(186 days)
Quell sound generators are designed for individuals who experience tinnitus. These devices generate a digitally controlled passive analog broad band noise from the circuit. The broad band noise is intended for use with tinnitus masking therapy. These devices are to be dispensed only by a doctor, licensed audiologist, or licensed hearing instrument specialist who are trained in the area of tinnitus treatment. BTE worn sound generators are one of several available sound stimuli means such as; computer generated audio, CD player, iPod, sound pillows, etc. Sound generators are dispensed to an adult population 18 years of age or above with specific instructions for their use.
The Quell 908TD is an electronic device intended to generate noise of sufficient intensity and bandwidth to mask ringing in the ears or internal head noises. These devices are programmable and offer the ability to adjust the frequency level of the masking sound to fit the individual user's needs. The programming can be done by hearing healthcare professionals using a standard HI-PRO box and Amplisound's Hearing Studio software. The Quell device resembles a miniature behind the ear (BTE) hearing aid. This style device sits on top of and just behind the pinna of the ear and has an acoustic soundtip connected to it. The soundtip is a removable and interchangeable tubing of different lengths, left and right, which carries the sound from the ear. The soundtip connects to the device at one end and bends around the front of the pinna to the other end which is connected to a dome tip which fits inside the ear canal. Quell devices operate on a hearing aid battery and have an easily operated user volume control wheel. The wearer adjusts the sound to a desired loudness level by rolling the volume wheel with a fingertip.
Sound generators can be used for persons who suffer from tinnitus in conjunction with a sound therapy program such as Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). The sound therapy provides the tinnitus sufferer with an adjustable external sound source to mitigate the presence and annoyance of their personal internal noise.
The Quell 908TD sound generator consists of a miniature digital amplifier and speaker powered by a 1.4 volt battery packaged inside a small hearing aid shaped housing and which generates a digitally adjustable broad band white noise. White noise is defined as noise containing many frequencies at similar intensities. The bandwidth is adjustable from the broadest range of 750Hz to 8KHz, to the narrowest of 1250Hz to 3850Hz. The broad band noise is delivered through a small tubing connected to the housing which curves around the pinna and then is placed inside the ear canal. This small tubing is called a 'soundtip' which comes in left and right sides in short, medium and long lengths. There is a small plastic locking handle which helps retain the device in the ear, and a replaceable open dome tip in 6, 8, 10mm sizes to help the tip be comfortable and well seated in the ear canal.
Here's an analysis of the provided text regarding acceptance criteria and the study demonstrating the device's performance:
Acceptance Criteria and Device Performance for Amplisound Quell 908TD (K132965)
1. Table of Acceptance Criteria and Reported Device Performance:
The document provided does not explicitly state formal "acceptance criteria" against which the device was measured in a clinical study with specific thresholds for success. Instead, it demonstrates substantial equivalence to predicate devices through a comparison of technical characteristics and a statement that the device "performs similarly."
Therefore, the table below reflects the comparison points used for demonstrating substantial equivalence rather than explicit acceptance criteria. The reported device performance is drawn directly from the comparison table and surrounding text.
