Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

[Guest guest]

The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

---------------

Music and Cochlear Implants

Not in Perfect Harmony

cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not in

Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

by Kate Gfeller

Jana has been fitting Barry on’s hearing aids since he was identified

with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry’s hearing loss has

become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry’s parents are

considering a cochlear implant (CI). They’ve heard very positive reports

about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry’s parents also heard that

they aren’t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana’s input regarding CI use when

listening to speech and music.

In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists can

draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following three

to six months of implant use (, 2000).

The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal hearing

for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant use

but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

(Gfeller et al., 2008).

..............

Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

[Guest guest]

As cited in the article:

Abstract, Journal of the American Academy of Audiology - February, 2008

19(2): 120-134

------------

Multivariate Predictors of Music Perception and Appraisal by Adult Cochlear

Implant Users

Kate Gfeller,*†‡ Oleson,§ F. Knutson,** Breheny,§

Virginia Driscoll,‡ and Carol Olszewski‡

http://tinyurl.com/kmxksw

[Guest guest]

Hi folks,

I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any lists,

with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

" Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception and

enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids can

convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons of

bilateral implantation "

Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary recommendations

by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

Bob

Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

---------------

Music and Cochlear Implants

Not in Perfect Harmony

cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not in

Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

by Kate Gfeller

Jana has been fitting Barry on’s hearing aids since he was identified

with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry’s hearing loss has

become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry’s parents are

considering a cochlear implant (CI). They’ve heard very positive reports

about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry’s parents also heard that

they aren’t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana’s input regarding CI use when

listening to speech and music.

In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists can

draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following three

to six months of implant use (, 2000).

The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal hearing

for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant use

but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

(Gfeller et al., 2008).

.............

Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

[Guest guest]

Bob, there was a lot of information in this article, so perhaps this

particular point was missed by many, including me. Now that you

mention it, though, I always seem go against what is recommended. I

have the CI and HA which I would not want to change unless it's

absolutely necessary. I truly believe I get the best hearing of music

being bimodal. But as you say, that's contrary to popular opinion. No

matter what bilateral people say, I believe I have the most exquisite

experience with music, not only with my favorite – symphony –

but all music. However, as you say, always being wary of the hornet's

nest, I keep my opinion to myself.

Judy in Jax

>

> Hi folks,

>

> I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any

lists,

> with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

>

> " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral

and/or

> contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music

perception and

> enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise

(Gfeller et

> al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing

aids can

> convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with

a

> more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing

for

> music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on

the

> use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and

cons of

> bilateral implantation "

>

> Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary

recommendations

> by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

>

> Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

>

> And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI

technology

>

> Bob

> Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

>

>

> The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> ---------------

>

> Music and Cochlear Implants

> Not in Perfect Harmony

>

>

> cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants:

Not in

> Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

>

>

>

> by Kate Gfeller

>

>

>

> Jana has been fitting Barry on's hearing aids since he was

identified

> with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry's hearing loss

has

> become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests

and

> he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry's parents

are

> considering a cochlear implant (CI). They've heard very positive

reports

> about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry's parents also

heard that

> they aren't so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been

actively

> involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana's input regarding

CI use when

> listening to speech and music.

>

> In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation,

audiologists can

> draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for

speech

> perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> to six months of implant use (, 2000).

>

> The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize

signal

> processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

>

> Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in

transmitting

> several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004).

CI

> recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of

pitch,

> melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many

CI

> recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of

implant use

> but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> (Gfeller et al., 2008).

>

> .............

>

> Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Let me take a shot at this from my perspective............ remember we are all

different... there is no mold which we all must fit into.

Before I received my first CI, music sounded horrible using my 2 HAs. In fact,

whenever there was music playing, I would shut off my HAs or walk away from it.

When I received my first CI, music sounded nice again..... certainly not

perfect...... but pleasant. After I received my 2nd CI, music once again

sounded beautiful and continues to do so. I don't use any special program (with

smart sounds) for music but I now can go to concerts and the opera again and

really enjoy it.

Happy Hearing!

Carol

Boca Raton, FL

N24C - Sprint then 3G left ear -12/11/01-upgraded to Freedom on 2/19/08

N Freedom- right ear- implanted 3/01/06 activated 4/6/06

Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

>

>

> The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> ---------------

>

> Music and Cochlear Implants

> Not in Perfect Harmony

>

>

> cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants:

Not in

> Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

>

>

>

> by Kate Gfeller

>

>

>

> Jana has been fitting Barry on's hearing aids since he was

identified

> with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry's hearing loss

has

> become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests

and

> he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry's parents

are

> considering a cochlear implant (CI). They've heard very positive

reports

> about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry's parents also

heard that

> they aren't so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been

actively

> involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana's input regarding

CI use when

> listening to speech and music.

