Sound Advice Hearing Aids

Rechargeable batteries are convenient and easy to use, an overnight charge providing a full day of use. Best of all, eliminate the need for replacing batteries, saving money, time and environmental waste. Disposable batteries can still be used in an emergency, should the user forget to charge. There are different levels of rechargeable batteries, with lithium ion the fastest growing and most promising battery technology, offering 40% more power than conventional rechargeable batteries. Several manufacturers also offer many charging options, from desktop units for the workplace, to powerpacks for traveling, and fast charging options for an immediate 6 hours of battery use.

Many hearing devices are compatible with TV connector streaming devices, which stream excellent stereo quality sound directly to hearing aids. These accessories interface with the television, other audio devices, and stream on an unlimited number of wireless hearing aids. The TV connector gives each user the ability to adjust independently to audio levels without affecting others’, greatly elevating the enjoyment of watching television or listening to music with family and friends.

Bluetooth technology is an increasingly common feature in hearing aids, allowing for connectivity with your cell phone. Several manufacturers offer apps that allow you to control your hearing aid settings through your smartphone phone, as well as enable the hearing device to function as a wireless headset. Once hearing aids are paired with the smartphone, it is truly hands-free, with the phone ringing directly in your ear and the built in microphone clearly transmitting your voice.

Apple, the manufacturer of iPhone, prioritizes accessibility features in their devices. They have developed a high quality audio streaming protocol for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch, that operates on the same 2.4 GHz band as Bluetooth but requires much less power.. This feature provides a high quality digital audio experience accessed directly from these devices. It also takes advantage of a direct wireless signal to both hearing instruments, which has been proven as the best way to optimize hearing on the phone.

These lightweight, hand held, or clip-on accessories enable the user to discreetly control the volume and preference settings on their hearing aids. Many manufacturers offer accessories that are multi-functional, serving as both a microphone and remote control. Hearing aid devices with Bluetooth capabilities offer even greater flexibility in controlling settings through smartphones and other personal electronic devices by downloading the manufacturer’s remote control app.

An accessory offered by several manufacturers, remote microphones are discreet, lightweight, and versatile aids to be worn by conversation partners in noisy environments. Some manufacturers offer more technically advanced versions of the clip-on wireless microphone. This turns the patients hearing aid device into a stereo headphone and allows the user to make hands free phone calls or stream music from either Android or iPhone smartphones. This remote microphone functionality allows the user to listen to someone from a distance – ideal for educational lectures, business presentations, or even dinner with friends in a loud restaurant.