The inaugural event in the Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance’s (PAMA) Hearing Rocks initiative, the free webinar Mind the Mix: Hearing Preservation Strategies for Audio Engineers, has been announced for 28 May. Encouraging audio professionals and performers to “protect the one tool you can’t replace”, this initial webinar in a three-part series will focus on real-world hearing preservation strategies.
Audio veterans Maureen Droney and Buford Jones will be joined by audiologist Michael Santucci and, as moderator, PAMA President Yvonne Ho, in a discussion spanning common types of hearing loss faced by audio professionals, why early detection matters, practical strategies for protecting hearing on the job, how veteran engineers have adapted their habits over time, tips for managing long-term exposure to high SPL environments, and what to do (and who to talk to) if individuals experience hearing changes.
Buford Jone’ mixing credits span some of the most iconic acts in music history, from Pink Floyd to Prince, Eric Clapton and David Bowie. Now, he brings his decades of experience to a new mission: sharing why hearing conservation is essential for the next generation of engineers. Hear how his philosophy evolved from “turn it up” to “turn it smart.”
From working in the studio with Whitney Houston and Santana to her leadership role at the Recording Academy’s Producers & Engineers Wing, Maureen Droney offers a dual perspective: what hearing protection means for long sessions in the studio and how the industry can better support safe listening practices.
For 40 years, Michael Santucci has been protecting and preserving hearing for generations of musicians, technicians, venue staff, and music lovers everywhere. Michael will offer his view on how we can all enjoy making and listening to music without long-term damage.
Moderator Yvonne Ho the president of PAMA and a driving force behind the Hearing Rocks initiative. Her commitment to this cause is rooted in more than a decade working in hearing assistive technology and continues through her current role at Point Source Audio, where she leads marketing for its innovative line of wearable microphones and in-ear headsets.
This Zoom event is free and open to all interested – although registration is required.