PP413 - Beyond Transparency: Fine-Tuning EduMic Parameters in Pediatric Hearing Aids

Abstract: This study evaluated the electroacoustic effects of EduMic parameter adjustments in pediatric hearing aid fittings. Five simulated audiograms (40–80 dB HL) were tested with two Oticon hearing aid models. ISTS signals at 65 dB SPL were used to measure RMS and band-specific output under different EduMic Loudness, Sound Quality, and Power Bass settings. Transparency was evaluated per the AAA wireless remote microphone guidelines (2011). Results showed frequency-specific shifts occurred with the parameters evaluated. This is the first study to systematically characterize the acoustic consequences of EduMic’s proprietary adjustments, providing novel clinical evidence to guide pediatric amplification best practices.

Summary: Background and Rationale: Remote microphone systems are vital for optimizing speech perception in noisy or distant listening situations, especially in pediatric hearing aid users. While current guidelines recommend electroacoustic verification to ensure transparency between devices, manufacturers often do not specify the expected effects of proprietary adjustments. Oticon’s EduMic allows clinicians to modify multiple parameters—EduMic Loudness, Sound Quality (LF/HF), and Power Bass—potentially affecting the system's output and transparency.
In Genie 2, EduMic Loudness can be adjusted in 3- or 6-dB steps. Beginning with version 2025.1, a +3 dB increase is automatically applied for pediatric users ( < 18 years) during initial fittings. This study evaluated not only whether electroacoustic transparency was maintained under these conditions, but also whether the configuration changes resulted in measurable, proportional changes in hearing aid output. Understanding the electroacoustic implications of these settings is essential to support individualized fittings and ensure safe and effective use of assistive technology in children.

Objective: To investigate the electroacoustic effects of EduMic Loudness (0 vs. 3 dB), Sound Quality (LF/HF), and Power Bass settings on the output of hearing aids (HA), using simulated degrees of sensorineural hearing loss (40 to 80 dB HL). Additionally, the study evaluated whether the manufacturer’s stated increments (3- or 6-dB steps) are reflected in output changes and verified the system's transparency in accordance with AAA wireless remote microphone guidelines (2011).

Methods: Hearing aids (Oticon Opn Play and Xceed Play) were programmed for five simulated hearing losses using the DSL v5.0 prescription and factory-default settings, except for the parameters under investigation. When paired to an EduMIc, electroacoustic measures were recorded using an ISTS signal at 65 dB SPL in a 2cc coupler. A total of 16 configurations were tested per hearing loss simulation. Changes in low- and high-frequency output were analyzed for each parameter using descriptive and inferential statistics. Transparency was assessed using averages at 750, 1000, and 2000 Hz. Differences within ±2 dB were considered transparent (AAA, 2011).

Results: Power Bass selectively increased low-frequency output by up to 3 dB, with greater impact at lower degrees of hearing loss. Sound Quality adjustments significantly altered the tonal balance, especially in the high frequencies, with effects more pronounced at 0 dB. Regression analyses confirmed that changes in output varied with the degree of hearing loss and parameter level. Transparency was achieved in 100% of 0 dB conditions and in 80% of 3 dB conditions, with deviations mainly observed at 40 dB HL.

Conclusions: The EduMic’s adjustable parameters can affect spectral balance and influence transparency outcomes depending on the user’s hearing profile. The 3 dB EduMic Loudness setting did not consistently produce a proportional increase in output, underscoring the need for clinical verification. Fine-tuning Sound Quality and Power Bass may support personalization of amplification.
Clinical Impact: These findings reinforce the importance of electroacoustic verification for remote microphones, especially when proprietary features are used. Pediatric and educational audiologists must consider these effects to ensure transparency and optimal audibility. Future studies should expand verification to include functional outcomes in real-world settings.