The ringing in your ears after a gig usually fades by the next day. But every time it happens, your hearing has taken a small hit – and hearing damage such as tinnitus can’t be repaired. At a festival with three or four gigs a day over several days, it adds up fast.
How loud is it really?
Prolonged exposure above 85 dB is considered harmful, and for every 3 dB louder, the time you can safely handle is halved. Close to the stage at a metal gig, the sound is often well above 100 dB. At that level, even a short while can be enough to risk damage.
Which earplugs should you get?
- Foam earplugs are cheap and block a lot – but the music sounds muffled and unclear. Better than nothing.
- Filtered earplugs (often called musician’s earplugs) lower the volume evenly across all frequencies. The music sounds the same, just quieter. This is the best buy for festivals.
- Custom-moulded earplugs are shaped to your ear. The most expensive, but the most comfortable if you go to a lot of gigs.
More tips
- Don’t stand right next to the speakers – a few metres to the side makes a big difference.
- Take breaks in quiet areas between gigs.
- Always keep a spare pair in your pocket. They get lost.
- Bringing kids? Proper ear defenders, not earplugs.
If the ringing hasn’t gone after a couple of days, see a doctor.