Compression for Clinicians

From The Critics

Reviewer:Linda Jacobs-Condit, AuD, CCC-A(George Washington University)
Description:This book explains how to apply the concepts of signal compression to the process of selecting and fitting hearing aids. Included are descriptions of the anatomy and physiology of the cochlear, overview of hearing aid fitting methods, and loudness growth functions. This edition also discusses the use of compression in selecting and fitting digital hearing aids. The first edition was published in 1998.
Purpose:The author wrote this second edition to bridge the transition from older analog hearing aid technology to newer digital hearing aids. The ultimate goal is to provide an understanding of how digital hearing aids have incorporated and combined various compression types, so that better clinical judgments can be made about the constantly changing digital technology.
Audience:According to the author, this is intended for those studying to become hearing healthcare professionals, as well as for practicing clinicians who need to refresh their knowledge base on hearing aids. The author is an expert in the hearing aid arena, and has worked as a practicing clinician, been a faculty professor at colleges in the U.S. and Canada, and conducted research/hearing aid field trials in the manufacturing arena.
Features:The book covers the anatomy and physiology of the cochlea as well as the problems posed by hair cell damage/cochlear dead regions and implications for fitting hearing aids. Chapters also cover the newest hearing aid technologies and include up-to-date discussions of the various fitting methods. There is also extensive coverage ofdigital microphones and digital noise reduction — features unique to the newer digital hearing aid technologies. Clinical example and case studies provide context for real-world practice.
Assessment:This excellent book makes a difficult subject easier to understand. There is good transition from one chapter to the next, with clear summary points at the end of each chapter. Also included at the end of each chapter are review questions and recommended readings, in addition to the references.

Booknews

A plain-language guide to all aspects of compression and hearing aids, for anyone who fits hearing aids for a living. Overviews hearing aid fitting, compares and contrasts many types of compression, and describes their clinical applications. Types of compression are condensed and categorized for mild to moderate and for severe to profound hearing loss, and an example of a multichannel WDRC hearing aid is described. Includes b&w charts and diagrams. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.