Mary Roach’s uber popular book “Grunt“ and the 99% Invisible Podcast get into the minutia of hearing loss in the US Marine Corps. One technical solution that offers a balance of between hearing conversations and activities around you while blocking out dangerously loud noises are TCAPS (Tactical Communication and Protective Systems).

TCAPS work thanks to sophisticated technology that detects high-decibel noises then lowers their intensity; they also pick up and amplify soft background noises. The result is a more balanced experience of sound, providing protection for the wearer while facilitating situational awareness.