>

> In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation,

audiologists can

> draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for

speech

> perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> to six months of implant use (, 2000).

>

> The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize

signal

> processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

>

> Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in

transmitting

> several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004).

CI

> recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of

pitch,

> melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many

CI

> recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of

implant use

> but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> (Gfeller et al., 2008).

>

> .............

>

> Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I am enjoying reading all of the posts on this. My daughter is the CI recipient

in our family and is 20 months old. She presently only has one on her RT side.

We are considering bilaterals. What do you think would be her experience with

music since she is prelingually deaf?

Obviously, your comments are personal, but I would welcome some speculation

since I have no idea the sound she is receiving from the CI where as you all do.

Thank you in advance for your participation.

Blessings!

Health and laughter,

Faith

Mom to - 19 yrs. 5/11/90

na - 5 yrs. 3/21/04

Mikaela - 1 yr. 10/26/07 Severe/Profound Bilateral SNHL

Implanted RT ear 12/8/08, Activated 12/22/08

www.mkwpath.blogspot.com

New Baby - due 9/9/09

" Don't dwell on what you lack; dwell on what you have and use it to the fullest

with gratitude.

Don't dwell on your failures - learn from them and move on. Don't dwell on your

fears or sorrows - dwell on your hopes. "

- n Edelman, founder of the Children's Defense Fund, from her book

The Sea is Wide and My Boat is So Small: Charting a Course for the Next

Generation

[Guest guest]

Hi Faith,

I understand kids do very well with CIs as long as they get them before age 4.

Jim

>

> I am enjoying reading all of the posts on this. My daughter is the CI

recipient in our family and is 20 months old. She presently only has one on her

RT side. We are considering bilaterals. What do you think would be her

experience with music since she is prelingually deaf?

>

> Obviously, your comments are personal, but I would welcome some speculation

since I have no idea the sound she is receiving from the CI where as you all do.

Thank you in advance for your participation.

>

> Blessings!

>

> Health and laughter,

>

> Faith

> Mom to - 19 yrs. 5/11/90

> na - 5 yrs. 3/21/04

> Mikaela - 1 yr. 10/26/07 Severe/Profound Bilateral SNHL

> Implanted RT ear 12/8/08, Activated 12/22/08

> www.mkwpath.blogspot.com

> New Baby - due 9/9/09

>

> " Don't dwell on what you lack; dwell on what you have and use it to the

fullest with gratitude.

> Don't dwell on your failures - learn from them and move on. Don't dwell on

your fears or sorrows - dwell on your hopes. "

>

> - n Edelman, founder of the Children's Defense Fund, from her

book The Sea is Wide and My Boat is So Small: Charting a Course for the Next

Generation

>

>

[Guest guest]

The neat thing about kids getting CI's early is, as they grow up, the CI

to them has always been part of them. I know a mom who is on this list

whose son has bilateral CIs and to him, its no different than having a nose

on his face.

*---* *---* *---* *---* *---*

Take care to get what you like or you will be forced to like what you get.

-- Bernard Shaw

& Dreamer Doll ke7nwn

E-mail-

rclark0276@...

Home Page-

http://webpages.charter.net/dog_guide/

[Guest guest]

Hi,

Well a lot is over my head, but everything I personally have experienced says

that EAS does wonders for music and the naturalness of sound in general. I can't

quote them but I know the studies show enhanced user satisfaction with music and

hearing in noise with EAS.

I can't imagine bilateral not being a huge plus in hearing, but again I'm

ignorant on why it would improve sound quality with music, can you explain that

please. Seems you'd be getting the same limitations X2.

Bruce

>

> Hi folks,

>

> I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any lists,

> with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

>

> " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

> contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception and

> enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

> al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids can

> convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

> music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

> use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons of

> bilateral implantation "

>

> Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary recommendations

> by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

>

> Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

>

> And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

>

> Bob

> Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

>

>

> The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> ---------------

>

> Music and Cochlear Implants

> Not in Perfect Harmony

>

>

> cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not in

> Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

>

>

>

> by Kate Gfeller

>

>

>

> Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was identified

> with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

> he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive reports

> about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also heard that

> they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

> involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI use when

> listening to speech and music.

>

> In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists can

> draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following three

> to six months of implant use (, 2000).

>

> The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

>

> Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal hearing

> for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

> recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant use

> but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> (Gfeller et al., 2008).

>

> .............

>

> Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Good question, Bruce!

Maybe someone here has an explanation. I sure don't!

Bob

........

Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

Hi,

Well a lot is over my head, but everything I personally have experienced

says that EAS does wonders for music and the naturalness of sound in

general. I can't quote them but I know the studies show enhanced user

satisfaction with music and hearing in noise with EAS.

