Operating Instructions MA 53

MAICO Diagnostic GmbH, Salzufer 13/14, D 10587 Berlin, Tel.: ++4930/70 71 46 50, Fax: ++4930/70 71 46 99
MAICO Diagnostics, 7625 Golden Triangle Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, Toll Free ++1/888.941.4201, Fax ++1/952.903.4200
 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
Table of Contents Page
1. Introduction 2
2. Description 3
3. Getting started 5
3.1 Unpacking your instrument 5
3.2 Preparing the MA 53 for use 6
3.3 Getting familiar with your MA 53 7
3.3.1 Using the keyboard of the MA 53 8
3.3.2 The display of the MA 53 9
4. Pure tone audiometry 11
4.1 Air Conduction (AC) Testing 11
4.2 Uncomfortable Hearing Level (UCL) Testing 12
4.3 Bone Conduction (BC) Testing 13
4.4 Masking of the opposite ear 14
4.5 Diagnostic Tests 16
4.6 Dual Frequency Mode 21
4.7 High Frequency Audiometry (optional) 22
6. Speech Audiometry 23
6.1 Connecting the speech source (microphone, tape or CD-Player) 23
6.2 Speech Calibration 24
6.3 Connection and adjustment of the monitor phone 25
6.4 Speech Audiometry 26
6.5 Masking 27
7. Advanced features 28
8. Quick reference guide 31
9. Recommended literature 36
10. Computer interface 37
11. Care and Maintenance of the instrument 38
12. Trouble shooting 39
13. Technical data 40
14. Warranty, Maintenance and After-Sales Service 47
15. Safety Regulations 48
16. List for subjective instrument check 49
17. Certificate of conformity 50
18. Front panel layout and rear panel connections 52

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
1 Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing a quality product from the MAICO family.
The MA 53 audiometer is manufactured to meet all quality and safety
requirements, and has been certified with the CE-symbol according to Medical
Directive 93/42/EEC.

In designing the MA 53 we placed particular importance in making it a user-

friendly device, meaning its operation is simple and easy to understand. All built-
in test signals are generated by a digital signal processor (DSP) which allows to
implement new test signals just with a software upgrade. And because MA 53
functions are software controlled, upgrading later to new, extended
measurement functions will be simple and inexpensive. That means that you have
invested in a device that will correspond to your future needs.

This user manual should make it as easy as possible for you to become familiar
with the functions of the MA 53. Please open out the flap of illustrations on the
last page. The description of the position (e.g. ! ) of controls, displays and
connections, found again in the text, will make it easier for you to learn how to
operate the MA 53.

If you have problems or have ideas for further improvements, please get in touch
with us. Simply call.

Your MAICO-team

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
2 Description
The MA 53 is a real two-channel audiometer for advanced pure tone and
speech audiometric tests. It can be used for ENT diagnostics and hearing aid
fittings in the office, and for mobile audiometry in clinics, homes and aboard.

Tests can be performed using the TDH 39 headphones (AC), the optional high
frequency headphones HDA 200, B 71 bone conduction receiver (BC) or optional
insert phones and loudspeakers (FF). Built-in test signals are pure tone, pulse
tone, warble tone, narrow band and broadband noise. All signals and test
frequencies are individually adjustable on both channels. The MA 53 has
stereophonic microphone inputs for live speech audiometry, an input for an
optional tape/CD player with speech test material and an additional input for a
second tape/CD player (i.e. for external masking signals).

The MA 53 audiometer with the standard TDH 39 delivers 12 air conduction (AC)
test frequencies from 125 Hz to 12 kHz, with levels from -10 dBHL to 120 dBHL.
With the optional high frequency HDA 200 it delivers 17 air conduction (AC-HF)
test frequencies from 125 Hz to 16 kHz, with levels from -20 dBHL to 120 dBHL.
Bone conduction (BC) can be tested with 11 test frequencies from 125 Hz to
8 kHz with levels from -10 dBHL to 70 dB HL (with the standard bone conductor
B 71 the frequency range is limited from 250 Hz to 6 kHz).

The optional insert phones EAR 3A submit levels from -10 dBHL to 120 dBHL with
11 test frequencies from 125 Hz to 8 kHz.

Optional loudspeakers are available for free sound field measurements (FF). The
new, portable loudspeakers MAICO SBC have a dynamic range from -10 dBHL to
80 dBHL at 1m distance, for nine test frequencies from 500 Hz to 8 kHz. The
frequency range for speech is 500 Hz to 8 kHz with levels up to 80 dBSPL.
The loudspeakers Canton Plus XL (not available in the USA), deliver levels up to
90 dBHL at 1m distance over the entire frequency range from 125 Hz to 8 kHz.
The MA 53 has also separate line level outputs for an external amplifier.

The hearing level is controlled independently for each channel by two detented
dials on the left and right of the instrument which can be operated from the side
or the top. The level steps are 5 dB and can be changed to 2 dB or 1 dB. The
signal STIM bar and the frequency up/down keys are just beside the level control
knobs for easy one handed control of level, frequency and signal presentation.

The large backlighted LCD-display shows level, frequency, transducer, signal and
other information for each channel.
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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
As a result of modern microprocessor technology, the MA 53 is easy to use and
is extremely reliable.
The audiometer is designed to be extremely service friendly. Automatic test
programs make trouble shooting and the yearly calibration as easy as possible.

PC-Interface:
A serial RS 232C interface for data transfer to a connected computer is built in.
The optional MAICO-audiometry module for NOAH and PAX enables the
automatic data transfer of all test results of the MA 53, like speech audiogram
and ABLB, DLI, SISI, tone decay etc.
For more information see chapter 10.

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
3 Getting started
3.1 Unpacking your instrument
Your MA 53 was carefully inspected and packed for shipping. However, it is
a good practice to thoroughly inspect the outside of the shipping box for
signs of damage. If any damage is noted, please notify the carrier
immediately.
Carefully remove the instrument from the shipping box. Remove the plastic
bag from the instrument and inspect the case for any damage.
Notify the carrier immediately if any mechanical damage is noted. This will
assure that a proper claim is made. Save all packing material so the claim
adjuster can inspect it as well. Notify your dealer or MAICO when the
adjuster has completed the inspection.
SAVE ALL THE ORIGINAL PACKING MATERIAL AND THE SHIPPING
CONTAINER SO THE INSTRUMENT CAN BE PROPERLY PACKED IF IT NEEDS
TO BE RETURNED FOR SERVICE OR CALIBRATION.
All accessories are already packaged in the compartment connected with the
MA 53. Please check that all accessories listed below are received in good
condition. If any accessories are missing or damaged, immediately notify your
dealer or MAICO.
Standard accessories:
- 1 Headphone TDH 39
- 1 Bone conduction receiver B 71 with headband
- 1 Patient resonse switch
- 1 power cable
- 1 microphone with stand (only for export outside USA)
- 1 audiogram form (50 sheets)
- 1 monitor headset with microphone (USA only)
- 5 sound room cords (USA only)
Calibration of the device:
The instrument, headphones, bone conduction receiver as well as the optional
insert phone and loudspeaker match one another and have the same serial
number (e.g. 6631520). As they have been calibrated with this particular
instrument, using of other transducers is not allowed. If one of the acoustic
transducers is replaced, the instrument must be recalibrated.

The use of non-calibrated audiometers leads to incorrect measurements!

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
3.2 Preparing the MA 53 for use
The MA 53 with its integrated compartment for the
accessories is perfect for portable use. The rugged
housing, light weight and the comfortable handling
make it easy and convenient to transport the
instrument. Carry it, as shown, with the bottom away
from the leg. That helps protect the front cover from
damage, and due to the asymmetrical handle position
it provides more space for your leg.
To get started first move the handle under the
housing. Unlatch the cover by pressing in the two
black locks located on the left and right sides near the Picture 1 Transport of MA 53
front of the instrument. Open the front cover and rest
it on the back cover of the accessory compartment. To
open the compartment, press the two black locks in
the upper middle of the instrument. Open the
compartment cover as seen in picture 2. Take the
headphone, the bone conduction receiver, the patient
response switch and the microphone out of the
compartment and connect the power cable to power.
The MA 53 operates with voltages from 100 to
240 V~ AC, 50/60 Hz. To avoid pinching the cables
when closing the cover, lay the cables in the slots Picture 2 MA 53 with open cover
provided. Close the back cover and latch it with slight
pressure. You can place the microphone or a tape or
CD-player on top of the cover (see picture 3).
The MA 53 should be operated in a quiet room, so
that the audiometric examinations are not influenced
by outside noises. For use in noisier environments
headphones with optional sound insulation muffs are
available.
Electro-medical instruments, which emit strong
electromagnetic fields (e.g. microwaves - radiotherapy
devices), can influence the function of the audiometer.
Therefore the use of these instruments is not allowed Picture 3 MA 53 in operation
in close proximity to the audiometer.
The test room must be at normal temperature, usually 15/C/ 59/F to 35/C / 95/F,
and the instrument should be switched on about 10 minutes before the first
measurement to guarantee precise measuring results. If the device has been
cooled down (e.g. during transport), please wait until it has warmed up to room
temperature.
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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
3.3 Getting familiar with your MA 53
Turn on the instrument with the
power switch " which is located at
the right side of the MA 53. The L R

device performs its initial test and

autocalibration. If an error is detected STIM STIM

the test is stopped and a description of PAT

the error is shown on the LCD-

+ +
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
Hz Hz

display #. In this case please contact INSERT

FF
BC
NOISE
MIC
TAPE STIM
NOISE
MIC
TAPE
INSERT
FF
BC

your local dealer or service.

Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over

If the test is passed, the instrument is

setup to air conduction and pure tone. MAICO MA 53

The corresponding LED's above the

receiver selectors $ and % and the 8 10 16
17
18 26
signal selectors & and ' are lighted.
The frequency is set to 1 kHz and the
Picture 4 MA 53 power switch, display and
level to 30 dBHL for both channels. All selection buttons for left and right channel
these settings are also shown on the
display # (see picture 5).
The hearing level can be easily adjusted HL
independently for each channel with a Air
30 dB L 1000 Hz R 30Air dB
Tone Tone
knob ( and ) on each side of the
instrument. For optimal convenience
these level control knobs are usable
from the top or the side of the Picture 5 MA 53 display with initial settings
instrument. They are detented in 5 dB
steps (adjustable to 2 dB or 1 dB). The
signal STIM bars * and + are located
beside the level control knobs (, ).
The signal LED's , and - light up
L R

when the signal is presented. You can

change from presenter to interrupter STIM

PAT
STIM

function with the STIM MODE button +

Hz
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
+

Hz

.. The corresponding LED lights when

the interrupter is selected. The
INSERT NOISE NOISE INSERT
FF MIC MIC FF
BC TAPE STIM TAPE BC
Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over

frequency is changed with up /, 0

and down !, 1 buttons for both MAICO MA 53
channels. The design of the MA 53
makes it easy to control level, signal 1 3 5 13 21 23 25
2 4 22 24
presentation and frequency with one
hand. Picture 6 MA 53 level and frequency control

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
3.3.1 Using the keyboard of the MA 53
All main functions of the MA 53 are directly accessable by pressing a single
button. Not frequently used procedures like the calibration of the speech source
or the level step selection are hidden as a “second level function”. To select this
function just press the addressed button more than two seconds. A user menu
for the customization of the MA 53 is available for advanced users (see
chapter 8).
Please find below the description of
the main and second level functions of
each button: L R

/ left (blue) channel frequency up:

change to next higher frequency STIM STIM

Press the frequency up and down buttons PAT

simultaneously to enter / exit the dual +

Hz
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
+

Hz

frequency mode
! left (blue) channel frequency down:
INSERT NOISE NOISE INSERT
FF MIC MIC FF
BC TAPE STIM TAPE BC
Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over

change to next lower frequency

Press the frequency up and down buttons
MAICO MA 53
simultaneously to enter / exit the dual
frequency mode
5 9 11 13 15 17 21
2 left (blue) talk over microphone: 4 6 8 10 14 16 20 22

switches on the talk over micro- Picture 7 MA 53 keyboard

phone as long as the button is
pressed. The level can be adjusted with the knobs ( or ). The actual value is
displayed in dBHL at the lower center of the LCD-display #.
$ left (blue) channel receiver selector:
changes the receiver from AC to BC or FF or INSERT (if option assembled). The
lighted LED above shows the current selection.
2nd level: selects test mode HL, UCL, MCL for selected receiver (see chapter 4.2)
3 FM - modulation (warble tone):
changes test signal from pure tone to warble tone.
2nd level: to enter the user menu press button during power on.
& left (blue) channel signal selector:
changes the test signal from pure tone to tape/CD or microphone or noise or
switches the channel off.
2nd level: calibration of tape/CD or live voice microphone (see chapter 6.2)
4 pulse tone:
enables pulsing of pure tone or warble tone.
2nd level: enter pulse tone menu: ABLB, DLI and SISI Test (see chapter 4.5)
. stim mode:
changes the signal presentation from presenter to interrupter mode.
2nd level: enables interlock function. Pressing left * or right + signal presentation bar

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
affects both channels.
5 swap function:
exchanges the outputs for both ears (i.e. the right controls now affect the left
ear).
6 tracking function:
enables the automatic tracking (see chapter 4.4 Masking).
2nd level: enters level step selection menu. The actual level step is displayed at the lower
center of the LCD-display #. Choose the level steps with the frequency up/down buttons
1and 0
' right (red) channel signal selector key:
changes the test signal from pure tone to tape/CD or microphone or noise or
switches the channel off.
2nd level: adjustment of talkback microphone and monitor phone (see chapter 6.2)
% right (red) channel receiver selector:
changes the receiver from AC to BC or FF or INSERT (if option assembled). The
lighted LED above shows the current selection.
2nd level: selects test mode HL, UCL,
MCL for selected receiver (see chapter
4.2)
7 right (red) channel talk over L R

microphone:
switches on talk over microphone STIM STIM

as long as the button is pressed. PAT

The level can be adjusted with the

+ +
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
Hz Hz

knobs ( or ). The actual value is INSERT NOISE NOISE INSERT

displayed in dBHL at the lower

FF MIC MIC FF
BC TAPE STIM TAPE BC
Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over

center of the LCD-display #.

1 right (red) frequency down: MAICO MA 53

changes to next lower frequency

0 right (red) frequency up: 4
5
6 8
9
10
11 13
14
15
16
17
20
21
22
changes to next higher frequency Picture 8 MA 53 keyboard
3.3.2 The display of the MA 53 HL
The large backlighted graphical LCD- Bone 70 dB L 1500 Warble
Hz R 90 dB
Air
Display # of the MA 53 shows all Tone Tracked
NB-Noise

actual settings and test results. The Talk Over

70 dB
display area is split with a line into an
upper or main area and a lower or Picture 9 MA 53 display for BC-test
advanced area (see picture 9). The
main area shows the individual settings for the left channel on the left and the
right channel on the right. General settings which affect both channels are
displayed in the middle. The example picture 9 shows a typical setting for a BC-

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
threshold test. The left channel is bone conduction with 70 dBHL , tone and
tracking function enabled. The right channel is set to 90 dBHL narrow band noise
with air conduction for masking. The test frequency is 1500 Hz and the test
signal is a warble tone. The lower section of the display shows that the talk over
microphone button 2 or 7 is pressed
and the audiologist talks to the patient 60 dB L 60% SRT
R 60 Air dB
with 70 dBHL. The HL in the upper row Air Tape/CD
Correct: 6
Wrong: 4 Speech-Noise
before 1500 Hz indicates that the
current measurement is stored as
Hearing Level (threshold) test.
Picture 10 shows the display for a Picture 10 MA 53 display for speech test
speech test with speech test material from tape or CD of the left ear and masking
of the opposite ear. The left part of the LCD-display # shows the settings for the
left channel:
level = 60 dBHL, receiver = AC, signal = tape/CD.
The middle of the LCD-display # shows the actual test and the result:
MS stands for multi syllable speech test,
speech discrimination = 60%, correct words = 6, wrong words = 4.
The right part of the LCD-display #shows the setting for the right channel:
level = 60 dBHL, receiver = AC, signal = speech-noise (masking).

The LCD-display # has an energy saver function: the backlight of the display is
automatically switched off after approximately three minutes. Any action with
the MA 53 such as pressing a button or turning the knobs switches the backlight
on again immediately.

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
4 Pure tone audiometry
4.1 Air Conduction (AC) Testing
In the hearing threshold test, the hearing threshold of the patient is measured in
comparison to the normal hearing threshold for air conduction. The test is started
on the ear with better hearing.
- The patient should sit at a distance of at least 1 m from the device.
- Eliminate any obstructions which will interfere with the placement of the
earphone cushions on the ear (i.e. hair, eyeglasses).
- Ensure that the headphones are put on correctly. Red
side on the right, blue side on the left. Adjust the
headband of the headphones so that the receivers are
at the correct height (the sound output grid 8 exactly
facing the ear canal).
- Start with the “better” ear at 1 kHz. (After switching
on, the frequency is automatically set to 1 kHz.) In the
following example we assume that the left is the
Picture 11 Headphone
“better” ear.
- Set the receiver selector $ to AC and the signal selector & to TONE.
- Set the left level control knob ( to a value just below expected hearing
loss.
- Explain to the patient that he
should press the button of the L R

patient response switch if he just

hears the test tone.
- Press the STIM bar * for a STIM

PAT
STIM

certain time to present the test +

Hz
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
+

Hz

tone. The STIM LED , should

light on. Talk Over
INSERT
FF
BC
AC
NOISE
MIC
TAPE
TONE
STIM
MODE
NOISE
MIC
TAPE
TONE
INSERT
FF
BC
AC Talk Over

- If the patient hears the test tone,

the patient response display MAICO MA 53
lights red. In this case decrease
the level with the level control 1 3 5 9 11
k n o b ( . P r o c e e d wit h 2 4 8 10 12

presenting the test signal as Picture 12 MA 53 controls and display for air
conduction threshold test of the left ear
described before.
- If the patient doesn't hear the test tone, increase the level with the level
control knob (. Proceed with presenting the test signal as described
before.

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
- When you find a stable threshold value, note the level and frequency. If the
MA 53 is connected to a PC, the value was stored with your last STIM
presentation.
- Test through the frequencies. Starting at 1 kHz, set the higher frequencies
first then the lower frequencies.
- Use the frequency up key / or 0 to select the higher frequencies and use
the frequency down ! or 1 to select the lower frequencies.
- Select the next frequency, increase the level again and proceed with
presenting the test signal as described before.
- Once all frequencies are tested choose the poorer ear and repeat the
hearing threshold test. You can do this with the corresponding controls on
the other side or just by pressing
the SWAP button 5. The SWAP 60 dB R 1500 HL
Hz L 30 AirdB
function enabled means that you Air Tone
Warble
Pulse Tone
measure the right ear using the
controls on the left side. The
ouput to the left and right
earphones are exchanged. Also, Picture 13 MA 53 display for AC-test with
the left and right display text is enabled SWAP function, Pulse and Warble tone
exchanged (see picture 13).
- The correct marks in an audiogram are: O (red) = right and X (blue) = left
Pulse tone: If required, the test can also be performed with a pulsed tone.
Press the PULSE button 4 and the pure tone will be switched 0.25s on and
0.25s off.
Warble tone: If required, the test can also be performed with a warble
tone. Press the FM button 3 and the pure tone will modulate frequency.
The warble tone can also be pulsed as described before.
For hygienic reasons it is important to clean the ear cushions of the
headphone (see chapter 11).
4.2 Uncomfortable Hearing Level (UCL) Testing
Testing of UCL can be measured using pure tone stimuli or speech (live voice
or tape/CD). The purpose is to determine the dB level at which the stimuli
becomes uncomfortable to the patient. This information is valuable for
determining the patient's upper dynamic range limit for proper hearing aid
fittings and for determining symptoms of recruitment.
Warning! Because this test uses high sound pressure levels, it is
extremely important to perform this test using the utmost caution to
avoid damaging the ear. To prevent the possibility of extreme
discomfort by the patient, it is important to start the test with levels
near the patient‘s MCL (Most Comfortable Level).
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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
The UCL level is described as the level between very loud and loud perception of
the test signal.
- Press the receiver selector button UL
$ or % longer than 2 seconds. Air60 dB L 1000 Hz R 30 Air dB
The LCD-display in the upper row Tone Tone
changes from HL to UL (see
picture 14).
- Start as described in chapter 4.1
with a test level of 60 dBHL. Picture 14 MA 53 display for UCL-test left
- Present the tone briefly (max. 1s).
- If the signal was recognized by the patient as not uncomfortable
increase the level and proceed as described before.
- If the signal was uncomfortable for the patient note the values.
- Proceed accordingly with other test frequencies.

