[Improved measurement of vocal penetration]

By measuring the vocal penetration a characteristic feature of the efficiency is covered which is essential for all three parts of the communication chain of speech with special emphasis on the recipient. Results are expressed in decibel (AS) of a defined masking noise, at which 50% of the logatomes spoken by the test persons are recognized. The vocal efficiency is indicated by the sound pressure of the masking noise, subtracting the sound level of speech used. Individuals with a healthy voice lie within the range of 12-24 dB (AS), average value 20 dB(AS), patients affected with a vocal disorder lie within the range of 0-12 dB(AS), average value 9 dB(AS). The vocal penetration significantly correlates with the auditive features of the vocal swinging-in phase; it proves to be a sensitive indicator of treatment efficacy for dysphonia and a useful tool for predicting the vocal capacity in all voice professions.