Voice Distortion

Posted by martypl @martypl, Jun 14, 2025

I am new to this forum. All sounds seem to resonate in both ears with or without hearing aids. The best analogy is that voices sound like they are coming from a kazoo. Several ENT doctors and audiologists cannot seem to agree or pinpoint what my problem is. Anyone with similar symptoms or possible answers?
The resonating is constant and no 'trigger" event. My audiogram has a decline at the higher frequencies level in both ears. I have tried the latest technology in several hearing aid models with not much improvement. Audiologists have tried various settings with no success. Is there a name for my condition that I can do further research? I also have low level tinnitus (sort of low roaring sound) but it does not really bother me. However, it may have some effect on the resonating.

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deputydog | @deputydog | May 10 9:44am

My condition includes most of what you and @iann shared. I do NOT have difficulty with the Volume - it's the Distortion that I suffer from. Comment like a 'Kazoo' is spot on, Distortion or I say what Darth Vader sounds like for my own and other voices. All instruments including my grandfather clock chimes, sound out of tune - especially stringed instruments like a piano. I can no longer enjoy the music on the radio and since July 2025 gave up trying to play my hammered dulcimer or Hawaiian lap steel guitar. Without my Jabra hearing aids it does the same thing, it's just a very soft, quiet and peaceful state (my voice and the environment both). Going to a restaurant wearing the aids is pointless as I cannot pick out ANY conversations and everything blends together and is just 'noise' which is louder with them. I either go without or take them out once there. And yes, I've used all four Jabra settings with and without the filters, tried using one aid instead of two, etc. Same for the Signia aids. Using the aids it is just a louder state which I describe as a louder / cheap transistor radio from the 60's. I have been wearing aids for about 4 years with recent loss and recommendations from the audiologist to see an ENT doctor. First doctor just sent me back to the audiologist and did nothing but take my money. 2nd doctor was flabbergasted and at least did an MRI do eliminate inner ear problems and confirmed no tumor. A different audiologist, more tests, different aids - same results. My experience noticeably worsened the first week of July 2025 - which is why I returned for help. Just found this group with similar conditions which I will follow for a while. Thank you for posting.