For hygienic reasons it is important to clean the ear cushions of the

headphone (see chapter 11).

4.3 Bone Conduction (BC) Testing

Bone conduction, i.e. the transmission of sound
waves through the skull directly to the inner ear
conveys information about the function of the
inner ear. For a neural hearing loss the values of
air conduction (chapter 4.1) and bone
conduction are the same. In this case a hearing Picture 15 Bone conductor
loss of the middle ear can be eliminated.
- Place the bone conduction receiver so that the flat, circular side of the
transducer Y is placed on the mastoid, at
the noticeable ledge of the cranial bone
behind the auricle (see picture 16). The
other side of the headband is placed in
front of the opposite ear.
- Set the receiver selector $ or % to BC and
the signal selector & or ' to TONE.
- Perform the test the same way as for air
conduction (see 4.1). Enter the
measurements for all frequencies on the
form, connect all points with dotted lines
marked on the audiogram form as follows: Picture 16 Correct seating
of the bone conductor
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Operating Instructions MA 53
> = right and < = left
For hygienic reasons it is important to clean the bone conductor (see
chapter 11).
4.4 Masking of the opposite ear
The basics of masking are explained below. To begin testing immediately,
please go directly to 4.4.3 Manual masking.
4.4.1 Crossover:
When measuring a pure tone audiogram you assume that the measured
hearing threshold is correct. But if you recognize that sound is also
transmitted through bone conduction over the entire skull it is probable
that the opposite ear has also received sound. This is called “crossover”.
Crossover can also occur when measuring air conduction because the test
tone is received by the skull and transmitted by bone. Whether the
crossover signal can be heard by the opposite ear depends on its inner ear
function.
Relevant to crossover is the sound level which is received by the opposite
ear. The difference between the original test signal at the test ear and the
received signal at the opposite ear is called “interaural attenuation”.
For bone conduction measurement the interaural attenuation is 0 to 15 dB.
Bone conduction crossover is therefore possible even with a slight
difference in hearing loss between ears.
Important: Please advise the patient to tell you in which ear he hears the
test signal. It is thereby easier to detect crossover.
4.4.2 Masking theory:
To ensure that the patient will not experience crossover you must mask the
opposite ear. Masking increases the hearing threshold of the opposite ear.
The masking is done with a noise signal which is transmitted by the
headphone. For pure tone audiometry a narrowband noise is used. This
noise changes its center frequency according to the frequency of the test
signal.
4.4.3 Manual masking:
If you have to mask use the common masking rules. See chapter 9 for
recommended literature.
Masking is an important part of practical audiometry. It is necessary to be
familiar with this topic to avoid errors which would lead to a wrong
diagnosis.

- For the opposite ear set the receiver selector $ or %

to AC and the signal selector & or ' to NOISE.
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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
- Adjust the required masking level with the level
control knob ( or ).
- Notice that the masking sound is continuously
presented for effective masking. You can interrupt
the masking signal by pressing the corresponding
interrupter key * or +.
- To mask when performing bone conduction testing,
place the headphone on the opposite ear so that the
receiver is at the correct height (the sound output
Picture 17 Headphone
grid 8 exactly faces the ear canal). Adjust the
headband of the headphones. The receiver on the
side where the bone conductor is placed should be
seated directly on the cheek bone.
The marking for air conduction with masking should
be done with the symbols 9 = the right side and :
= the left side on the audiogram form. The marking
for bone conduction with masking should be done
with the symbols [ = the right side and ] = the left
side on the audiogram form. Picture 18 Correct seating
of the bone conductor
4.4.4 Automatic masking:
With the manual masking, as described before, you have to readjust the
masking level every time you change the test signal level. The MA 53 has a
tracking feature for easy masking.
- Adjust the test signal using the HL
level control knob ( or ), then Bone 45 dB L 1000 Hz R 65 Air dB
with the opposite level control Tone Tracked
NB-Noise
knob ) or ( adjust the
corresponding masking level.
- Now press the TRACK button 6. Picture 19 MA 53 display for bone conduction
The masking level is automatically with masking and enabled tracking function
changed if you adjust the test
signal level (e.g. if the test level was 30 dB and the masking level 50 dB and
if you change the test level to 45 dB the masking level is automatically
adjusted to 65 dB).

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Operating Instructions MA 53
4.5 Diagnostic Tests
4.5.1 Suprathreshold tests
The MA 53 offers additional suprathreshold tests which can offer more
information about the kind of the hearing loss.
To access suprathreshold tests HL
press the PULSE button 4 longer Air70 dB L 1000 Hz R 30 Air dB
than two seconds. The Tone Tone
suprathreshold test menu is now ABL 0.5 1.0 sec SISI
displayed on the lower part of DLI 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 dB

the LCD-display # (see Picture 20 MA 53 display with

picture 20). The actual choice is suprathreshold menu
displayed inversely. You can
toggle through the different options by briefly pressing the PULSE
button 4. Start the chosen option by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
4.5.1.1 The ABLB (Fowler) Test
The Alternate Binaural Loudness Balance test is a recruitment test which
uses the presentation of alternating tones between the two ears with
headphones. The intensity of the tone in the hearing-impaired ear is varied
until the loudness of the tone is judged by the patient to be equivalent to a
tone at a constant intensity in the normal ear. This is called loudness
balance. The test is done for various intensity levels in the normal ear.
- To start the test select 0.5 sec. or 1 sec. modulation time in the
suprathreshold menu (as decribed before under 4.5.1) and press the STIM
bar * or +.
- On the LCD-display # ABL is HL
shown with the chosen modu- Air50 dB L 2000 Hz R 50 Air dB
lation time (see picture 21). Tone ABL 0.5 s Tone

- Adjust the desired hearing levels

for both the normal ear and the
impaired ear using the level
control knobs ( and ). Picture 21 MA 53 display with ABLB test

- Press the STIM MODE button . to present the signal continuously.

- Now change the level for the hearing-impaired ear with the level control
knob ) or ( until the patient indicates that the loudness in both ears is
equal.
- Note the levels and proceed with other levels and frequencies as required.
- To exit the test briefly press the PULSE button 4.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
4.5.1.2 The DLI (Lüscher) Test
The Intensity Difference LImen for loudness test (or Just Noticeable
Difference, JND) is another recruitment test. A pure tone is amplitude
modulated at a rate of 2/second. The patient has to determine whether this
signal was steady or undulating (beating).
- To start the test select a modulation amplitude from 0.5 dB to 4.0 dB in the
suprathreshold menu (as decribed before under 4.5.1) and press the STIM
bar * or +.
- The LCD-display # shows DLI, 50 dB L 2000 HL
Hz R 50 dB
along with the chosen modu- Air Tone DLI 1.5 dB
Air
Tone
lation amplitude (see picture 22).
- Now adjust the required test
level with the level control knob
Picture 22 MA 53 display with DLI test
( or ) and present the test
signal by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
- To exit the test briefly press the PULSE button 4.
4.5.1.3 The SISI Test
The SISI (Short Increment Sensitivity Index) is guided by the principle that
patients with cochlear impairment are hypersensitive to small intensity
increments. The continuous test tone is increased by 1 dB for a period of
0.2 seconds every 4.8 seconds. Whenever the patient hears the increment,
he/she presses the patient response switch. The SISI test information and
the test score are shown on the LCD-display #. The test will end
automatically after 20 presented increments. The score is expressed as a
percentage of ratio of the increments heard to the delivered increments (all
increments heard = 100% - no increments heard = 0%). A high score
indicates a cochlear impairment. A low score is related to normal hearing or
conductive or retrocochlear pathology.
4.5.1.3.1 Preparation of the SISI Test
- To start the test select SISI in the suprathreshold menu (as decribed before
under 4.5.1) and press the STIM bar * or +. The display # changes to the
SISI conditioning screen (as shown in picture 23).
- Select the test frequency with HL
the frequency keys //! or Air 65 dB L 2000 Hz R -10 Air
dB
1/0. For the test you should Tone SISI Conditioning Tone

choose the frequency where the

maximum bone conduction 5 dB Presented: 0 Detected: 0
hearing loss is measured as Picture 23 MA 53 display with
described in chapter 4.3. SISI conditioning 5 dB

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Operating Instructions MA 53
- Adjust the test level with the level control knob ( or ). The level should
be set to a value 20 dB above the individual hearing threshold (measured
under chapter 4.1). It must reach at least 60 dBHL.
- Recognize that in the SISI mode the test signal is presented continuously.
You can interrupt the test by pressing the STIM bar * or + for the time
you hold it down.
- The patient must be instructed: "You will now hear a continuous tone.
Every time it becomes louder, immediately push the switch”.
4.5.1.3.2 Training of the Patient
Only with careful training during the following conditioning phase a valid
test result can be achieved.
- The training starts with a HL
modulation level of 5 dB. That Tone
65
Air
dB L 2000 Hz R -10 dB
Air
SISI Conditioning Tone
means a continuous tone, e.g.
65 dBHL, is briefly increased every Tone now Answer now
4.8 seconds for 0.2 seconds by
5 dB Presented: 4 Detected: 2
5 dB, e.g. to 70 dBHL. During the Picture 24 MA 53 display with
increment time the text “Tone SISI conditioning 5 dB and presented increment
now” is shown on the lower area of the LCD display # (see picture 24).
The text “Answer now” appears for approx. 1.5 seconds. During this
period the patient may respond. If he/she answers too early or too late the
answer will not be accepted by the MA 53.
- The number of detected increments is counted and shown on the lower
right area of the display. Furthermore, the number of presented increments
is shown (see picture 24).
- When you are sure that the patient has understood the object of the test,
press the the PULSE button 4. The modulation level will be changed to
3 dB.
- If the patient has also understood this part of the test, press the PULSE
button 4 again. The modulation level will be reduced to 2 dB.
4.5.1.3.3 SISI Test
- If the patient has understood the test up to here, press the PULSE button
4 again to start the SISI test.
- The LCD-display indicates SISI HL
Test (see picture 25) and the Tone
65
Air
dB L 2000 Hz R -10 dB
Air
SISI Test Tone
modulation level is adjusted to
1 dB. Now 20 increments will 1 dB Presented: 0 Detected: 0
be presented to the patient.
- You can delay the test for the Picture 25 MA 53 display with SISI test

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Operating Instructions MA 53
time you press STIM bar * or +. This could be helpful in determining if the
patient malingers.
- The test will end automatically HL
after 20 presented increments. Air 65 dB L 2000 Hz R -10 Air dB
The number of detected Tone SISI-Result Tone
increments is counted and
indicated as percentage of the 20% Presented: 20 Detected: 4
presented increments (see
picture 26). Picture 26 MA 53 display with SISI result
- If you are sure that the result of HL
the test is consistent you can Air 80 dB L 1500 Hz R -10 Air dB
abort the test at any time by Tone SISI-Aborted Tone
pressing the PULSE button 4.
The result is then indicated 50% Presented: 10 Detected: 5
accordingly (picture 27).
- Retrocochlear hearing impair- Picture 27 MA 53 display with aborted SISI test
ment is represented by low
scores (< 25 %), cochlear defects by high scores (> 70 %).
- Press any button to leave the SISI test.
4.5.2 The Stenger Test
The Stenger test is conducted as a malingering test in cases of alleged
hearing loss or unilateral deafness. It is based on the premise that when
two tones of the same frequency are presented simultaneously into both
ears, only the louder tone will be perceived.
- The patient with a feigned hearing loss will not be able to hear the quiet
tone, but will also not admit being able to hear the loud tone.
- Select the desired frequency with the frequency keys //! or 1/0 and
adjust the sound intensities with the level control knobs ( and ).
- Present the tone with the STIM bars * and +.
- The easiest procedure is to present the desired frequency into to the better
ear at a level of 10 dB above the threshold. At the same time present the
signal into the poorer ear (the one with the possible feigned loss) at a level
10 dB below the admitted threshold. If there is a real loss in the poorer ear,
the patient will be unaware of the signal in that ear and will respond only
to the tone in the good ear. If the patient does not respond at all it is likely
that the admitted threshold is incorrect and you have a “positive” Stenger.
4.5.2 The Threshold Decay (Carhart) Test
This examination is conducted as a fatigue test in cases of sensitivity loss.
- Select the desired frequency with the frequency keys //! or 1/0.
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Operating Instructions MA 53
- Adjust the sound level to a value of about 5 dB above the hearing threshold
with the level control knob ( or ).
- Instruct the patient to start pressing the patient response switch when he
hears a tone and to release the switch when he doesn't hear the tone
anymore.
- Enter continuous tone presentation by pressing the STIM MODE button .
to present the test signal or press the corresponding STIM bar * or +.
- The PAT response LED ; lights HL
and after two seconds a bar stop Air 35 dB L 500 Hz R -10 Air dB
watch with a scale from 0 to 60 Tone Tone
seconds appears on the lower Decay
area of the LCD-display # (see 0 10 20 30 40 50 60sec
picture 28). Picture 28 MA 53 display with
- When the patient releases the initial tone decay test
switch the bar of the stop watch stops and you can see the time the patient
heard the tone (see example
HL
picture 29). 35
Air
dB L 500 Hz R -10 Air dB
- If the time was less than 60 Tone Tone
seconds increase the level with Decay
the level control knob ( or ) by 0 10 20 30 40 50 60sec
5 dB. Picture 29 MA 53 display with
example tone decay test
- Press any button to erase the
stop watch on the display # and start the test again.
- Continue this procedure until the patient can hear the tone at least for
60 seconds.
- The threshold shift can be entered on the tone audiogram pad by drawing
a wavy line under the selected frequency.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
4.6 Dual Frequency Mode
The MA 53 offers the dual frequency mode to the right and the left ear
with different frequencies. This “true two channel” feature can be used to
detect frequency disorders.
- To enable the dual frequency mode press the left frequency up key / and
frequency down key ! simul-
HL
taneously. 50
Air
dB L 1000 2000 Hz R 50 dB
Air
- The LCD-display # now shows Tone Tone
the test frequency of the left
channel on the left (in example
picture 30 1000 Hz) and the test
Picture 30 MA 53 display with
frequency of the right channel on dual frequency mode
the right (in example picture 30
2000 Hz) of the center.
- Use the frequency up key / to select the higher frequencies and the
frequency down key ! to select the lower frequencies for the left channel.
- The frequencies of the right channel could be selected independent from
the left with the frequency up key 0 and the frequency down key 1.
- To exit the dual frequency mode press the left frequency up key / and
frequency down key ! simultaneously again.
- The LCD-display # now shows HL
the test frequency for both Air50 dB L 1500 Hz R 50 Air
dB
channels in the center (in Tone Tone
example picture 31 1500 Hz).

Picture 31 MA 53 display with

single frequency mode

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Operating Instructions MA 53
4.7 High Frequency Audiometry (optional)
The optional High Frequency Audiometry offers tone audiometry with the
additional test frequencies 9000 Hz, 10000 Hz, 11200 Hz, 12500 Hz,
14000 Hz and 16000 Hz. Tests using this advanced frequencies give
additional information of the individual hearing performance. They are
especially usefull for the early detection of hearing damages of younger
persons.
- The headphone Sennheiser HDA
200 is designed for high Air 30 dB L 16000 HzHL R -20 Air dB
frequency audiometry. The HDA Tone Tone
200 works over the full
frequency range from 125 Hz to
16000 Hz.
Picture 32 MA 53 display for
- It is possible to use the HDA 200 high frequency audiometry
as standard AC receivers for all
AC tests or to use two AC-receivers with the MA 53. In this case the
normal AC receiver (TDH 39) goes up to 8000 Hz. The HDA 200 is selected
with the receiver selector key $ or % as “insert phone”.
- The high frequency bone conduction receiver KLH 96 is optionally available
for BC measurements from 125 Hz to 16000 Hz.
- The tests with high frequencies are done as described before in chapter 4.
- The minimum hearing level starts for frequencies from 9000 Hz to
16000 Hz at -20 dBHL.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
6 Speech Audiometry
6.1 Connecting the speech source
6.1.1 Connecting a CD or tape-player
To conduct speech tests using speech test
material you can connect a CD- or tape-
player to the MA 53. Use a standard
phono plug cable to connect the right and R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L

left outputs of the device with the SIGNAL TAPE / CD MONITOR TB MIC

corresponding inputs < and = on the rear

TAPE / CD R SPEECH L
R L R 2 L R L
MIC

panel of the MA 53 (see picture 46). To

avoid pinching the cables when closing
the cover, lay the cables in the slots
provided. L M
Picture 46 MA 53 rear panel
If you are using a small portable CD- with TAPE/CD input
player or tape you can place it on top of
the cover of the MA 53 as shown in
picture 47. This saves space and makes
the usage of the CD-player or tape very
convenient.
Caution: If you are using a CD- or tape-
player powered by electric current, the
player must meet electric safety
requirements, such as IEC 601-1 or UL.
This is to avoid electric shock of either the
patient or you. If you are not sure if your
player meets these requirements it is
safer to use battery power.
5.1.2 Connection of Microphone Picture 47 MA 53 in operational
Connect the right microphone to the R with portable CD-player
SPEECH MIC connector > and the left
microphone to the L SPEECH MIC
connector ? on the rear panel of the
MA 53 (see picture 48). To avoid
R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L
pinching the cables when closing the
cover, lay the cables in the slots SIGNAL TAPE / CD TAPE / CD MONITOR TB MIC
R SPEECH L
provided. Place the microphones on top R L R 2 L R L
MIC

of the cover of the MA 53 (as shown in

picture 47). The microphones can be
used for live speech audiometry and Picture 48 MA 53 rear panel
communication with the patient. If your with SPEECH MIC input S U
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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
instrument is supplied with a monitor/mic headset, connect the phone plug
labeled M with the SPEECH MIC connector ?.
6.2 Speech Calibration
6.2.1 Calibration of the CD or tape with speech test material
The MA 53 must be calibrated to the particular speech test material in use to
ensure valid test levels. That means every time you change the CD or tape you
must recalibrate the instrument.
- To calibrate the Tape/CD speech
input select TAPE/CD with the left L R

SIGNAL selector key &.

