Bone conduction headphones embody the quote, “Things that are different pique the interest of the masses.” So, if you’ve ever had a question regarding the uniquely-designed headphones, don't feel so out of touch.
Below we will explore a few of the frequently asked questions that surround bone conduction headphones. From explaining the various mechanisms of bone conduction headphones to providing tips on how to effectively shop online, we’ve got your back.
1. What Are Bone Conduction Headphones?
The short answer is that they are wireless or wired headphones that sit on your temples, allowing you to perceive sound through vibrations. The technology was discovered in the 18th century by the classical composer, Ludwig van Beethoven, who realized that by fastening a rod to his piano, he could “hear” sound through clenched teeth.
As he was deaf. this was quite the breakthrough at the time.
The technology once again proved itself in the early 1900s, when Hugo Gernsback invented the Osophone, which was the first bone conduction hearing aid. One of the pros of using bone conduction headphones is that it promotes situational awareness, allowing you to be conscious of your environment while outdoors.
2. How Do Bone Conduction Headphones Work?
Unlike traditional headphones and earbuds, bone conduction headphones don’t send sound waves through the middle ear. Instead, they transmit sound waves as vibrations through your skull to your cochlea, bypassing the eardrums and the middle ear.
The cochlea then transports the vibrations within the corti and sets off a string of chemical reactions to stimulate your auditory nerve. The moment this happens, the auditory nerve sends messages to the brain, and the brain interprets them as sound. This allows you to hear the music you’re playing or the voice on the other end of the line.
3. Are Bone Conduction Headphones Safe?
Absolutely. Since audiologists have used the same technology to develop hearing aids for many decades, you can rest assured that bone conduction headphones are safe for daily use.
In fact, considering its unique mechanism of transmitting sound waves as vibrations, studies indicate that they’re safer than traditional headphones and earbuds since they avoid contact with your ear canal.
Additionally, they’re more likely to protect you from the hearing-related problems associated with prolonged headphones use. They’re also safe for running and other sports, as they allow you to be conscious of your environment.
But of course, as with other auditory devices, bone conduction headphones are not perfect. Using the device close to or at its maximum volume can be unsafe.
4. Can People with Hearing Impairments Use Bone Conduction Headphones?
In most cases, yes. This is possible because apart from our ears, there are other ways through which we can perceive sound. This includes our bones and skulls.
Some bone conduction headphone manufacturers claim that depending on the type of hearing loss you may have, you can use the device without putting on your hearing aid. But before you hurry to make a purchase, we recommend that you speak to your doctor. The type and degree of hearing loss you may have can impact the sound and its quality.
5. What Are Some of the Benefits of Using Bone Conduction Headphones?
As we mentioned earlier, one of the top pros of using bone conduction headphones is that it promotes situational awareness. This means that even while running around, or on a call, or listening to music, you won’t be cut off from your environment.
The second benefit is that bone conduction headphones are inclusive, favoring people with hearing loss. People with visual impairments, who rely heavily on sound to move around, can benefit from using the auditory device, as well.
Another wonderful benefit is that bone conduction headphones can serve as a preventative measure. It can lower your risk of developing hearing problems if you consume sound for longer hours.
6. Are Bone Conduction Headphones Waterproof?
A significant number of the models available have water-resistant and moisture-resistant properties. They also have a protective coating to help your headphones resist humidity, light rain, and sweat. While some bone conduction headphones allow complete immersion in water, others do not.
To check the degree to which your bone conduction headphone is waterproof and moisture-resistant, make sure to read the product description on the website before making the purchase.
7. What Should I Look out for When Making a Purchase?
Consider the design, comfort, and frequency with which you use headphones. While they don’t all look the same, the average bone conduction headphone bears several similarities with traditional headphones.
The only difference is the mechanism and uniquely-designed earpieces that sit atop the temporal bones. It’s imperative that you choose a design that’s compatible with your lifestyle and comfortable to wear for long hours.
If you have an active lifestyle, look into the best wireless sport headphones.
Another thing to look out for is a water-resistant model with a fast-charging system. If the device has long-lasting battery life, you’d have several hours of music play and talk time. Since the longevity of the device is equally as important as the sound quality, make sure the device has great ratings and was constructed from durable materials.
Additionally, pick a model with the latest Bluetooth version, it helps make pairing fast and effortless.
Depending on the options available, you may have to choose between a wireless or wired device. Of course, wireless is more convenient than wired and solves the problem of tangled wires. The model you pick should also meet your budget and be user-friendly.
Would You Ever Use a Bone Conduction Headphone?
If you ask us, we think bone conduction headphones are worth the investment solely based on the possibility that they can protect you from getting an ear infection or hearing-related problems that stem from prolonged headphone use. Also, the sound quality and situational awareness it brings to the table make the investment worthwhile.