We tested three MP3 players and three aftermarket headphones marketed to children and found reason for caution.
Played with their factory earbuds at maximum volume, all three of the players (the Disney Mix Stick, the Mattel Barbie Girls, and the SanDisk Sansa Shaker) were loud enough to pose a hearing risk with prolonged regular use.
Of the three aftermarket headphones, the Ingemi Corp iHearSafe, and the Sony MDR-222KD claimed to limit maximum volume. The Sony was somewhat quieter at maximum volume than the factory headphones but could still pose a risk on some players for extended periods. The iHearSafe lowered volume further but on some players might actually be so quiet at maximum volume that children will have difficulty hearing the music. (NOTE: iHearSafe is recalling its Safe Volume headphones, ear buds,and ear clips because of a potential lead hazard. The affected units were produced and sold between Sept. 1, 2008, and March 17, 2009. The company urges consumers to stop using these products and to contact iHearSafe at 877-443-2772 for a refund.) The third model, Kid's Gear, didn't claim to limit volume, and it generally didn't.
Bottom line
Check your child's player at its maximum volume with the headphones it will be used with. If it sounds loud to you, it's probably too loud for your child. Demand that it be turned down, limit use time, or take it away.
