Hearing damage by personal stereo: a literature review

The technological development within personal stereo systems, such as MP3 players, iPods etc., has changed music listening habits from home entertainment to everyday and everywhere use. The technology has developed considerably, since the introduction of CD walkmen, and high-level low-distortion music is produced by minimal devices. In this paper, the existing literature on effects of personal stereo systems is reviewed, incl. studies of exposure levels, and effects on hearing. Generally, it is found that the levels being used is of concern, which in one study [Acustica?Acta Acustica, 82 (1996) 885?894] is demonstrated to relate to the specific use in situations with high levels of background noise. Another study [Med. J. Austr., 1998; 169: 588-592], demonstrates that the effect of personal stereo is comparable to that of being exposed to noise in industry. The results are discussed in view of the measurement methods for noise exposure used, and technical issues that may explain the high exposure levels.