Equivalent threshold sound pressure levels (ETSPL) for Interacoustics DD 45 supra-aural audiometric earphones

Abstract

Abstract

This paper describes the determination and results of pure-tone equivalent threshold sound pressure levels for the Interacoustics DD 45 audiometric earphone equipped with standard Model 51 cushions. The size and shape of the DD 45 transducer resembles the classic Telephonics TDH 39 earphone. Pure-tone hearing threshold measurements were performed for both ears of 29 test subjects. All audiometric frequencies from 125 to 8000 Hz were used. The data are intended for inclusion in future standardized reference equivalent threshold sound pressure levels. The results show that the DD 45 may be a good substitute for the THD 39 without the traditional 5-dB problem at 6000 Hz.

Sumario

Este trabajo describe la determinación y los resultados de los niveles de presión sonora para umbrales equivalente de tonos puros, con auriculares audiométricos Interacoustics DD 45 equipados con amortiguadores estándar Modelo 51. El tamaño y la forma de los transductores DD 45 se parecen al auricular clásico Telephonics TDH 39. Se realizaron mediciones de umbrales auditivos con tonos puros en ambos oídos de 29 sujetos de estudio. Se usaron todas las frecuencias audiométricas desde 125 a 8000 Hz. Los datos serán incluidos en referencias futuras de estandarización de presión sonora para umbrales equivalentes. Los resultados muestran que los DD 45 pueden ser un buen sustituto para los TDH 39 sin el problema tradicional de 5-dB en 6000 Hz.

Key Words:

• Audiometry
• Calibration
• Reference threshold
• ETSPL
• DD 45
• Hearing threshold
• Audiometric zero

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Interacoustics A/S who provided the two sets of headphones, i.e. four earphones. Johannes Käsbach modified some of the software. Thanks also to the test subjects for their participation.

Declaration of interest: The author reports no conflicts of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of the paper.