing protection
- Durable and reusable, saving money long-term
Cons:
- Molding process can be tricky for some
- Not as discreet or low-profile as other earplugs
Eargasm – High Fidelity Earplugs for Noise Sensitivity
Key Features:
- Attenuation filters
- Hypoallergenic silicone
- Multiple sizes
- Noise Reduction Rating of 16dB
- Compact aluminum case
The Eargasm – Slides are the most innovative design we have seen, allowing you to alter the protection level without carrying a second pair of earplugs to the concert.
Eargasm has had successful results with triple-flange silicone structures previously. This new concept adds a lot more value.
With their top-notch noise dampening filters that maintain sound integrity, the Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs are an excellent option for hearing protection during concerts.
The customizable fit ensures comfort even during prolonged use. Eargasm earplugs are a top choice for effective hearing protection that doesn’t sacrifice sound quality.
Pros:
- Preserve richness and clarity of sound
- Extremely comfortable for long-wear
- Customizable fit with two-sized earplug shells
- Great noise-dampening ability
- Low profile and discreet appearance
Cons:
- Not as high of a noise reduction rating as some ear muffs
- Higher price point than some reusable earplug models
EAROS – ONE
Key Features:
- Proprietary soundbore design
- Noise reduction rating of 17dB
- Soft outer body
- 3-tier silicone tips –
- 2 tip sizes
The EAROS – One has a wide and flat body, which allows you to easily control your custom earplugs when inserting them without the danger of it being bashed into the ear canals.
The tips are lengthy, silicone, triple-flange, and softer than those used by Etymotics; however, they are still not as soft for extended sessions as a rounded or foam tip.
Because the nozzles have a smooth 3.2 mm shaft, users may utilize their EAROS with Westone, Shure, and other premium in-ear monitor tips.
With their innovative design developed by audio engineers, EAROS ONE earplugs are engineered to provide natural sound fidelity while protecting your hearing.
Their comfortable fit and ability to reduce noise make them an excellent choice as the best hearing protection for concerts or other loud music events.
Pros:
- Preserve sound quality and clarity
- Effective noise dampening ability
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Low profile design is discreet
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Tips can loosen over time
Loop – Earplugs
Key Features:
- 4 sizes of ear tips
- High fidelity sound
- Stylish and discreet design
- Carrying case included
Instead of trying to ensure that nobody sees your ear plugs, the Loop earplug manufacturers turned them into jewelry.
Gold, silver, and rose-gold metallic finishes are extremely eye-catching, but there is also a basic-black alternative for people who aren’t prepared for extravagant bling on their ears.
The Loop ear plugs, which employ the round outer piece of the plug as a tuned filter to enable more specific frequencies, were well received by our reviewers.
Overall, the sound was excellent, with enough high-frequency audio to retain detail and ambient effects. The bass, on the other hand, seemed a little flabby, obstructing the wavelengths that give kick drums their force.
Pros:
- Clear, high-quality audio experience
- Secure and comfy fit with a range of ear tip sizes
- Low-profile in-ear design is subtle
- Durable and long-lasting build quality
Cons:
- Less noise dampening than some competitor plugs
- Ear tips can tear or wear out over time
Etymotic ER20XS
Key Features:
- 20dB
- High fidelity sound
- Low profile design
- Standard eartips
- Carrying case included
The ER20XS is the latest iteration of a range that began with the ER15 in 1988. Furthermore, Etymotics is one of the most well-known businesses in the industry.
With our prior pick for top musician earplugs, the ER20, Etymotics pioneered the area. These custom earplugs offer one dB more coverage than the ER20, although the NRR remains at 13.
The ability to swap ear tips is a major benefit of the latest model, as opposed to the old tips, which were confined to a constructed triple-flange tip. Its body also does not protrude out as much.
We didn’t care for the ER20XS’s tone quality the way we loved the original Ety ear plugs, plus we still don’t enjoy how the supplied triple-flange tips scratch the ears.
Etymotic ER20XS Ear Plugs are a top choice as the best hearing protection for concerts.
Pros:
- Provides excellent hearing protection across frequencies
- Allows enjoyment of full sound fidelity
- Comfortable, custom fit with interchangeable tips
- A discreet appearance ideal for concerts
- Durable and reusable, saving money long-term
Cons:
- Eartips may lose elasticity over time
- It can be tricky to insert it correctly
EarPeace Music – High Fidelity Concert Ear Plugs
Key Features:
- Noise reduction up to 26dB
- Hypoallergenic silicone
- Reusable design
- Low profile
- Two sizes
- Aluminum carrying case
If you look online for several minutes, you can discover a hundred or more earplugs that are extremely comparable to the EarPeace – HD set.
