A well-made custom in-ear monitor is built to last years, but like any precision audio gear, it holds up a lot better with basic regular care. Here’s what actually matters.
Clean the Shell Regularly
Earwax and moisture buildup are the most common causes of reduced sound quality over time. Wipe down the shell after each use, and use a proper cleaning tool — ours includes both a brush and a wire loop — to clear any wax from the sound bore rather than pushing it further in.
Never Use Water or Alcohol Directly on the Shell
Avoid submerging your monitors or cleaning them with alcohol-based wipes, which can degrade the shell material over time. A dry or slightly damp soft cloth is usually enough for the exterior.
Store Them Properly Between Uses
Leaving monitors loose in a bag with cables tangled around them is one of the most common causes of connector and cable wear. Use a proper case — a soft case for everyday storage, or a hard shell tour case if you’re regularly traveling with your gear — to protect the shell and keep cables from stressing at the connector point.
Watch the Cable, Not Just the Shell
Cable failure is a far more common repair than driver failure. Avoid wrapping cables tightly, yanking the cable instead of the connector to disconnect, or storing them under heavy pressure in a bag. If a cable does wear out, it’s a straightforward and inexpensive fix compared to more involved repairs.
When to Get Service
If sound starts to feel muffled or inconsistent even after cleaning, or if the shell shows visible cracking, it’s worth getting it looked at rather than waiting — small issues are usually a much simpler fix than a problem that’s had time to get worse. Our repair and service options cover most common issues, and a reshell is available if the shell itself has worn out while the internals are still good.