In MY neck of the woods, hearing centers do not have an audiologist, only hearing aid techs with often only months of training recommending $8,000 hearing aids. A word comes to mind: a racket.
I got my second and 3rd hearing Aids from Costco. Costco Tech did real ear measurement and I had Custom ear molds made at a fraction of the cost elsewhere. The mold fit very well, comfortable no complaints. The Costco I go to Has recently brought hired an Audiologist and has very capable Hearing Instrument Specialist. I do see an ENT doctor annually to insure no medical issues and the Audiograms are always spot on with the Costco one. I am very pleased with the treatment I get at My Costco in Milford Connecticut.
Recently had my hearing tested at a local hearing clinic and at Costco. The results from both were very close, but the cost difference for hearing aids was significant and included a conversation about the need for one vs a pair of hearing aids. One other important factor to consider: Ask about the life expectancy of the hearing aids you are considering. I was shocked to learn that I might have to purchase new hearing aids in as little as three years.
A useful video to help clarify the various options and price ranges. Having followed a number of CZcams Audiology channels from around the world it does also appear that manufacturers may operate local market based pricing for the hearing aid technology component. The services element will also be a variable even within a specific country / region. The US does appear to have very high pricing compared to the UK. As an example UK specialist audiologists can sell the hearing aid + hearing test + in clinic configuration +3 -5 years support for the top of the range Phonak L90's, Resound Omina 9's etc from c £2800 - £3600. You can purchase Phonak L90's wholesale with configuration to your audiogram for £2400, if you are prepared to go this route. The US healthcare / insurance model may be driving the local US pricing?
I've tested the Starkey Genesis AI, and found them disappointing. The additional features, like fall detection, not only do not work when tested real world, but 6% of all falls occur getting in and out of the bath/shower. You're not supposed to wear the Starkey's in the shower. The step counter is also up to 40% off. Theses bells and whistles are nothing but snake oil if you ask me. Work on background noise suppression, because it falls short as well.
Those are not even bells and whistles. They are alternative uses for the accelerometers included in most hearing aids today. It makes it sound like you are getting more for your money when it’s just a bit of soft wear that appears good.
Typically the best hearing aids for background noise are prescription-grade devices. Most prescription hearing aids have some background noise management. I also like Sennheiser's new product for its background noise management chops.
I keep hearing the word "prescription". Is the audiologist at the local store the one who writes the prescription or does this have to come from a licensed physician?
In MY neck of the woods, hearing centers do not have an audiologist, only hearing aid techs with often only months of training recommending $8,000 hearing aids. A word comes to mind: a racket.
I got my second and 3rd hearing Aids from Costco.
Costco Tech did real ear measurement and I had Custom ear molds made at a fraction of the cost elsewhere. The mold fit very well, comfortable no complaints. The Costco I go to Has recently brought hired an Audiologist and has very capable Hearing Instrument Specialist.
I do see an ENT doctor annually to insure no medical issues and the Audiograms are always spot on with the Costco one. I am very pleased with the treatment I get at My Costco in Milford Connecticut.
Recently had my hearing tested at a local hearing clinic and at Costco. The results from both were very close, but the cost difference for hearing aids was significant and included a conversation about the need for one vs a pair of hearing aids. One other important factor to consider: Ask about the life expectancy of the hearing aids you are considering. I was shocked to learn that I might have to purchase new hearing aids in as little as three years.
Well, thank you very much. I’m glad you brought that all down from the most expensive hearing aid to the cheapest hearing aids in between.
This seems like a very honest and educated look at hearing aids and pricing. I felt like I learned something and I know I have options.
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful.
Awesome review thank you.
A useful video to help clarify the various options and price ranges. Having followed a number of CZcams Audiology channels from around the world it does also appear that manufacturers may operate local market based pricing for the hearing aid technology component. The services element will also be a variable even within a specific country / region. The US does appear to have very high pricing compared to the UK. As an example UK specialist audiologists can sell the hearing aid + hearing test + in clinic configuration +3 -5 years support for the top of the range Phonak L90's, Resound Omina 9's etc from c £2800 - £3600. You can purchase Phonak L90's wholesale with configuration to your audiogram for £2400, if you are prepared to go this route. The US healthcare / insurance model may be driving the local US pricing?
Great note! The prices we reference in this video are all U.S. specific
I've tested the Starkey Genesis AI, and found them disappointing. The additional features, like fall detection, not only do not work when tested real world, but 6% of all falls occur getting in and out of the bath/shower. You're not supposed to wear the Starkey's in the shower. The step counter is also up to 40% off. Theses bells and whistles are nothing but snake oil if you ask me. Work on background noise suppression, because it falls short as well.
Appreciate the feedback! Hope you find something that works for you.
Those are not even bells and whistles. They are alternative uses for the accelerometers included in most hearing aids today. It makes it sound like you are getting more for your money when it’s just a bit of soft wear that appears good.
How about a review of the Blaids Neuro X Hearing Aids. They are self-programmable.
We will look into them! Have you tried the product?
🙀 Jesus 7 grand for a pair yikes that's definitely gonna put a dent in most people's wallets
Which hearing aid good for noisy environment ? Does it have noise cancelling all hearing aids?
Typically the best hearing aids for background noise are prescription-grade devices. Most prescription hearing aids have some background noise management. I also like Sennheiser's new product for its background noise management chops.
I keep hearing the word "prescription". Is the audiologist at the local store the one who writes the prescription or does this have to come from a licensed physician?
Good question! Am audiologist can prescribe and program “prescription” hearing aids without an MD writing a script
Yeahhhhhhh OTC are slowing going backwards in their technology only iPhone never android