Save Your Hearing With Musicians Earplugs

If you're a musician, then you know how important it is to be able to hear the music that you play. However, because you are constantly exposed to loud sounds, you could risk damage to your hearing. Your hearing might diminish, or you may develop conditions like tinnitus which could distort the incoming sounds to your ear.

Fortunately, tools like musicians earplugs are available to help you. This guide lists some of the reasons why you should get musicians earplugs, what they do, and how to get them.

Why Do Musicians Need Earplugs?

Musicians, such as yourself, are a group of people who are routinely exposed to loud sounds for long periods of time. While occasional and infrequent exposure to loud sounds will not likely cause hearing loss, more frequent exposure over time puts you at higher risk.

Sounds above 85 decibels, about the noise level from heavy traffic, is enough to cause hearing damage. The type of music you play doesn’t matter, either. Classical musicians are at just as much risk as rock musicians as it's the intensity and duration of the noise that matters, not just the type.

Won't Earplugs Make It Hard to Hear the Music?

No, not if you get specially designed earplugs that filter out the loud noises, yet let the tones and pitches of the music pass through. They don't block out all noise like disposable silicone or rubber earplugs. If your earplugs are fitted properly, you should still be able to hear all the details of the music, but not at an excruciatingly loud level. This allows you to listen and play as usual with less risk for hearing damage.

What Types of Musicians Earplugs Are Available?

Musicians earplugs are available in several options such as non-custom, custom, and electronic. Custom earplugs are made specifically for your hearing level and needs.

Non-custom earplugs are often sold over the counter as high-fidelity earplugs. They work well, in general, but if you want the best, most clear sound, then you must have customized equipment. Electronic earplugs adjust automatically to the changing sounds around you, so you can hear both low and high sounds without the need to remove or adjust them.

How Are Musicians Earplugs Customized to the User?

After you get your overall hearing examined, the audiologist may ask you to demonstrate the type of music you play or the sound level you are exposed to so that the earplugs can be better designed for your situation. The loudness and duration of the music plays a role in customizing your plugs.

Some people may need a different type of earplug for each ear. One size does not fit all when it comes to these devices.

Where Can Someone Get Customized Musicians Earplugs?

The only way to get customized musicians earplugs is to visit an audiologist. He or she will have specialized equipment to measure your hearing and verify that the earplugs are working right.

You should also have your earplugs fitted professionally because the mold will fit your ear better and stay in if you need to move around. You can also get other practical advice about preserving your hearing by speaking to a professional.

If you've been exposed to loud music over a long period, and you don't wear protection, then you are at serious risk for losing your hearing altogether. Hearing loss will likely effect on your ability to compose and play music accurately.

Accurate Hearing Technology Inc. can help you get fitted for musician's earplugs. Call us today to get an overall hearing check and discuss the types of musician's earplugs available to you.