Simple Explanation

A speaker or earphone that lets performers hear themselves or other parts of a mix while performing.

Concise Technical Definition

A loudspeaker or earphone system used to provide real-time audio feedback to performers, allowing them to monitor their own performance or a mix of audio sources.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like a rearview mirror for a musician—so they can hear what they’re doing and stay on track.

Industry Usage Summary

Used in live sound (e.g., floor wedges, in-ear monitors), studios (nearfield monitors), and broadcast environments. Monitor systems are essential for accurate performance and audio evaluation.

Engineering Shortcut

Performer’s personal speaker feed—floor wedge, IEM, or sidefill.

Full Technical Explanation

A monitor in audio refers to any loudspeaker or headphone system used by a performer, engineer, or producer to listen to a live or recorded audio signal in real-time. In live sound, monitors are often floor wedges, sidefills, or in-ear monitors (IEMs) that allow musicians to hear themselves or the rest of the band during performance. In studios, studio monitors (nearfield or midfield) are designed for critical listening, with flat frequency responses to ensure accurate mixing and mastering. Monitor mixes may differ from the main mix and are usually customizable per performer to ensure clarity, pitch accuracy, and timing.