Target-matched insertion gain derived from three different hearing aid selection procedures.
Three hearing aid selection procedures were compared to determine if any one was superior in producing prescribed real-ear insertion gain. For each of three subject groups, 12 in-the-ear style hearing aids with Class D circuitry and similar dispenser controls were ordered from one of three manufacturers. Subject groups were classified based on the type of information included on the hearing aid order form: (1) the subject's audiogram, (2) a three-part matrix specifying the desired maximum output, full-on gain, and frequency response slope of the hearing aid, or (3) the desired 2-cc coupler full-in grain of the hearing aid, based on real-ear coupler difference (RECD) measurements. Following electroacoustic adjustments aimed at approximating a commonly used target insertion gain formula, results revealed no significant differences among any of the three selection procedures with respect to obtaining acceptable insertion gain values.
Punch
J L
JL
Department of Audiology and Speech Services, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824, USA.
Shovels
A H
AH
Dickinson
W W
WW
Calder
J H
JH
Snead
C
C
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001299:Audiometry; D012048:Correction of Hearing Impairment; D006310:Hearing Aids; D006311:Hearing Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting