Ahead Custom Molded Earplugs More Effective Than Foam, Less Expensive Than Fitted— AHEAD Custom Molded Earplugs Are The New Standard For Protection. With hearing protection being critically important for music players and listeners of all ages and applications, new AHEAD Custom Molded Earplugs (ACME) are a great way for drummers and other musicians to safeguard their ears in high-volume situations. Non-toxic, hypo-allergenic and EPA-approved, ACME earplugs allow users to safely, quickly and conveniently create a personal set of soft, silicone earplugs at home, in the studio or on the road. And, at a suggested retail of just £26.99 the innovative, easy-to-use accessories offer greater comfort than foam earplugs at a fraction of the cost of custom-fitted earplugs. ACME earplugs have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) in the 25-30 dB range, which is especially significant for drummers. According to the National Institutes Of Health, prolonged exposure to sound at 85 decibels (dB) can cause short-term auditory damage while sounds at 120 dB and above can cause painful and permanent hearing loss. Since drumming often reaches or exceeds these dangerous volume levels, ACME’s 26 dB reduction provides immediate and long-term protection. The NIH list of common sounds and their decibel ratings includes: Near total silence – 0 dB A whisper – 15 dB Normal conversation – 60 dB A lawnmower – 90 dB A car horn – 110 dB A rock concert or a jet engine – 120 dB A gunshot or firecracker – 140 dB
