Hearing protection: with or without a filter?

Hearing protection. The term in itself seems simple: anything that protects your hearing. But there are big differences in that. The very first difference? Whether or not the earplugs have a filter and what purpose that filter is for. We’ll tell you more about it in this article.

Hearing protection without filter

We refer to hearing protection without a filter when the earplugs are made of a single material. This is usually foam, wax or silicone. These plugs work by “blocking” sound waves. It actually does nothing more than seal off your ear. Often they are cheap disposable earplugs, which you throw in the trash after a single use. They’re fine for when you need hearing protection for a one-time use, such as when you need to do a short job, but don’t provide a fixed attenuation value because they aren’t tested and certified. If you use your earplugs more often, you are much better off choosing hearing protection with filters.

Hearing protection with filter

It really says it all: these are earplugs that contain a special filter. The beauty of this is that the filter is tuned for a specific purpose, think of music, motorcycling or flying. Each filter attenuates differently at different frequencies. They are also tested and certified for this. On the packaging of these earplugs you will also find the SNR (Single Number Rating), which is the average attenuation value or the number of decibels you can subtract from the ambient noise when wearing them. Say the ambient noise is 100 dB, and your earplugs have an SNR of 25, then you are exposed to 75 dB. The difference between safe enjoyment and permanent hearing damage!

Earbuds for music

When you go to a concert, of course you want to hear the music as it is intended. Therefore, many earplugs for music contain what is known as a flat filter. This means they attenuate about the same amount across all frequencies, minimizing distortion. Note, however, that not all music earplugs have a flat filter. So look specifically for this!

Earplugs for the motorcycle or convertible

The filters in these earplugs aim to attenuate exposure to continuous wind noise, but still be able to hear traffic. The filters are also flexible so they are comfortable under a helmet. Did you know that wind noise can cause as much as 100 dB? That’s enough for immediate and permanent hearing damage. All the more reason for motorcycle and convertible enthusiasts to wear this hearing protection!

Hearing protection on the plane

Many people experience an unpleasant sensation or sometimes even pain in the ears while flying, especially during take-off and descent. This is because of the pressure difference between the middle ear and the cabin. Fortunately, there are special flight plugs for this, which not only muffle noise but also regulate pressure. Have a great flight!

Sleep plugs

Is your sleep disturbed by ambient noise or a snoring partner? Then earplugs with a sleep filter are a godsend. The filters in these plugs are specially designed for maximum noise reduction, and the earplugs themselves are designed to stay perfectly in place, even if you sleep on your side. Good night!

Swim and surf caps

Swim and surf plugs are not aimed at severely muffling sound, but mainly at keeping water and wind out of your ears while still being able to hear each other well. In fact, water in the ears can cause otitis media, also known as outer ear infection, and exostosis, also known as surfer’s ear. So the attenuation is usually not high, but they prevent a lot of misery in other ways.

Earplugs to work with

Spending an afternoon drilling or fiddling with the chainsaw? Beware: even here you are regularly above 100 dB, the limit for direct hearing damage. Fortunately, there are handyman’s caps for this, which often have an attenuation filter of around 25 dB so that you can work safely.

Adjustable hearing protection

Within universal hearing protection, the best solution is currently the Minuendo continuously adjustable hearing protection from Soundbrenner. These earplus are specially developed for musicians and music lovers and have an attenuation value between 7 and 25 dB that you can thus adjust yourself according to the situation. The advanced acoustic filters ensure a perfect listening experience without distortion and without compromising hearing. The must have for concert-goers and festival-goers!

Customized hearing protection

Could it be more beautiful? Yes indeed. If you often use hearing protection, you can opt for custom-made earplugs. These are then molded to your ears for the perfect fit, and you can choose which filter(s) you want in them. Yes, plural, because in this case you can also exchange the filters. So, for example, you can use a motorcycle and music filter in your personal earplugs!

Need questions or advice?

Do you still have questions after reading this article or would you like personal advice on hearing protection? Feel free to get in touch via our contact form, give us a call on 085 401 0985 or send an email to vragen@horendgoed.nl.