What is the Speech Reception Threshold (SRT)?
Speech reception threshold (SRT) is a measure of hearing ability that is used to assess the lowest intensity level at which an individual can repeat familiar two-syllable words, known as spondee words, more than half of the time. Spondee words are chosen because they are easy to understand and are not affected by the pitch or voice quality of the speaker.
How is SRT performed?
SRT is performed by a hearing healthcare professional using a calibrated audiometer. The audiometer presents a series of spondee words at different intensity levels, starting at a very soft level and gradually increasing in volume. The individual is asked to repeat each word as they hear it. The lowest intensity level at which the individual can repeat 50% of the words correctly is their SRT.
What is the difference between SRT and speech discrimination?
SRT and speech discrimination are two different measures of hearing ability. SRT measures the lowest intensity level at which an individual can hear speech, while speech discrimination measures the ability to understand speech in noise. Speech discrimination is typically measured using a test of word recognition, in which the individual is asked to identify a list of words presented at a fixed intensity level.
What is a normal speech recognition score?
A normal speech recognition score is typically considered to be 90% or higher. However, this can vary depending on the age of the individual and the type of hearing loss they have.
What is a good SRT score?
A good SRT score is typically considered to be 20 dB HL or lower. However, this can vary depending on the age of the individual and the type of hearing loss they have.
Conclusion
SRT is a valuable measure of hearing ability that can help to assess the severity of hearing loss and the need for hearing amplification. It is also a useful tool for monitoring the progression of hearing loss over time.
If you are concerned about your hearing, you should talk to your doctor or a hearing healthcare professional. They can perform a hearing test, including SRT, to assess your hearing ability and recommend the best course of treatment.