Dynamic Range
The span of intensity levels between a patient's hearing threshold and their uncomfortable loudness level, representing usable hearing.
Full Definition
Dynamic range in audiological diagnostics refers to the difference in decibels between the softest sound a listener can detect (threshold) and the loudest sound they can tolerate before experiencing discomfort (uncomfortable loudness level). A reduced dynamic range—common in sensorineural pathology with loudness recruitment—poses challenges for hearing aid fitting because amplification must be compressed within a narrower window. Dynamic range is typically measured separately for each test frequency and for speech signals. Editors should ensure the term is not used interchangeably with 'frequency range,' which refers to bandwidth rather than intensity span.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the frequency or signal type to which the dynamic range applies; a single global figure is clinically insufficient.
In Context
- "The patient's dynamic range of only 20 dB at 2000 Hz necessitated wide dynamic range compression in the hearing aid prescription." — Hearing aid fitting report
- "Documenting dynamic range is essential before specifying compression ratios in an amplification plan." — Clinical protocol document