Why Phonak Is One Of Our Reviews Teams Top Picks
Established in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1947, Phonak has been producing assistive listening devices for more than 70 years and is one of the oldest hearing aid companies in the market. After researching Phonak and its products, our Reviews Team chose it as one of their top picks based on the companys reputation for building trust with its customers, developing new technologies, and driving innovation in hearing aids.
Phonaks legacy for innovation has won the company several awards. In 2021, Phonak won the Red Dot Design Award Best of the Best for its Virto Marvel Black model, an in-the-ear hearing aid designed to look more like modern in-ear headphones than hearing aid devices. Red Dot judges called out the Virto Marvel Blacks style-conscious design blended with innovative technology, such as Bluetooth connectivity and background noise reduction.
In 2019, Phonak won several awards for its Phonak Marvel hearing aids, including the Gold Stevie Award for Innovation of the Year, and the MedTech Breakthrough Award for Best New Technology Solution.
What Is The Best Phonak Hearing Aid
Of course, the best Phonak hearing aid will depend on your unique situation. Consider questions such as:
- What is my budget? Remember that hearing aids have an average lifespan of 3 to 7 years, so youll likely need to purchase multiple devices over time.
- What is the nature of my hearing loss? Only some Phonak products are able to support people with profound hearing loss.
- Which features are important to me? In which situations will you likely be using your hearing aidsquiet conversations, streaming audio, noisy restaurants? Do you need hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity or rechargeable batteries? Do you have an active lifestyle that may require water-resistant hearing aids?
How Do You Clean Phonak Hearing Aids
An individual should clean their hearing aids daily.
People should not use water or solvents to clean their hearing aids because these elements may damage the devices electronic components.
After removing their hearing aids, a person should wipe them off with a soft, dry cloth. They may use a special brush to remove earwax from the devices. They should always separate the earpiece from the hearing aid before cleaning.
Phonak offers a line of cleaning and care products to make cleaning hearing aids easier.
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Phonak Audeo Problems With Moisture
I have now had a pair of Phonak Audeo rechargeable hearing aids for a year. The sound quality is certainly very good, but I have had to return one or other about 5 times in the last few months when one of them suddenly switches off. If at home with the charger, I can reset it but it is irritating when you buy the top of the range of a renowned brand and have this sort of problem – repeatedly and they have no solution for it. Apparently the rechargeable ones have a problem with even a slight degree of moisture and it would appear that the small amount of perspiration I produce behind my ear when active in hot weather is probably to blame. I do not perspire more than average and yet it causes this problem
Date of experience:October 07, 2021
Phonak Naida Paradise Product Specification
Phonak Naida P-PR
- Mild to severe hearing loss
- Battery: Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion
- Direct connectivity to iOS and Android devices
- Supports multiple Bluetooth connections
- Severe to profound hearing loss
- Battery: 675 zinc-air
- Direct connectivity to iOS and Android devices
- Supports multiple Bluetooth connections
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Phonak Hearing Aids Reviews Styles
ITE The In-The-Ear hearing aids are designed specifically to fit the shape of the user’s ear canal. This style is available in a wide variety of colors, to match almost any skin tone, helping to make the device virtually invisible. Models that come in this style include: Lyric, Ambra, Solana, Cassia, Dalia, Exélia Art, Versáta Art, Certéna Art and the Milo Plus.
MICRO BTE The micro Behind-The-Ear hearing aid models that Phonak offers are smaller than standard Behind-The-Ear devices, making them exceptionally discreet. These hearing aids are designed for those with mild to severe hearing loss. Models that come in thsi style include: Ambra, Solana, Cassia, Dalia, Exélia Art, Versáta Art, Certéna Art, Milo Plus, Audéo S Mini and Naída S CRT.
BTE The standard Behind-The-Ear hearing aid models Phonak offers are designed to be worn, as the name implies, comfortably behind the ear. This style is can accommodate individuals with any level of hearing loss, from mild to severe. This style is also available in many different colors to match just about any skin tone. Models that come in this style include: Ambra, Solana, Cassia, Dalia, Exélia Art, Versáta Art, Certéna Art, Milo Plus, Naída and Naída S CRT.
ITE hearing aid
Phonak nano hearing aid
Phonak Audeo Life Hearing Aids
The Phonak Audeo Life is a completely new hearing aid, with a new outer case that has specifically designed microphone ports. The key highlight here though is that it is waterproof. Life hearing aids can be submerged in around 1.64 feet of either fresh, salt or pool water.
Therefore, Audeo Life, gives you the confidence that your hearing aid, no matter the conditions, will always provide optimum hearing performance and connectivity. You can also gain Health Data Tracking features. This means you can access health performance indicators like counting your steps, showing you your activity levels and gaining access to set your own health goals for better well-being and overall health.
