Effects of clinical hearing aid settings on sound localization cues

Sound localization cues, particularly interaural level difference (ILD) cues, are known to be affected by hearing aid processing such as wide-dynamic range compression and strong directional microphones. These distorted cues may negatively impact spatial awareness and communication in complex environments, two areas of challenge for new and experienced hearing aid users. Previously, we investigated frequency specific alterations to ILD and interaural time difference (ITD) cues using linear amplification in simulated reverberant rooms and with gaged vent sizes. In reverberation, ITD became erratic and ILD reduced; minimal effects of hearing aid venting were observed (Diedesch and Stecker, Am. Aud. Soc. 2016). Here, we applied that approach to hearing aid settings more typically encountered by clinical patients. Phonak Audeo receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) hearing aids were programmed to typical open-fit hearing impairments using clinically normal settings for compression algorithms and directional microphones....