Enhancement of Consonant Recognition in Bimodal and Normal Hearing Listeners.

Yoon YS1, Riley B2, Patel H3, Frost A4, Fillmore P1, Gifford R5, Hansen J6.

Author information

1

1 Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA.

2

2 Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Health Professions, Lubbock, TX, USA.

3

3 University of Texas-Austin, Austin, TX, USA.

4

4 University of Texas at Dallas School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Callier Center for Communication Disorders, Richardson, TX, USA.

5

5 Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.

6

6 University of Texas at Dallas Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, Richardson, TX, USA.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

The present study investigated the effects of 3-dimensional deep search (3DDS) signal processing on the enhancement of consonant perception in bimodal and normal hearing listeners.

METHODS:

Using an articulation-index gram and 3DDS signal processing, consonant segments that greatly affected performance were identified and intensified with a 6-dB gain. Then consonant recognition was measured unilaterally and bilaterally before and after 3DDS processing both in quiet and noise.

RESULTS:

The 3DDS signal processing provided a benefit to both groups, with greater benefit occurring in noise than quiet. The benefit rendered by 3DDS was the greatest in binaural listening condition. Ability to integrate acoustic features across ears was also enhanced with 3DDS processing. In listeners with normal hearing, manner and place of articulation were improved in binaural listening condition. In bimodal listeners, voicing and manner and place of articulation were also improved in bimodal and hearing aid ear-alone conditions.

CONCLUSIONS:

Consonant recognition was improved with 3DDS in both groups. This observed benefit suggests 3DDS can be used as an auditory training tool for improved integration and for bimodal users who receive little or no benefit from their current bimodal hearing.

KEYWORDS:

bimodal hearing; bimodal integration; consonant enhancement; electric acoustic stimulation

PMID:

 

31092038

 

DOI:

 

10.1177/0003489419832625

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