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A New System No Limits
The new Marvel platform does not have any of those limitations. The Marvel will allow users to experience stereo streaming audio from any Bluetooth enabled device, that includes most mobile phones available, computers, even some modern TVs. Marvel users can have that audio streaming with the full benefits of Phonak’s ear to ear features . That all means an outstanding new hearing aid platform with no limitations.
Phonak Sky M: Marvel Tech For Kids
The Phonak Sky Marvel product family is designed for the special requirements of children with hearing loss. The Roger remote microphones with Marvel are a big help to children, who benefit from access to remote microphones both in the home and in classroom settings.
Phonak says it offers “the first and only operating system designed for children,” with the Sky M products. And the Sky M lineup is available in a wide range of colors and sizes, so kids can mix and match colors to fit their preferences. Its rechargeable battery lasts all day, even while streaming.
For kids who use a cochlear implant in one ear, and a hearing aid in the other, the new Phonak Sky Link M works seamlessly with the new Sky CI Marvel sound processor.
Phonak Sky M Lineup
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Pros And Cons Of Phonak Hearing Aids
Pros
- Seven different sizes available from XXS to XXL, all for mild to moderately severe hearing loss
- Unique in-the-canal hearing aid that is placed in the ear canal by a hearing professional and stays there for months at a time with no need to remove it
- Water-resistant , meaning you can wear it in the shower
- The Lyric costs $2,130 for each device, or $4,260 for both ears, per year
The Lyric is a 100 percent invisible in-the-canal hearing aid that uses the natural anatomy of your ear to amplify sound and it can stay in your ear for months without needing to be taken out. Its only available with an annual subscription, which includes replacement devices and servicing.
Phonak Price And Financing Choices
Phonak hearing aid prices can vary depending on your provider and your level of hearing loss. In general, Phonak prices range from $1,349 to $2,399 per device.
You may be able to get some of the cost of the hearing aids covered through your private insurance. This coverage could involve hearing exams, screenings, and some financial assistance with buying the hearing aids themselves. However, many insurance providers do not cover hearing aids, so its essential that you double-check with your specific provider. Several state insurance mandates also require coverage for children younger than 18, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Hearing aids are not covered by Medicare Parts A or B, according to the official Medicare website, which means people with that kind of coverage are responsible for the full cost of the hearing aids and exams. Medicare Part C may pay some of the costs of hearing aids. Another option for paying for hearing aids is to use a flexible spending account or a health savings account.
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Whats New With Marvel
Phonak has long been an innovator in hearing technology and Marvel represents a leap forward in user experience. Some of its key features include:
- Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries
- Integrated Roger receivers in some models
- Direct streaming to both Apple and Android devices
- AirStreamTM technology for TV and Audio streaming
Not new, but significant:
- Binaural Voicestream Technology allows the two hearing aids to exchange information. This allows for convenience features like synchronized volume and program control . More importantly for communication, this feature allows the hearing aids to determine which ear has more speech and then copy that cleaner signal to the other hearing aid. This reduces the negative effects of background noise , wind , and reverberant rooms . Some of these features are only available in higher technology levels, but the basics of synchronized controls are available across levels.
How Do You Customize Phonak Hearing Aids
You can customize your hearing aid settings through the myPhonak app, with different accessories, on your hearing aids, or with support from your hearing care professional. The options are explained here.
- myPhonakApp: The myPhonak app has buttons that you slide to adjust volume, frequencies , noise reduction, and more. You can also select programs for different listening situations. The app is compatible with Naída Paradise, Bolero Marvel, and Audéo Paradise.
- Accessories: Phonak has a few accessories for you to make your own hearing aid volume adjustments and program settings, such as the Phonak RemoteControl or Phonak PilotOne II. The plus button increases the volume, and the minus button decreases it. The third button changes your program settings.
- Hearing aids: Depending on the model and how your hearing professional configures your hearing aids, you can control the volume by pressing upward on the multi-functional button to increase the volume and downwards to decrease it. Those with dexterity issues or poor eyesight may prefer to use the app to adjust their hearing aid volume, as the multi-functional button can be small and hard to manipulate.
- Hearing care professional support: If youre unsure how to adjust your hearing aids or want some additional assistance, you can contact your hearing professional to support you with adjustments.
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How Do You Pair Phonak Hearing Aids To Your Phone
A person can select settings on their iPhone to pair the hearing aids. They should select Bluetooth from the settings menu and turn it on. They should then turn the hearing aid off and back on. The hearing aids should then connect to the hearing aid.
Phonak hearing aid models that connect to smartphones include Audéo Paradise, Audéo Marvel, VirtoMarvel, Bolero Marvel, Naída Marvel, and Sky Marvel.