| Characteristic | Predicate Devices (Resound TSG Module & TTC's GHI-T & TN3 Masker) | Amplisound Quell 908TD Reported Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Max Output Level | 89 dB SPL (Resound), 94 dB SPL (GHI-T & TN3) | 85 dB SPL (Limited by software) |
| Battery Drain | 1.2 mA (Resound), 0.4-0.5 mA (GHI-T & TN3) | 1.0 mA |
| Peak Output Freq. | 3 KHz (Resound), 2700, 3600, 6000Hz (GHI-T & TN3) | 3 KHz |
| Energy Source | Zinc-Air #312 (Resound), Zinc-Air #10, 312, 13 (GHI-T & TN3) | Zinc-Air #10 |
| Intended Use | Ear level worn sound generator for tinnitus. | Ear level worn sound generator for tinnitus. |
| Indications for Use | Tinnitus management/masking therapy for adults (Resound also 5+ children). | Tinnitus masking therapy for adults 18+. |
| Warnings | Max daily usage determined by professional. | Max daily usage determined by professional. |
| Noise Characteristic | Smooth response, less low-freq emphasis, greater high-freq emphasis. | Smooth response, less low-freq emphasis, greater high-freq emphasis (designed to mimic predicates). |
| Frequency Adjust. | Low and high frequencies adjustable (Resound). | Tone adjustable via software (band and overall gain sliders). |
| User Volume Control | Toggle (Resound), Rotational (GHI-T). | Scroll wheel. |
| Fit/Occlusion | Designed to minimize contact/occlusion of ear canal. | Designed to minimize contact/occlusion of ear canal. |
2. Sample Size Used for the Test Set and Data Provenance:
- Sample Size: Not explicitly stated as a separate "test set" in the context of a clinical study with human subjects. The document primarily refers to bench testing measurements using "actual ears" (presumably representative models or individual ears used for fitting) and "2cc ANSI tests in a test box." The number of "actual ears" or test box measurements is not specified.
- Data Provenance: The testing appears to be retrospective in nature, comparing the performance of the new device to existing predicate devices. It is conducted in a laboratory or bench setting rather than a multi-center clinical trial. The location of the testing is not explicitly stated but is implicitly associated with the manufacturer (Amplisound Hearing Products & Services, Danielson, CT, USA).
3. Number of Experts Used to Establish the Ground Truth for the Test Set and Qualifications of Those Experts:
- This information is not applicable as the document describes technical/bench testing, not a clinical study involving expert interpretation of medical images or patient outcomes. The "ground truth" for these technical measurements would be the established scientific and engineering standards for sound output and frequency response in hearing devices.
4. Adjudication Method for the Test Set:
- This is not applicable as there was no "test set" requiring adjudication by human experts in the context of a clinical study. The performance was assessed via objective physical measurements.
5. If a Multi-Reader Multi-Case (MRMC) Comparative Effectiveness Study Was Done, If So, What Was the Effect Size of How Much Human Readers Improve with AI vs. Without AI Assistance:
- No, a MRMC comparative effectiveness study was not done. This device is a sound generator for tinnitus, not an AI-powered diagnostic tool requiring human reader interpretation or assistance.
6. If a Standalone (i.e., algorithm only without human-in-the-loop performance) Was Done:
- The study described is inherently a standalone performance evaluation of the device's physical and acoustic output characteristics (maximum output, frequency response, battery drain). It assesses the device's technical specifications without direct human user interaction being a primary measurement endpoint. The device's sound output is "algorithm-only" in the sense that it generates sound based on its internal digital processor, but it's a hardware device, not a software algorithm for analysis.
7. The Type of Ground Truth Used:
- The ground truth employed was based on objective physical measurements and established engineering standards for audiological devices (e.g., OSHA standards, ANSI test protocols). The comparison was made against the published specifications and performance characteristics of legally marketed predicate devices. The "white noise characteristic" (smooth response, less low-frequency emphasis, greater high-frequency emphasis) of the predicate devices served as a de facto "ground truth" for the desired acoustic output.
8. The Sample Size for the Training Set:
- This information is not applicable. The device is a hardware sound generator, and the submission describes its technical performance and equivalence to predicate devices, not a machine learning model that requires a "training set."
9. How the Ground Truth for the Training Set Was Established:
- This information is not applicable for the reasons stated in point 8.
