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Hearing Loss & Equalization

I'm looking for advice on the use of an equalizer to compensate for some hearing loss. I've considered myself an audiophile for many years, but age, abuse, and genetics have finally taken their toll. My hearing now starts to drop off at about 1500-2000hz, bottoms out about 40db down at 3000, and then comes back up at around 8000. In the real world I use hearing aids, but they don't do much for musical enjoyment. I do a lot of headphone listening using a Woo Audio tube headphone amp, and am wondering about whether a good equalizer in front of the amp could compensate somewhat for my curve. Any opinions, or suggestions for a good, high-quality equalizer that won't add too much distortion of it's own?
antonmb
electroid
283 posts
 
oh and use the phones less! They'll continue to worsen your hearing at an accelerated rate. Keep the volume as low as you can when you do use them.

ET
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Electroid- your input can be invaluable here. How does one find a hearing aid provider who is competent to address these kinds of issues?
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
What is the general rule for sound pressure levels while enjoying music that will do no harm from the listening position? No higher than 70 dB? 80 dB?

Thanks
Steve
electroid
283 posts
 
Thanks Swamp. I'm sorry I can't answer that other than to say it's got to be 1 percent of them at best. Audiophiles with a little computer smarts and the interface device needed between the PC and the aids (called a HI-PRO) could adjust aids themselves. Too bad manufacturers don't offer this. I can understand why with lawsuits and all.

I always take private emails to answer any questions I can for people.

ET
musicnoise
377 posts
 
Stevcham: the level is higher than 80 dB - but how high depends on the length of time you are exposed to the sound. A lot of sites on the internet can provide this info - try sites such as the Mayo clinic, audiology society etc.
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