I can't imagine bilateral not being a huge plus in hearing, but again I'm

ignorant on why it would improve sound quality with music, can you explain

that please. Seems you'd be getting the same limitations X2.

Bruce

[Guest guest]

Hi Bruce,

I can tell you being bilateral makes a huge difference in music and hearing in

noise. It adds a complete new dimension to both.

Jim

> >

> > Hi folks,

> >

> > I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any lists,

> > with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

> >

> > " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

> > contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception and

> > enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

> > al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> > modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids can

> > convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> > more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

> > music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

> > use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons of

> > bilateral implantation "

> >

> > Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary recommendations

> > by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

> >

> > Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

> >

> > And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

> >

> > Bob

> > Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

> >

> >

> > The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> > ---------------

> >

> > Music and Cochlear Implants

> > Not in Perfect Harmony

> >

> >

> > cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not in

> > Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

> >

> >

> >

> > by Kate Gfeller

> >

> >

> >

> > Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was

identified

> > with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> > become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

> > he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> > considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive reports

> > about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also heard

that

> > they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

> > involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> > favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI use

when

> > listening to speech and music.

> >

> > In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists can

> > draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> > perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> > excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following three

> > to six months of implant use (, 2000).

> >

> > The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> > processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

> >

> > Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> > several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> > recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal hearing

> > for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> > melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> > Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

> > recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant use

> > but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> > (Gfeller et al., 2008).

> >

> > .............

> >

> > Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Hi Jim,

That's really great. Can you help me understand why it improves music, I'm just

not sure how the bilateral helps that?

Also do you listen to an iPod with a DAI connection into both ears? Or are you

talking about speakers?

Appreciate

Bruce

> > >

> > > Hi folks,

> > >

> > > I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any

lists,

> > > with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

> > >

> > > " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

> > > contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception

and

> > > enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

> > > al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> > > modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids

can

> > > convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> > > more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

> > > music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

> > > use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons

of

> > > bilateral implantation "

> > >

> > > Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary

recommendations

> > > by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

> > >

> > > Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

> > >

> > > And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

> > >

> > > Bob

> > > Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

> > >

> > >

> > > The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> > > ---------------

> > >

> > > Music and Cochlear Implants

> > > Not in Perfect Harmony

> > >

> > >

> > > cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not

in

> > > Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > by Kate Gfeller

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was

identified

> > > with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> > > become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

> > > he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> > > considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive reports

> > > about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also heard

that

> > > they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

> > > involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> > > favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI use

when

> > > listening to speech and music.

> > >

> > > In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists

can

> > > draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> > > perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> > > excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> > > to six months of implant use (, 2000).

> > >

> > > The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> > > processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

> > >

> > > Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> > > several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> > > recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> > > for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> > > melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> > > Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

> > > recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant

use

> > > but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> > > (Gfeller et al., 2008).

> > >

> > > .............

> > >

> > > Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

I think we all need to take a step back and not make subjective statements. In

other words, we need to say something along the lines of " bilateral hearing

makes a big difference to me. " We have to remember that we come from different

hearing loss backgrounds. What works for one, doesn't necessarily work for

another. From the beginning, I've said that I get the best hearing being

bimodal. Perhaps I should have added " for me. "

Anyway, I've long had the theory that being bimodal enhances my musical

appreciation to the nth degree, so its nice to have that theory backed up by

someone's research.

Thanks, Bob. I'm tossing the hornet's nest back to you. :-)

Judy

> > >

> > > Hi folks,

> > >

> > > I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any

lists,

> > > with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

> > >

> > > " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

> > > contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception

and

> > > enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

> > > al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> > > modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids

can

> > > convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> > > more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

> > > music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

> > > use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons

of

> > > bilateral implantation "

> > >

> > > Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary

recommendations

> > > by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

> > >

> > > Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

> > >

> > > And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

> > >

> > > Bob

> > > Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

> > >

> > >

> > > The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> > > ---------------

> > >

> > > Music and Cochlear Implants

> > > Not in Perfect Harmony

> > >

> > >

> > > cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not

in

> > > Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > by Kate Gfeller

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was

identified

> > > with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> > > become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

> > > he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> > > considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive reports

> > > about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also heard

that

> > > they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

> > > involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> > > favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI use

when

> > > listening to speech and music.

> > >

> > > In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists

can

> > > draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> > > perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> > > excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> > > to six months of implant use (, 2000).

> > >

> > > The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> > > processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

> > >

> > > Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> > > several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> > > recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> > > for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> > > melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> > > Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

> > > recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant

use

> > > but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> > > (Gfeller et al., 2008).

> > >

> > > .............

> > >

> > > Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Geez, Judy, Thanks! <G>

One thing about this study - you'd have to look a long time to find a more

distinguished authority on the topic than Dr. Gfeller.