They have a flappy, soft silicone ear plug with a simple design that blends in with your ears and an acoustic filter placed in the middle to tailor what you hear.
The EarPeace was chosen as an option on this list because it only has two flanges rather than three, making it less likely to push into the ear canals when fully implanted.
This set also comes with two filters (Noise reduction rating 11 and 14) and a solid plug (reduction rating 19) from EarPeace, allowing you to tweak them.
However, EarPeace lost points since the basic design was too challenging to remove with the offered little silicone flap.
Pros:
- Comfortable fit
- High noise reduction rating (NRR)
- Subtle in-ear design is great for concerts
- Reusable
- Affordable
Cons:
- It may not be comfortable for everyone
V-Moda Faders
Key Features:
- 12dB noise reduction rating
- Tuned metal design
- 4 sizes of BLISS fittings
- Detachable cord
- Carrying case
The V-Moda Faders are one of the best earplugs for concerts that are effectively re-engineered headphones, and they’re another interesting item on our list.
V-Moda has a devoted following among portable audio fans, and its stylish Vdesign has a bass-heavy tone that was well-received.
These Faders live up to that reputation; therefore, if you don’t mind a low NRR of 12 and enjoy strong bass, these may be for you.
However, bass is the frequency category least influenced by ear plugs, so it’s a small compliment. Because the upper frequencies seem squashed or lacking compared to the bass, one of our reviewers rated them below standard for audio quality.
The size of the provided ear tips is another reason we pushed these V-Modas to the last option on the list.
Pros:
- Preserves crystal clear sound quality
- Comfortably fits all ear sizes with multiple fittings
- Discreet and stylish metal design
- Durable and reusable construction
Cons:
- Less noise reduction than some high-fidelity earplugs
- Metal may get uncomfortable with prolonged wear
Conclusion: What Are the Best Earplugs for Concerts?
If you attend multiple concerts in a year, investing $30 or $50 on good noise-reduction earplugs that allow you to enjoy the loud music experience without your ears pounding for the next few days is a no-brainer.
If you don’t go to concerts often, keeping a few pairs of ordinary foam earplugs or other earplugs on hand is definitely a better option. (The biggest danger is that you won’t be able to remember where you put them)
With a good NRR of 15 and a comfortable, easy fit that should work for practically everyone, we believe Vibes are the greatest bargain in high fidelity earplugs.
The sound isn’t great, but it’s acceptable enough that you don’t need to hesitate to buy numerous sets for a bunch where initial costs were a concern.
Suppose you know you’re attending an event with a particularly loud noise, wearing hearing protection like the Eargasm.
In that case, Slide is an innovative design that allows you to go from a reasonable degree of protection of 15 to an astounding level of 22 to avoid noise-induced hearing loss.
If you listen to louder sound levels for longer, the added protection might mean the difference between spectacular memories of incredible performances and the sorrow of hearing loss.
The Decibullz – Professional earplugs are a better tone-quality option if you are a professional musician or big on sound. These are really comfy, and there’s a wide range of silicone and foam tip sizes to choose from, albeit the molded outer-ear component doesn’t guarantee a perfect fit in your canals.
It’s also worth noting that, compared to the Eargasm earplugs, the level of protection provided is low, at only 14.
FAQ
What ear protection to wear at concerts?
The best ear protection to wear at loud concerts is high fidelity or musician earplugs. These are designed to lower dangerous decibel levels while allowing you to hear the music clearly.
Look for earplugs with noise reduction ratings (NRR) of 15-20dB and features like acoustic filters that maintain sound quality.
How can I protect my hearing at a concert?
To protect your hearing at concerts, wear high-fidelity musician earplugs, which are made to block harmful noise levels. Get a snug fit with the right size and type of ear tips.
Also, avoid standing next to loudspeakers and take breaks from the loudest areas. Limit concert attendance if possible and turn volume levels down on headphones after concerts.
What kind of ear plugs work best for concerts?
The best ear plugs for concerts are reusable high-fidelity or musician ear plugs, not disposable foam ones. Look for earplugs with acoustic filters or attenuation membranes that evenly reduce noise levels while maintaining sound quality and clarity.
How many dB should earplugs be for concerts?
For sufficient protection at loud concerts, earplugs should have a noise reduction rating (NRR) of at least 15dB, up to 25-30dB for extremely loud events.
This reduces volumes to safer levels below 85dB while allowing you to hear the music. High-fidelity earplugs with 15-20dB NRR are ideal for most concert scenarios.