What are Probe Microphone Measurements?

Probe microphone measurements are an important part of the hearing aid fitting process. They can help to ensure that the hearing aids are providing the correct amount of amplification and that they are comfortable to wear.

What is the purpose of probe microphone measurements?

Probe microphone measurements are used to assess the performance of hearing aids in the real ear. This means that the measurements are taken while the hearing aids are actually in the ear, so that the results can be directly compared to the patient’s hearing thresholds.

What is a probe microphone?

A probe microphone is a small, lightweight microphone that is attached to a soft tube. The tube is inserted into the ear canal, and the microphone is placed near the eardrum. The microphone measures the sound pressure level (SPL) in the ear canal, which can then be used to calculate the performance of the hearing aid.

What is the real ear saturation response?

The real ear saturation response (REAR) is a measure of the maximum output of a hearing aid. It is measured by presenting a loud sound to the hearing aid and then measuring the SPL in the ear canal. The REAR is important because it indicates how loud the hearing aid can get, which can be helpful in determining if the hearing aid is providing enough amplification.

What is the difference between REAR and REIG?

The terms REAR and REIG are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference between the two. REAR stands for real ear saturation response, while REIG stands for real ear insertion gain. 

REIG is a measure of the amount of gain that the hearing aid provides in the real ear. It is calculated by subtracting the SPL in the ear canal without the hearing aid from the SPL in the ear canal with the hearing aid.

If you are considering getting hearing aids, it is important to ask your audiologist about probe microphone measurements. They can help to ensure that you get the most out of your hearing aids.