I suspect the suits in marketing at the CI makers are having major migraines

about now.. and stuffing pins into little Kate G. voodoo dolls!

Bob

..........

Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

I think we all need to take a step back and not make subjective statements.

In other words, we need to say something along the lines of " bilateral

hearing makes a big difference to me. " We have to remember that we come from

different hearing loss backgrounds. What works for one, doesn't necessarily

work for another. From the beginning, I've said that I get the best hearing

being bimodal. Perhaps I should have added " for me. "

Anyway, I've long had the theory that being bimodal enhances my musical

appreciation to the nth degree, so its nice to have that theory backed up by

someone's research.

Thanks, Bob. I'm tossing the hornet's nest back to you. :-)

Judy

[Guest guest]

Bruce - I wear a HA in my left ear that provides me hearing at 20 dB from 250 Hz

to 1500 Hz, then I start to drop off.  So I feel I get pretty good low frequency

hearing with the HA.  I wear the Freedom CI in my right ear - prior to surgery I

had a ski slope loss starting at 55 dB, and dropping to no response to sounds at

2000 Hz and above.  With the CI my hearing is pretty much at 20-25 dB across all

Hz.  When I was activated with the CI, the first thing I did when I had the

opportunity was to listen to music with both " ears " in the car.  Keeping in mind

that my CI ear was still very new to hearing sounds, I found that the

combination of information coming in to the brain via the CI comlemented what my

HA ear was hearing, and thus created this fuller, richer sound for my

enjoyment.  With a lot of work over the two plus years that I've had my CI,

music has become better and better as time goes on.  It amazes me even today

when I hear a song

I've heard many times in my life, when I suddenly start making out the lyrics. 

It is still unbelievable to me what the CI has done for me by providing my brain

with more information so it can better decipher what it is hearing.

When I try listening to music without one or the other side, I find that music

is not as loud, and that some components of the music is missing, depending on

which ear is turned off.  So my theory is this, each side of the brain has its

own " specialty " if you will, or in other words, each side excels in hearing

certain things better than others, and that when you put the two together, each

side works together to bring the fullest " picture " to comprehend.  (I truly

believe this is true for people with normal hearing too.)  I also theorize that

when you are only hearing with one side, you are only getting perhaps 55 - 60%

of the information into your brain.  If you have both sides receiving

information, you are getting 100%.  Sort of like putting 2 halves together to

make a whole. 

I don't know if that makes any sense, but that is my two cents worth. 

 

________________________________

From: Bruce <bachip@...>

Sent: Thursday, June 25, 2009 1:47:12 PM

Subject: Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

Hi,

Well a lot is over my head, but everything I personally have experienced says

that EAS does wonders for music and the naturalness of sound in general. I can't

quote them but I know the studies show enhanced user satisfaction with music and

hearing in noise with EAS.

I can't imagine bilateral not being a huge plus in hearing, but again I'm

ignorant on why it would improve sound quality with music, can you explain that

please. Seems you'd be getting the same limitations X2.

Bruce

>

> Hi folks,

>

> I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any lists,

> with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

>

> " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral and/or

> contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception and

> enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller et

> al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids can

> convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing for

> music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on the

> use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and cons of

> bilateral implantation "

>

> Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary recommendations

> by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

>

> Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

>

> And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI technology

>

> Bob

> Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

>

>

> The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> ------------ ---

>

> Music and Cochlear Implants

> Not in Perfect Harmony

>

>

> cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not in

> Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

>

>

>

> by Kate Gfeller

>

>

>

> Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was identified

> with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests and

> he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive reports

> about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also heard that

> they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been actively

> involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI use when

> listening to speech and music.

>

> In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists can

> draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following three

> to six months of implant use (, 2000).

>

> The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

>

> Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal hearing

> for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many CI

> recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant use

> but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> (Gfeller et al., 2008).

>

> ............ .

>

> Complete article: http://tinyurl. com/mdykek

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Bruce,

Stereo adds depth (also called soundstage) to music. It is like going from two

dimentional to three dimentional. I'm also able to tell which

instruments/vocals are on which side of the stage with stereo. I'm talking

about high quality musical speakers and headsets. I don't have a stereo

connector for the DAI connection.

Jim

> > > >

> > > > Hi folks,

> > > >

> > > > I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any

lists,

> > > > with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

> > > >

> > > > " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral

and/or

> > > > contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception

and

> > > > enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller

et

> > > > al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> > > > modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids

can

> > > > convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> > > > more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing

for

> > > > music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on

the

> > > > use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and

cons of

> > > > bilateral implantation "

> > > >

> > > > Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary

recommendations

> > > > by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

> > > >

> > > > Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

> > > >

> > > > And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI

technology

> > > >

> > > > Bob

> > > > Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> > > > ---------------

> > > >

> > > > Music and Cochlear Implants

> > > > Not in Perfect Harmony

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not

in

> > > > Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > by Kate Gfeller

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was

identified

> > > > with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> > > > become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests

and

> > > > he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> > > > considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive

reports

> > > > about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also

heard that

> > > > they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been

actively

> > > > involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> > > > favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI

use when

> > > > listening to speech and music.

