Etymotic Research ER-15
About Etymotic
Etymotic Research, Inc., commonly known as Etymotic, is a research and development company based in the United States, specializing in high-fidelity audio products and hearing-related technologies. The company was founded in 1983 by Mead Killion, an engineer and audiologist. The name “Etymotic” is derived from the Greek word “etymon,” meaning true sound or true to the ear. Etymotic is well-known for its innovative and high-quality earphones, headphones, and hearing protection devices. The company has been at the forefront of developing products that prioritize sound accuracy and noise isolation, catering to audiophiles, musicians, and individuals concerned about their hearing health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s wrong with conventional earplugs?
A: They muffle speech and music. Conventional earplugs reduce sound more in the high frequencies than in the low and mid frequencies, which makes music and voices unclear and unnatural. Deeply-inserted foam earplugs can provide 30-40 dB of sound reduction, but only a small amount is typically needed.
Q: How much protection do people need?
A: Hearing loss is a function of exposure time, the average sound level, and the peak level of very loud sounds. Some persons are more susceptible to hearing loss from high-level sound than others. Most musicians do not need maximum protection, and many industrial workers can be adequately protected with as little as 10 dB of sound reduction. The majority of eight-hour-equivalent noise exposure in industry falls between 85 and 95 lbs.
Q: Is there a non-custom high-fidelity earplug?
A: Yes. Etymotic Research designed and patented ETY• Plugs™ which are high fidelity ready-fit earplugs that reduce sound evenly by 20 dB at all frequencies, so that music and speech are heard clearly. Available in two sizes, for regular and small ear canals.
Q: Why are deep earmolds required for Musicians’ Earplugs?
A: Earmolds need to seal deeply in the bony portion of the ear canal or the wearer will hear a hollow or bloomy sound in their own voice when speaking, singing or playing a brass or wind instrument. This unpleasant or distracting sound is called the occlusion effect. Deep earmolds (past the second bend of the ear canal) will eliminate this problem.
Q: What is the noise reduction rating (NRR)?
A: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires manufacturers to print a noise reduction rating (NRR) on all non-custom earplugs. The formula used to determine NRR includes an adjustment for test variability, individual variability, and for those persons who do not wear ear protection as instructed. When worn properly, Etymotic earplugs provide more sound reduction than the assigned NRR value. Laboratory data on subjects wearing properly sealed ETY• Plugs™ shows between 18-22 dB average sound reduction over the 250-8000 Hz frequency range, but the NRR calculated from the same data is 12 DBS.
Who uses Musicians’ Earplugs
Permissible Sound Exposure Guidelines
Hearing loss is a function of exposure time, the average noise level, and the peak level of very loud sounds.
- Custom high-fidelity hearing protection
- Sound quality is clear and natural, not muffled
- Noise fatigue and ear overload distortion are reduced
What Makes About Musician Earplugs High Fidelity
Musicians Earplugs™ replicate the natural response of the ear canal so that sound heard with these earplugs has the same quality as the original, just quieter.
ER-15 Musician Earplugs provide 15 dB sound reduction at each frequency.
Average sound reduction of Musicians’ Earplugs and foam earplugs.
Permissible Sound Exposure Guidelines
About Musician Earplugs
Musicians’ Earplugs were designed to protect hearing while preserving all the subtleties and richness of music. Other earplugs, particularly foam, muffle sound so music and speech are not heard distinctly. Musicians’ Earplugs are made from custom ear impressions and tested to ensure that sound heard with them is accurate and true—the definition of high fidelity. Music and speech reproduced through these earplugs sounds exactly as it would in an ear without an earplug, but at a lower (safer) loudness level.
Musicians practice and perform in a variety of different settings and they are exposed to high levels of sound, sometimes for long periods. They require different amounts of hearing protection depending on the sound levels they encounter during rehearsals and performances. See the table to the right.
Which Earplug is Best for You
Quick Reference Guide
Three types of attenuator buttons are available: ER-9, ER-15, and ER-25. The number corresponds with the amount of sound reduction provided in dbs.
Musicians Earplugs require custom earmolds. Deep impressions past the second bend of the ear canal must be taken to ensure the effectiveness of these earplugs and to reduce the occlusion effect.
FAQS About Etymotic Research ER-15
Etymotic Research ER-15: What is it?
A sort of custom-fit earplug called the Etymotic Research ER-15 is intended to safeguard your hearing in loud surroundings. It has a flat attenuation response, which means it lowers noise levels consistently across frequencies while preserving the purity and quality of the audio.
What distinguishes ER-15 from ordinary earplugs?
Custom ER-15 earplugs are created using a person’s ear impressions. This guarantees a snug fit, the most effective noise cancellation, and the least amount of discomfort. Typical generic earplugs may not fit as tightly or offer the same amount of noise suppression.
What NRR does the ER-15 have in terms of noise reduction?
Depending on the particular model and bespoke fitting, the Etymotic Research ER-15’s noise reduction rating is normally in the range of 15-20 dbs.
What are the purposes of ER-15 earplugs?
Musicians, concertgoers, industrial workers, bikers, and shooters are just a few examples of people who frequently wear ER-15 earplugs to shield their hearing from potential harm brought on by loud situations.
How are ER-15 earplugs fitted specifically?
You must make an appointment with a qualified audiologist or hearing specialist who will take ear impressions in order to obtain a pair of ER-15 earplugs. The personalized mold of your ears is then made using these impressions, guaranteeing a flawless fit for optimal comfort and efficacy.
Can you reuse ER-15 earplugs?
Yes, ER-15 earplugs are made to be used repeatedly. They can be cleaned and maintained for prolonged usage because they are often composed of robust materials.
Can I swim with ER-15 earplugs in?
No, using ER-15 earplugs while swimming or engaging in other water-related activities is not advised. They are not intended to keep water out of the ears; instead, they are primarily made for hearing protection in noisy conditions.
Are other audio devices compatible with ER-15 earplugs?
Yes, you can use ER-15 earplugs with a variety of audio equipment, including in-ear monitors, headphones, and communication systems. This permits consumers to converse or listen to music while keeping safeguarding their hearing from loud noises.
How long can I comfortably wear ER-15 earplugs?
People wear comfortably for different lengths of time. They are typically made for prolonged use and can be worn for a number of hours without experiencing much discomfort. Wear time can be influenced by fit and individual sensitivity, though.
Can I go to bed with ER-15 earplugs?
The ER-15 earplugs are not intended for use while sleeping, though some people may find them to be pleasant. Other earplugs designed specifically for sleeping may be more appropriate.
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