The Effects of Frequency Response on UCLs of Surrounding Noises

In Relation to Hearing Aid Fitting

Abstract

The effect of low-frequency cut-off and removing a peak at 1kHz on noise control was studied in relation to the fitting of hearing aids. Measurements of uncomfortable levels (UCLs) of three kinds of surrounding noises were performed under three different low frequency cut-off slopes with two types of frequency response (with or without a 1kHz damper). Twelve individuals with moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss were tested.
The following conclusions were obtained: 1) low frequency cut-off slopes are useful in reducing noise; 2) 1kHz dampers are more useful for making frequency responses with a single peak at 2500Hz than for reducing noise.