Ever wondered how DJs and musicians don’t suffer permanent hearing loss after performing in such close proximity to speakers at full blast for hours? It would be a cruel irony if they were unable to listen to the music that they love so much. There have been reports in the media of some professional musicians suffering hearing loss and tinnitus, but most of them find ways to prevent severe damage.
Similarly, concert attendees are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss, or NIHL. Symptoms such as poor hearing or ringing (tinnitus) in your ears after a concert could indicate damage to your ears. Fortunately, NIHL is treatable with hearing aids, but it’s best to reduce the risk of hearing loss by using prevention tactics such as wearing musician ear plugs.
The Challenge
Music lovers are naturally drawn to where the music is loudest—right next to the speakers. And then there is the sound of loud cheers and screams. The typical noise level in a concert is between 120 and 137 dB, though rock music reaches 150 dB. Prolonged exposure to such high levels of sound is extremely dangerous, considering that 30 minutes of 100 dB is enough to cause hearing damage.
Ear Protection Options
Musicians and DJs require custom earplugs to effectively protect their hearing. If you want to keep attending music concerns and enjoying music, you may also need to consider other ear protection options beyond the standard over-the-counter foam plugs.
Great musician earplug options include:
Custom molded musician earplugs:
Personalized hearing protection provides the best fit for superior comfort. A hearing specialist uses molds of your ears to design the earplugs, ensuring a perfect fit. They also use superior materials that improve sound quality, so you don’t have to compromise on the enjoyment of the concert.
Multi-flanged earplugs:
Flanged, reusable earplugs are a great alternative to standard foam earplugs, but you’ll need to invest a little more. Although foam earplugs are unobtrusive, inexpensive, and effective for sound reduction, they can affect your enjoyment of the performance.
Over-the-ear headband earmuffs:
They are a more expensive option, but are stylish, offer great ear protection, and have great sound quality, so you can enjoy the performance.
Keep in mind that hearing damage does not just appear—it creeps up over time. And while the damage can be treated with hearing aids, these devices are considerably more expensive than custom hearing protection. Contact a hearing specialist at House of Hearing to identify the different musician earplugs available for you.
