Can you tell me more about the Phonak brand of hearing devices and hearing aids?

Certainly we can do that. The Phonak Group specializes in the design, development, manufacturing, production, marketing, and worldwide distribution of technologically advanced wireless and hearing systems. By working closely in developing new technologies and partnering with trained health care professionals, Phonak has been able to advance the quality of life for those suffering from hearing impairments. Phonak offers a complete range of digital hearing devices and hearing aids which are also supported by their specialty products and wireless communications systems. With more than 2,500 employees globally, the Phonak Group is one of the three technology leaders in the hearing technologies sector.

That sounds great. Can you tell me more about their specific products of hearing devices from Phonak?

The newest digital hearing devices and hearing aids from Phonak feature small microprocessors and the latest digital technology. These Phonak hearing aids can be programmed using a computer by health care professionals trained by Phonak. With these digital hearing devices, the sound is processed and transmitted at high precision and speed. Phonak digital hearing devices and hearing aids also have optional features such as hearing programs, automatic dynamic settings adjustment to match hearing environments, noise canceling technology, adaptive directional microphones, and remote control operation.

Latest lines of digital hearing aid systems from Phonak include:

• Phonak Nios micro - Dedicated to young lives
• Phonak Exélia Art - Redefining Excellence. Embracing Perfection
• Phonak Audéo YES - All the Sounds of life
• Phonak Versáta - Enjoy the dynamic world of sound
• Phonak Certéna - Proven technology you can truly count on
• Phonak Exélia - Full life experience
• Phonak Naída - More Hearing. Slim Design. Water Resistant.

Phonak series of programmable hearing aids include:

• Phonak Astro
• Phonak MicroZoom
• Phonak Piconet2
• Phonak SonoForte2
• Phonak PowerZoom
• Phonak NovoForte

Analog Behind-the-Ear hearing instrument lines from Phonak include:

• Phonak Classica which is a versatile, inexpensive line suitable for mild to profound hearing loss
• Phonak PicoForte3 featuring low-gain directional models to high-gain low frequency emphasis models
• Phonak SuperFront featuring highest gain instruments with anti-feedback technology

How do hearing aids and hearing devices help with hearing loss?

Hearing aids and devices generally help with problems of hearing loss by amplifying and modulating sounds. Hearing aids and hearing devices come in many forms which may fit inside the ear, around ear, or even implanted to be anchored to a bone inside the ear.

What are different types of hearing devices and hearing aids?

The different types of hearing aids and hearing devices are:

• body worn
• behind the ear
• in the ear
• receiver in the ear
• in the canal
• extended wear
• disposable
• bone anchored

When are hearing aids ineffective in helping with hearing loss?

Since hearing aids and hearing devices simplify amplify and modify sound inputs, they are ineffective in cases where the hearing loss comes from a loss of function of central nervous system and brain cells to interpret signals or when hair cells in the inner ear are damaged in sensorineural hearing loss. In these cases where the body becomes unable to discriminate or interpret sound signals, the sound amplification provided by hearing devices are ineffective.

What is the best way to pick a hearing aid or hearing device?

The best starting place is to talk to your doctor, who will have the most experience with choosing a brand and model to help meet your hearing loss needs, budget, and requirements. Your doctor will be able to recommend some popular models of hearing aids that have proven to be effective for other patients of his. Also, remember to do followup visits with your doctor once you have received your hearing device so that you can verify that the device is working correctly and helping your hearing. You may also want to speak with friends and family who have used hearing aids in the past to get their experiences with certain brands and models and get their recommendations.

How do I get the best price for a hearing aid or hearing device?

Although price is probably a less important consideration than picking a hearing device that amplifies the sounds and improves your quality of life, the price for the hearing aid is still a very important consideration. Our best suggestion for getting the best price once you have picked some hearing aid model that suits your needs is to shop around, especially online. Look at different online stores and retailers and compare prices for the hearing aid. Look for special deals such as price matches, coupons, low price guarantees, battery specials, and free shipping deals for your hearing device. Use our directory to find trusted information sites and retailers of hearing devices and make your best choices.

Are there other considerations for choosing a hearing aid model or hearing device retailer?

Other considerations for choosing your hearing aid and a retailing outlet include the customer service and guarantees for the retailer. You will want to choose a good company with solid customer service record and good return policy and satisfaction guarantees. You will also want to consider the ease of maintenance, ease of getting service, and ease of changing batteries for the model of hearing aid you choose.