Listening to MP3s could lead to permanent ear damage

Looks like a team in Europe is to release a study that finds regular high-volume MP3 listening could lead to permanent hearing-loss. This is quite significant as there are approximately 10 million or so MP3 users in Europe alone.

The report said that those who listened for only five hours a week at high-volume settings exposed themselves to more noise than permitted in the noisiest factory or workplace. Maximum volume on some devices can generate as much noise as an airplane taking off nearby.

With the prolific use of iPods/ MP3 players it was only a matter of time until a report like this formalised what we already knew but ignored. Let’s face it – many of us from the “walkman” days will be able to recall stern warnings from our parents as we pumped up the bass, grooving along the streets with our rolled-up jeans, mullet haircuts and flourescent singlets.

The solution is simple: turn it down!

Via IHT & Cnet.com.au