OBJECTIVE: This research investigates the level of perception and knowledge among university students concerning the negative effects of constant in-ear-headphones use associated with portable electronic devices. REPORT: The high sound pressure levels are a causal factor for hearing loss that is normally associated with occupational factors. In recent years, this same type of hearing loss has been found in young users who regularly use electronic in-ear-headphones that are able to reach sound intensity of as high as 130dB (decibels), which is equivalent to the sound intensity of a jackhammer. These headphones maximize sounds by preventing the escape of energy, thereby causing more damage to hearing. It also produces vibratory energy, which directly affects the inner ear. Based on this information, one study sampled80 university students concerning their habits and customs in the use of sound equipment, history of deafness, and sound perception. The CEP FacRedentor (No.05/2012) approved the study. CONCLUSION: The average daily exposure was 4 h per day, the average level of sound intensity was 100 dB, and the students exposed themselves more frequently to noisy places such as bars and concerts. Young people consider the possibility of deafness caused by using this equipment as irrelevant, although they report headaches and tinnitus, which are typical signs of sound-induced alterations. This exposure, which causes early deafness, should be taken seriously. To avoid deafness in this population, more efficient educational measures need to be adopted that clarify the bad consequences of exposure to loud sounds. Keywords: auditory perception, early deafness, sound equipment.