Stethoscope...what are you using?

My school gave us cheap stethescopes but my parents bought me a Littman one as a graduation present and to be honest with you, theyre all the same to me.

I used to think they were all the same. Lately I misplaced my littman and have been using a cheap crappy one and WOW can I tell the difference. I can't hear anything!!! I literally have to listen for like 30 seconds to get in tune.

Littman are better or at least for me I can't seem to hear anything with the cheap ones

Had a Litmann for years over 10, only has a 2yr warranty. Bought an MDF, great stehascope, I think I hear better out of that one than the Litmann it also has a lifetime warranty on it. They cost the same, around $120. Buy a good one that will last, especially with better acoustics too. Remember you get what you pay for!

I have four stethoscopes. My own favorite is my Littmann Cardiology III, second is no longer made - Littmann Lite Classic II. Then I have 2 bargains... one is a dual head (diaphragm and bell) $12 unknown brand, and the last one is a single diaphragm $4 steth. I've used them all at one time or another. You do get what you pay for. For a student, I would suggest going for a mid-range $30-$50 steth as those will have good acoustics without being overly expensive, but they're also not exactly cheap so you will tend to guard it from walking off. In the Littmann line, that means looking at the Classic II or similar stethoscopes. All of my Littmanns have been in-service for 10 years or more. They do last. As long as the stethoscope roughly compares to a mid-range Littmann, you won't have to worry too much about getting a bad steth. Sometimes you can find a good brand that's comparable but a bit cheaper.

Something to remember is the softer ear tips tend to be more comfortable in the ear, and may help seal noise out, at least in my opinion. Hard rubber ear tips work well too. The plastic ones do work, but they can be uncomfortable have in my ears.

I have a cheapo "prestige medical" one and a littman se classic. BIG difference! Love my littman!

~Mom (aka superwoman!)

I got a littman cardiology III in school :) I like it because it's light and compact and it sounds good. I also have a personalized ultrascope, which is so pretty :) it's zebra print and pink. But I can definitely tell a difference...the littman is a lot clearer sound wise. It's pretty expensive but it's great for students and it will last you after school when you get a job. I definitely recommend it!

I love my Littmann classic 2 SE

Thank you for the suggestions!!

my school gave us cheap **extremely cheap** stethoscopes. After I completed term 2 one of my harder terms with med-Surg and pharm my hubby bought me a Littman classic 2 and I love it! I can count both respirations and apical at the same time!

Littmann cardiology III