Whether you prefer going to the symphony or sifting through records at Biscuits and Vinyl, music is probably something that you enjoy. If you use hearing aids, you may have noticed that music sounds different to you.
Why This Happens 
While they offer a significant improvement to your hearing experience compared to leaving your hearing loss untreated, hearing aids can pose some challenges when it comes to music.
Your device is designed to optimize speech sounds. However, music has a much larger range for frequency and volume. When hearing aid users do things like turn up the volume to try and hear music better, they instead experience distorted sound and risk further damage to their ears.
However, if you’re a music lover, take heart. There are steps you can take to improve your listening experience and enjoy your favorite songs.
Trial and Error
What works best for one person, might not work for another. Some suggestions include:
- Experiment with noise-canceling headphones
- Listen to music on a high-quality sound system
- Adjust the volume of the music while you’re listening to find the range that works best
- Enhance your listening experience by focusing on other senses when you listen to music. This can include reading the lyrics as you listen, dancing to the beat or turning up the bass to feel the music in your body.
Use Bluetooth to Stream Music
Many hearing aids today come equipped with Bluetooth™ technology. This allows you to stream music directly into your device and essentially converts your hearing aids into wireless earbuds. The sound quality will be much higher than using regular headphones.
Not to mention that it reduces the need to frequently switch between headphones and your aids throughout the day when you want to listen to your favorite songs.
If you are unsure if your hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth or need help using the technology, let your hearing aid expert know.
Talk to Your Audiologist
Your audiologist wants to provide you with the best listening experience possible. This includes being able to enjoy music. If you’re unhappy with how music sounds while using your device, make an appointment to discuss:
- The possibility of using assistive listening devices
- How to modify your amplification settings when listening to music
- If there are any adjustments that they could make to improve your experience. It may be helpful to bring in your favorite music to your next appointment and listen to it while your audiologist makes adjustments. That way you can tell when the sound is most optimal.
If you have additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment, call Oregon Ear, Nose & Throat Center today.