- Press the left SIGNAL key &
longer than 2 seconds.
STIM STIM

PAT

- In the lower area of the display #

+ +
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
Hz Hz

the text Calibration appears. INSERT

FF
NOISE
MIC
NOISE
MIC
INSERT
FF

You also see the actual settings in

BC TAPE STIM TAPE BC
Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over

% of the maximum calibration

for both channels (see MAICO MA 53

picture 50).
- On every CD or tape with speech 2 3 7
10 18
19 23
24
test material you have a reference
signal, such as a reference tone Picture 49 MA 53 controls and displays
or speech simulating noise. for speech calibration
- Perform the reference signal with Tape or CD.
- Use the left knob ( for the left SRT
channel and the right knob ) for Air30 dB L Correct:0% 0
R 30 Air dB
the right channel and adjust the Tape/CD Wrong: 0 Tape/CD
levels until both VU-meters @ Calibration
and # show all yellow and one 95% 95%
green light. Picture 50 MA 53 display with
- If one or more red lights are on, speech calibration of CD-player or tape
reduce the level using the corresponding knobs ( or ).
- Store the calibration by pressing
the STIM bar * or +. SRT
5.2.1 Calibration of the microphone
30 dB L Air
0% R Correct:
30 dB
0 Air
Microphone Wrong: 0 Microphone
for live speech test
- To calibrate the SPEECH MIC
input select MIC with the left Picture 51 MA 53 display with
SIGNAL selector key &. speech calibration of the microphone

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Operating Instructions MA 53
- Press the left SIGNAL key & longer than 2 seconds.
- In the lower area of the display # the text Calibration appears. You also
see the actual settings in % of the maximum calibration for both channels.
- Position yourself the customary distance from the microphone and speak
test words.
- Use the left knob ( to adjust the level until both VU-meters @ and # show
all yellow and one green light.
- If one or more red lights are on, reduce the level using the knob (.
- Store the calibration by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
6.3 Connection and adjustment of the monitor phone
6.3.1 Connection of the monitor phone
Connect the monitor phone plug E to the
MONITOR connector A at the rear panel
of the MA 53 (see picture 52). To avoid
pinching the cables when closing the
cover, lay the cables in the slots provided.
The monitor phone allows you and the R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L

patient to hear the speech test material SIGNAL TAPE / CD TAPE / CD MONITOR TB MIC
R SPEECH L

simultaneously. This helps to determine if R L R 2 L R L

MIC

the test word was understood by the

patient. If the talk back option of the
MA 53 is installed, the communication
O
from the patient to the operator will be Picture 52 MA 53 rear panel
heard with the monitor phone. with MONITOR phone output
6.3.2 Adjustment of the monitor phone
- To adjust the output level of the monitor phone press the right SIGNAL key
' longer than 2 seconds.
- In the lower right area of the SRT
display # the text Monitor Air
30 dB L 0%
Correct: 0
R 30 Air dB
Tape/CD Wrong: 0 Tape/CD
appears. Below that you see the
actual settings in % of the Talk Back 0%
Level Monitor
95%
maximum output level (see
picture 53). Picture 53 MA 53 display with
- Perform a test signal with Tape, adjustment of the monitor phone
CD or the talk back microphone (if installed).
- Use the right knob ) and adjust the output level that is comfortable for
you.
- Store the adjustment by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
6.4 Speech Audiometry

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
The speech-recognition threshold SRT is the hearing threshold for speech.
It is the lowest level at which the patient correctly recognizes the stimuli
50% of the time. Usually, recognition is indicated by repetition of the
speech-stimulus item. The speech test can be done with recorded speech
test material from CD or tape or with the microphone and live voice using
standardized word lists. Different methods for speech tests are standardized
worldwide such as the ASHA guidelines for determining the threshold level
for speech (Asha 21, page 353-356).
- Explain to the patient that he should repeat each word he hears.
- The patient should sit at a distance of at least 1 m from the device.
- Eliminate any obstructions which will interfere with the
placement of the earphone cushions on the ear (i.e.
hair, eyeglasses).
- Ensure the headphones are put on correctly. Red side
on the right, blue side on the left. Adjust the
headband of the headphones so that the receivers are
at the correct height (the sound output grid 8 exactly Picture 54 Headphone
facing the ear canal).
- Set the receiver selectors $ and SRT
% to AC and the signal selectors Air30 dB L Correct:0% 0
R 30 Air dB

& and ' both to TAPE/CD (if Tape/CD Wrong: 0 Tape/CD

you are using recorded speech

test material) or to MIC (if you
wish to perform a speech test Picture 55 MA 53 display with
with live speech). initial settings for speech audiometry
- On the LCD-display # the initial
setting for speech audiometry (see picture 55) appears. The percentage of
the speech discrimination score is displayed in the middle. Below this, the
number of correct and incorrect words is shown.
- If you are using CD or tape, put the monitor phone on to hear the test
words.
- Depending on your test method, use the level control knob ( or ) to set
the start level.
- Perform the test words.
- Tally the correct words by pressing the frequency up key / or 0.
- Tally the incorrect words by pressing the frequency down key ! or 1.
- When you finish a word list, note the percentage of the speech

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53
discrimination score. In the
SRT
example shown in picture 56, 40 dB L 50% R -10 AirdB
Air Correct: 5
one half of the words were heard Tape/CD Wrong: 5 Tape/CD
correctly.
- If you are working online with a
PC press the STIM bar * or + to
Picture 56 MA 53 display with
transfer the test result to the PC typical result for speech audiometry
(see also chapter 10).
- To clear the score for the next test, press the FM key 3.
It is also possible to perform the speech test with loudspeakers (e.g. for the
verification of hearing aid fitting) or bone conduction.
- Select the required transducer with the RECEIVER selection button $ or %
and proceed as described before.
6.5 Masking
Speech audiometry has similar masking rules to those desribed in chapter
4.4 for pure tone audiometry.
When TAPE/CD or MIC is selected on one channel, and NOISE masking on
the opposite channel, the MA 53 automatically performs speech masking
noise.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
7 Advanced features
7.1 Complex mixing
The complex mixing feature of the MA 53 allows the operator to route two
different test signals to the same ear. The test signals and the test levels are
independently adjustable but will be presented to one ear (ipsilateral). This
feature could be used to test with speech in noise, competing message
tests, tone on noise or several other combinations.
- To enter the complex mixing
press the swap key 5 longer Air30 dB L 1000 HzHL R 30 Air dB
than 2 seconds. Tone NB-Noise

- The LCD-display # shows the Mixing

L=L+R off R=R+L off
mixing selections (see
picture 57). Picture 57 MA 53 display with
- Use the left frequency up key / mixing selection screen
to switch on the mixing for the
left ear and the right frequency 30 dB L 1000 HL
Hz R 30 dB
up key 0 for the right ear. Air
Tone
Air
NB-Noise
- Picture 58 shows i.e. the LCD-
Mixing
display for enabled mixing on the L=L+R on R=R+L off
left ear.
- Store the selection by pressing Picture 58 MA 53 display with
the STIM bar * or +. mixing selection for the left ear

- The LCD-display # now shows HL

the actual setting for mixing. In Air
30 dB LR 1000 Hz 30 dB
Tone NB-Noise
the example picture 59 is a pure
tone with a level of 30 dBHL and a
narrow band noise with a level of
30 dBHL, both with a frequency of
Picture 59 MA 53 display with
1000 Hz, presented to the left selected mixing for the left ear
ear.
- Adjust hearing level and the test signal independently for both channels.
Both signals will be mixed and presented to the left ear.
- You can also select other receivers like BC, FF or insert phone for the left
ear with the left receiver selector key $.
- Other possible selections are mixing with presentation to the right ear or to
both ears.
- To exit the complex mixing press the swap key 5 longer than 2 seconds
and switch the mixing for the left and the right ear to the off position.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
7.2 Advanced Noise Selection
The MA 53 offers for advanced masking or testing the selection of narrow
band noise, speech masking noise and white noise as test signal.
- Enable this feature from the user setup menu (see chapter 8.17)
- The additional signals are now available as test signals. Select the required
signal by pressing the signal selector key & for the left channel and key '
for the right channel.
- When the noise-LED lights you can choose between NB-Noise, Speech-
Noise and White Noise by pressing the signal selector key.
7.3 Talk-back microphone
The optional talk-back microphone allows the patient to speak to the
operator. This feature is used if the
patient sits in a sound excluding
booth. The communication from the
patient to the operator will be heard
with the monitor phone. R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L

7.3.1 Connection of the talk-back

microphone R
SIGNAL
L
TAPE / CD
R 2 L
TAPE / CD
R L
MONITOR TB MIC
R SPEECH L
MIC

Connect the talk-back microphone

plug to the TB MIC connector B at
the rear panel of the MA 53 (see
picture 60).To avoid pinching the Picture 60 MA 53 rear panel Q
cables when closing the cover, lay with TALK-BACK MICROPHONE and
the cables in the slots provided. ASSISTANT-PHONE connector
7.3.2 Adjustment of the talk-back microphone
- To adjust the level of the talk- SRT
back microphone press the right Air 30 dB L 0%
Correct: 0
R 30 Air dB
SIGNAL key ' longer than 2 Tape/CD Wrong: 0 Tape/CD

seconds. Talk Back Level Monitor

0% 95%
- In the lower left area of the
display # the text Talk Back Level Picture 61 MA 53 display with
appears. Below that you see the adjustment of the talk-back microphone
actual settings in % of the
maximum output level (see picture 61).
- Let the patient say some test words with the talk-back microphone.
- Use the right knob ) and adjust the output level that is comfortable for
you.
- Store the adjustment by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
7.4 Assistant phone
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Operating Instructions MA 53
The optional assistant phone allows the operator to speak directly to an
assistant person in the sound excluding booth. This could be a parent when
measuring a children. The operator speaks to the assistant person via the
talk forward microphone and the assistant phone. This communication
cannot be heard by the patient.
- To talk to the patient press the left TALK OVER button 2.
- To talk to the assistant person press the right TALK OVER button 7.
7.4.1 Connection of the assistant phone
Connect the assistant phone with the attached connecting cable together
with the talk-back microphone to
the TB MIC connector B at the rear
panel of the MA 53 (see picture
62).To avoid pinching the cables
when closing the cover, lay the
R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L
cables in the slots provided.
7.4.2 Adjustment of the assistant R
SIGNAL
L
TAPE / CD TAPE / CD
R L
MONITOR TB MIC
R SPEECH L
R 2 L MIC
phone
- Press the right TALK OVER key 7. In
the lower area of the display # the
volume level of the assistant phone Q
is shown (see picture 63).
Picture 62
- Adjust the assistant volume with
MA 53 rear panelwithSRT
TALK-BACK
the left ( or right ) knob. 30 dB L 0% R 30 Air
MICROPHONE and ASSISTANT-PHONE dB
Air Correct: 0
- Release the TALK OVER key 7 if Tape/CD connector
Wrong: 0 Tape/CD
you have finished talking to the Assistant
patient. 95%

