In Ring Monitors
 

When did WWE start using in-ring monitors during promo segments? I've been spotting them on RAW lately. Not sure if they are used for Smackdown as well.

And, of course, are crowds really THAT loud that you need monitors to be able to hear yourself speak? Or are they used for any other reason?

Monitors or speakers?

They're speakers. And I'd assume that they're there so the guys in the ring can hear the other guys speaking clearer.

This. I know I'd have a tough time hearing someone with thousands of people yelling/screaming/talking around me.

They are only used during Raw, the crowd is dead silent for Smackdown.

Same thing and they have been using them since the 90's in crowds that have a tendency to pop more than others so the talent can hear them selves... Monitors are technically speakers that are used for a speaker(s) to hear themselves...

And THIS is hilarious... Nicely Played...