David.Postler@f778.n115.z1.fidonet.org (David Postler) (09/21/90)
Index Number: 10561
Interesting, you hear too well. I have a suggestion that
may help your problem. In my work I often have to use "Hearing
Protectors" these are devices that block out the high noise
levels that sometimes occur in factories and around jet aircraft.
They might be able to help with your problem and I'm surprised
that no one else has mentioned them. They are very cheap and are
at least worth a try as the maximum cost would be around $40.00
and can be far less, perhaps even free. You could obtain them
from a hardware store or an Industrial or Safety supply company.
I have worn several types and will give some comments and
opinions about each type. Keep in mind that I am not an expert
in this field, I just use them.
My favorite type is the disposable foam plug type sometimes
called E*A*R type after the first company to make them. These
are 0.625" by 1.0"(approximate) foam plugs that are squeezed in
your hand and then placed in the ear canal to expand. They
provide about 35db noise reduction. They are extremely effective
against background noise ie machinery but still allow you to have
a conversation. They are disposable or washable, your choice.
Cost is about $40.00 for a box of 100. They are extremely
comfortable. I have worn them for over 10 hrs with no problems.
You may be able to get a free sample to try out.
Potential drawbacks: The only possible problem is that they
may not filter out conversations or higher frequency noises for
you.
My next choice is the muff type. These are the types that
you see on the Air Force or Airline commercials worn by the
people directing the jets. They provide about 25db noise
reduction. They also tend to filter out everything. Which may
make them better for you. They cost about $10.00 to $40.00. A
good pair can be comfortable but they are heavy and if you want
to talk to someone you will have to take them off.
Potential drawbacks: Very noticeable and difficult to carry
around. Also not as much noise reduction as disposable foam
plugs.
My least favorite is the reusable plug type. These are also
placed in your ear canal like to foam type but are molded
plastic. They provide about 25db noise reduction. They cost
from $2.00 to $30.00. My biggest objection to these is that they
tend to stiffen up with repeated use and irritate my ears.
Potential drawbacks: Not as much noise reduction as
disposable foam plugs. The band type also has the same drawbacks
as the muff style. Will have to be replaced periodically to
prevent ear irritation.
I hope this helps you out. If you need to find an
industrial or safety supply company check the local yellow pages.
Best of luck
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Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!115!778!David.Postler
Internet: David.Postler@f778.n115.z1.fidonet.orgMike.Walter@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org (Mike Walter) (09/27/90)
Index Number: 10658
Thanks for the help. I have tried some of the industral sound
reducers andthis is what led me realize that my problem is not a
matter of just too loud of sounds bothering me. My problem is that
my brain does not screen out background noises. The intensity has
very little bearing on the ability to hear,but the frequency does.
Just what the relationship is,I do not know. The co-sysop
menutioned that some companes,have what they call sound
masking,using something called pink noise or other type of
background masking sounds. I thought I would share this with u as a
point of information.
Thanks again IHS
mjw
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Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!203!11!Mike.Walter
Internet: Mike.Walter@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org