Apparatus and method for objective determination of the near threshold and suprathreshold sound processing of the inner ear

The invention relates to an apparatus and method for objective and quantitative detection of the near threshold and suprathreshold sound processing of the inner ear, in particular for the determination of the hearing threshold, of the loudness increase and the selectivity with the aim of improved and automated adaptation of hearing aids, for early diagnosis of incipient hearing impairment by noise, for detecting an increased vulnerability inner ear, to the diagnosis of cochlear tinnitus and for therapy-accompanying monitoring. The near threshold and suprathreshold sound processing mechanisms and the disruption can be detected by measuring distortion products of otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE), and wireless, preferably passed by means of infrared data transmission, to a computer for analysis. If desired, permits an additional measurement of early auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) the detection of severe hearing losses, so that a detection of the inner ear disorder is enabled in the entire dynamic range. The application of the DPOAE and FAEP triggering sound stimuli and the measurement of the DPOAE by means of a placed in the ear canal ear probe having at least two sound transmitter and a microphone. The derivative of the ABR via adhesive electrodes on the scalp.