Why You Can Trust Our Expert Review
Our experts independently research and recommend products we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. Weve spent collectively more than 5,000 hours conducting in-depth research on hearing aids. Throughout this process, we did the following:
- Engaged in ongoing independent research
- Consulted with independent audiologists
- Surveyed hundreds of hearing aid users
- Tested various models of hearing aids
- Interviewed experts in the field
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews from trusted third parties such as Better Business Bureau and Consumer Reports
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Phonak Hearing Aids Customization
Phonak offers a range of colors, sizes, and levels for users to customize their hearing experience. Most of their devices come with color options, from the Virtos sleek black titanium shell to the Sky Marvels bright mix-and-match colors. Many wearers prefer to choose from a range of flesh tones to match their skin for a more subtle look.
There are also a range of options for users to customize their devices functionality. Customers often have a choice between built-in lithium-ion batteries or changeable zinc batteries. Some models are offered in a range of levels the four performance levels, Essential, Standard, Advanced, and Premium, describe the devices speaker and receiver functions, streaming programs, and features like motion sensors and noise cancellation.
Finally, users can find the most natural fit by choosing from a variety of sizes and styles. Phonak offers behind-the-ear, receiver-in-the-ear, and in-the-ear designs. Some models, like the Virto, even come in a range of sizes so you can customize your device to comfortably sit in your ear.
Lets Get Started Here Are The Best Audiologist
Audiologists prescribe this first group of hearing aids. They are typically more expensive and come with top-tier technology. You can use Soundly.com to sort traditional products with pre-negotiated pricing.
A few big hearing aid brands manufacture nearly all audiologist-prescribed hearing aids. The “Big 5” spend millions in R& D and typically lead the way on tech.
There are style and philosophy differences between these traditional options, but they offer the same features and generally the same prices. Think of them as BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. Different, but also a lot the same.
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About Phonak Hearing Aids
If you are experiencing profound hearing loss, it is more than just inconvenient. Hearing impairment can be a big challenge, affecting all aspects of your life. It might affect how much you are able to communicate with coworkers, friends and even loved ones, especially grandchildren.
However, you don’t have to keep missing out. With Phonak hearing aids, you can regain your confidence, your communication skills, and start enjoying the good things in life again. Here is some important information you should know:
Where To Buy Phonak Hearing Aids
Phonak sells hearing aids through audiologists ear, nose, and throat specialists or designated hearing aid centers. You can check the website for providers near you or call the number on the site. Before getting fitted for Phonak hearing aids, you will need to have a hearing test. The specialist will recommend the best Phonak hearing aid model and style for your particular needs. The specialist orders your new devices after taking a mold of your inner and outer ear, and you will be fitted in a few days to a few weeks, depending on the model.
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Phonak Hearing Aids Review : Models Cost
Phonak is a hearing aid brand from Sonova. This Swiss hearing aid manufacturer creates hearing aid technology and solutions, including cochlear implants and hearing aid compatible wireless accessories and devices.
Founded in 1947, Phonak has introduced several revolutionary technologies throughout its history, including multi-directional microphones, frequency compression, and the worlds first invisible hearing aid, the Phonak Lyric.
Along with Oticon, Widex, Signia, ReSound, and Starkey hearing aids, Phonak is considered part of the Big Six hearing aid manufacturers, six companies collectively responsible for the vast majority of global hearing aid sales. As of 2019, Phonak had 31 percent of the worldwide hearing aid market share, making it the worlds largest hearing aid brand.
But while Phonak may be the biggest, is it also the best hearing aid provider? In this Phonak hearing aids review, well go over factors such as Phonak models, cost, how many hours of power you can expect, user ratings, and more so that you can come to the decision thats right for you.
Are Hearing Aids Covered By Public And/or Private Health Insurance
Unfortunately hearing aids are not covered by Medicare. Pensioners are eligible for free hearing aids under the OHS or they can use the OHS voucher to top up to a more premium hearing aid. Depending on your level of cover with them, private health insurance companies such as HCF and Bupa offer rebates on hearing consultations and devices but waiting periods apply. Be sure to contact your health fund first as restrictions and limitations may be imposed.
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Meet The New Phonak Virto B Range
Phonak have now introduced the full range of their new Virto B in the ear products. They say that they are custom-made to perfectly fit in your ear, Phonak Virto B is the worlds first hearing aids with Biometric Calibration, which take your individual ear anatomy and hearing needs into account. That’s an interesting description.
They say that they will identify over 1600 biometric data points in and on your ear, and the unique calibration settings are calculated for each Virto B hearing aid. In this way, Virto B is able to more reliably sense where a sound is coming from, thereby giving you access to better hearing performance.
What does that all mean? Well, we think that Phonak is the first ever hearing aid manufacturer to carefully map the outer ear to take advantage of its natural abilities. They say that the new process will deliver a 2dB signal to noise ratio improvement. Basically, it means it will make the signal 2dB higher than the noise.
2dB doesn’t sound like much but combined with all the other strategies that Phonak use it will be a marked improvement. Phonak Virto B is available in six models to match your hearing needs. It is also available in the usual four levels of technology, the 90, 70, 50 and 30.
Phonak