Concerns Rise Over Movie Theater Noise Levels and Potential Hearing Damage
In the Philadelphia region, moviegoers are expressing concerns about the high volume levels in theaters, particularly during action-packed films. Richard Whiteford, a 79-year-old resident, reported that the sound levels during a screening of 'The Odyssey' reached 110.2 decibels, a level that can cause hearing damage within minutes. This has raised questions about whether theaters have become louder over time. Audiologist Frank Wartinger noted that while theaters generally keep sound levels below 95 decibels, exceptions occur during loud films. The issue is compounded by longer film durations, which expose audiences to extended periods of loud sound. Whiteford, who has a background in the music industry and wears hearing aids, highlighted the personal impact of these noise levels. 
