örontrumpeten

Örontrumpeten, also known as an ear trumpet, is a passive acoustic device historically employed to amplify sound for individuals with hearing impairment. Constructed from metal, wood, or horn, the instrument consists of a wide opening placed near the sound source and a narrow tube that directs the concentrated sound waves toward the ear. The gradual reduction in cross‑section creates a modest increase in acoustic pressure, allowing the user to perceive speech or other sounds more clearly without electricity.

The invention of the ear trumpet dates back to the early 18th century, with documented use among aristocracy and the upper classes in Europe and North America. Early designs were handcrafted and often highly decorative, reflecting the social status of the wearer. By the mid‑19th century, mass production introduced standardized forms, and the devices became more accessible to a broader population.

The ear trumpet gradually fell out of common use with the advent of electronic hearing aids in the early 20th century, which offered greater amplification, portability, and frequency response. Nevertheless, ear trumpets retain a presence in historical reenactments, museum collections, and niche applications such as assisting performers in orchestras to monitor conductors in loud environments. Their simple, non‑electronic design also makes them a point of interest in studies of early assistive technology and acoustic engineering.