In looking over recent posts on low-attenuation earplugs I was
pleased to see awareness of the issue of over protection. The E-A-R
Hi-Fi earplug was mentioned and indeed that is one moderately priced
alternative to obtain less attenuation and a more neutral attenuation
characteristic that sounds more natural. Unfortunately there are
limited choices in this regard today since there isn't much pull
through from the occupational community. In fact, 3M used to sell
the Hi-Fi earplug in the industrial market at the UltraTech (and
still does in Europe), but in the US there is so much emphasis on
high NRRs that it was difficult to garner interest. Today you can
find them at various online retailers.

Another excellent uniform attenuation/moderate attenuation hearing
protector, in fact the ultimate embodiment of that style is the
Etymotic ER-15 Musician's earplug. It is truly exceptional but will
set you back about $150 per pair. It is cost justified for certain
occupations such as musicians where the best fidelity is
required. Go to www.etymotic.com to learn more.

To learn more about the effects of HPDs on communications see EARLog
13 found here: http://www.e-a-r.com/hearingconservation/earlog_main.cfm


Elliott H. Berger
Senior Scientist, Auditory Research
3M Occupational Health & Environmental Safety Division
7911 Zionsville Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268-1657
317-692-3031 w
866-428-3942 f
317-752-0614 c
www.E-A-R.com/hearingconservation


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