Effect of amplification on the intelligibility of speech produced with an electrolarynx

The purpose of this study was to look at the effect of orolabial amplification on the intelligibility of speech spoken with a neck model electrolarynx for two distance conditions, three noise conditions, and in relative quiet. A speaker using a neck model electrolarynx read single-answer questions to six listeners. The questions were read with and without amplification at 1.5 and 2.5 m distance, in relative quiet as well as in 66 dB, 72 dB, and 76 dBSPL (A-weighted) prerecorded cafeteria noise. The results of the study showed that speech-to-noise ratios were improved for amplified speech, with improvement in intelligibility for speech spoken in moderate background noise (66 and 72 dBSPL). The effect of the "buzz" of the artificial larynx is reduced, and speakers are better understood in moderate background noise with this amplification system.