Month: June 2023

Best Invisible Hearing Aids of 2023

If you are in search of the most discreet hearing aids available in 2023, you have come to the right place. In this post, we will provide an overview of the best invisible hearing aids on the UK market, each with their own unique features. We will also translate the terminology used by various manufacturers. Let’s dive in!

Phonak Lyric

Dubbed the “contact lens of the ear,” the Lyric hearing aid stands out on our list. This hearing aid can only be fitted by specialist authorised audiologists. Lyric is inserted using a microscope, placing it just four millimetres from the eardrum. It can be worn continuously for 2 to 3 months and is the only truly invisible hearing aid designed to be worn 24/7.

Starkey Genesis AI

The Genesis AI IIC (IIC stands for Invisible-In-Canal) is custom-made from a mould of your ear taken by an audiologist. The shell of the hearing aid is constructed from acrylic material, which has been an industry standard. It comes in three power levels (low minus, low, and medium power) and is expected to be available in the UK in the Autumn. View details here.

Oticon Own

Like the Starkey Genesis AI IIC, the Oticon Own IIC is custom-made and crafted from acrylic material. It is available in two power levels where your audiologist will choose from a 75 decibel or 90 decibel receiver.

Phonak Virto Paradise

The Virto Paradise offers a unique feature in that it can be made from either acrylic or titanium. The titanium material makes it 15 times stronger than acrylic hearing aids. It comes in three power levels: moderate, power, and superpower.

Signia Silk X

Unlike the custom-made options, the Signia Silk X is an instant-fit hearing aid. It doesn’t require an impression of your ear, but the rubber tips on the end are interchangeable to accommodate different ear canal shapes and various degrees of hearing loss.

Invisible Hearing Aid Sizes

There is no significant difference in size among these hearing aids, and for reference, we haven’t included any other manufacturers as their smallest hearing aids are not as small as those listed above.

Invisible Hearing Aid Colours

For the most discreet appearance, it is recommended to choose black for in-the-ear hearing aids. Flesh-coloured hearing aids may stand out more due to the contrast with the shadow of the ear. However, if you prefer a colour that matches your skin tone, apart from Lyric all the other hearing aids listed come in a range of colours. The Phonak Lyric only comes in bright yellow, but its positioning inside the ear makes it completely invisible.

Invisible Hearing Aid Suitability

Each hearing aid has its own fitting range, which determines the level of hearing loss it can effectively address. It is essential to have your hearing properly tested by an audiologist should you be considering purchasing any hearing aids online to ensure that any purchases are made with an informed decision.

Invisible Hearing Aid Adjustments

The method of adjustment varies among these different hearing aids. All require an initial fitting process to be completed by your audiologist. The Signia Silk X requires any further adjustments to be made by an audiologist. The Starkey Genesis AI has a T2 app for basic adjustments like volume control and program changes to allow the user some flexibility based on the environment around them. The Phonak Virto Paradise does not have an app but offers a personalised battery door with a button for different program options. The Phonak Lyric uses a magnet-on-a-stick called SoundLync for adjustments. Preferences for self-adjustment or audiologist intervention vary among individuals.

Invisible Hearing Aids Batteries vs. Rechargeable

The choice between batteries and rechargeable options depends on personal preferences and dexterity. Most of the hearing aids listed have the option of using disposable batteries that last anything from three to five days or using a charger daily except for the Phonak Lyric. The Phonak Lyric’s battery will last you for two to three months, and your audiologist will replace the whole device.

Invisible Hearing Aid Technology Levels

The hearing aids listed come in different technology levels, each offering varying features to enhance sound quality in different listening situations. Higher technology levels often come with a higher price tag.

Invisible Hearing Aid Unique Features

The Phonak Lyric stands out as it’s a digitally programmable analogue device which provides a far more natural listening experience.

However, this also means that when programming the Lyric, there aren’t as many parameters to adjust when tailoring them compared to any of the digital hearing aids on this list.

So there is sometimes a trade-off between the great convenience and discretion of Lyric versus how it performs in more complicated listening situations, such as groups, crowds, or noisy listening environments.

The Starkey and Oticon hearing aids both have their own version of AI built into the chip on their hearing aids.

Phonak have a similar feature in their Virto Paradise hearing aids called AutoSense 4.0, which works in a similar way to Starkey and Oticon, automatically adjusting to your environment. One difference, however, is that Phonak give your audiologist access to those various settings, and they can be fine-tuned and tailored based on your needs and preferences.

One thing to highlight from Signia Silk is that they have ear-to-ear communication, which means that they are working as a system rather than working as two individual devices. This means that they should be better able to cope with and assess the direction of the source of sound that you want to hear versus the background noise and therefore, improve your speech understanding in more complicated and noisy listening situations.

Finding an Audiologist

To get the best out of your ears, make sure that you find a completely independent audiologist that has access to technology from ALL hearing aid manufacturers. Some of them only work with a few hearing aid manufacturers, so you’re not necessarily going to be recommended what’s best for you, but whatever they have access to.

