Input-output (I/O) functions of hearing aids were measured in response to a 2000 Hz tone burst, having 0.5 ms rise/fall time and 10 ms duration. Findings indicated that the steady-state output limitation characteristics of hearing aids cannot be estimated from their onset responses. (Author/DB)

The emphasis among audiologists on audiological evaluation rather than aural rehabilitation is noted and deficiencies in current audiological services are identified in the areas of availability and rapidity of services and the lack of adequate hearing aid evaluation programs. (GW)

Three hearing aid manufacturers provided custom full-shell in-the-ear hearing aids designed for maximum acoustic gain for each of three hearing-impaired adults. Full-on coupler gain curves were similar across all nine hearing aids, with individual differences producing substantial variance in insertion gain across hearing aids. (Author/DB)

The application of the Articulation Index (AI) model to the fitting of linear amplification was evaluated for 12 subjects with sensorineural hearing loss. For all subjects, the relationship between percent-correct scores on a nonsense syllable test and AIs was monotonic, indicating that AI was effective for comparing conditions typical of those…

Described is a two-phase investigation of the electroacoustic status of hearing aids used by aurally handicapped students in the Los Angeles City Unified School District. The first phase is said to have involved field examination using portable electroacoustic equipment and the second phase to have included re-examination of 10% of the field…

The average FM advantage over a personal hearing aid was equivalent to a 15dB improvement signal-to-noise-ratio (S/N). The benefit offered by the FM system decreased as the environmental signal-to-noise-ratio increased but remained significant even at +15dB. Significant improvement was also found with directional as compared to omnidirectional…

Describes program in which American Speech-Language-Hearing Association certified audiologists train protocol providers to assist older hearing-aid users in adjusting to using hearing aids on a daily basis. Training emphasizes empathy, effective communication skills, knowledge of the interaction of aging and hearing loss, phases outlined in…

The auditory output of the "Sonicguide" (Ultrasonic Spectacles) must be delivered to the ear of the blind person via a coupling tube. (Author/DB)

This study examined the attenuation characteristics of 5 Frequency Modulation system sound delivery options for 25 adults and children (ages 5-13). Degree of ear canal occlusion was a major factor in degree of attenuation. For children with unilateral hearing impairments, the most acoustically appropriate option was the tube-fitting. (Author/JDD)

This study investigated ratings of amplified speech quality characterized by peak clipping, a common form of distortion in hearing aids, with eight college students having moderate/severe hearing losses. Both clipping level and interaction of the frequency-response shaping with clipping level significantly affected perceived speech quality. A…

A computerized hearing aid measurement system using simulated input and output compression hearing aids was compared to a manual technique using conventional laboratory instrumentation. Results matched closely, but the computer system was considerably more flexible and easier to use. (Author/DB)

This paper discusses the problem of feedback in hearing aids and offers examples based on a computer simulation of hearing aid behavior. The available technology for dealing with feedback is reviewed, and the new digital signal-processing approaches which may finally solve the feedback problem are described. (Author/DB)