User Manual

Health and Safety Information 37
as sound is played louder and for longer
durations. Prolonged exposure to loud
sounds (including music) is the most
common cause of preventable hearing
loss. Some scientific research suggests
that using portable audio devices, such
as portable music players and cell
phones, at high volume settings for long
durations may lead to permanent
noise-induced hearing loss.
This includes the use of headphones
(including headsets, earbuds, and
Bluetooth
®
or other wireless devices).
Exposure to very loud sound has also
been associated in some studies with
tinnitus (a ringing in the ear),
hypersensitivity to sound, and distorted
hearing. Individual susceptibility to
noise-induced hearing loss and potential
hearing problem varies. Additionally, the
amount of sound produced by a portable
audio device varies depending on the
nature of the sound, the device settings,
and the headphones that are used. As a
result, there is no single volume setting
that is appropriate for everyone or for
every combination of sound, settings,
and equipment.