Free Field Audiometry

Sound Field Testing for Real-World Hearing Evaluation

Free Field Audiometry is a hearing test designed to evaluate how a person responds to sounds in an open environment, rather than through headphones. At Umang Speech and Hearing Clinic, this test is particularly useful for patients who wear hearing aids, cochlear implants, or are unable to tolerate standard headphones—such as young children, individuals with developmental delays, or those with sensitive ears.

This method provides a more natural way to assess hearing, simulating everyday listening conditions using speakers placed in a sound-treated room.

Who Needs Free Field Audiometry?

Free Field Audiometry may be recommended for:

• Infants or toddlers who cannot use headphones

• Children with autism or sensory sensitivities

• Patients using hearing aids or cochlear implants

• Pre-verbal or non-verbal individuals

• Individuals with outer ear abnormalities or post-surgical conditions

This test helps determine how well someone is hearing in daily life using their assistive devices or unaided responses.

What Free Field Audiometry Measures

Using speakers placed at a standard angle and distance, the test presents various sounds (tones or speech) and measures:

• Overall hearing sensitivity

• Response to speech or environmental sounds

• Functionality of hearing aids or cochlear implants

• Auditory awareness and localization skills

• Progress during therapy or rehabilitation

The results help evaluate hearing performance in more natural conditions and are often used alongside other tests like BERA or ASSR.

How the Test Is Performed

The test is conducted in a quiet, sound-treated room with one or more speakers positioned around the patient. The patient sits at the center of the room and is presented with tones or speech stimuli. In children, playful techniques like visual reinforcement (e.g., lighted toys) may be used to observe responses such as head turning or eye movement.

For adults, verbal responses or hand gestures are used to indicate sound detection. The procedure is safe, non-invasive, and usually takes 20–30 minutes.

Why Choose Umang Speech and Hearing Clinic?

Child-Centric Environment: Our testing room is designed to keep children calm, comfortable, and engaged
Expert Pediatric Audiologists: Skilled in interpreting non-verbal and behavioral responses in young children
Device Compatibility: Ideal for hearing aid and cochlear implant users
Comprehensive Assessments: We combine free field results with other tests to build a complete hearing profile
Parental Involvement: We guide and involve parents throughout the process for clarity and reassurance

Test Hearing the Way It Happens in Real Life

Free Field Audiometry gives you a clear picture of how your child—or you—respond to sounds in everyday environments. Schedule this test today at Umang Speech and Hearing Clinic and take a step closer to confident communication.