Picture 63
MA 53 display with
adjustment of the assistant phone

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Operating Instructions MA 53
8 Quick reference guide
8.1 Startup settings
Air conduction on both channels
Pure tone on both channels
30 dBHL on both channels
Presenter mode
8.2 Receiver selection
Press either the right % or left $ RECEIVER key to select the receiver (AC,
BC, FF, INSERT). The display # shows the selected receiver below the levels.
Not available receivers will be skipped. It is not possible to select bone on
both channels simultaneously.
After a new selection the level will be reset to 30 dBHL.
8.3 Signal selection
Press either the right ' or left & SIGNAL key to select the signal. The kind
of NOISE signal depends on the signal of the opposite channel. Speech
masking noise is used if on the opposite channel the speech signal is
selected (see 8.4 below). The display # shows the selected signal below the
receiver text.
The 5. Position is signal off. The light at the signal key & or ' and the
STIM LED , or - is off and the level in the display # is erased.
8.4 How to select tone or speech audiometry mode
There are two modes of audiometry.
Tone audiometry : shows level and frequency on the display #
Speech audiometry : shows level, correct and incorrect words and
speech discrimination in percentage on the display
This table shows how to select one of these modes:

Signal left Signal right Mode

Tone Tone Tone

Tone Noise (NBN) Tone

Tone Tape/CD or LV Tone

Noise (NBN) Tone Tone

Tape/CD or LV Tone Tone

Tape/CD or LV Tape/CD or LV Speech

Tape/CD or LV Noise (Speech) Speech

Noise (Speech) Tape/CD or LV Speech

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Operating Instructions MA 53
8.5 Frequency selection
Use one of the two sets of frequency keys //! or 1/0 to select the
frequency. The maximum and minimum frequency depends on the receiver
you have selected.
8.6 Warble tone (FM)
Press the FM key 3 to activate the warble tone. Warble is shown in the
display #.
Press the FM key 3 again to switch back to pure tone.
8.7 Pulse tone
Press the PULSE key 4 to activate the pulse tone. Pulse is shown in the
display # and the light above the PULSE key 4 is on.
Press the PULSE key # again to deactivate pulsing.
8.8 Suprathreshold tests
Press the PULSE key # longer than 2 seconds. In the lower area of the
display # the parameters of the ABLB, DLI and SISI test are shown.
Using the PULSE key 4, select the test and parameter.
Press one of the STIM bars * or + to select your choice. The lower area of
the display # is cleared and the selected test is shown on the display #.
The light above the PULSE key 4 is on.
To change to another parameter press the PULSE key 4 again and hold
longer than 2 seconds.
To end the selected test, press the PULSE key 4 briefly.
8.8.1 SISI Test
Once SISI is selected, the test begins immediately by conditioning in
5 dB increments. Press the PULSE key again to enter the next levels
of SISI conditioning (3 dB, then 2 dB) and to start the SISI test (1dB).
During the test the display # shows the increment level, the number
of presented increments and the number of correct answers given by
the patient. In addition, “Tone Now“ is displayed when an
increment is presented and “Answer Now“ is displayed during the
answer acceptance time.
During SISI-conditioning it is possible to clear the counters by
pressing the FM key 3.
To cancel the conditioning and the SISI test and to return to standard
operation press the SWAP key 5.
After 20 increments the SISI test is finished. The text SISI Result with
the result in percentage is shown.
You can stop the SISI test with the PULSE key 4. The text SISI
aborted and the actual result in percentage is shown.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
Press the PULSE key 4 to quit the SISI test.
8.8.2 Decay test (Carhart)
If the patient presses the patient response switch longer than 3 seconds, in
the lower area of the display # a decay bar appears and shows the counted
time until the patient releases the patient response switch.
To clear the display # and reset the decay function press one of the STIM
bars * or +.
8.9 Swap function
Press the SWAP key 5 to exchange the left and right channel. The big
letters R and L will be swapped in the display # and the light above the
SWAP key 5 is on.
Press the SWAP key 5 again to deactivate swapping.
8.10 Tracking function
Press the TRACK key 6 to activate tracking. Both the left and right sides of
the display # will say TRACKED, meaning that both channels are tracking
each other. If NOISE is selected on one channel, the text TRACKED is
erased, because a noise channel is not allowed to track a signal channel.
Press the TRACK key 6 again to deactivate tracking.
8.11 STIM Mode selection
Press STIM MODE . key to switch between continuous presentation and
presentation by pressing the STIM bar * or +. When in continuous
presentation mode the STIM bars * and + function as interrupters. The
light above the STIM MODE key . is on if continuous presentation is
selected.
Speech and noise are always in continuous presentation, except when both
channels are selected as noise.
Press the STIM MODE key . again to deactivate continuous presentation.
8.12 Interlock function
Press the STIM MODE key . longer than 2 seconds to activate the interlock
function. The display # shows the text Interlock.
Interlock works only if both channels have the same kind of signal (speech,
tone or noise). In modes where no interlock is available the display # shows
No Interlock.
Press the STIM MODE key . longer than 2 seconds to deactivate the
interlock function.
8.13 Talk-over microphone
Press one of the TALK OVER keys 2 and 7. In the lower area of the
display # the volume level of the talk-over microphone is shown.
Adjust the talk forward volume with the left ( or right ) knob.
Release the TALK OVER key 2 or 7 if you have finished talking to the
patient.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
8.14 Talk-back microphone and Monitor volume control
Press the right SIGNAL key ' longer than 2 seconds and the volume control
bars for TB and monitor are shown.
Adjust the monitor volume with the right knob ).
Adjust the talk-back microphone volume with the left knob (.
To store the actual settings press one of the STIM bars * or +.
8.15 Speech audiometry
To select speech audiometry switch both channels to TAPE/CD or MIC by
using the SIGNAL selector keys $ and '. In speech mode the display #
shows the percentage of correct repeated words. Below this percentage the
number of correct and wrong repeated words is shown.
To count the correct words press one of the frequency up keys / or 0.
To count the wrong words press one of the frequency down keys ! or 1.
To clear the counter press the FM key 3.
8.16 Speech calibration
To calibrate the speech inputs TAPE/CD or MIC select the signal you'd like
to calibrate with the left SIGNAL selector key &.
Press the left SIGNAL key & longer than 2 seconds. In the lower area of
the display # the text Calibration appears. Perform the reference signal
with Tape, CD or microphone. Use the left knob ( for the left channel and
the right knob ) for the right channel and adjust the levels until both VU-
meters @ and # show all yellow and one green light. If one or more red
lights are on, reduce the level using the corresponding knobs ( or ).
Store the calibration by pressing the STIM bar * or +.
8.17 User menu
To enter the User Menu you have to press the FM key &.
To choose an item from the menu use the FREQUENCY keys //! or 1/0.
To select the chosen item press one of the STIM bars * or +.
Change the actual setting with the FREQUENCY keys //! or 1/0.
To confirm the changed setting press one of the STIM bars * or +.
To return without change press the FM key &.
To return to the standard operation press the FM key & at the user menu.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
These menu items are available :

FF Set 1/2* Select the calibration for the first or the second loudspeaker set
Bin Monaural Select the signal source channel for CD/TAPE (Bin/Left/Right)
User Setup Setup of special functions
User Preference Customization of the instrument
* = only accessable if option is purchased

The User Setup Menu has the following selections:

Frequence Roll Setting of frequency control function (stop at highest and lowest
frequency or continuous change)
Default Levelset Initial level (signal or receiver change) is 30 dBHL or not altered
Monitor with STIM Monitor phone active only with speech or presentation of actual
test signal
SRT Test Enable/disable Speech Reception Threshhold test
Adv. Noise Select. Enable/disable additional masking / test signals ( NB-noise, speech-
noise, white noise)
el. Output FF Electric output off or active when FF selected

The User Preference Menu has the following selections:

Off Signal Enable/disable switch off position of signal selector key & and '
Start with IP* Default setting of INSERT instead of AC
Start Tone / NBN Initial masking setting of right channel on/off
Language Select Submenu to select language
Presenter 1.5s The signal will only 1.5 s presented when the STIM bar is pressed
Invers Dials Changes direction of level control dials ( and )
Interru./Present Default setting of STIM MODE (Presenter or Interrupter)
Bone-Mask-System* Activates the special MAICO Bone Masking headset
(not available in the USA)
* = only accessable if option is purchased

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Operating Instructions MA 53
9 Recommended literature
Audiometric Interpretation: A Manual of Basic Audiometry
Lloyd, Lyle L., and Harriet Kaplan
Baltimore: University Park Press, 1980

Auditory Disorders: A Manual for Clinical Evaluation

Jerger, Susan, and James Jerger
Boston: College Hill Press, 1981

Handbook of Clinical Audiology

Katz, Jack
Baltimore: William & Wilkins, 1994

Roeser‘s Audiology Desk Reference

Roeser, Ross J.
New York / Stuttgart: Thieme, 1996

Auditory Diagnosis
Silam, Shlomo and Carol A. Silvermann
San Diego / London: Singular Publishing Group, 1997

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Operating Instructions MA 53
10 Computer interface
The MA 53 has a built-in serial RS 232 PC-interface for data transfer to a
connected PC. The serial cable to connect the MA 53 with the PC should be a
normal, non twisted 9-pin extension cable. It has a male and a female connector
with all wires directly connected 1:1. It is also sold as monitor extension cable.
Caution: The computer you are using must meet electric safety
requirements, such as IEC 601-1 or UL. This is to avoid electric shock of
either the patient or you.

