There are a few more new songs in the music section.

I have noticed that, over time, the songs change quite a bit in EQ and loudness. No, this isn't because the files are old (that wouldn't happen with digital files) - it's due to the way I adjust the final mixes.

That makes me wonder: Does the tendency to mix using more treble and less bass indicate a possible high-frequency hearing loss? In other words, do I hear differently and mix based on that? It was something worth checking out.

Normally, when creating a final mix, I adjust the EQ, apply dynamic compression to the entire mix (ranging from limiting at -3 dB to -8 dB depending on where it starts to distort) and run it through spectrum analysis. The chart only tells one so much, though.

So... I tested my hearing using a tone generator and my good speakers. Back in 2005, I was able to hear tones up to around 18.5 kHz. The most recent test resulted in an upper threshold of 16.5 kHz.

I really hope it's just an ear wax buildup. That's a lot of hearing to lose in just four years of a comparatively quiet day-to-day lifestyle.