A stethoscope (10), operable in an acoustic or electronically augmented mode, is disclosed. In one electronically augmented mode of operation, the stethoscope simultaneously provides the listener with combined unmodified, familiar audible sounds and sounds which have been electronically augmented to bring them within the human auditory range. Additionally, a timing sound may be provided along with the unmodified, familiar audible sounds and electronically augmented sounds to assist the listener in determining when sounds occur in the heart cycle. The timing sound may be enabled in the acoustic mode of stethoscope operation so that the listener can place familiar audible sounds within the heart cycle.
ELECTRONICALLY AUGMENTED STETHOSCOPE WITH TIMING SOUND