> > > >

> > > > In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists

can

> > > > draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> > > > perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> > > > excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> > > > to six months of implant use (, 2000).

> > > >

> > > > The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> > > > processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

> > > >

> > > > Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> > > > several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> > > > recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> > > > for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> > > > melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> > > > Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many

CI

> > > > recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant

use

> > > > but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> > > > (Gfeller et al., 2008).

> > > >

> > > > .............

> > > >

> > > > Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

[Guest guest]

Hi Bruce,

I also meant to mention that the second CI has made a huge difference in how

well I hear in noisy environments. It has to do with the summation and

differences of sounds heard in both ears. About three weeks after being

activated we flew home. I was sitting in the aisle seat, my wife in the middle

seat and a fellow was sitting in the window seat. I was able to carry on a

conversation with the fellow in the window seat with no problems while flying.

That is something I could never do with a single CI must less with a hearing

aid.

Jim

> > > >

> > > > Hi folks,

> > > >

> > > > I found it interesting that no reply or comment was presented in any

lists,

> > > > with regard to Dr, Gfeller' s statement:

> > > >

> > > > " Research indicates that bimodal stimulation (CIs plus ipsilateral

and/or

> > > > contralateral hearing aids) is associated with improved music perception

and

> > > > enjoyment as well as with enhanced speech recognition in noise (Gfeller

et

> > > > al., 2008; Kong et al., 2005; Looi, 2008; et al., 2004). Even a

> > > > modest amount of preserved residual hearing optimized with hearing aids

can

> > > > convey low-frequency information that enhances melody recognition with a

> > > > more natural tone quality. The advantage of preserved residual hearing

for

> > > > music is a factor to consider when testing and counseling patients on

the

> > > > use of hearing aids in conjunction with their CI and on the pros and

cons of

> > > > bilateral implantation "

> > > >

> > > > Which would, of course, fly in the face of all contemporary

recommendations

> > > > by all of the CI makers, for bilateral CI implantation.

> > > >

> > > > Not stirring up a hornet's nest - just food for intellectual thought.

> > > >

> > > > And, a closer look at bimodal stimulation and hybrid ( EAS) CI

technology

> > > >

> > > > Bob

> > > > Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > The ASHA Leader - Dateline June 16, 2009, first online June 22, 2009

> > > > ---------------

> > > >

> > > > Music and Cochlear Implants

> > > > Not in Perfect Harmony

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > cite as: Gfeller, K. (2009, June 16). Music and Cochlear Implants: Not

in

> > > > Perfect Harmony. The ASHA Leader, 14(8), 12-13.

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > by Kate Gfeller

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > > Jana has been fitting Barry on�s hearing aids since he was

identified

> > > > with a mild hearing loss at age 5. Over time, Barry�s hearing loss has

> > > > become more severe. At 16, he scores poorly on speech perception tests

and

> > > > he is getting less benefit from his hearing aids. Barry�s parents are

> > > > considering a cochlear implant (CI). They�ve heard very positive

reports

> > > > about how CIs enhance speech perception, but Barry�s parents also

heard that

> > > > they aren�t so great for music, which Barry loves. He has been

actively

> > > > involved in music at school and listening to music always has been a

> > > > favorite pastime. Mrs. on would like Jana�s input regarding CI

use when

> > > > listening to speech and music.

> > > >

> > > > In discussing the pros and cons of cochlear implantation, audiologists

can

> > > > draw on considerable research evidence regarding the benefits for speech

> > > > perception. With current technology, adult CI recipients can achieve

> > > > excellent word recognition in a quiet listening environment following

three

> > > > to six months of implant use (, 2000).

> > > >

> > > > The precise temporal and coarse spectral cues that characterize signal

> > > > processing effectively transmit the most salient features of speech.

> > > >

> > > > Unfortunately, coarse spectral cues are less effective in transmitting

> > > > several key aspects of musical sounds (Kong, Stickney, & Zeng, 2004). CI

> > > > recipients have similar perceptual accuracy as listeners with normal

hearing

> > > > for rhythm, but significantly poorer perception and appraisal of pitch,

> > > > melody, and timbre (tone quality) (Gfeller, Oleson, Knutson, Breheny,

> > > > Driscoll, & Olszewski, 2008). This difference helps to explain why many

CI

> > > > recipients show improved speech perception after a few weeks of implant

use

> > > > but do not show significant long-term improvements in music perception

> > > > (Gfeller et al., 2008).

