This is what I've learned so far....

[KingsGene]

http://earplugstore.stores.yahoo.net/profmusearpl1.html

These have been recommended by a bunch of people who go to lots of metal shows. I haven't used them yet myself, but everyone I've talked to who has used them says they work well, and I'm going to pick up a pair before ProgPower. They're a little more expensive than the other ones on that page, but according to everything I've heard, they're among the best at lowering the volume without affecting the music.

Thanks a bunch for this info. I tried out my new set over the weekend at two club shows for Y&T in Chi-town and they were awesome. Didn't give me that "plugged up" sensation that some of the others do, plus you can actually hear the music quite well.

 

[urinalcakemix]

You are not metal unless you have attended a MOTORHEAD show, sans earplugs!

Yea, Im so metal, I even Booed Motorhead for wasting my time and ears before Dio and Iron Maiden.

...While not wearing earplugs..

http://www.etymotic.com/

They arent ear plugs perse, their more specifically ear FILTERS. They don't PLUG your ears, they just turn the volume down some, while still letting in mid and high range frequencies, instead of traditional plugs which only give muddy low end. Their pricy, but WELL worth it. Especially for drummers, or any musician for that matter.

 

[eaeolian]

Yea, Im so metal, I even Booed Motorhead for wasting my time and ears before Dio and Iron Maiden.

...While not wearing earplugs..

http://www.etymotic.com/

They arent ear plugs perse, their more specifically ear FILTERS. They don't PLUG your ears, they just turn the volume down some, while still letting in mid and high range frequencies, instead of traditional plugs which only give muddy low end. Their pricy, but WELL worth it. Especially for drummers, or any musician for that matter.

+ 1000 - I have a pair of the ER-20s, and a paird of earmolds with the 15db buttons. The ER-20s are sufficent for most everyone, and sound great.