Many thanks, JosÃ, for the PDF of the looked-for paper by D. T. Kemp, "Evidence of Mechanical Nonlinearity and Frequency Selective Wave Amplification in the Cochlea", Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology 224 (1979) 37-45.
Fig. 3 of that paper proves that Kemp was before Wilson. In that diagram, "spontaneous ear noise" is shown, forming a narrow peak at 1754 Hz.
I also wish to thank Martin Braun, who nicely wrote off-List to me, suggesting that I write to the List.
After having read Kemp's paper, I will possibly submit a further posting.
Sincerely,
Reinhart.
Reinhart Frosch,
Dr. phil. nat.,
CH-5200 Brugg.
reinifrosch@xxxxxxxxxx .