Colorado Symphony has implemented an orchestra-wide hearing conservation program that places Sensaphonics 3DME Active Ambient in-ear monitoring systems with its full-time musicians. The project was developed with the Marion Downs Center, with Dr. Caleb Kronen, its Director of Hearing Conservation, playing a central role in planning and execution.
The 3DME system uses built-in ambient microphones to preserve a natural listening environment while letting each player adjust the sound in each ear through a companion app. Most units were custom molded in biocompatible silicone, while universal-fit systems with three sizes of memory-foam tips were also deployed for guest artists and performers; controls include independent level adjustment in 2 dB steps, seven bands of stereo EQ and a limiter for sudden volume spikes.
The Marion Downs Center audiology team carried out hearing assessments, ear impressions and fittings at the symphony’s facilities, reducing disruption to the players’ normal work. The source frames the system as useful not only for traditional orchestral balance, but also for film-score performances with click tracks, collaborations with amplified artists and high-level venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where musicians can blend external audio sources with the acoustic environment.