How to cope with the sound of small speakers

When hyperacusis is bilateral, holding the phone receiver close to the ear for a several-minute conversation can be challenging. If the hyperacusis is severe, it may be impossible without causing increased sensitivity, pain, or a relapse. Small speakers (or micro-speakers), such as those in phones, laptops, some TVs, or other electronic devices, are extremely uncomfortable for many people with hyperacusis even at very low volumes.

No study seems to explain this particular sensitivity, but these speakers share certain characteristics: they produce a processed, unnatural sound with a frequency imbalance—almost no low frequencies and overly emphasized mid frequencies (the range of human speech)—resulting in a sharp, piercing, and strident sound. This frequency imbalance appears to be the reason why people with hyperacusis struggle with these speakers; the same sounds through Hi-Fi speakers do not cause the problem. Additionally, small speakers tend to distort long before reaching maximum volume, and such distortion is understandably bothersome.

Small speakers can therefore be one of the worst enemies for hyperacusis sufferers. Here are some strategies to mitigate their effects:

For laptops: Connect external desktop speakers. Even low-power speakers are sufficient to avoid the small speaker problem. USB-powered speakers can be convenient as they eliminate the need to carry heavy power adapters.

For any device with a headphone output: Certain TVs, usually small or low-quality, produce strident, bass-poor sounds that are hard to tolerate. External speakers or high-quality headphones can solve this issue.

For phones:

• Lower the speaker volume to the minimum. Most modern phones allow this, whether mobile or landline.
• If necessary, hold the receiver further from the ear while keeping the microphone near the mouth.
• Alternate ears during long conversations to reduce fatigue.
• Use speakerphone if available; although still uncomfortable, it’s safer than holding the receiver close.
• At home, connect desktop speakers or a high-quality headset with a microphone. One user from the Hyperacusis Network recommended the Emerson Over The Head Bluetooth Headset (EM-237C) for faithful sound reproduction.

Despite these tips, phone conversations can still be risky depending on individual sensitivity. Limit usage and conversation time when necessary. However, for hyperacusis recovery, it is important to continue exposing yourself to everyday sounds, including small speakers, up to the point where discomfort begins, while carefully controlling exposure time.

Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net