> > > >

> > > > .............

> > > >

> > > > Complete article: http://tinyurl.com/mdykek

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

> > > >

[Guest guest]

And here's another story from the perspective of a person who is bimodal, that

is, a CI in one ear and a HA in the other.

This happened two years ago, one year after I was implanted and activated. I

went to a young friend's wedding and as luck would have it, our table of ten was

15 feet from the blasting band. After adjusting my CI and turning down my HA, I

was able to hear the three people on one side of me and two on the other side.

I couldn't hear the people across the table, but I noticed even folks with

normal hearing couldn't accomplish that feat.

Regarding airplane travel, I just returned from the HLAA Convention on Southwest

with two friends. We sat together, me on the aisle, and I heard them very well

in spite of the fact that it was my HA side facing them. A lot of it is in the

programming and how we are able to manipulate it ourselves. I suspect a lot of

my success with conversation is from the mapping I had in a study last summer

where I was mapped by voice rather than tone or beep. I will be happy when it

is available to the general public.

Finally, I'm going to ask Ruth Ilean Fox if I may quote the whole message she

wrote on another list regarding this subject. You may or may not know that she

is a professional musician. I was hoping she would respond here since I think

she is a member. I will ask her permission to use the whole message.

Anyway, here's her first sentence: " Judy, I have heard professionals mention

that Bimodal patients are at the top of the music appreciation list. When they

talk, they refer both to the hybrid and to the " CI in one ear and HA in the

other " configurations. " The rest of her message is very interesting.

We could beat this to death, but in the end, it's the individual who makes the

decision after researching and asking others. All we can do is relate how it is

for us. If we are all happy with what we have, I think that's what counts.

Judy in Jax

>

> Hi Bruce,

>

> I also meant to mention that the second CI has made a huge difference in how

well I hear in noisy environments. It has to do with the summation and

differences of sounds heard in both ears. About three weeks after being

activated we flew home. I was sitting in the aisle seat, my wife in the middle

seat and a fellow was sitting in the window seat. I was able to carry on a

conversation with the fellow in the window seat with no problems while flying.

That is something I could never do with a single CI must less with a hearing

aid.

>

> Jim

[Guest guest]

Hi Faith,

Amongst the post-lingually (musically?) deafed, the enjoyment restored by CIs

seems to vary greatly.Some are happy with what they get back, whilst many (like

me)find the lack of authenticity a disappointment, and have to work at hearing

it.

Your child will have the distinct advantage of having no comparisons to make,

and can grow to enjoy music " as heard " .I know several families here in the UK,

whose young children love music. Most have been guided into the experience by

being exposed to simple tunes,strong rhythms, and uncomplicated song, and

develop from those, onward and upward.

Dont be concerned,just let music into her life, and forget that what you each

hear is different, it is irrelevant.

>

[Guest guest]

I'm a musician, I play saxophone in a 90 piece concert band and in a 7 piece

saxophone ensemble. I started playing 4 years before I lost my hearing when I

was 14. My loss was severe/profound ski slope with not much above 2000 Hz.

With two hearing aids music has always sounded pretty good to me. With one

hearing aid, not so great, but I rarely went with one hearing aid.

I'm only about 7 weeks post-activation So my CI experience is still in it's

infancy. I have the Med-El Opus 2 and am using FSP as my main coding strategy.

I think if the only way I had to hear music was through the CI I would be

satisfied with that. And I'm sure that over time it would sound better and

better with the CI.

Since I can use a hearing aid in my other ear I just got a splitter to listen to

my iPod bimodally with headphones.

There's no question that I can hear a lot more high sounds in music with the CI.

Things I have never heard before. There's also no question that lower sounds

sound clearer, cleaner and more melodic with the hearing aid than with the CI.

Vocals with the CI are easier to understand but sound a bit squawky and not as

melodic.

Together, music sounds pretty good and I'm really happy about that. I've also

noticed that in the car, or with speakers with a decent subwoofer, I am picking

up the bass from my residual hearing. Is that trimodal? I guess I can't

count the acoustic mode twice.

Anyway, always happy to discuss music and hearing loss with anybody

Sara

>

> Bruce - I wear a HA in my left ear that provides me hearing at 20 dB from 250

Hz to 1500 Hz, then I start to drop off.  So I feel I get pretty good low

frequency hearing with the HA.  I wear the Freedom CI in my right ear - prior to

surgery I had a ski slope loss starting at 55 dB, and dropping to no response to

sounds at 2000 Hz and above.  With the CI my hearing is pretty much at 20-25 dB

across all Hz.  When I was activated with the CI, the first thing I did when I

had the opportunity was to listen to music with both " ears " in the car.  Keeping

in mind that my CI ear was still very new to hearing sounds, I found that the

combination of information coming in to the brain via the CI comlemented what my

HA ear was hearing, and thus created this fuller, richer sound for my

enjoyment.  With a lot of work over the two plus years that I've had my CI,

music has become better and better as time goes on.  It amazes me even today

when I hear a song

> I've heard many times in my life, when I suddenly start making out the

lyrics.  It is still unbelievable to me what the CI has done for me by providing

my brain with more information so it can better decipher what it is hearing.

