Stephen Fairfield discusses custom in-ear monitors, musician hearing protection, ear impressions and Fairfield Hearing’s partnership with Cosmic Ears.

Behind the Impressions: Stephen Fairfield on Custom In-Ear Monitors, Musicians and Hearing Protection

For musicians, performers and live audio professionals, hearing is everything. Modern custom in-ear monitors now offer extraordinary sound quality alongside something equally important, hearing protection.

Recently, Stephen Fairfield took part in a detailed interview with Cosmic Ears, one of Fairfield Hearing’s trusted partners in custom in-ear monitoring systems. Cosmic Ears manufacture professionally fitted custom in-ear monitors for performers and audio professionals across the UK and internationally.

At Fairfield Hearing, Stephen regularly takes the specialist ear impressions used by Cosmic Ears to manufacture their custom-fitted monitors. The fit of a custom monitor is absolutely essential, not only for sound quality, but also for effective isolation from surrounding noise and long-term hearing protection.

Below, Stephen shares his experience working with musicians, the challenges of creating perfect ear impressions and why hearing protection matters more than ever.

Working with musicians over the years

Stephen Fairfield has over 33 years of clinical experience and has worked with a wide variety of musicians and performers over the years.

Speaking during the Cosmic Ears interview, Stephen reflected on some memorable encounters from his career.

“We've worked with many top musicians over the years,” he explained. “Gian Carlo Menotti, the composer, was a lovely guy who fled New York and ended up living out in the sticks outside Edinburgh.

“Steve Miller needed our services when he was in town for a gig. My colleague and I argued over who would handle him, and I lost that round.

“Perhaps the two that amuse me the most are Jerry Scheff, who informed me he had been Elvis's bass player, and I didn't believe him. It took some online digging for the penny to drop.”

Stephen also remembered seeing two rather quirky-looking identical twins regularly standing outside the guitar shop next door to the clinic.

“Years later, they would go on to write some pretty catchy tunes, and we ended up doing work for their band too.”

Why precise ear impressions matter

Custom in-ear monitors rely heavily on the accuracy of the ear impressions taken at the start of the process.

A properly fitted monitor creates a precise seal inside the ear canal. That seal dramatically improves sound clarity while also helping block external noise from loud stage environments.

Without an accurate fit, performers can lose bass response, detail and isolation. That often results in musicians increasing monitoring volume unnecessarily, which can increase the risk of hearing damage over time.

Stephen explained that many people misunderstand the shape of the ear canal itself.

“The general impression that people have of their ear canals is that they are straight and level as they go into the head. But that is certainly not always the case.”

He added that some ear anatomies can be particularly challenging.

“Canals with twists in them are a real problem to work with. For me, the worst canals are the ones that both angle upward and have a bend in them. They are a nightmare.”

This is one reason why professionally taken impressions are so important for custom-fitted monitors and hearing protection.

Musicians are becoming more aware of hearing damage

Stephen believes awareness around hearing protection has improved significantly within the music industry.

“I think musicians are far more street-wise about hearing protection than they used to be,” he explained. “As are gig-goers.”

Interestingly, Stephen feels tinnitus is often a stronger motivator than hearing loss itself.

“I think the fear of long-term tinnitus is a stronger motivator than the possibility of hearing loss, and something people are generally more irritated by, even if it's only short-term.”

Custom in-ear monitors can play an important role in reducing exposure to excessive sound levels. By isolating performers from surrounding noise, musicians can often monitor at safer listening volumes while still hearing exceptional detail and clarity.

Why musicians move to custom in-ear monitors

For many performers, the move from standard stage monitoring or foam ear plugs to professionally fitted custom in-ear monitors can be transformative.

The combination of improved clarity, reliable monitoring and hearing protection often changes the entire live performance experience.

Stephen believes fit is one of the biggest reasons for this improvement.

“Most clients report that the quality of sound is just so much better with the Cosmic Ears kit,” he said.

