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Speech perception in noise: directional microphones versus frequency modulation (FM) systems
M Samantha Lewis1, Carl C Crandell, Michael Valente
1University of Florida, USA.
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
|September 3, 2004
Summary
Frequency modulation (FM) systems significantly improve speech perception for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), outperforming directional microphones. Using two FM receivers with hearing aids further enhances communication in noisy environments.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Speech Perception
- Hearing Technology
Background:
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) significantly impairs communication, particularly in noisy or reverberant settings.
- Assistive listening devices, including directional microphones and frequency modulation (FM) systems, are used to mitigate these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of directional microphones versus frequency modulation (FM) systems in improving speech perception for adults with SNHL.
- To evaluate the impact of using single versus double FM receivers in conjunction with hearing aids.
Main Methods:
- Forty-six adult participants with slight to severe SNHL were evaluated.
- Speech perception was assessed using the Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) under various listening conditions, including unaided, hearing aid only, directional microphone, and FM system conditions.
- Noise was introduced using correlated diffuse noise.
Main Results:
- Speech perception was significantly better with FM systems compared to all hearing aid conditions, including those with directional microphones.
- Utilizing two FM receivers with hearing aids resulted in significantly better speech perception than using a single FM receiver.
- Directional microphones provided a significant improvement over omnidirectional microphones.
- All aided listening conditions demonstrated significantly better speech perception than the unaided condition.
Conclusions:
- Frequency modulation (FM) systems offer superior speech perception benefits for individuals with SNHL compared to directional microphones alone.
- The use of dual FM receivers enhances speech intelligibility further, suggesting a dose-dependent benefit.
- Both directional microphones and FM systems represent valuable tools for improving communication for those with SNHL, with FM systems showing greater efficacy.