Take this quiz to see if you can identify these retro sounds

01 March 2024 , 10:48

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The original Nokia ringtone has been voted the most nostalgic sound of the 80s, 90s and 00s. A study of 2,000 adults saw the tune, which dates back to 1994, beat the likes of cassette tapes being rewound, dial-up internet connection and the Pac-Man theme in the top 25. Other nostalgic sounds of the past included typewriter keys clacking and VHS tapes being inserted into a video player. Nokia made the list again with the famous Snake game tune and another ringtone to feature was the Motorola Razr

Take a step back in time - but can you name the source of these retro sounds from the 80s, 90s, and 00s?

The quiz was created after a poll of 2,000 adults revealed the recognisable Nokia ringtone is the most nostalgic sound of the decades. The tune, which dates back to 1994, beat the likes of cassette tapes being rewound, dial-up internet connections and the Pac-Man theme.

Other nostalgic sounds of the past to feature in the top 25 included typewriter keys clacking and VHS tapes being inserted into a video player. Nokia made the list again with the famous Snake game tune, while another ringtone to feature was the Motorola Razr.

The research was commissioned by Specsavers ahead of World Hearing Day on March 3rd to highlight how important hearing is for treasured memories, as well as our overall health.

Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at the brand, said: “When it comes to the science of nostalgia, our senses are amazing at picking up memory cues. Sound plays a huge role in triggering memories and the emotions associated with them. The results also remind us how important our hearing is when it comes to remembering things and places and connecting with people.”

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The study also revealed sounds from the top 25 list leave them feeling nostalgic (40%) and happy (17%). While 69% feel certain noises can even help improve their quality of life. As a result, many listen to specific sounds to improve their mood (48%) bring back memories (43%), sleep (25%) or reduce anxiety (29%).

But 85% admitted they take their hearing for granted, with 27% never protecting their ears. Of those who do look after their hearing, 45% limit exposure to loud sounds and 37% keep music at a low volume. Worryingly, 42% have experienced ringing or buzzing in their ears after being exposed to loud noises.

And despite 39% regularly having problems with their hearing, 38% have never gone for a hearing test, while 18% last did so more than five years ago. Of those polled via OnePoll, 45% feel their hearing has got worse with age, with 55% concerned they’ll lose it altogether when they're older. As a result, 37% admitted they need to do more to protect their ears, while 64% think more awareness around hearing loss is needed.

It also emerged often asking others to repeat themselves (73%) and having the TV volume uncomfortably loud (73%) are the top signs people look out for when it comes to their hearing. The findings come after research from The Leeds Teaching Hospitals suggested the risk of getting dementia almost doubles if you have an untreated mild hearing loss and triples if it’s moderate.

Gordon Harrison added: “Even though hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions, it can be difficult to notice in the early stages. A mixture of good hearing protection and regular tests are easy ways to help monitor your hearing and minimise hearing loss, so you can continue to enjoy the sounds you love. Prevention is always best, so if you do notice any changes in your hearing, make sure you seek expert help as soon as possible."

TOP 25 NOSTALGIC SOUNDS: