Sep 16, 2010 11:49 GMT  ·  By

Headphones of many kinds have been launched over the past months, form wireless headsets to in-ear earphones, but dB logic has something a bit different in mind this time, namely a new series of earphones that limit the sound pressure level.

Headsets and/or earphones have seen many sound-enhancing or clarity-sharpening technologies, but they are still known, in some circles, as a contributing factor to hearing problems.

Granted, any and all loud noises can negatively affect one's eardrums if exposed to them for too long, or too suddenly.

Still, dB Logic decided it was time it did something specific to reduce the noise problems in the case of headgear, so it brought out hearing-protecting headphones and earphones.

Simply put, the products can automatically limit the intensity of the sound they output, and they don't even require battery-powered processor to do it.

The means by which this is accomplished is a sound pressure level (SPL) limiting technology, which limits volume levels in order to reduce hearing hazards.

“dB Logic headphones and earphones integrate an advanced SPL2 monitoring circuit that regulates the volume where needed, while still keeping the musical content largely unchanged,”

“By maintaining the integrity of the sound, the limiting is virtually transparent to the listener, and the audio content does not sound clipped or distorted.

"The enormous popularity of MP3 players and other portable audio devices may be dramatically accelerating hearing damage among young people,” said Med Dyer, co-founder and chief technology officer at dB Logic.

“According to a recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, one in five teenagers today is already experiencing significant hearing loss. dB Logic products are engineered to help protect your ears without sacrificing great audio or style, and make a perfect gift for any teenager, adult or child," he added.

The headphones and earphones will start shipping in early November, the adult versions costing $30 and $40, respectively. Models aimed at children will cost $40.