Intra and intersubject variability in auditory steady-state response amplitude with high modulation rates to 1000 Hz amplitude modulated and tone pip stimuli

Abstract

Objective: This study set out to provide further information on how high modulation/stimulus rates affect the auditory steady-state response (ASSR) amplitude for a 1000-Hz tone, and how this effect varies between individuals. Both sinusoidal amplitude modulated tones and tone pip stimuli were investigated. Design: Modulation/stimulus rates were 70, 80, and 90 Hz and the peak to peak stimulus levels were matched for the two different types of stimuli, at 90.5 dBSPLppe. Study sample: The study was carried out on fourteen normally-hearing adults (9 males and 5 females) Results: Overall the ASSR amplitude to the two types of stimuli was similar. In general there was an increasing response amplitude between rates of 70 and 90 Hz; The relationship between the amplitude of the response and the modulation /stimulus rate varied considerably between subjects. Conclusions: Optimum stimulus rates based on group data may not give the best rate in a significant proportion of subjects. Currently tone pip ABR is the primary method used in assessing hearing in babies. Finding a way of avoiding suboptimal stimulus rates for ‘80-Hz’ ASSR in babies will improve the likelihood of ASSR being seen as an alternative.