1.5 vs. 2 Channel Pure Tone Audiometers: What's The Difference?

08/21/24

Understanding the differences between a 1.5-channel and a 2-channel pure-tone audiometer can help you choose the best tool for your hearing assessments and diagnostic needs.

What is an Audiometer?

A pure-tone audiometer is an instrument used to measure hearing sensitivity across various frequencies or what are called pure tones. Pure tones are signals that consist of only one frequency of vibration. These tones, produced by an audiometer, are used in hearing tests.

During a hearing assessment, the subject listens to pure tones through headphones or insert earphones. This process, known as pure tone audiometry, is fundamental for diagnosing hearing loss and planning appropriate interventions.

1.5 Channel Audiometer

A 1.5-channel audiometer features one primary channel and a partial second channel. Usually, this second partial channel is used to play masking noise and often lacks the full functionality of a dedicated second channel.

This setup emphasizes core audiometry applications, such as:

Tone audiometry with masking
Speech audiometry
Free-field audiometry (both speech and tone)
Basic pediatric testing
Hearing aid dispensing
Special tests like QuickSIN

Examples of 1.5 Channel Audiometers

Grason-Stadler Pello^TM

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Interacoustics AD629

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2-Channel Audiometers

A 2-channel audiometer offers two fully functional and independent channels. This configuration allows for more advanced testing and greater flexibility in simultaneously delivering tones, speech, and masking noises in unlimited combinations.

Each channel can be controlled separately and allows the clinician to present different stimuli to each ear. This setup is beneficial for complex cases where precise control over the testing parameters is required. This configuration enables the channels to be used for all test types, including masking, which can be directed to either ear, allowing any signal to be played.

A 2-channel audiometer allows you to route stimuli from both channels to the same ear, making pediatric testing more efficient. You can present and route stimuli from either channel to any ear or transducer, offering flexibility in testing.

This type of audiometer is ideal for comprehensive clinical testing across all age groups due to its flexible routing, diverse sound field options, and multiple transducer capabilities.

Because of their versatile signal routing, 2-channel audiometers are the top choice for assessing auditory processing disorders. Facilities that specialize in pediatric testing, especially those that work with newborns, prefer 2-channel audiometers for their ability to quickly switch between channels and deliver various stimuli.

Two-channel audiometers also support advanced applications for more in-depth investigation of identified hearing loss, such as:

Identification of cochlear dead regions
Evaluation of Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)
Advanced pediatric testing
Cochlear implant assessments

Examples of 2 Channel Audiometers

Grason-Stadler AudioStar Pro^TM

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Interacoustics AC40

AC40
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Key Differences

1.5-channel audiometers provide basic masking capabilities, while 2-channel audiometers offer full dual-channel functionality.
Two-channel audiometers allow for more sophisticated and customizable testing protocols due to the ability to route and mix signals in any combination.
Many clinicians prefer to use a 2-channel audiometer for advanced audiometric evaluations, including specific diagnostic and research applications.

Choosing the Right Audiometer

The choice between a 1.5-channel and a 2-channel audiometer depends on the specific needs of your practice. For standard hearing assessments and routine clinical use, a 1.5-channel audiometer may be sufficient.

If your practice involves complex audiological evaluations, pediatric testing, and research, or requires precise masking capabilities, it is better to invest in a 2-channel audiometer.

Knowing these differences will help you choose the right equipment to give your patients the best care possible.

If you need help selecting the ideal audiometer for your needs, please contact your local e3 Diagnostics sales representative.

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Other Good Reads: Audiology Equipment Care: Common Questions Answered

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