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F.A.Q. Frequently asked questions.

Mack's High Fidelity Hear Plugs

Description

Designed for musicians and audio enthusiasts, Mack's High Fidelity Hear Plugs use a patented filter technology to reduce sound evenly across the audible range. As a result, sound is not muffled and music is heard clearly, but at a safer, reduced volume. Mack's High Fidelity Hear Plugs are easy to insert and offer low-pressure flanges for an increased comfort during long wear. As an extra, Mack's High Fidelity Hear Plugs come with a removable cord so you can conveniently wear the plugs around your neck when not in use.

Average price : $15 a pair.

Attenuation Table

	60Hz	125	250	500	1k	2k	4k	8k	16kHz
Rated	-	15.3	17.1	19.0	20.2	23.4	20.1	24.2	-	NRR 12
Measured	10	13	16	20	20	22	20	25	38	ΔF ±8

NRR stands for Noise Reduction Rating. It is a standardized measure expressed in decibels (dB), and represents the overall attenuation offered by the earplug. The higher the NRR, the stronger the attenuation. Differences in the NRR of less than 3 dB between earplugs have no importance in practice.

ΔF represents an important factor for musical applications, as it measures the standard deviation from a spectrally flat attenuation between 60Hz and 16kHz. The smaller the ΔF, the higher the fidelity. ±3dB is virtually inaudible and can be considered as the very best one can get.

Audio Simulation

Using headphones is best for this test. Pick a file from the top row, adjust its sound level to match the real life situation (e.g., the bike should play louder than the snoring), and then switch to the bottom row to audition the earplug under test.

Snoring	Bike	Babble	Plane	Gun	Industrial	Club	Rock
w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug	w/Plug

Comments

The High Fidelity Hear Plugs do what they are meant for: protect your hearing from loud music while keeping the sonic balance close to the original sound. Their midrange response is virtually flat. Only the last octave (12kHz and above) could have been better preserved. These earplugs won't isolate you from external noises, but protect your hearing against damaging sound levels.

Use	Score	Comments
At Home	•	Won't block noise.
On the go	•••	Won't block noise but protect your hearing.
Industry	••	Won't block noise but protect your hearing.
Music	••	What the High Fidelity aims at. Highest frequencies could have been better preserved though.

Manufacturer Links

• Mack's Earplugs
• HearPlugs Hi-Fidelity