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Revised: 03/21/2014
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510(k) Summary – Number: K132965
| DATE OF SUBMISSIONS: | September 17, 2013 |
|---|---|
| SUBMITTER: | Amplisound Hearing Products & Services594 Putnam RoadDanielson, CT 06239 |
| Phone: (860)779-6500 Fax: (860)779-6501 | |
| CONTACT: | |
| TRADE OR PROPRIETARY NAME: | Solace Sound Generators |
| MODEL: | Quell 908TD behind the ear |
| DEVICE COMMON NAMES: | Sound generators, tinnitus makers, noise generators |
| CLASSIFICATION NAME: | 21 CFR 874.3400 (Tinnitus Masker Class II) |
| PRODUCT CODE: | KLW |
| PREDICATE DEVICES: | Resound TSG Module K073636TTC's GHI-T & TN3-T Tinnitus Masker K982451 |
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| Page 4 | |
|---|---|
| Amplisound 510(k) Summary | 03/04/2014 |
| #K132965 | 09/17/2013 |
Device Description:
The Quell 908TD is an electronic device intended to generate noise of sufficient intensity and bandwidth to mask ringing in the ears or internal head noises. These devices are programmable and offer the ability to adjust the frequency level of the masking sound to fit the individual user's needs. The programming can be done by hearing healthcare professionals using a standard HI-PRO box and Amplisound's Hearing Studio software. The Quell device resembles a miniature behind the ear (BTE) hearing aid. This style device sits on top of and just behind the pinna of the ear and has an acoustic soundtip connected to it. The soundtip is a removable and interchangeable tubing of different lengths, left and right, which carries the sound from the ear. The soundtip connects to the device at one end and bends around the front of the pinna to the other end which is connected to a dome tip which fits inside the ear canal. Quell devices operate on a hearing aid battery and have an easily operated user volume control wheel. The wearer adjusts the sound to a desired loudness level by rolling the volume wheel with a fingertip.
Sound generators can be used for persons who suffer from tinnitus in conjunction with a sound therapy program such as Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT). The sound therapy provides the tinnitus sufferer with an adjustable external sound source to mitigate the presence and annoyance of their personal internal noise.
Device Description - Quell model 908TD
Image /page/1/Figure/5 description: This image shows a hearing aid with labels pointing to its different parts. The labels include connector, processor, sound tube, volume wheel, battery compartment, sound tip, serial number, and retention handle. The hearing aid is a small, beige-colored device with a curved shape. The sound tube is a thin, clear tube that connects the hearing aid to the sound tip.
Image /page/1/Picture/6 description: This image shows a close-up of a human ear. The ear is well-defined, with visible details of the helix, antihelix, and earlobe. The skin appears to be textured, and there are some visible hairs around the ear. The image is in black and white, which emphasizes the contours and shapes of the ear.
Quell 908TD in place on the ear
The Quell 908TD sound generator consists of a miniature digital amplifier and speaker powered by a 1.4 volt battery packaged inside a small hearing aid shaped housing and which generates a digitally adjustable broad band white noise. White noise is defined as noise containing many frequencies at similar intensities. The bandwidth is adjustable from the broadest range of 750Hz to 8KHz, to the narrowest of 1250Hz to 3850Hz. The broad band noise is delivered through a small tubing connected to the housing which curves around the pinna and then is placed inside the ear canal. This small tubing is called a 'soundtip' which comes in left and right sides in short, medium and long lengths. There is a small plastic locking handle which helps retain the device in the ear, and a replaceable open dome tip in 6, 8, 10mm sizes to help the tip be comfortable and well seated in the ear canal.
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| Amplisound 510(k) Summary | 03/04/2014 |
|---|---|
| #K132965 | 09/17/2013 |
Indications for Use:
Quell sound generators are designed for individuals who experience tinnitus. These devices generate a digitally controlled passive analog broad band noise from the circuit. The broad band noise is intended for use with tinnitus masking therapy. These devices are to be dispensed only by a doctor, licensed hearing instrument specialist who are trained in the area of tinnitus treatment. BTE worn sound generators are one of several available sound stimuli means such as; computer generated audio, CD player, iPod, sound pillows, etc. Sound generators are dispensed to an adult population 18 years of age or above with specific instructions for their use.
Risks and Warnings for Safe Use:
Because the maximum sound output level of the device is limited to safe levels determined by OSHA, there is no threat to the user with respect to damage to the ear caused by intensity of sound and noise exposure.
