Sony IER-M500 in-ear monitors offer pro stage monitoring

Sony's IER-M500 in-ear monitors target musicians and monitor engineers with a secure fit and high sound isolation, arriving in August.

A slight edge case when it comes to our usual beat, but interesting new audio tech all the same. Sony has launched the IER-M500, new in-ear monitors developed with monitoring engineers, including Noel Edwards, for live performance and stage use.

The IER-M500 use Sony's original fitting supporters alongside noise-isolating earpieces, with four eartip sizes included for a personalized fit. A thin polyurethane wall is designed to improve noise isolation and audio clarity during extended monitoring sessions, while flexible ear hangers and clips are included for additional stability.

The earphones use a fully sealed structure with a large acoustic chamber for sound isolation. A dynamic driver and the acoustic chamber produce deep, controlled bass, and an optimized internal structure is aimed at refined high-frequency reproduction. IER-M500 is compatible with high-resolution audio and reproduces a low-to-high frequency range. Sony states passive isolation reduces external stage noise and lowers overall sound exposure.

Other specs include: weight 6.9 g; impedance 16 ohms; frequency response 10 Hz–40 kHz; sensitivity 103 dB/mW; 5 mm driver.

IER-M500 is designed to withstand moisture from splashes or sweat during performance. The detachable cable is approximately 1.6 m (5 ft 3 in) long and is rated for frequent plugging and unplugging.

They are available in three transparent colorways, clear, black, and a combined red and blue, with clearly marked left and right earpieces. It’s also worth mentioning that the in-ears have been made with plastics that include 35% circular material.

Pricing and availability

IER-M500 will be available in Clear, Black, and Red & Blue from August 2026, priced at $119.99