OBJECTIVE: To evaluate hearing among young adult users and nonusers of personal stereo by using behavioral hearing and electro acoustic evaluation - as well as analyzing the sound pressure level (SPL) for each device. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study in - 67 subjects, 37 women and 30 men. The subjects were divided into 2 groups, defined as follows: Group I (GI), individuals who typically used a personal stereo, and Group II (GII), individuals who typically did not use a personal stereo. The participants underwent basic audiologic testing and were evaluated with respect to otoacoustic emissions transient evoked (OAE) and distortion product (DPOAE). The sound pressure level at which GI members listened to their personal stereos was recorded. RESULTS: Both groups presented auditory thresholds within normal limits; however, 3 kHz thresholds were lower in GII. DPOAE amplitudes were higher in GII for frequencies of 3 and 4 kHz. The medium NPS used in personal stereos was 85 dB (A) and the maximum was 91 dB (A); 100% of GI participants reported use, most of the time, at the maximum level. The average daily use was 220 min, 6 days a week. CONCLUSION: Despite auditory thresholds within normal limits, OAE were sensitive to noise exposure. The SPL to which users are exposed, daily, was high and may be damaging to the auditory system.
