Predicting Real-World Remote Microphone Speech Perception Performance Through Simulated Electroacoustic Verification

The purpose of this study was to evaluate remote microphone performance across three hearing aid brands using various simulated electroacoustic verification methods to optimize speech perception outcomes in a real-world environment.

This study was conducted using manikin recordings at varying azimuth angles between a simulated talker and listeners at a real-world gymnasium and employing a predictive speech perception metric (Hearing Aid Speech Perception Index). The listener manikins were programmed to simulate mild, sloping hearing loss and fitted with three brands of premium receiver-in-canal hearing aids, including their respective proprietary remote microphones (both low and high technology levels). Remote microphones were verified electroacoustically in a test box for transparency and maximum audible output frequency (MAOF), alongside signal-processing features.

Remote microphone verification using MAOF was a strong predictor of remote microphone performance in the real-world gymnasium. Furthermore, remote microphones consistently produced higher speech perception scores relative to hearing aids alone across all brands, regardless of the factor of azimuth.

Remote microphone verification using MAOF, alongside the recommended transparency approach, can support optimal real-world performance. Future behavioral assessments of remote microphones in real-world environments with individuals with hearing loss are discussed.

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.32065932.