EAR MONITOR SHURE PSM-200

The PSM 200 System begins with the P2R hybrid receiver, a lightweight, cigarette-pack-size unit worn on your belt or guitar strap. The P2R runs for about six hours on a standard 9V alkaline battery. It has a volume control (mounted on top for easy access) and a sidemounted 1/4-inch input jack (Mix In) with Hi/Lo input level switch. For wired operation, connect a line-level monitor-mix signal directly to the P2R’s input jack. In wireless operation, that jack is used for injecting local audio sources that mix with the wireless audio–a great feature for drummers who want to hear and play to a locally controlled drum machine or metronome click.

On the other side of the P2R are the channel-selector button and an LED indicator that goes dark once you’ve selected any of the eight channels. Next to the volume control are LEDs that indicate power, radio frequency (RF) signal strength, and the operation of the built-in, undefeatable peak limiter. Because the monitors themselves rest inside your ear canals, a peak limiter is an essential feature, protecting your hearing from pops, feedback, and other sonic hazards. The P2R also has a clever cord clamp/belt clip that keeps all cables neatly tucked away.

If you’re using the PSM 200 in its wired configuration, simply plug in a line-level signal of your house mix from the mixer to the input jack on the P2R and adjust the volume. Select channel A and turn off the P2’s radio-receiver section to increase battery life. Keyboard players and drummers will have no problem with a dangling cord as they are usually confined to a certain stage location anyway. Although guitar players are accustomed to being tethered by guitar cords, some may balk at adding another.