I always raise an amp near my head so I can hear myself perfectly, and I have Earware ear plugs I think on -9db, so I an hear myself great, whole band (and they are loud), and ambiance, for now that's just perfect for me.
I always say to people that earplugs are the best thing to get used to. Just for custom molded earplugs I payed around 300 dollars, but man, they worth it...
But following the topic, great question.