Can you enjoy music with hearing loss? Yes!

Music is a universal language that moves us, stirs emotions, and brings people together. For those experiencing hearing loss, enjoying music might feel more challenging, but it certainly isn’t out of reach. Advancements in hearing technology mean it’s entirely possible to rediscover the pleasure music can bring.

Muddy, muddled, or muffled? Understanding the perception of audio quality in music by hearing aid users

A 2024 study by researchers at the University of Leeds’ School of Music found that some hearing aid users were struggling to get a good music listening experience from their hearing aids. The team reached out to 1,500 hearing aid users and 100 clinicians to find out more about music listening behaviour among hearing aid users. You can read here what project leader Professor Alinka Greasley has to say about the research project and how it came to be. Professor Greasley is now working on The Cadenza Project using AI to investigate signal processing strategies for people with hearing loss. You can find more about the project here.

Will a hearing aid help?

Yes! Modern hearing aids have improved significantly. While they are not a perfect replacement for natural hearing, they can help users hear music more clearly. However, the experience is highly individual, and it may take several adjustments to achieve the best results. Unlike glasses, which often restore sight immediately, hearing aids may require fine-tuning to suit each person’s unique hearing profile.

Music Modes

Most leading hearing aid manufacturers now offer dedicated music modes. Again, these are not one-size-fits-all programme and should be customised for each wearer. Key features include:

Reduced Noise Reduction: This turns off aggressive algorithms that can strip away musical nuances

Wider Frequency Response: This captures both deep bass and crisp treble

Disabled Feedback Management: This stops the aid from mistaking music for whistling and cutting it off

Microphones work omnidirectionally: This allows sounds from all directions and not just the front

Making the most of technology

Modern hearing aids often support Bluetooth streaming, enabling direct music playback from phones or tablets. Accessories like TV streamers can send audio straight to hearing aids, allowing for personalised volume control without affecting others.

If you think you might need a hearing test, you can check out our blog ‘Do I need a Hearing Test?‘

To book a hearing test or for more information, you can contact the clinic here.