Filter
Top Products
8
Listening for a Lifetime
Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit youʼve just purchased is
only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now itʼs time to consider how
you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers. VocoPro
and the Electronic Industries Associationʼs Consumer Electronics Group
want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe
level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without
annoying blaring or distortion and, most importantly, without affecting your
sensitive hearing.
Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level” adapts to
a higher volume of sound. So what sounds “normal” can actually be loud
and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your equipment
at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.
To establish a safe level:
• Start your volume control at a low setting.
• Slowly increase the sound until you hear it comfortably and clearly,
and without distortion.
Once you have established a comfortable sound level:
• Set the dial and leave it there.
• Pay attention to the different levels in various recordings.
Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss
in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.
Used wisely, your new sound equipment will provide a lifetime of fun and
enjoyment. Since hearing damage from loud noise is often undetectable
until it is too late, this manufacturer and the Electronic Industries
Associationʼs Consumer Electronics Group recommend you avoid
prolonged exposure to excessive noise. This list of sound levels is
included for your protection.
Some common decibel ranges:
Level
30
40
50
60
70
80
Example
Quiet library, Soft whispers
Living room, Refrigerator, Bedroom away from traffic
Light traffic, Normal Conversation
Air Conditioner at 20 ft., Sewing machine
Vacuum cleaner, Hair dryer, Noisy Restaurant
Average city traffic, Garbage disposals, Alarm clock at
2 ft.
The following noises can be dangerous under constant exposure:
Level
90
100
120
140
180
Example
Subway, Motorcycle, Truck traffic, Lawn Mower
Garbage truck, Chainsaw, Pneumatics drill
Rock band concert in front of speakers
Gunshot blast, Jet plane
Rocket launching pad
-Information courtesy of the Deafness Research Foundation