We would recommend discussing with your audiologist the suitability of each hearing aid for your hearing loss and your hearing difficulties.

Most importantly, aftercare is essential to ensure your new hearing aids last and function well for as long as possible. At Harley Street Hearing we offer an annual complimentary hearing review for life.

If you’re interested in finding out more please call 020 7486 1053 or complete the contact form.

Harley Street Hearing are the home of independent audiology in London. We’re the largest independent hearing clinic in London and have been established on Harley Street for 25 years.

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Common hearing aid problems and how to fix them

Having trouble with your hearing aids? Whether you’re experiencing more feedback than usual, a drop in sound quality or are simply struggling to adjust to a new device, most hearing aid problems can be fixed at home.

When relying on hearing aids every day to help alleviate the symptoms of hearing loss, we understand how frustrating it is when the device isn’t performing as it should. Fortunately, all it takes is a basic understanding of the common issues that can arise, how to troubleshoot them and what to do to prevent any problems in the future.

The below guide should help you to do all of the above effectively, so you can get your hearing back on track in no time.

Hearing aid feedback and whistling

One of the most common problems encountered by hearing aid wearers is receiving feedback or hearing whistling sounds through the device. This often happens when sound leaks from the device’s receiver and is picked up by the microphone, causing a frustrating feedback loop.

Preventing and troubleshooting hearing aid feedback

Hearing aid feedback can happen for many reasons. Once you identify the root cause of it, you should be able to solve the problem easily. Here are some of the most common causes and what you can do to resolve them.

Adjust the fit – Surprisingly, ears can actually change shape over time. This can lead to the earmolds becoming loose and not sealing correctly which can cause feedback issues. If this is the case, it’s wise to get your hearing aids re-fitted or replaced.
Check for ear wax buildup – Excessive ear wax can block the ear canal, stopping sound from travelling through and causing it to bounce back into your hearing aids which can result in a whistling sound. The easiest way to fix this is to book an ear wax removal appointment with a professional audiologist.
Adjust the volume – Excessive feedback or whistling can be a result of the volume on your device being too high. Try turning the volume down and see if this helps reduce the feedback or whistling.

Hearing aids can be subject to wear and tear over time which can lead to broken tubing, dislodged microphones or loose fittings. Any change to the device’s structure or fitting can lead to feedback issues which your hearing care provider should be able to resolve.

Hearing aid producing weak or distorted sounds

If you find that your hearing aids aren’t loud enough even at the highest volume, or the sound emitting from them seems distorted or muffled, you may just need to carry out some maintenance or adjust the settings.

Troubleshooting checklist

Ensure that your hearing aids are fully charged or replace the batteries if your device isn’t rechargeable. Low or weak batteries can cause sound issues, so it’s wise to ensure your device is always charged or carry spare batteries with you.
Clean the microphone and receiver openings regularly to remove any accumulated debris. A build-up of dust or dirt can block sound transmission, often resulting in weak or distorted sound. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and take great care when cleaning the fittings.
Change the wax filter. A blockage of the wax filter can reduce the level of sound reaching your ears.
If activated, use the volume and programme buttons on the hearing aid, or linked mobile phone application to adjust the settings. This can help to temporarily resolve the issues until you can arrange an appointment with your audiologist to discuss the issues further.

Hearing aids damaged by water or moisture

As with any electronic device, hearing aids and water don’t get along. Many hearing aids are designed to be water resistant but not waterproof. This means that they’ll typically be unaffected by a splash of water or a drop of rain but submerging them is a no-go.

Accidents do happen, and if you find yourself still wearing your hearing aids after jumping in the shower, you’re not the first person to do so.

Here are the most important steps to take if you get your hearing aid wet:

Quickly remove the hearing aid from any water or moisture – If you suddenly notice you’re still wearing your hearing aid whilst showering or swimming, or have dropped it in water, remove it immediately and take it to a dry place.
Turn the device off and remove the batteries – It’s likely that the water may have penetrated inside the device, so where possible, remove the battery and leave the compartment open to dry.
Dry the device as quickly as possible – Start by soaking up any visible moisture and leave the device in a warm, dry environment. Air drying can take 24 to 48 hours, but investing in a hearing aid dryer is a great option to speed up the process. Alternatively, place the device in a bowl of dried rice to encourage the fast absorption of moisture.

If the above steps don’t bring your hearing aid back to life, get in touch with your hearing care provider as soon as possible for any repairs or replacements that may be needed.

Above all else, it goes without saying that undergoing a thorough hearing consultation and getting your device fitted by a qualified audiologist will stand you in the best position to get the most out of your hearing aid. Following that, undergoing regular maintenance and care procedures will help to prevent any potential issues later down the line.

