Generally, deep voices are not necessarily harder for people to hear than high voices. The audibility of a voice is primarily determined by its sound intensity (loudness) and frequency (pitch). Both high and low voices can be heard well if they are adequately loud and clear.
However, certain factors might influence how easily a particular voice is heard:
Volume: The louder a voice is, the easier it is to hear, regardless of its pitch. A soft voice, whether high or low, may be more challenging to hear in noisy environments or from a distance.
Background Noise: In noisy environments, higher-pitched voices may have an advantage in terms of being heard because they tend to stand out more against background noise. This is known as the "Lombard effect," where people naturally raise their voice's pitch and volume to be heard in noisy situations.
Hearing Sensitivity: Individual hearing abilities can vary. Some people might have better hearing in certain frequency ranges, making it easier for them to hear specific voices.
Speech Clarity: The clarity and articulation of speech are essential for being easily understood. Regardless of the pitch, if someone speaks unclearly or mumbles, their voice may be harder to hear and comprehend.
Resonance and Timbre: The resonant quality and timbre of a voice can affect how distinct it sounds. Some deep voices might have a rich resonance that makes them stand out, while others may lack clarity.
It's essential to note that hearing difficulties are not solely dependent on the pitch of the voice. Hearing impairments can affect a person's ability to perceive both high and low-pitched sounds. If someone experiences challenges in hearing voices, it is essential to get their hearing checked by a qualified audiologist to determine the cause and explore appropriate solutions or interventions.