Earplugs at concerts back in the day

I was a regular earplug wearer but I removed them for exceptional performances and when I needed a change of pace from the muffled, low-fi, AM radio tone they'd subject me with.

There are a number of high-fidelity ear plugs on the market these days that reduce the dB's to safe levels but also apply filtering so you don't get as much of that "muffled" sound like with traditional foam plugs..

I started shoving tissue in my ears 25 years or so ago at concerts.  Then about 20 years ago I had forgot some at a Heart concert at Universal Studios.  Huge mistake not running to the toilet and grabbing some TP and shoving it in.  Huge.  Loudest thing I was ever at.  I always put tissue in after that but the affect/damage had been done that night.  For the last few years I have been using Etymotic ear plugs.  They work fine and after about 20-30 mins of the show I basically don't care that they are in.  
-John

I wish. Been there. The ringing in the ears and stench of cigarette smoke the next morning. But I didn’t stand in front of speakers either. Been using the metal ones at gigs for 20 years and they help. Many indoor gigs are too loud.

I never did a BIG concert without them..

Smaller venues, and a good sound man, I’d pull the plugs. Most folks know it, but opening your mouth and jaw position, really help with HIGHER SPL.. There is a point, it’s to loud. The plug go back in, I walk away... I have no problem putting my fingers in my ears, and walking out..

Journey, early 80s, I just walked out with half the folks there, Winterland.

It was WAY to loud...

OP, It has paid me big time in my later years. I have good hearing, also.. 16K. + I have some sensitivity, nothing like I use to.. Had my heart fixed, that helped in the 2-3k range. I NEVER see my chest pumpin' or ears poppin', any more.. Good stuff..

Regards