Rationale of the design:
Research on sound generators concludes that the primary characteristics of the design must include the following: a smooth broadband white noise response with minimal peaks, high frequency emphasis, a very gradual volume control taper with the ability to lower the sound to a zero dB noise floor, a reliable circuit that does not produce extraneous noises to the wearer, a comfortable housing design that is easy to wear and maintains a secure fit with an open canal.
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| Page 6 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amplisound 510(k) Summary | 03/04/2014 | |
| #K132965 | 09/17/2013 |
Software/Programming
When needed, control of the sound emanating from the device is done with the use of programming software called "Hearing Studio". The Quell device is connected to a computer using a cable with flex connector and HiPro interface. The adjustments include tone of any combination of 12 frequency bands and an overall gain slider. There is also an adjustment of the low battery warning signal from 500, 1000, 1500, 2000Hz at a level of 60, 66, 72, 78dB. There is the option of turning this warning off.
Image /page/3/Figure/3 description: The image shows a screenshot of a software interface with several labeled components. The labels point to the frequency band slider, overall gain, and low battery warning. The software appears to be related to audio processing or analysis, with graphs displaying frequency response and controls for adjusting various parameters.
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| Amplisound 510(k) Summary | 03/04/2014 |
|---|---|
| #K132965 | 09/17/2013 |
Comparison Information to Predicate Devices
| Quell 908TD | Resound TSG Module | GHI -T & TN3 Masker | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Characteristic | Sound Generator | Combination Device | Sound Generator |
| Models | BTE | BTE | BTE & ITE |
| Maximum output level | 85 વેક ટેન | 89 db SPL | 94 dB SPL |
| Battery drain | 1.0 mA | 1.2 mA | .4 - .5 mA |
| Peak output frequency | 3KHz | 3KHz | 2700, 3600, 6000Hz |
| Energy source | Zinc-Air battery #10 | Zinc-Air battery #312 | Zinc-Air battery #10,312,13 |
| Intended use | Ear level worn soundgenerator or maskingdevice for tinnitus. | Same | Same |
| Indications for use | Quell sound generators aredesigned for individualswho experience tinnitus.These devices generate adigitally controlled passiveanalog broad band whitenoise. The broad bandnoise is intended for usewith tinnitus maskingtherapy. These devices areto be dispensed only by adoctor, licensed audiologistor licensed hearinginstrument specialist whoare trained in the area oftinnitus treatment. | This tinnitus soundgenerator module is a toolto generate sounds to beused in a tinnitusmanagement program torelieve patients sufferingfrom tinnitus. The targetpopulation is primarily theadult population over 18years of age. This productmay also be used withchildren 5 years of age andolder. | These devices areintended for the adultpopulation suffering froma chronic persistentringing in theears(tinnitus), who do notneed or desireamplification. Theproducts may be used formasking tinnitus as partof a tinnitus retrainingtherapy(TRT) protocoland should be utilizedonly in consultation witha licensed hearinghealthcare professionalwho is trained insubsequent rehabilitationtherapy, or a qualifiedaudiologist. |
| Warnings | Maximum daily usageshould be determined bythe hearing healthcareprofessional. | same | same |
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Amplisound 510(k) Summary 03/04/2014 #KJ32962 09/17/2013
The Amplisound Quell 908TD is comparable to two devices presently on the market - the ReSound TSG Module, which should be noted is a combination hearing aid/sound generator; and TTC's GHI-T and TN3 sound generator device. While it is not a hearing aid, Quell 908TD is similar to the predicate devices in that they are all ear level worn instruments that produce therapeutic sound for tinnitus sufference between the Quell 908TD device and the predicate devices has primarily to do with the physical shape and style of the housing and the type of user volume control. The Quell 908TD has a scroll volume wheel, while the Resound has a toggle volume control and the GHI has a rotational volume control. All three devices are designed to minimize the amount of contact and occlusion of the ear canal , therefore keeping the canal open which is most desirable for sound therapy masking applications. By performing bench testing measurements with probe microphone on actual ears and 2cc ANSI tests in a test box, the sound output has been designed to mimic the predicate device's approved white noise characteristic which is a smooth response (void of any peaks) with less emphasis in the low frequencies and greater emphasis in the high frequencies. The Quell 908TD response is similar in frequency response to the predicate devices yet with lower maximum output to maintain safety and effectiveness. The Quell 908TD device is designed to be worn without any frequency adjustments for most wearers, however, the tone of the therapeutic sound is adjustable by the hearing care professional using the Hearing Studio software which employs band gain slider controls and overall gain control to adjust the frequency response of the sound as needed for individual patient needs. This software adjustment is similar to the Resound TSG module in that the low and high frequencies can be adjusted independently to 'tune' the masking sound if the user prefers a different tone. Output of the Quell 908TD device is limited within the fitting software to a maximum sound pressure level of 85 dB to meet the OSHA 29CFR 1910.95 standard. These settings include limits for the maximum user volume control which is set by the hearing healthcare provider and cannot exceed 85dBspl.
