DIGITAL vs. ANALOG HEARING AIDS

Digital Hearing Aids are all the rage today and the attention is well deserved. The Hearing Aid Market has been revolutionized by this technology. If you or someone you know are considering Hearing Aids, Digital may be the way to go.

First of all, let's talk about the different types of technology available in Hearing Aids. There are basically three (3) types of Hearing Aids: Analog, Digitally Programmable, and 100% Digital.

• ANALOG HEARING AIDS have been around for many years. Typically, Analog Aids amplify all sound and you are provided with a volume control to adjust the amount of amplification you receive.
  
  
• DIGITALLY PROGRAMMABLE HEARING AIDS also amplify all sounds, but then automatically control the volume for you, eliminating the need for a volume control wheel. They are also programmed with a computer to tailor the aids to your hearing loss, providing proper gain in the necessary frequencies.
  
  
• DIGITAL HEARING AIDS do much more than the previous two technologies. Digital Hearing Aids are miniature computers in your ears. Their greatest accomplishment is processing speech sounds and background noise differently. In more crowded situations, the aid will slightly reduce the amplification of the noise and slightly increase the amplification of speech, therefore making listening in noisy situations easier. Finally, relief for people who have difficulty listening in noisy environments! Also, Digital Aids automatically adjust the volume for you, reproduce sounds as naturally as possible (CD quality sound), reduce the occurrence of feedback and can be programmed to provide additional volume if your hearing needs change.

There are many benefits of digital technology over analog or programmable technology and the best way of determining an individuals benefit is by trying them out. We offer a 30 day trial period on all Hearing Aid purchases, allowing you to decide for yourself if they are right for you.

All three (3) technologies have their advantages and disadvantages and only a Hearing Professional can help you determine the appropriate technology for your hearing loss.