>

> When I try listening to music without one or the other side, I find that music

is not as loud, and that some components of the music is missing, depending on

which ear is turned off.  So my theory is this, each side of the brain has its

own " specialty " if you will, or in other words, each side excels in hearing

certain things better than others, and that when you put the two together, each

side works together to bring the fullest " picture " to comprehend.  (I truly

believe this is true for people with normal hearing too.)  I also theorize that

when you are only hearing with one side, you are only getting perhaps 55 - 60%

of the information into your brain.  If you have both sides receiving

information, you are getting 100%.  Sort of like putting 2 halves together to

make a whole. 

>

> I don't know if that makes any sense, but that is my two cents worth. 

>  

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Judy, You may quote the whole message. Sorry it took me so long to

respond; we had some busy days here and I haven't been able to keep up with

the messages. Ruth

From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of

Judy G.

Sent: Friday, June 26, 2009 12:10 PM

Subject: Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

And here's another story from the perspective of a person who is bimodal,

that is, a CI in one ear and a HA in the other.

This happened two years ago, one year after I was implanted and activated. I

went to a young friend's wedding and as luck would have it, our table of ten

was 15 feet from the blasting band. After adjusting my CI and turning down

my HA, I was able to hear the three people on one side of me and two on the

other side. I couldn't hear the people across the table, but I noticed even

folks with normal hearing couldn't accomplish that feat.

Regarding airplane travel, I just returned from the HLAA Convention on

Southwest with two friends. We sat together, me on the aisle, and I heard

them very well in spite of the fact that it was my HA side facing them. A

lot of it is in the programming and how we are able to manipulate it

ourselves. I suspect a lot of my success with conversation is from the

mapping I had in a study last summer where I was mapped by voice rather than

tone or beep. I will be happy when it is available to the general public.

Finally, I'm going to ask Ruth Ilean Fox if I may quote the whole message

she wrote on another list regarding this subject. You may or may not know

that she is a professional musician. I was hoping she would respond here

since I think she is a member. I will ask her permission to use the whole

message.

Anyway, here's her first sentence: " Judy, I have heard professionals mention

that Bimodal patients are at the top of the music appreciation list. When

they talk, they refer both to the hybrid and to the " CI in one ear and HA in

the other " configurations. " The rest of her message is very interesting.

We could beat this to death, but in the end, it's the individual who makes

the decision after researching and asking others. All we can do is relate

how it is for us. If we are all happy with what we have, I think that's what

counts.

Judy in Jax

>

> Hi Bruce,

>

> I also meant to mention that the second CI has made a huge difference in

how well I hear in noisy environments. It has to do with the summation and

differences of sounds heard in both ears. About three weeks after being

activated we flew home. I was sitting in the aisle seat, my wife in the

middle seat and a fellow was sitting in the window seat. I was able to carry

on a conversation with the fellow in the window seat with no problems while

flying. That is something I could never do with a single CI must less with a

hearing aid.

>

> Jim

[Guest guest]

Hi Sara,

Like you said you are still in your infancy with the CI at 7 weeks post

activation. The quality of the sound will continue to improve with time and

mappings. My audiologist says the quality of the sound will continue to improve

out to four years post activation. I am three and a half years out with my

older CI. It took around five months for music and the vocals to come around

with this CI. Music and vocals sound just as good to me as they did back in the

60s before I got Meniere's. I can actually hear individual instruments and on

some BlueRay DVDs I can actually hear the strings being plucked on string

instruments. I am also seven weeks out from activation with my new CI. It is

mapping a lot faster than the old one. It still has quite a ways to go on

music, but I know it will markedly improve with time. I am very happy with CIs

and music. I hope yours works well with music over time.

Best regards,

Jim

> >

> > Bruce - I wear a HA in my left ear that provides me hearing at 20 dB from

250 Hz to 1500 Hz, then I start to drop off.  So I feel I get pretty good low

frequency hearing with the HA.  I wear the Freedom CI in my right ear - prior to

surgery I had a ski slope loss starting at 55 dB, and dropping to no response to

sounds at 2000 Hz and above.  With the CI my hearing is pretty much at 20-25 dB

across all Hz.  When I was activated with the CI, the first thing I did when I

had the opportunity was to listen to music with both " ears " in the car.  Keeping

in mind that my CI ear was still very new to hearing sounds, I found that the

combination of information coming in to the brain via the CI comlemented what my

HA ear was hearing, and thus created this fuller, richer sound for my

enjoyment.  With a lot of work over the two plus years that I've had my CI,

music has become better and better as time goes on.  It amazes me even today

when I hear a song

> > I've heard many times in my life, when I suddenly start making out the

lyrics.  It is still unbelievable to me what the CI has done for me by providing

my brain with more information so it can better decipher what it is hearing.

