Evaluation of a Pinna Compensation Algorithm for Sound Localization and Speech Perception in Noise

Abstract

Use of the PC algorithm improved localization on the horizontal plane and speech-in-noise performance. These results support use of the PC algorithm in BTE hearing aid fittings.

Evaluation of a Localization Training Program for Hearing Impaired Listeners

“…Back-to-front confusions are frequently seen in hearing-impaired listeners and the magnitude of the error can be reduced through the use of pinna compensation algorithm (Kuk et al 2013), directional or partial directional microphone (Chung et al 2008;Keidser et al 2009), or custom in-the-ear style hearing aids (Best et al 2010). The fact that the improvement seen in this study was the result of training and not the pinna compensation feature alone or listeners adapting to the testing procedure can be confirmed through the use of experienced listeners who had worn the study hearing aids before this study and the use of the matched control group (Group 1) listeners.…”

“…This instrument also contains a pinna compensation algorithm, which mimics the directional characteristics of the pinna by attenuating sounds from the rear by approximately 2-4 dB in the 2000-6000 Hz range. Kuk et al (2013) provided a description of this feature and reported on its efficacy in improving front-back localization over the omnidirectional microphone condition.…”

“…The recent resurgence of popularity of BTE hearing aids (Strom 2013) suggests that more hearing aid wearers may experience front-back confusions if the microphone characteristics of BTEs were not carefully considered. Kuk et al (2013) suggested that the pinna shadow is not unlike the functioning of a directional microphone. Both are less sensitive to sounds from the back.…”

“…If one can design a filter network for an omnidirectional microphone with a hypercardioid polar pattern above 2000 Hz, one may be able to partly compensate for the loss of spectral cues from the use of BTEs. Kuk et al (2013) examined front-back localization ability of nine hearing-impaired listeners using the Widex Clear 440 wireless hearing aids. A pinna compensation algorithm, called the Digital Pinna, which provided a DI of 4 dB from 2000 to 4000 Hz was used to preserve spectral cues.…”

Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ) and Spatial Hearing Questionnaire (SHQ) Changes Over Time in Adults With Simultaneous Cochlear Implants

“…For example, words originate from one loudspeaker, and noise or a competitive signal is simultaneously sent from a different source (Arndt et al, 2011;Buss et al, 2008;Gantz et al, 2002;Hassepass et al, 2013;Litovsky, Parkinson, Arcaroli, & Sammeth, 2006;Tyler et al, 2002;Tyler, Noble, Dunn, & Witt, 2006). Localization tests usually require subjects to identify the location among an array of loudspeakers from which the sound was emitted (Chang et al, 2010;Dunn, Tyler, & Witt, 2005;Grantham, Ashmead, Ricketts, Labadie, & Haynes, 2007;Kuk, Korhonen, Lau, Keenan, & Norgaard, 2013;Moon et al, 2014).…”