[Examination of signals for tinnitus sound therapy. Effects of signal dynamics on sound acceptance and tinnitus masking].

BACKGROUND

In terms of sound acceptance and tinnitus-masking efficacy, tinnitus sound therapy appears to be more effective using dynamic natural sounds than static noise signals. The aim of this study was to systematically determine the effects of physical dynamics parameters on tinnitus masking and sound acceptance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on a dynamic model, noise signals with different dynamic properties were synthesized and used to investigate minimal masking levels (MMLs) and spontaneous sound acceptance in six tinnitus patients.

RESULTS

High signal dynamics resulted in high MMLs and low sound acceptance. In some instances, low signal dynamics gave rise to slightly lower MMLs than white noise. Despite unfavourable MMLs, natural dynamic sounds were better accepted than synthesized sounds with comparable dynamics.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher spontaneous acceptance of natural sounds as compared to white noise appears not to be due solely to physical sound properties, but rather to result primarily from psychological factors. It may be possible to improve sound acceptance in tinnitus sound therapy by using signals with low amounts of dynamics and implementing the use of natural sounds.