Assessment of Musicians' Earplugs

This study aims to assess how wearing different forms of hearing protection influences an individual’s appreciation of music.

About our study

Musicians' earplugs often claim to have superior sound quality for “great listening experiences” compared to other forms of hearing protection, while in theory these statements are true, it has never been proven in research.

What's involved?

Participants will come to the University of Auckland’s Audiology department, where they will sit in a room and listen to 8 of their favourite pieces of music all while wearing different types of hearing protection. After each piece of music, participants will answer a quick questionnaire regarding their appreciation of the music quality.

Each participant will be able to take home the hearing protection they use, which includes a pair of “musicians” earplugs, foam earplugs and flanged earplugs with a total value value up to $30.

Eligibility criteria

  • People who love music.
  • People who do not regularly wear hearing protection (earplugs) when listening to music.

Further information