May. 06, 2024
Noise-canceling headphones have surged in popularity as a way to enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks without external interruptions. Whether you’re relaxing on a plane, taking a walk, or simply listening at home, these devices provide a much-needed escape from daily noise. But do they actually protect your hearing?
Contact us to discuss your requirements for Active Noise Cancelling Hearing Protection. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best meet your needs.
Noise-canceling headphones reduce the amount of sound reaching your ears by generating sound waves that counteract incoming noise. They are designed to block unwanted ambient sounds through active noise control at low frequencies and soundproofing at higher frequencies. This is achieved by manipulating sound waves to produce phase cancellation.
The truth is noise-canceling headphones do not protect your hearing in the way you might think. They are not designed to work as hearing protection devices.
While they reduce the amount of sound entering your ears, they cannot eliminate it entirely. Moreover, they do not protect your hearing from loud noises, especially if you turn up the volume on your device.
With background noise minimized, you shouldn’t need to turn the volume all the way up, which is beneficial for your ears. However, this does not negate the need for other hearing protections.
To support your hearing health with headphones, remember the 60/60 rule:
60% of your device’s volume is safe for your hearing, and after 60 minutes of listening, give your ears a break.
One of the best ways to protect your hearing long-term is by understanding and monitoring the decibel levels around you. Anything over 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage after prolonged exposure. To give you some perspective:
You can use your favorite device to alert you if your headphones are too loud!
For Apple products, you can adjust notifications about specific decibel levels:
Limit loud headphone sounds by following these steps: Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety > turn on Reduce Loud Sounds.
The best sound meter app for Android devices is Sound Meter. Learn more about it and download it here.
Are you looking for more ways to protect your hearing? Invest in ear protection like earplugs. Use them in environments with loud sounds, especially if you’re working with power tools or attending concerts or sporting events.
→ Read our article about proper ear protection for sporting events!
Using noise-canceling headphones lets you enjoy your favorite music, radio programs, or podcasts, but don’t rely on them to protect your hearing. That’s a job best left to specialized products and professionals.
If you think your hearing is suffering or you’re curious about what to do, check out our services and make an appointment with our Minnesota hearing aid professionals. You can fill out the form here or call us at 952-922-2408.
Our audiologists take the time to understand you and your hearing needs before crafting a personalized plan. Our goal is to protect, support, and improve your hearing so you can enjoy your favorite sounds again.
Schedule your appointment at one of our four Minnesota SoundGate Hearing locations:
Until next time,
Dr. Sarah Binfet
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Tactical Headphones.
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