2. misc-audio
  3. 1222545982

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
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.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
I found out that 85 dB seems to be the "cutoff" for unlimited extended listening, but what is not mentioned is that peak dB or nominal or average listening level?

I try to keep it under 80 for most of my listening. What I regret the most is those few times as a kid my Dad took me skeet shooting with a 12 gauge and not providing me with ear protection. I believe that probably knocked off a few dB permanently. Also, all those rock concerts I attended in Boston Garden while in high school in the 70s, yikes the sound quality alone if I heard it today, regardless of SPL and relative to today's PA systems, would have me running for the door!

Also high bass levels are very damaging due to the displacement such SPLs place on the eardrum, bones and hair cells.
musicnoise
377 posts
 
Assuming you found the 85 dB at a site that simply referred to spl levels and time, then the 85 dB means constant - like standing 30 feet from a jackhammer all day and all night with the jackhammer never shutting off. A short term value will be higher - for eg. if you stand next to a cannon - one shot at 140 dB can permanently damage your hearing.
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