Hearing protection at concerts
Major concert sound levels range between 100-120 dB — well above the safe limit (85 dB). Prolonged exposure can cause hearing damage.
Why does it matter?
- Hearing damage is irreversible
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is one of the most common consequences
- It's a growing problem among young people
- Even a single excessive exposure can cause permanent damage
Which earplugs to choose?
Foam earplugs (disposable):- Cheap (around 1-2 EUR)
- Dampen all frequencies equally
- Music quality suffers
- More expensive (10-30 EUR)
- Evenly reduce volume across all frequencies
- Music quality is preserved, just quieter
- Designed specifically for concerts
- Most expensive (50+ EUR)
- Perfect fit
- Best sound quality
Tips
How long is safe?
| Volume | Safe duration |
|---|---|
| —- | —- |
| 85 dB | 8 hours |
| 95 dB | 47 minutes |
| 100 dB | 15 minutes |
| 110 dB | 2 minutes |
A typical concert lasts 2-3 hours at 100+ dB — without earplugs, that's a serious risk.
