Stimuli and normative data for detection of Ling-6 sounds in hearing level

The purpose of this work was to develop and evaluate a calibrated version of the Ling-6 sounds for evaluation of aided detection thresholds. Stimuli were recorded, and data from calibration values in dB HL were developed. Aided performance was characterized in adults and children.

Stimuli were recorded, prepared, and transferred to a CD for testing. Initial testing was completed on 29 normally hearing young adults to determine typical responses in dB SPL and reliability. Corrections to dB HL were determined for each stimulus. Twenty-seven adults and 5 children with hearing losses were tested.

Average normal sound field thresholds were 1 dB HL. Aided thresholds for adults varied with unaided hearing level and were better for low-frequency sounds. Adults and children performed differently, possibly because of greater hearing aid gain for children.

Stimulus preparation and shaping resulted in a recorded, calibrated set of Ling-6 stimuli that provide flat normal thresholds in hearing level for normally hearing listeners. Typical performance ranges may vary with hearing level and prescription. More data are required to fully characterize this trend in the pediatric population.