All test results are transferred online to the PC and stored in the database.
- In pure tone audiometry initially
all measured data is transferred Air30 dB L 1000 HL Hz L 30 Air
dB
as hearing threshold data. You Tone Tone
can see the letters HL meaning
threshold measurement in the
upper middle of the LCD- Picture 64 MA 53 display with
display # (see picture 64). pure tone threshold setting
- To test the uncomfortable level (UCL) press the receiver selector button $
or % longer than 2 seconds and the LCD-display # in the upper row
changes from HL to UL. All measured data is now transferred as UCL data.
- To test the most comfortable level (MCL) press the receiver selector
button $ or % longer than 2 seconds and the LCD-display # in the upper
row changes from UL to ML. All measured data is now transferred as MCL
data.
- In speech audiometry initially all SRT
measured data is transferred as Air30 dB L Correct:0% 0
R 30 AirdB

Speech Reception Threshhold Tape/CD Wrong: 0 Tape/CD

test data. You can see the

indication SRT in the upper
middle of the LCD-display # (see Picture 65 MA 53 display with
picture 65). speech setting
- To test with single syllables press the receiver selector button $ or % longer
than 2 seconds and the LCD-display # in the upper row changes from MS
to SS. All measured data is now transferred as single syllable test data.
- To test the uncomfortable level (UCL) for speech press the receiver selector
button $ or % longer than 2 seconds and the LCD-display # in the upper
row changes from SS to UL. All measured data is now transferred as UCL
speech data.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
11 Care and maintenance of the instrument
Disconnect the power plug before cleaning!
- To clean the instrument, headphones,
bone conduction receiver, loud-
speaker and other accessories use a
soft cloth dampened with a little
warm soapy water or washing-up
liquid; no alcohol or spirits should
be used.
- The ear cushions Z of the headphone
can be detached for cleaning. To
remove the ear cushion Z pull it
gently from the earphone. To
assemble the cleaned or changed ear
cushion press it on the earphone and
make sure that it sits properly. The
sound outlet hole must be exactly in
the middle of the earphone.
Picture 66 Changing of the
ear cushions

- During cleaning, please ensure that no liquid runs into the switches, level
control, headphone capsules or loudspeaker openings.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
12 Trouble shooting
If you should find that your instrument is no longer working properly during a
test run, please check the following points:

Diodes in the buttons do not light up and the

LCD-Display is blank #:
- Is the power cord plugged in correctly?

- Check the power fuses C.

96 - 240 V / 50 - 60 Hz

1 AT RS 232

Disconnect the power plug, unscrew the fuses

C alongside the power cord socket and check
the fuses. If the wire in the glass vial is broken,
please insert new fuses (1 A slow blow).
A B
Picture 67 Power socket and fuses
Diodes light up, but test tone is absent:
- Green STIM LED , or - does not light:
- Press STIM bar * or + (when the diode lights up and the tone is available,
the device works in presenter mode).

- Green STIM LED , or - does light:

- Is level control ( or ) set to an audible level position?
- Are the acoustic receivers connected to the correct socket?
- Is the required receiver with button $ or % selected - is the correct LED lit?
- Is the lead connecting the headphones, bone conductor or loudspeaker
loose or defective?

If your instrument still does not work properly after this short check, please
consult your dealer or service center.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
13 Technical Data
The MA 53 audiometer is an active, diagnostic medical
product according to the class IIa of the EU medical directive
0124 93/42/EEC.
Standards: IEC 645-1/ EN 60 645-1: Type 2
IEC 645-2 : Type A
ANSI S3.6-1996 : Type 1 HF A
Test-Frequencies: 125 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 750 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 2 kHz,
(individual selectable 3 kHz, 4 kHz, 6 kHz, 8 kHz, 12 kHz, 9 kHz*, 10 kHz*,
for each channel) 11.2 kHz*, 12.5 kHz*, 14 kHz*, 16 kHz*
* = with optional HDA 200
Level step: 5 dB, 2 dB or 1 dB level steps (user selectable)
Sound Pressure Level: AC with earphone Telephonics TDH 39:
- 10 dBHL ... 120 dBHL ( 125 Hz -10 dBHL .. . 80 dBHL)
( 250 Hz -10 dBHL ... 100 dBHL)
( 500 Hz, 4 kHz, 6 kHz -10 dBHL ... 115 dBHL)
( 8 kHz -10 dBHL ... 105 dBHL)
( 12 kHz -10 dBHL ... 90 dBHL)
BC with bone conduction receiver Radio Ear B 71:
- 10 dBHL ... 80 dBHL ( 250 Hz, 6 kHz -10 dBHL ... 50 dBHL)
( 500 Hz, 750 Hz, -10 dBHL ... 60 dBHL)
( 1 kHz -10 dBHL ... 75 dBHL)
( speech -10 dBHL ... 75 dBHL)
( 125 Hz, 8 kHz no output )
AC with optional earphone Sennheiser HDA 200:
- 10 dBHL ... 120 dBHL
( 125 Hz, 8 kHz, 9 kHz -10 dBHL ... 100 dBHL)
( 250 Hz, 4 kHz, 6 kHZ, 9 kHz -10 dBHL ... 110 dBHL)
( 2 kHz, 3 kHz -10 dBHL ... 115 dBHL)
( 10 kHz, 11.2 kHz, 12,5 kHz -10 dBHL ... 90 dBHL)
( 14 kHz -10 dBHL ... 80 dBHL)
( 16 kHz -10 dBHL ... 60 dBHL)
Insert earphone with optional EAR 3A:
- 10 dBHL ... 110 dBHL ( 125 Hz -10 dBHL ... 75 dBHL)
( 250 Hz, 6 kHz -10 dBHL ... 90 dBHL)
( 750 Hz, 1 kHz -10 dBHL ...115 dBHL)
( 8 kHz -10 dBHL .. . 85 dBHL)
FF with optional loudspeaker Canton Plus XS: (not available in USA)

- 10 dBHL... 90 dBHL (measurement in 1m distance)

( 125 Hz -10 dBHL ... 65 dBHL)
( 250 Hz, 8 kHz -10 dBHL ... 75 dBHL)
( 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, speech -10 dBHL ... 85 dBHL)

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Operating Instructions MA 53
FF with optional portable loudspeaker MAICO SBC:
- 10 dBHL... 90 dBHL (measurement in 1m distance)
( 125 Hz, 250 Hz no output )
( 750 Hz, 8 kHz -10 dBHL ... 80 dBHL)
( 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, speech -10 dBHL ... 85 dBHL)
( 3 kHz, 4 kHz -10 dBHL ... 100 dBHL)

Test Signal: Pure tone, pulse tone, warble tone, narrowband noise,
broadband noise (speech masking noise)
Modulation: Pulse tone: 0.5 s on/off
Warble tone: triangular, freq. deviation 5%,
repetition rate 5 Hz
Tests: ABLB (Fowler): 0.5 s and 1 s
DLI (Lüscher): 4; 3; 2; 1.5; 1 and 0.5 dB
SISI test: 5 dB, 3 dB, 2 dB conditioning;
1 dB test; Modulation time 4.8/0.2 s
Carhart decay test (built-in stop watch)
Stenger test
Functions: Tone presenter / interrupter
Interlock (tone presentation of both channels
simultaneously)
Channel swap
Tracking (fixed level difference between both channels)
Mixing (ipsilateral presentation of both channels)
Talk forward, Talk back, Monitor phone, Assistant phone
Warm-up time: less than 10 min after power on
Environment + 15 ... + 35 /C / + 59 ... + 95 /F (operation)
conditions: + 5 ... + 50 /C / + 41 ... + 122 /F (storage)
Maximum humidity 90 % (storage and operation)
Dimensions: W x D x H: 36 x 46 x 15 cm / 14.2” x 18.1” x 5.9”
Weight: 4.6 kg / 10.1 lbs (with accessories 5.8 kg / 12.8 lbs)
Power Supply: 100 - 240 V~ 50/60 Hz ±10 %
Power Consumption: approx. 25 VA
Device Fuses: 2x 1A slow blow

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Operating Instructions MA 53
Connection plugs: Connection Specification
D power socket left/right=power, (100 ... 240 V~ 50/60 Hz)
middle=prot.GND
C power fuses 1 A slow blow
E serial PC-interface 1=GND, 2=RX, 3=TX, RS 232 C
5=GND, 6=DTR
F patient response switch sleeve=GND, tip=in RI= 500 S
G signal output right sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 47 kS, UA= 8 Veff
H signal output left sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 47 kS, UA= 8 Veff
I FF (loudspeaker) right channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 4 S, UA= 8 Veff
J tape/CD input right channel sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 47 kS, UI= 0.04 - 5 Veff
K FF (loudspeaker) left channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 4 S, UA= 8 Veff
< tape/CD input left channel sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 47 kS, UI= 0.04 - 5 Veff
L masking phone for BC (option) sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA=10 S, UA=1 Veff
= tape/CD input right channel sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 47 kS, UI= 0.04 - 5 Veff
< tape/CD input left channel sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 47 kS, UI= 0.04 - 5 Veff
M BC (bone conduction receiver) sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 4 S, UA= 8 Veff
A monitor phone sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA= 250 S, UA= 8 Veff
N insert phone right channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA=10 S, UA=1 Veff
B talk-back microphone sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 1 kS, UI= 0.38 - 500 mVeff
assistant phone sleeve=GND, ring=out ZA= 250 S, UA= 8 Veff
O insert phone left channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA=10 S, UA=1 Veff
> right live voice microphone sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 1 kS, UI= 0.38 - 500 mVeff
P AC (headphone) right channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA=10 S, UA=1 Veff
? left live voice microphone sleeve=GND, tip=in ZI= 1 kS, UI= 0.38 - 500 mVeff
Q AC (headphone) left channel sleeve=GND, tip=out ZA=10 S, UA=1 Veff

R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L

100 - 240 V / 50 - 60 Hz

PATIENT
1 AT RS 232 INTERFACE RESPONSE SIGNAL TAPE / CD TAPE / CD MONITOR TB MIC R SPEECH L
R L R 2 L R 1 L MIC

A C E G I K M O Q S U
B D 68 FRear ofHMA 53Jwith connection
Picture L N plugs P R T V
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Operating Instructions MA 53
Calibration values: AC-Receiver Telephonics TDH 39 Force: 4 ... 5 N

Frequency [Hz] Reference equivalent threshold Sound damping

sound pressure level
ISO 389 - 1 ANSI S3.6-1
with Coupler IEC 318-2 with Coupler NBS 9A
[dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB]
125 45 45 3
250 25.5 25.5 5
500 11.5 11.5 7
750 7.5 8 -
1000 7 7 15
1500 6.5 6.5 -
2000 9 9 26
3000 10 10 -
4000 9.5 9.5 32
6000 15.5 15.5 -
8000 13 13 24
12000 (15) (15) -

