An audiologist’s study of over-the-counter hearing aids, a guide to radiator noises, an investigation of ShotSpotter, and much more
Browse the full May 12, 2022 issue. Download a free PDF of the print issue.
What if hearing aids were as easy to get as reading glasses?
Northwestern audiologist Jasleen Singh uses a prestigious new grant to research how self-fitted over-the-counter hearing aids might connect more people with care.
A guide to midwestern radiators and their calls
How to tell by listening whether your steam radiator is healthy, out of alignment, or harboring a dire malefic presence
ShotSpotter’s deafening impact
The surveillance technology is still disproportionately listening to Black and Brown communities.
Seeing with silence in avant-garde cinema
Films that omit music and sound can be transformative, instructive, and all the more beautiful.
The sweet sound of silents
Chicago’s silent film accompanists deliver the music.
Horror is a sound you can’t stop saying
The maddening repetition of Philip Glass’s “Music Box” in 1992’s Candyman and its 2021 sequel
In defense of subtitles
Not interested in Rosetta Stone or Duolingo? Try subtitles.
Ele Matelan tells stories with sound effects
The Chicago foley artist explains the history and practice of the craft that gave us slapsticks and thunder sheets.
It’s quiet around here until it’s not
What does a neighborhood sound like? And what does that mean?
Dropping beats and seeds
Englewood rapper Heavy Crownz blends art and community organizing.