Similar to the predicate devices, Quell 908TD sound generators are programmed, when needed, using the industry standard HiPro box and programming cables. The Quell 908TD device utilizes a standard micro behind the ear instrument housing and is powered by a size 10 zinc-air battery. Non clinical tests using probe microphone real-ear and 2cc test box measurements demonstrate that the Quell 908TD performs similarly to the comparative devices on the market designed for use with tinnitus treatment. Quell miniature BTE sound generator devices are similar in look, function and sound quality to the GHI and Resound ear level tinnitus devices already approved for the market and in use and by tinnitus sufferers.
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Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-002
Image /page/6/Picture/13 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a stylized caduceus symbol, which is a staff with two snakes coiled around it, and the words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" arranged in a circular fashion around the symbol. The logo is black and white.
March 25, 2014
Amplisound . Inc. c/o Mr. Ralph Campagna President 594 Putnam Road Danielson, CT 06239
Re: K132965
Trade/Device Name: Solace Sound Generators Regulation Number: 21 CFR 874.3400 Regulation Name: Tinnitus Masker Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: KLW Dated: December 27, 2013 Received: December 30, 2013
Dear Mr. Campagna:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you, however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
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Page 2 - Mr. Ralph Campagna
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please go to http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDRH/CDRHOffices/ucm115809.htm for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health's (CDRH's) Office of Compliance. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm.
Sincerely yours,
Eric A. Mann -S
for Malvina B. Eydelman, M.D. Director Division of Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose and Throat Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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Amplisound, Inc. Abbreviated 510(k) Submission Solace Sound Generators
INDICATIONS FOR USE
510(k) Number: K132965
Device Name: Solace Sound Generators
Indications for Use:
Quell sound generators are designed for individuals who experience tinnitus. These devices generate a digitally controlled passive analog broad band noise from the circuit. The broad band noise is intended for use with tinnitus masking therapy. These devices are to be dispensed only by a doctor, licensed audiologist, or licensed hearing instrument specialist who are trained in the area of tinnitus treatment. BTE worn sound generators are one of several available sound stimuli means such as; computer generated audio, CD player, iPod, sound pillows, etc. Sound generators are dispensed to an adult population 18 years of age or above with specific instructions for their use.
OR
Prescription Use: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (Part 21 CFR 901 Subpart D)
Over the Counter Use: ________________ (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
(Please do not write below this line - continue on another page if needed)
Concurrence of CDHR, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Vasant Dasika -S 2014.03.19 23:06:17 -04'00'
§ 874.3400 Tinnitus masker.
(a)
Identification. A tinnitus masker is an electronic device intended to generate noise of sufficient intensity and bandwidth to mask ringing in the ears or internal head noises. Because the device is able to mask internal noises, it is also used as an aid in hearing external noises and speech.(b)
Classification. Class II. The special control for this device is patient labeling regarding:(1) Hearing health care professional diagnosis, fitting of the device, and followup care,
(2) Risks,
(3) Benefits,
(4) Warnings for safe use, and
(5) Specifications.