Concerts are an excellent opportunity to enjoy live music and immerse yourself in the energy of the crowd. However, the loud sounds at concerts can cause permanent hearing damage if you do not take precautions.
For this reason, it is crucial to wear hearing protection at concerts. In this blog, we will explore the best hearing protection options for concerts.
Hearing & Noise – The Connection
Our ears can be vulnerable to loud sounds. Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is hearing loss resulting from exposure to dangerous levels of noise. NIHL can happen after a sudden, severe exposure to loud noise – such as an explosion. It can also happen gradually over time due to prolonged exposure to dangerous levels of noise.
But what is considered dangerous? The general advice is the louder the sound and longer the exposure, the greater the risk.
The CDC highlights: “The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend maintaining environmental noises below 70 dBA over 24-hours (75 dBA over 8-hours) to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.”
Best Hearing Protection for Concerts
Now that we understand what is considered ‘safe’ levels of noise, let’s explore how concerts can impact your hearing. It’s estimated that the typical level of noise of a rock concert is 100dB. Safe exposure in these noisy conditions is limited to 15 minutes.
However, concerts last a lot longer than 15 minutes! To help protect your hearing at concerts, we’re exploring hearing protection options.
Earplugs
Earplugs are the most common type of hearing protection for concerts. They come in various forms, including foam, silicone, and custom-molded earplugs. Foam earplugs are the most affordable option and offer good protection against high-decibel sounds. Silicone earplugs are more durable and can be reused. Custom-molded earplugs are the most expensive option, but they provide the best protection and a comfortable fit.
Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are another option for hearing protection at concerts. They provide a higher level of protection than earplugs, and they can also block out external noise. Noise-canceling headphones are the best option for concerts, as they can reduce the overall sound level while still allowing you to hear the music clearly.
In-Ear Monitors
In-ear monitors are specialized earphones used by musicians and performers to hear their own music or voice while performing on stage. They can also be used by concert-goers to protect their hearing while still being able to hear the music. In-ear monitors provide excellent sound quality and can reduce the overall sound level, making them a good option for hearing protection at concerts.
Custom Hearing Protection
Custom hearing protection is a specialized option that is custom-molded to fit the wearer’s ears. This type of protection offers the best fit and maximum protection against loud sounds. Custom hearing protection can be expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment for those who attend concerts frequently or work in the music industry.
Wearing hearing protection at concerts is crucial for protecting your hearing. Earplugs are the most common and affordable option, while over-ear headphones and in-ear monitors provide better protection and sound quality.
Custom hearing protection is the most expensive but offers the best fit and maximum protection. Regardless of the type of hearing protection you choose, make sure it fits properly and provides adequate protection for the loud sounds at concerts. Enjoy the music while protecting your hearing!
Contact Us Today!
At REM Audiology, our hearing specialists can help with custom hearing protection. If you’re in need of exploring hearing protection further, get in touch. Call us today on (888) 710-5734. Alternatively, click here to contact us online.