Can learned voice cues improve speech recognition in noise?

Familiar voices can improve speech recognition in noise, but this benefit does not identify which learned acoustic features are useful or how to train them. We propose a speech study in adults with sensorineural hearing loss. A measured bank of pre-generated utterances will support contrasts in spectral structure and segmental timing, with fundamental frequency constrained. Randomized familiarization, reciprocal component comparisons and separate-day replication will test learning-dependent cue use. A subsequent trial will compare profile-guided training with equally intensive control training. Its primary endpoint is recognition of new natural talkers four weeks after training. Clinical efficacy and the incremental predictive value of Musical Intelligence will be evaluated separately.