Reverse Correlation Uncovers More Complete Tinnitus Spectra

Goal This study validates an approach to characterizing the sounds experienced by tinnitus patients via reverse correlation, with potential for characterizing a wider range of sounds than currently possible. Methods Ten normal-hearing subjects assessed the subjective similarity of random auditory stimuli and target tinnitus-like sounds (“buzzing” and “roaring”). Reconstructions of the targets were obtained by regressing subject responses on the stimuli, and were compared for accuracy to the frequency spectra of the targets using Pearson’s r . Results Reconstruction accuracy was significantly higher than chance across subjects: buzzing ( M = 0.53, SD = 0.27): t (9) = 5.766, p < 0.001; roaring ( M = 0.57, SD = 0.30): t (9) = 5.76, p < 0.001. Conclusion Reverse correlation can accurately reconstruct nontonal tinnitus-like sounds in normal-hearing subjects, indicating its potential for characterizing the sounds experienced by patients with non-tonal tinnitus. Impact Statement Characterization of tinnitus sounds can inform treatment by facilitating individualized sound therapies, leading to better outcomes for patients suffering from the cognitive and psychological effects of tinnitus.