> >

> > When I try listening to music without one or the other side, I find that

music is not as loud, and that some components of the music is

missing, depending on which ear is turned off.  So my theory is this, each side

of the brain has its own " specialty " if you will, or in other words, each

side excels in hearing certain things better than others, and that when you put

the two together, each side works together to bring the fullest " picture " to

comprehend.  (I truly believe this is true for people with normal hearing too.) 

I also theorize that when you are only hearing with one side, you are only

getting perhaps 55 - 60% of the information into your brain.  If you have both

sides receiving information, you are getting 100%.  Sort of like putting 2

halves together to make a whole. 

> >

> > I don't know if that makes any sense, but that is my two cents worth. 

> >  

> >

> >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

What type of Headphone are you using for the HA side, been trying to figure out

how to use a single one for that side while using the DAI for my CI

Bruce

> >

> > Bruce - I wear a HA in my left ear that provides me hearing at 20 dB from

250 Hz to 1500 Hz, then I start to drop off.  So I feel I get pretty good low

frequency hearing with the HA.  I wear the Freedom CI in my right ear - prior to

surgery I had a ski slope loss starting at 55 dB, and dropping to no response to

sounds at 2000 Hz and above.  With the CI my hearing is pretty much at 20-25 dB

across all Hz.  When I was activated with the CI, the first thing I did when I

had the opportunity was to listen to music with both " ears " in the car.  Keeping

in mind that my CI ear was still very new to hearing sounds, I found that the

combination of information coming in to the brain via the CI comlemented what my

HA ear was hearing, and thus created this fuller, richer sound for my

enjoyment.  With a lot of work over the two plus years that I've had my CI,

music has become better and better as time goes on.  It amazes me even today

when I hear a song

> > I've heard many times in my life, when I suddenly start making out the

lyrics.  It is still unbelievable to me what the CI has done for me by providing

my brain with more information so it can better decipher what it is hearing.

> >

> > When I try listening to music without one or the other side, I find that

music is not as loud, and that some components of the music is

missing, depending on which ear is turned off.  So my theory is this, each side

of the brain has its own " specialty " if you will, or in other words, each

side excels in hearing certain things better than others, and that when you put

the two together, each side works together to bring the fullest " picture " to

comprehend.  (I truly believe this is true for people with normal hearing too.) 

I also theorize that when you are only hearing with one side, you are only

getting perhaps 55 - 60% of the information into your brain.  If you have both

sides receiving information, you are getting 100%.  Sort of like putting 2

halves together to make a whole. 

> >

> > I don't know if that makes any sense, but that is my two cents worth. 

> >  

> >

> >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

This is an interesting scenario, Bruce, and I have not seen any studies on

the topic.

In the case of bimodal stimulation, given that the standard CI audio cord

will deliver a mixed R & L signal (mono) to the CI, would it be preferable for

the headphones (or other coupling) for the HA (or unaided)ear to also

deliver a mono signal, or to deliver one or the other of the stereo

channels.

The next question then would be whether it would be preferable to route only

one channel to the CI and the opposite channel to the HA (or unaided) ear.

Either of which is easily accomplished.

Bob

............

Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

What type of Headphone are you using for the HA side, been trying to figure

out how to use a single one for that side while using the DAI for my CI

Bruce

[Guest guest]

I already had boots/audio shoes for my hearing aids that use the same 3 prong

plug that my CI uses (med-el opus2) I had a bilateral direct input cord too but

was told not to use that with my CI.

I ended up getting a headphone splitter from radio shack and using 2 mono direct

input cords. MedEl also sells a bilateral one (maybe stereo, not sure) for $63.

I've also heard of using hatis or loops so you can put both HA and CI on the T

switch.

>

> This is an interesting scenario, Bruce, and I have not seen any studies on

> the topic.

>

> In the case of bimodal stimulation, given that the standard CI audio cord

> will deliver a mixed R & L signal (mono) to the CI, would it be preferable for

> the headphones (or other coupling) for the HA (or unaided)ear to also

> deliver a mono signal, or to deliver one or the other of the stereo

> channels.

>

> The next question then would be whether it would be preferable to route only

> one channel to the CI and the opposite channel to the HA (or unaided) ear.

>

> Either of which is easily accomplished.

>

> Bob

> ...........

>

>

> Re: Music and Cochlear Implants - By Kate Gfeller

>

>

>

>

>

> What type of Headphone are you using for the HA side, been trying to figure

> out how to use a single one for that side while using the DAI for my CI

> Bruce

>