A pilot study to assess the challenges and efficacy of two hearing loss simulations

Abstract Developing accurate and customisable hearing loss (HL) simulations is crucial for understanding and raising awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with HL. This pilot study assesses challenges in perceptually validating two real-time audio effects plugin HL simulations: the 3D Tune-In (3DTI) Toolkit and the Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) plugin. Both simulate common HL deficits, with 3DTI offering greater customization. A pilot listening study was conducted with normal-hearing listeners using simulated HL and listeners with real HL, focusing on mild-to-moderate high-frequency HL. Audiometric tests and psychoacoustic tasks were employed, including gap and tone detection in noise, perceived sound intensity, and intelligibility tests. Results from two real listeners with HL informed adjustments to simulations for normal-hearing participants. Initial findings suggest reasonable accuracy in replicating perceived sound intensity, but variability in spectral resolution, temporal resolution, and intelligibility indicates room for improvement in both implementations. This study highlights the need for enhanced customization to improve accuracy and applicability, offering insight into development challenges. The methodology proved effective, revealing challenges and biases that can occur during testing and emphasising the need for further research, including additional HL listeners, to refine and develop more precise tools for understanding and addressing HL.