WESTERN ELECTRIC AUDIOMETER 2-A, 1920's

First patented in 1914 this audiometer is used for measuring the sensitivity of hearing.

On the lid is a label which reads 'Licensed as an Audiometer used only for plotting curves for hearing sensitivity'. The frequency of the tone heard is selected by the switches to the rear behind the sensitivity knob which is marked in decibels. A meter to the left is provided for checking the batteries which powers a WECO or 'Peanut' valve (see Item A0614), as part of the circuitry. The earpiece is on the lid as well as a hand held push button for the subject to indicate when they had heard the sound.

Donated by John Barnes

Your comments:

• The Western Electric 2-A, along with Western Electric 552-W earphones, were used in the National Health Survey (1935-1936) and formed the basis for hearing tests done in the present day.
  .......... Greg Flamme, Kalamazoo, Michigan USA, 9th of June 2014
  
  

A1485