There’s no question that iPods have changed the way Americans listen to their music. With devices that can store several days’ worth of songs and videos, a listener could literally tune into music or podcasts around the clock. Unfortunately, those ubiquitous little earbuds have also changed how intensely sound is delivered to the listener.
Ear buds are designed to sit directly in the ear, a placement that can boost the sound signal by as much as nine decibels. Any sound louder than 80-85 decibels can damage your hearing, and extended exposure to sounds above 90-95 decibels can result in a hearing loss. For comparison’s sake, city traffic registers about 85 dB, and a hair dryer or lawn mower measures about 90 dB. At maximum volume, iPods put out music at up to 120 decibels, about as loud as a jet taking off. But at just 100-105 decibels, hearing damage can occur in eight to 15 minutes.
The good news is, you can enjoy your tunes safely by following a few key guidelines. First, give your ears a break. Take off the earbuds about every half hour for five minutes to give your ears a rest. Second, listen at volumes no more than three quarters of your music player’s total volume output. One-half volume is even better. Parents should know that the latest iPods have a Volume Limit feature that they can program into their child’s iPod. Here is the link from Apple’s site that tells how to guard against hearing loss and limit the volume on an iPod: Volume Limit
Also, consider another type of headphone. Larger headphones that rest over the ear opening do not deliver sound as intensely as earbuds. Another option is the use of noise-canceling headphones that eliminate background noise, so listeners don't have to crank the volume so high.
Remember, tuning in can be safe and fun. Just be sure to protect your hearing, since hearing loss is not reversible.