1.7.20 VDB-express
Dif f iculty with hearing in background noise is a common complaint among hearing aid users. Theref ore, the
measurement of SNR loss (signal-to-noise ratio loss) is important because a person's ability to understand
speech in noise cannot be reliably predicted f rom the pure tone audiogram. The VDB-Express test was
developed to provide a quick estimate of SNR loss f or French listeners. A list of nine sentences with three
key words per sentence is presented in speech babble noise. The sentences are presented at pre-recorded
signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) which decrease in 3-dB steps f rom -18 dB (very easy) to 3 dB (extremely
dif f icult). The SNRs used are: -18, -15, -12, -9, -6, -3, 0 and 3 dB, encompassing normal to severely impaired
perf ormance in noise.
Required items:
•
The Af f inity hardware
Licensed AC440 Audiometry module within your Af f inity hardware
•
•
VDB-Express License in your Af f inity hardware
•
Calibrated Headphones, insert phones or Free-Field Speaker
Test procedure
1) Open the AC440 and enter the VDB-Express screen by selecting Menu | Tests | VDB-Express
D-0004576-Q – 2022/05
Affinity/Equinox2.0 – Additional Information
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