[alysony]

Hi everyone. It's been many many years since I've posted but I'm still alive and still enjoying music with headphones and whatnot. So here is my problem. A few years ago I started a new project at work that had me inside a large laboratory that housed a lot of people and equipment. This machinery was and is LOUD. So I've found out I have a weird quirk where under constant bombardment of sound and people interaction, my brain sort of goes NOPE and it's impossible to do work. I've tried to use regular ear plugs and they help a little, but it's still difficult to maintain a steady work output without music (I use it to keep cadence). The reason I can't use sound cancelling headphones is because...microphone, transmitter, area where a microphone is a big no no. Never leads to good things.

So what I'm looking for is an IEM (preferably custom to reduce ear fatigue). I'm aware of Unique Melody's offerings however it's been so long since I've been involved with the audio community I've sort of lost touch with the providers of the custom IEM service.

This is where things get interesting. Is anyone aware if it's possible to have custom IEM's be covered by insurance? If anyone has ever attempted this I'd love to hear how your experience went. I ask because my doctor wasn't sure and wanted to know if I knew anyone who had.

Thank you again for all your help and I look forward to any suggestions you might have

 

[cel4145]

If you really want to get rid of the noise. get some IEMs that have decent isolation and then put some passive shooting earmuffs ($20 to $25) over the top

This IEM list has rankings based on isolation: http://theheadphonelist.com/headphone-list/. Maybe you might find something there.

 

[alysony]

If you really want to get rid of the noise. get some IEMs that have decent isolation and then put some passive shooting earmuffs ($20 to $25) over the top

This IEM list has rankings based on isolation: http://theheadphonelist.com/headphone-list/. Maybe you might find something there.

 


The biggest issue I've had is that my ears just start aching with standard IEM's. I've used shure e2c's, 310's and 530's. I've had a pair of UE TF-10's and within an hour my ears are practically burning from the pain (I hate having small ears) I've tried foam flanges, rubber flanges the works. The only time I've never had ear fatigue was with the custom IEM's I had (lost in a move, I know, I'm terrible)

But it's funny you should mention the ear muffs. I actually do have a pair of construction earmuffs that I would use with my crappy 5 dollar earbuds. It works okay but the earbuds tend to fall out and then my head starts hurting from the strap lol.

 

[FullCircle]

Hi there

Be sure to check out Noble Aidio

As for your question regarding insurance, as an audiologist, I'd say doubtful. The issue is in NRR (noise reduction rating) values, and FDA policies.

Ciem companies use the term "noise isolation" (and usually state 26dB) to describe the noise reduction abilities of CIEMs

Ciem companies use the terminology "noise isolation" in order to avoid the scrutiny of the FDA, because if an intity uses the term "NRR" to describe a CIEM, then that product must be considered an HPD (hearing protection device) & HPD's are considered an FDA controlled device.

As a former owner of a hearing manufacturing company and as an audiologist, I'd venture to say Ciem companies would rather avoid dealing with the FDA, and keep CIEMs off the FDAs radar. (Too many hassles)

So if a Ciem is not considered a medical device, I'd say the probability of your insurance paying for your CIEMs is low.

 

[alysony]

I sort of figured as much in regards to insurance. It's awesome to hear a precise reason. Thank you so much. I had a question, as an audiologist have you ever worked with patients who came in dealing with sensory processing disorder? That was the doctors official diagnosis so I was curious if I should see an audiologist or if that's not going to be very helpful in this instance. Obviously you can't offer medical advice lol.

I'll take a look at Noble. Thanks!

Edit: Just realized it looks like you work there. I'm looking already and it appears that your prices aren't bad at all and I could probably budget that with some effort.

 

[cel4145]

But it's funny you should mention the ear muffs. I actually do have a pair of construction earmuffs that I would use with my crappy 5 dollar earbuds. It works okay but the earbuds tend to fall out and then my head starts hurting from the strap lol.

Something like these have 30db of noise reduction: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PW98WO. Then if you have IEMs underneath, whatever they add is just icing on the cake

 

[alysony]

Yeah those are actually exactly what I have. The issue seems to be that when I put them on my head it causes the IEM to shift slightly so I can barely hear anything (music wise lol)

 

[cel4145]

Maybe different tips for your IEMs so that they fit tighter?

 

[ZoNtO]

What about Etymotic ER4S? There are a variety of tips to choose from. I'm sure there would be a smaller set of Comply foam tips that would work, or perhaps the small Etymotic blue triflange. According to Etymotic's website, the ER4S offer 35-42 dB of passive noise reduction. 

 

[EagleWings]

If it helps, silicone CIEMs isolate better and offer better comfort compared to the acrylic CIEMs. And they move the least with your jaw movements. I know 1964 Ears and Noble Audio offer silicone housings. Not sure about other brands. Here are some names though: Heir Audio, JH Audio, Westone, Ultimate Ears, Cosmic Ears.

 

[FullCircle]

  If it helps, silicone CIEMs isolate better and offer better comfort compared to the acrylic CIEMs. And they move the least with your jaw movements. I know 1964 Ears and Noble Audio offer silicone housings. Not sure about other brands. Here are some names though: Heir Audio, JH Audio, Westone, Ultimate Ears, Cosmic Ears.

 
 
1) Heir Audio is a banned company, discussion about Heir or their products is against forum rules
 
2) Silicone, while it may be comfortable, and issolate more so than acrylic
 
   Silicone will cause the ear to "sweat" if worn for long periods of time. (I assume at least 6 hrs at work)   Not allowing the ear to "breathe" will eventually lead to the growth of fungus within the ear. (not a fun thing to deal with)
 
 
So yes, you are correct, silicone does have benifits, but as an audiologist, I would not recommend silicone if they are going to be used 4-6 hrs daily

 

[EagleWings]

1) Heir Audio is a banned company, discussion about Heir or their products is against forum rules
2) Silicone, while it may be comfortable, and isolate more so than acrylic
   Silicone will cause the ear to "sweat" if worn for long periods of time. (I assume at least 6 hrs at work)   Not allowing the ear to "breathe" will eventually lead to the growth of fungus within the ear. (not a fun thing to deal with)
So yes, you are correct, silicone does have benifits, but as an audiologist, I would not recommend silicone if they are going to be used 4-6 hrs daily

 
Wow, didn't know that it was banned from Head-Fi. Thanks for the info.

 

[alysony]

 Not allowing the ear to "breathe" will eventually lead to the growth of fungus within the ear. (not a fun thing to deal with)  
So yes, you are correct, silicone does have benifits, but as an audiologist, I would not recommend silicone if they are going to be used 4-6 hrs daily

 
Ear fungus sound about as gross as I'm imagining. Yes these would be in my ear for 8-9 hours daily...maybe longer.