“That's partly the product, but also the customised fit just delivers higher fidelity all told.”

He also praised the balance between sound quality and design philosophy.

“Cosmic Ears combine high-quality impressions that create a hand-in-glove feel with the monitors, and they also don't overcomplicate the sound production with an excessive number of drivers.”

Why Fairfield Hearing works with Cosmic Ears

Fairfield Hearing works closely with Cosmic Ears to provide specialist ear impressions for musicians, performers and audio professionals.

The process begins with an assessment of ear health before the impressions are carefully taken using specialist materials and techniques. These impressions are then used by Cosmic Ears to manufacture fully customised monitors designed specifically for each client.

Stephen says the results speak for themselves.

“I guess most clients report that the quality of sound is just so much better with the Cosmic Ears kit.”

For Stephen personally, performance matters more than appearance.

“I'm a great believer in getting the best possible sound quality with whatever hearing devices I work with.”

When asked which Cosmic Ears model he would personally choose, his answer was immediate.

“So for me, the C8A is a no-brainer.”

As for styling?

“I like to keep the appearance simple: any colour as long as it's black!”

Why custom fit matters so much

Custom-fitted in-ear monitors do far more than simply improve audio quality.

A properly fitted monitor helps reduce sound leakage, improves consistency during performance and provides more reliable protection from excessive environmental noise.

This is particularly important for touring musicians, live engineers and performers exposed to loud sound for extended periods.

At Fairfield Hearing, Stephen regularly works with musicians looking for both high-quality sound and long-term hearing protection. Professionally taken impressions are a vital part of achieving both.

To learn more about Cosmic Ears, visit:

https://cosmicears.com

To find out more about Fairfield Hearing’s hearing protection, custom ear impressions and musician services, get in touch:

Phone: 0131 378 5800
Email: hello@earsure.health

Frequently Asked Questions

What are custom in-ear monitors?

Custom in-ear monitors are specially made earpieces designed to fit the exact shape of your ears. They are widely used by musicians, performers and sound engineers because they provide excellent sound quality and strong isolation from surrounding noise.

Why are custom ear impressions important?

The impressions create the physical blueprint used to manufacture the monitors. Accurate impressions help ensure comfort, sound clarity and effective hearing protection.

Do custom in-ear monitors help protect hearing?

Yes. By reducing external stage noise, custom monitors allow performers to monitor at safer listening levels while still hearing clear, detailed audio.

Can musicians still hear the audience while wearing in-ear monitors?

Yes. Most professional monitor mixes can include audience microphones and ambient sound, allowing performers to maintain a natural connection with the audience while protecting their hearing.

Does taking ear impressions hurt?

No. The process is generally painless and many people find it surprisingly relaxing. The impression material feels cool as it enters the ear and normally sets within a few minutes.

How long does an ear impression appointment take?

Most appointments take between 30 and 45 minutes, including an ear health assessment and the impression process itself.

Why are custom monitors better than foam ear plugs?

Standard foam plugs often muffle sound and may not provide a reliable seal. Custom-fitted products provide more consistent protection while maintaining much better sound clarity.

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About the Author

Stephen Fairfield RHAD MSHAA

Stephen Fairfield is a highly experienced audiologist and hearing aid dispenser with more than 33 years of clinical experience. He has worked extensively with musicians, performers and live audio professionals, providing hearing assessments, hearing protection and custom ear impressions for in-ear monitoring systems.

Stephen has also been featured in The Scotsman for his work advising on next-generation hearing screening technology.

Fairfield Hearing provides independent audiology services across Edinburgh and Scotland, including hearing tests, hearing aids, microsuction ear wax removal, musician hearing protection and custom ear impressions.

For appointments and further information, get in touch:

Phone: 0131 378 5800
Email: hello@earsure.health

Based on and adapted from an interview originally published by Cosmic Ears.

This article first published May 2026.