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Techno Tidbits & Problem-solving
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.
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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.
Decibel
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
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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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