The accuracy and reliability of an app-based audiometer using consumer headphones: pure tone audiometry in a normal hearing group.

OBJECTIVE

To undertake a preliminary evaluation of the test-retest reliability, and accuracy of an iPad audiometer app using commercial earphones as a low-cost alternative to a clinical audiometer in a restricted sample of normal hearing participants.

DESIGN

Twenty participants self-reporting normal hearing undertook four pure-tone audiometry tests in a single session. Two tests were performed with a 2-channel Type 1 audiometer (GSI-61) using EAR insert earphones and two tests with an iPad based app (Audiogram Mobile) using Apple earbud headphones.

STUDY SAMPLE

Twenty normal hearing participants (13 female and seven male participants, aged 21-26 years) were recruited for the test-retest and accuracy evaluations.

RESULTS

The app resulted in different thresholds to the audiometer (F(1, 19) = 16.635, p < 0.001). However test-retest reliability was similar. The app froze or quit unexpectedly over 25% of times used.

CONCLUSIONS

Audiometer apps have great potential for clinical settings, especially in resource scarce environments, but reliability should not be assumed. While a low cost-alternative to standard transducers, issues of accuracy and calibration of consumer headphones need to be addressed before such combinations can be used with confidence.