Indices of frequency and temporal resolution as a function of level

Abstract

Several investigators have suggested that between-subject variations in hearing aid benefit may be related to between-subject variations in auditory resolution. Evaluation of this relationship is complicated by the need to assess resolution at several frequencies and levels in hearing-impaired listeners who may not tolerate lengthy test procedures. This paper reports data from normal-hearing listeners for abbreviated indices of frequency and temporal resolution. For a particular frequency-stimulus level combination, both indices may be derived from three pure-tone thresholds obtained with different masking stimuli. Norms are reported as a function of masker level for each index at four test frequencies. Changes in the indices as a function of masker level were consistent with expectations based on related studies by other investigators. Norms were obtained using a supra-aural earphone. Comparison of results from supra-aural and insert earphones suggested that low-frequency sound leakage substantially affected the norms for 500 Hz. Reliability of individual indices was good to excellent.