Calibration values: BC-Receiver Radio Ear B 71 Force: 4.9 ... 5.9 N

Frequency [Hz] Reference equivalent threshold Air radiation
force level
ISO 389 - 3 ANSI S3.6-1996 minimum / maximum
[dB] (re 1:N) [dB] (re 1:N) [dB]
250 67 67 -
500 58 58 -
750 48.5 48.5 -
1000 42.5 42.5 -
1500 36.5 36.5 -
2000 31 31 -
3000 30 30 4 / 18
4000 35.5 35.5 -
6000 40 - 10.5 / 31

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Operating Instructions MA 53
Calibration values: AC-High Frequency Receiver Sennheiser HDA 200
Force: 9 ... 10N
Frequency [Hz] Reference equivalent threshold Sound damping
sound pressure level
ISO 389 - 5 ANSI S3.6-1
with Coupler IEC 318 with Coupler IEC 318
and Type 1 Adapter and Type 1 Adapter
[dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB]
125 29,5 14.5
250 18.0 16.0
500 9.5 22.5
750 6.5 -
1000 6.5 28.5
1500 5.5 -
2000 3.0 32.0
3000 3.0 -
4000 8.5 45.5
6000 9.5 -
8000 17.0 16.0 44.0
9000 18.0 17.0 -
10000 22.0 21.5 -
11200 22.5 21.0 -
12500 27.5 27.5 -
14000 36.0 37.5 -
16000 58.0 58.0 -

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Operating Instructions MA 53
Calibration values: FF : Free sound field (0 degree incidence)
Frequency [Hz] Reference equivalent threshold
sound pressure level
ISO 389 - 7 ANSI S3.6-1996
[dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB] (re 20 :Pa)
125 22 22
250 11 11
500 4 4
750 2 2
1000 2 2
1500 0.5 0.5
2000 -1.5 -1.5
3000 -6 -6
4000 - 6.5 - 6.5
6000 2.5 2.5
8000 11.5 11.5

Calibration values: Insert phone Eartone 3A

Frequency [Hz] Reference equivalent threshold Sound damping
sound pressure level
ISO 389 - 2 ANSI S3.6-1
with Coupler IEC 126 with Coupler HA-2
[dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB] (re 20 :Pa) [dB]
125 26 26 32.5
250 14 14 36
500 5.5 5.5 37.5
750 2 2 -
1000 0 0 36.5
1500 2 2 -
2000 3 3 33
3000 3.5 3.5 -
4000 5.5 5.5 39.5
6000 2 2 -
8000 0 0 42.5

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Operating Instructions MA 53
Standard accessories: 1 air conduction receiver Telephonics TDH 39
1 bone conduction receiver Radio Ear B 71
1 microphone (for live speech)
1 patient response switch
1 power cord
1 pad of audiogram paper (50 sheets)

Optional accessories: Loudspeaker Canton Plus XS Part. No. 801 106

(not available in the USA)
Portable Loudspeaker SBC (pair) Part No. 802092
Insert phone Part No. 4790
Talk-back microphone Part No. 6619
Monitor phone Part No. 8697642565
Audiogram paper (50 sheets) Part No. 861 002

Options: High Frequency Audiometry with

HDA 200 Headphone Part No. 801110-1
KLH 96 Bone Conductor Part No. 801108

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Operating Instructions MA 53
14 Warranty, Maintenance and After-Sales Service
The MA 53 audiometer is guaranteed for 1 year. This warranty is extended to the
original purchaser of the instrument by MAICO through the Distributor from
whom it was purchased and covers defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one year from date of delivery of the instrument to the original
purchaser.
The audiometer may be repaired only by your dealer or by a service center
recommended by your dealer. We urgently advise you against attempting to
rectify any faults yourself or commissioning non-experts to do so.

In the event of repair during the guarantee period, please enclose evidence of
purchase with the instrument.

In order to ensure that your instrument works properly the audiometer should be
checked and calibrated at least once a year. This check has to be carried out by
your dealer.

When returning the instrument for repairs it is essential to also send the
headphone, bone conduction receiver and other accessories.

Send the device to your dealer or to a service center authorized by your dealer.

Please also include a detailed description of the faults.

In order to prevent damage in transit, please use the original packing if possible
when returning the instrument.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
15 Safety Regulations
15.1 Electric Safety: The MA 53 audiometer is constructed to comply
with protection class II of the international standard
IEC 601-1 (EN 60601-1).
Protection from an electric shock is ensured even
without the system earth connection.
The instruments are not intended for operation in
areas with an explosion hazard.

15.2 Measuring security: To guarantee that the audiometer works properly,

the instrument has to be checked and calibrated at
least once a year.
The service and calibration must be performed by an
authorized service center. In accordance with the
regulations of the EU medical directive we will drop
our liability if these checks are not done.
The use of non-calibrated audiometers is not
allowed.
15.3 Device control: The user of the instrument should perform a
subjective instrument check once a week. This check
can be done following the list for subjective
instrument check (see next page). For your own
security, you should copy the enclosed list, fill it in
once a week and store it in your files.

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Operating Instructions MA 53
16. List for the subjective instrument checks
- Clean the cushions of the headphones! Model...........................................................................
- If necessary untangle all cords
- Are the cushions of the headphones all right? If not replace Manufacturer................................................................
them!
- Are the connectors and cables damage-free?
- Can all operator elements be handled smoothly ? Serial No.......................................................................
- Are the operator elements over-tightened or damaged?
- Is the patient response system o.k. ? Test person...................................................................
Purity of test signals
Try all test frequencies at the HL settings of the table and if necessary enter :
“B” for humming, “G” for noises, “V” for signal distortion , “S” for switching noises

Right Ear Level Left Ear

kHz 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 khz

30 dB HL
AC
50 dB HL

70 dB HL

30 dB HL
BC
50 dB HL
* in the event that disturbed noises “B”, “G”, “V” or “S” have been checked then SERVICE!
* If conduction test signals are also audible in the non-test ear, then SERVICE!

Air conduction audiogram with test person

Right Ear Level Left Ear

kHz 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 khz

Target
dB HL

left Actual left

phone dB HL phone
Actual
right right
dB HL
phone phone
* desired value is the measured value of the last audiogram of the test person
**Repeat the measurement with headphones on the wrong way around
If the difference between desired and actual value at a particular frequency or between right and left headphones is more than 10 dB, then SERVICE!

Bone conduction audiogram with test person

Level

kHz 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 0.25 0.5 1 2 3 4 6 8 khz

Target
dBHL

Actual
dBHL
If the difference between desired and actual value at a particular frequency or between right and left headphones is more than 10 dB, then SERVICE!

Tested:.............................................................................................
Date:...............................................................................................

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53

Certificate of Conformity

We,
MAICO Diagnostic GmbH
Salzufer 13/14,
D 10587 Berlin
Germany

certify that the

Diagnostic Audiometer MA 53

starting with serial number 085 6353

is produced according to the Medical Directive 93/42/EEC.

Berlin, April 2001

U. Ledworuski
Head of quality department
QW-021/2 04/00

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 MAICO
Operating Instructions MA 53

Specifications are subject to change.

MAICO Diagnostic GmbH

Salzufer 13/14
D 10587 Berlin
Tel.: ++4930/70 71 46 50
Fax: ++4930/70 71 46 99
Email: export@maico-diagnostic .com
Internet: www.maico-diagnostic.com
MAICO Diagnostics
7625 Golden Triangle Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
MAICO Toll Free (++1) 888.941.4201
Fax (++1) 952.903.4200
Internet www.maico-diagnostics.com

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Front panel with controls and displays
(second level function - go to second level function
by pressing the selected key longer than 2 seconds)
! left (blue) STIM Led Led off = signal off
Led on = signal on
" left (blue) channel level control
# left (blue) STIM bar L R

$ left (blue) channel frequency up $ + % press simultaniously for dual frequency mode
% left (blue) channel frequency down $ + % press simultaniously for dual frequency mode
& left (blue) channel TALK OVER Microphone
' left (blue) channel VU-meter
( left (blue) channel receiver selector key ( select testmode HL, UCL, MCL for selected receiver STIM STIM

) FM - modulation (warble tone) ) press key during switch on to enter the user menu PAT
* left (blue) channel signal selector key * calibration of CD/tape or live voice microphone
+ PULSE tone + pulse tone menu: ABLB, DLI and SISI Test +
FM PULSE SWAP TRACK
+

,
Hz Hz
PATient response display
- STIM MODE - interlock function
. SWAP function . mixing function INSERT NOISE NOISE INSERT
/ TRACKING function / level step selection FF
BC
MIC
TAPE STIM
MIC
TAPE
FF
BC

0
Talk Over AC TONE MODE TONE AC Talk Over
right (red) channel signal selector key
1 right (red) channel receiver selector key 1 adjustment of talkback microphone and monitor phone
2 LCD-Display
3 right (red) channel VU-meter
4 right (red) channel TALK OVER Microphone
5 right (red) channel frequency down MAICO MA 53
6 right (red) channel frequency up
7 right (red) channel STIM bar
8 right (red) channel level control
9 right (red) STIM Led Led off = signal off Led on = signal on 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25
: power switch 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26

Rear panel with connectors

; power socket (100 ... 240 V~ 50/60 Hz) < power fuses
= serial PC-interface > patient response switch R FF L BC MASK BC R INSERT L R AC L

? electrical signal output right channel @ electrical signal output left channel 100 - 240 V / 50 - 60 Hz

A FF (loudspeaker) right channel B secondary tape/CD input right channel

1 AT
PATIENT
RS 232 INTERFACE RESPONSE SIGNAL TAPE / CD TAPE / CD MONITOR TB MIC R SPEECH L
C FF (loudspeaker) left channel D secondary tape/CD input left channel R L R 2 L R 1 L MIC

E masking phone for BC (option) F tape/CD input right channel

G tape/CD input left channel H BC (bone conduction receiver)
I monitor phone J insert phone right channel
K talkback microphone / assistant phone L insert phone left channel
M right live voice microphone N AC (headphone) right channel
O left live voice microphone P AC (headphone) left channel

A C E G I K M O Q S U
B D F H J L N P R T V