Example of high-fidelity earplugs
I hear a lot of complaints about movie theaters being too loud or that they cannot watch a movie at reference or near reference sound levels with someone else because it is too loud for them. A solution to this are earplugs that are made for musicians that cut the volume, but do not alter the frequency response as dramatically as regular foam earplugs.
These are constructed by putting a plastic tube in the earplug. This tube has uses a tuned resonator and acoustic resistor to reduce the sound level relatively evenly across the frequency range without changing the sound quality. The results are that music, sound effects and speech remain clear, but also quieter and safer. The chart below shows how one brand functions compared to regular foam earplugs.
Options to consider in these products include:
- Size
- Electronics that will bypass the hearing protection when sound levels are low and engage it when they rise.
- Custom fit
- Level of sound reduction
Manufacturers of these include Etymotic, Hearos and Sensaphonics.
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