| Why Digital Technology is
Better? |
Digital
technology’s superiority over traditional analog hearing instruments
isn’t just what it can do with sounds, but how much better it
does it.
By converting the incoming signals into computerized ‘bits,’
they can be processed, or manipulated extremely fast and efficiently
in many complex ways using mathematical formulas known as algorithms.
This gives digital signal processors (DSP) tremendous speed and agility
to recognize sound’s key ingredients.
Like a graphic equalizer in high-end audio systems, algorithms can
continually divide sounds into frequency channels. These help preserve
and emphasize the higher frequencies containing vital consonant sounds
in speech – the “c” and “t” sounds in
“cat” – over the distracting rumble of low frequency
noise.
Algorithms also manage noise by its duration. While speech sounds’
intensity can change radically in a millisecond, noise is more acoustically
stable over a comparatively longer time. Using time, DSP precisely
reduces the levels of continuous sounds like traffic noise and household
appliances. And it instantaneously readjusts when changes occur, restoring
amplification when shorter duration sounds are detected.
That same sensitivity is also useful in quiet surroundings. Utilizing
an audio technique called expansion, the digital algorithm senses
the consistency of softer environmental sounds from ventilation systems
and appliances.
It automatically reduces amplification in the appropriate frequency
range, immediately restoring proper levels when the sound pattern
changes.
Digital algorithms can also minimize and eliminate the onset of feedback,
a common nemesis to hearing instrument use. Within its elaborate frequency
channel network, the algorithm detects the elements of feedback before
they become audible. It then reduces levels in just those discreet
channels, with no noticeable effect on perceived volume levels.
The precision and flexibility of digital technology also gives your
hearing professional the ability to more accurately tailor your amplification
for the best possible match to your listening and lifestyle needs.
This process may include subsequent visits to ensure that you are
receiving maximum benefit from your instruments.
In order to determine if the many advantages of digital hearing technology
might benefit you, complete testing and evaluation are necessary. |
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