Hearing Aid Technology: What Everyone Should Know
In the alphabet soup of today's technology it's often
difficult for hearing impaired consumers to tell which
technology is best for meeting their particular needs.
To make it easier to make an informed decision, we need
understand technology through at least four types of
circuitry:
„X Analog Technology. These are neither digital nor
programmable. However, they do offer an excellent choice
for some consumers on a limited budget while providing
quality sound. Limitations are: Lack of flexibility for
adjusting acoustic responses to individual needs, less
processing power in noise, and a tendency to distort
when set above comfort levels.
„X Programmable analog technology with such patented
features as Wide Dynamic Range Compression (WDRC),
Automatic Gain Control (AGC-I or AGCo), and Variable
Notch Feedback Control (VFC). These instruments are made
especially to help in noisy situations, accommodate
abnormal loudness growth, and to reduce feedback
(whistling). Though packed with lots of value, they're
still less flexible than digitals, have a tendency to
distort in noise, and lack the true fidelity of the best
digitals. These instruments are generally regarded as
better than the low-end digitals, and usually cost less.
„X Mid-line digital technology, More advanced than
programmable analogs, these usually feature 9-13
adjustable frequency bands and 2-3 compression channels.
Software programmed, these aids provide excellent
flexibility and features to meet an individual's needs,
and offer a wider fidelity range with low distortion at
high input levels.
„X Pinnacle digital technology devices featuring
advanced 32-Channel technology, Adaptive Dynamic Range
Optimization (ADRO), BeamForming (BF) for superior
directional capability. Amazingly, this technology
maintains comfort levels in all listening environments
without traditional compression or any distortion. Its
open-platform feature allows for future software
upgrades, which extend the life and function of the
instruments over time. On a cost-benefit ratio, these
are usually the best value for the money, because of
outstanding quality and features, and much longer
service of use.
All of the above technologies may be built into
in-the-ear (ITE) custom instruments or behind-the-ear (BTE)
instruments. While ITEs are generally considered more
cosmetically acceptable, BTEs are much more robust and
durable, and are especially superior where high gain is
needed without acoustic feedback, or in cases where
occlusion is a major concern. Your best option can be
determined by discussing your preferences and needs with
your hearing professional.
Editor's note: This article was authored by Max Stanley
Chartrand, Managing Director at DigiCare Hearing
Research & Rehabilitation located in Colorado City, CO.
He can be reached at (719)676-3277. |
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