Beskrivelse
Background and aim: In open-fit hearing aids, the interaction between the direct and processed sound leads to comb-filtering and, thus, coloration effects. The strength of these effects depends on the level difference between the direct and processed sound and the processing delay. A critical issue for hearing aid uptake is the perception of one’s own voice. The current study, therefore, investigated own-voice perception as a function of processing delay for individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing losses. Specifically, we aimed to find out (1) if a short processing delay is preferred over longer delays, (2) how specific sound attributes related to own-voice perception are affected by the processing delay, and (3) if spectral ripple discrimination abilities can predict delay preference.Methods: Twenty-five individuals with mild-to-moderate, sloping sensorineural hearing losses participated. Using wearable hearing aids, processing delays of 0.5, 5, or 10 ms were tested. Delay preference was assessed using a paired comparison task. The relation between sound attributes related to own-voice perception and processing delay was investigated using a revised version of the Own Voice Qualities questionnaire. Spectral ripple discrimination abilities were assessed using a 3-alternative forced-choice task.
Results and conclusion: We hypothesize that participants with good spectral ripple discrimination abilities will prefer the 0.5-ms delay over the two longer delays. Furthermore, we hypothesize that participants will perceive their own voice as more favorable with the short delay, and that the longer delays will lead to poorer scores with respect to attributes such as metallic, sharp, and unnatural. Overall, we expect that our results will provide insights into how open-fit hearing aid solutions can be optimized in terms of own-voice perception.
| Periode | 19. aug. 2024 → 25. aug. 2024 |
|---|---|
| Begivenhedstitel | International Hearing-Aid Seminar & International Hearing-Aid Research Conference |
| Begivenhedstype | Konference |
| Placering | Lake Tahoe, USA, CaliforniaVis på kort |
| Grad af anerkendelse | International |