The normal sound level of the bedroom is typically 40 dB this means that any sounds become extremely intrusive. Although the sleeping plug must reduce snoring to acceptable levels we must also consider all other noises which cover the whole human hearing frequency range (typically up to 20 kHz in a young person).
A true sleeping plug must provide a hearing attenuator that is;
1. Comfortable to wear for a period 6-10 hours
Air into ear to reduce heating and irritation
soft so that the person can sleep on their size
flexible to reduce compression of arteries in the ear – causing the user to hear their heart beat
2. Reduce all noises typically heard when trying to sleep, in particular for the traveller where other sounds are also heard
Babies crying or screaming 2.5 to 3kHz @ 115 – 130dB
Snoring 40-90dB (loudest) @ 137Hz, 1.25kHz and resonant frequencies to 7kHz. Average noise level 70-75dB
Traffic – road noise, engine noise, horns, refuse collection etc 90-110dB
Aircraft
Rain, storms, thunder upto 130dB
Alarms, cars, fire etc
Clubs, bars, revellers shouting, music
air conditioning 60dB @ 200Hz typical
3. Allows the morning call or alarm clock to be heard.
Typical alarm from clock or phone 80dB @ 800 to 2kHz
It can therefore be seen that some of these sounds are in conflict with each other. The Crescendo Sleep uses technology to not only filter sounds but also to allow air to enter the ear. This allows the ear to remain cool and avoid ‘heating’ or ‘hot ear’. The medical grade TPE material is designed for comfort and hygiene, both the tip and filter are washable to reduce the risk of infection which happens when hearing protection is worn for long periods of time.
The Crescendo Sleep meets the requirements found in paragraph 1.
Snoring is typically 70 to 75 dB although a loud snorer can reach levels of 90 dB, the typical frequency range of the snore has 2 fundamental frequency at 137 Hz and 1.25 kHz, encroaching on the region in which human hearing is most sensitive (2-3 kHz). The DEC Sleep attenuates by 20 to 24 dB though out this range bringing a typical snore sound level to 50 dB, just above the level of a typical room. Consideration must be given to the alarm clock which is only just louder then a typical snore and at some of the same frequencies. The Crescendo Sleep ensures that the alarm can still be heard a sit is 5 dB + higher (more than twice the power of the attenuated snore).
the Crescendo Sleep reduces all other sounds by 23 to 30 dB, depending upon the frequency, bringing them down to unobtrusive or comfortable levels so that they have minimal effect on the sleeper.
If you are not entirely satisfied with the Crescendo Sleep, we can also offer a full block filter however this would not be as comfortable when worn for long periods due to no air entering the ear, the same problem found with other total block type solutions such as foam, malleable wax etc. These products totally block the ear causing it to ‘heat’ and irritate during the night.