Soundfield Audiometry
A method of audiometric testing in which stimuli are delivered through loudspeakers in a calibrated room rather than through earphones.
Full Definition
Soundfield audiometry is used when insert or supra-aural earphones cannot be fitted, such as with young children or patients with ear canal abnormalities, or when assessing aided performance in a realistic listening environment. Because both ears receive the stimulus simultaneously, ear-specific thresholds cannot be obtained without the use of masking or specialised techniques. Results are conventionally plotted on the audiogram using a stylised 'S' symbol. Editors should note that 'soundfield' is written as one word in audiological convention, distinguishing it from the general physics term 'sound field' (two words).
Usage
Usage note: Editors should enforce the single-word spelling 'soundfield' in audiological contexts; 'sound field' (two words) is acceptable in acoustic physics contexts but is non-standard in clinical audiology.
In Context
- "Soundfield audiometry was employed because the child refused insert earphone placement." — Paediatric audiology evaluation
- "Aided soundfield thresholds were compared with unaided results to calculate functional gain." — Hearing aid verification report