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Narrowband Audio

Also known as: NB Audio, Standard Definition Voice

Audio transmission limited to the frequency range of approximately 300-3,400 Hz, which has historically been the standard for telephone networks (PSTN). While sufficient for basic speech intelligibility, narrowband audio excludes higher frequency consonant sounds that aid speech recognition, making it particularly challenging for people with hearing loss. Research shows that narrowband audio results in 10+ percentage points lower speech recognition compared to wideband audio for hearing device users.

Category: telecommunications · audio · hearing loss

Related: Wideband Audio · Hearing Loss · Cochlear Implant

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