If you’re really struggling with your hearing aids, it may be that they are no longer suited to your hearing ability. In this case, it’s important to get your hearing re-assessed to find a device that suits your current hearing loss.

Harley Street Hearing is London’s largest independent hearing clinic. Our professional audiologists can conduct a thorough hearing assessment and offer independent advice on the most suitable hearing aid for you. If you need any assistance with your current hearing aids we are more than happy to help. Contact us online or call us on 020 7486 1053 to find out more.

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Introducing Phonak Roger On iN v2

Phonak Roger On iN v2 hearing aid microphone

A brand-new accessory addition to the hugely successful Phonak Roger portfolio, Roger On iN v2 is a versatile microphone dedicated for all conversation where background noise is present, or when there is a distance to the talker. Roger On iN v2 is a third ear for virtually all difficult and ever-changing listening situations.

With the new Headset Mode, Phonak Roger On iN V2 replaces the function of computer’s microphone. This way, Phonak Roger On iN V2 can now be used as a headset for online calls, allowing two-way voice streaming when connected to a computer via USB cable.

Thanks to the built-in accelerometer Phonak Roger On iN V2 recognises the sound environment and its position, and switches automatically between Table mode, Presenter mode and Pointing mode. With its display it’s possible to see which mode is active and the status of the device.

Roger On is available in two modern colours Champagne and Graphite Grey.

How can the Roger On microphone assist your hearing?

In headset mode for on-line calls
On the table during meetings, social gatherings, group situations at school or college
Can be worn by a presenter, lecturer or instructor
Streaming TV or music

Hearing in background noise

Today’s hearing aids do an excellent job of improving speech understanding. However, a third of hearing aid wearers report they still have challenges hearing in noisy situations.1

Phonak Roger

Roger technology is designed to boost the performance of hearing aids and cochlear implants, regardless of background noise or the distance to the person talking, by picking up the voice and transmitting it wirelessly to the listener.

Other Phonak Roger Microphones

Reduce distracting background noise using Phonak Roger Microphones. Ideal if you need to zone in on noisy social situations, meetings or presentations. You can even connect to your tv’s audio output. Roger will enhance your hearing.

Roger Table Mic II

Designed for group situations either socially, work meetings or school or colleges; multiple microphones can be connected in a MultiTalker Network to cover large meetings. It selects the person who’s talking and switches automatically between the meeting participants.

Roger Select™

Can be worn by a presenter or placed on a table. When multiple conversations take place, the listener can manually select whom to listen to.

Hearing Aid Receiver Options

In hearing aids featuring RogerDirect™ the receiver can be installed directly. No need to add an external receiver. For other hearing aids and implants there are several types of receivers available.

Roger Neckloop

Ideal for teachers, instructors or presenters, when they wear the Neckloop you can hear instructions clearly in group situations.

Phonak Roger systems may be reimbursed for work or for school, college or university students. If you are eligible, your clinical audiologist can help you to apply.

If you’d like to come in for a hearing consultation, our highly trained clinical audiologists at Harley Street Hearing will be delighted to talk you through and demo all new technology available for your individual hearing needs. Call us on 020 7486 1053 or complete the form.

1.Abrams, H. B., & Kihm, J. (2015). An introduction to MarkeTrak IX: A New Baseline for the Hearing Aid Market. Hearing Review, 22(6), 16.

Review for Roger On iN v2 hearing aid microphone

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing, and a content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinion on all new hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly-independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video where he shares his opinions on the new Roger On iN microphone below.

Tinnitus & Harley Street Hearing in The Times

Tinnitus at 23: How I found a way out

Duncan Geddes was at Glastonbury when his hearing became distorted. Years later he’s found a solution.

“Since the age of 12 my biggest passion had been live music, but I could barely listen to music even at home. At times it felt like my world was shrinking, like I’d have to find something else to live for.

Ultimately, my way out came with help from a hearing therapist called Jordon Thompson (Harley Street Hearing) who is trained in audiology and cognitive behavioural therapy. His first observation was quite a surprise: the earplugs I’d been wearing at gigs for years kept out too much sound. The noise-reduction rating of 29dB taught my brain that the music was scary and to be avoided.

The answer to this was pushing putty into my ears and taking a mould for custom, more efficient earplugs, made by ACS. While these provided less sound reduction than the heavy-duty earplugs I’d been wearing to protect my hearing previously, they were still strong enough to prevent the objective hearing loss threatened by concerts and cinemas — and without turning the sound into mud, like cheap foam plugs do.

Over the course of our six sessions, Thompson taught me mindfulness, especially the practice of focusing on bodily sensation to keep your thoughts in the present………”

This is an excerpt, to read the full insightful article in The Times click here.

If tinnitus is affecting your enjoyment of music and you would like a Hearing Therapy consultation, or for custom made hearing protection ear plugs please call us on 020 7486 1053 or complete the form below.

Harley Street Hearing are the home of independent audiology in London. We have been established on Harley Street for 25 years.