just an informational post:
I am an audiologist who specializes in custom fit hearing protection for musicians, race car drivers, and people who have to perform a job function in noise. Music is not noise but your ears dont know the difference. I join these forums in an effort to offer direction when someone inquires.
Personally I sell custom fit earplugs that reduce equally across all frequencies retaining the tone and balance of what you hear, they simply reduce the intensity. When a ear protector is custom fit, it FITS THE SAME WAY EVERY TIME. this is key...simply placing earplugs in your ears does not guarantee protection it claims on the wrapper.
Anoter recommendation is to actually get a hearing test. Know what your hearing is NOW and attempt to keep it the same for as long as you can. With an established baseline hearing test you can have a reference, and be able to accurately monitor for change.
so I am here to answer related questions to the best of my knowledge. Should you be interested in purchasing custom fit earplugs, its important to understand that there are different manufacturers and materials, and ways the filters can sit within the earplug.
Please dont hesitate if I can offer additional information.
save your ears! you only get one pair!