Digital
Digital hearing aids are the latest and most advanced technology available. They are also made at the manufacturing lab and programmed by the audiologist in the office using special software. Because of the numerous controls that are available through programming software, hearing aid manufacturers have been able to incorporate significantly advanced technology in programmable hearing devices. Hearing aid technology includes multiple memories, noise reduction, directional microphones, feedback suppression, digital speech enhancement and built-in wireless capabilities, just to name a few.

Styles of Hearing Aids
There are five main styles of hearing aids available (completely-in-the canal, in-the-canal, in-the-ear, behind-the-ear and mini-BTE), classified by design. Despite their differences, all hearing instruments have the following components: a microphone, amplifier, a receiver and a battery. The audiologist will help determine which style is best for you based on the degree of your hearing loss.

Important note: Virtually all of the available technologies can be obtained in any hearing aid style. The hearing instruments are categorized by levels of technology: premium, mid-level and basic. Typically, the levels of technology inside the hearing aid heavily influence the cost. The audiologist can help you chose the right hearing instrument for you that is appropriate for your lifestyle.

Features at a glance

Automatic and manual multiple programs
Most hearing instruments are designed to adapt the volume to different listening situations. Modern hearing instruments automatically select an optimal volume level without the need for further adjustments. The option of manually controlling the volume or memory programs is still an option. These controls can be activated through a button on the hearing instrument or via remote or even through your telephone. In addition to automatic programs, two to four separate programs that are appropriate for different listening situations can be uploaded into your hearing instruments.

Digital noise reduction
Noise reduction technology will reduce irritating background noises such as dishes clinking or chatter without compromising speech. DNR is usually accompanied by directional microphones.

Directional microphones
Directional microphones are another feature that help in noisy situations by emphasizing the desired signal and ignoring the competing noise. Both digital noise reduction and directional microphones have been one of the most substantial advances in hearing aid technology, because they directly address a common and difficult complaint of patients with sensorineural hearing loss: listening in background noise.

Feedback suppression Feedback cancellation systems help quell the annoying squeals when your hearing instruments get too close to the phone or have a loose fit.

Built-in wireless capabilities
Built-in wireless capabilities include Bluetooth capability, direct audio input, FM systems or telecoil features to allow hands-free use of cell and regular phones. Direct audio input allows hearing instruments to be directly connected to MP3 players or other audio devices.