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Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just
purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s
time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement
your equipment offers. This manufacturer and the Electronic
Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group want you
to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe
level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear
without annoying blaring or distortion—and, most importantly,
without affecting your sensitive hearing.
Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort
level” adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds
“normal” can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing.
Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level
BEFORE your hearing adapts.
To establish a safe level:
•
Start your volume control at a low setting.
•
Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it comfortably
and clearly, and without distortion.
Once you have established a comfortable sound level:
•
Set the dial and leave it there.
Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing
damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for
a lifetime.
We Want You Listening For A Lifetime
Used wisely, your new sound equipment will provide a
lifetime of fun and enjoyment. Since hearing damage from loud
noise is often undetectable until it is too late, this manufacturer
and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer
Electronics Group recommend you avoid prolonged exposure
to excessive noise. This list of sound levels is included for your
protection.
Decible
Level
Example
30
Quiet library, soft whispers
40
Living room, refrigerator, bedroom away from traffic
50
Light traffic, normal conversation, quiet office
60
Air conditioner at 20 feet, sewing machine
70
Vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, noisy restaurant
80
Average city traffic, garbage disposals, alarm clock at
two feet.
THE FOLLOWING NOISES CAN BE
DANGEROUS UNDER CONSTANT EXPOSURE
90
Subway, motorcycle, truck traffic, lawn mower
100
Garbage truck, chain saw, pneumatic drill
120
Rock band concert in front of speakers, thunderclap
140
Gunshot blast, jet plane
180
Rocket launching pad
Information courtesy of the Deafness Research Foundation.
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