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Choosing the right hearing aid can be a confusing process because there are so many hearing aid brands on the market right now. Additionally, every person will have different hearing loss needs, so one type of hearing aid will not work for everyone. This article will look at a few of the top hearing aid brands on the market today, and why Nano Hearing Aids are a popular choice among hundreds of consumers in America.

Important facts to know before purchasing a hearing aid

Just as there are varying degrees of hearing loss, there are also different types of hearing aids with different features and functions. Hearing aids amplify surrounding sounds. They consist of three parts, namely, the microphone, which receives sounds, sounds are transmitted to the amplifier and finally heard via the speaker in the ear.

Open-fit: This is a small size with a tube that keeps the ear canal open.

ITE (In-the-Ear): For mild-to-severe hearing loss. This can fill the entire ear or only half the ear.

RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) / RITE (Receiver-in-the-Ear): The speaker/receiver sits in the ear canal (similar to the BTE).

BTE (Behind-the-Ear): It sits behind the ear and is completely visible. A tube connects it with an earpiece inside the ear canal.

ITC (In-the-Canal): It fits partially in the ear canal.

CIC (Completely-in-the-Canal): For moderate-to-mild hearing loss. It fits inside the ear canal and because it’s molded for the ear it provides the least visibility.

It’s worth noting what the hearing aid types are for a better understanding of them, especially when it comes to choosing the right hearing aid device. Knowing what to look for will minimize confusion. These are some of the key factors to consider when purchasing a hearing aid: batteries (including rechargeability), remote control functionality, and noise reduction efficiency.

Additionally, all hearing aid brands should adhere to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) guidelines when selling their products. These cover warranties, guarantees, and purchase agreements. It will also safeguard users from potential scams.

Nano Hearing Aids

Nano Hearing Aids (launched in 2017) started with the desire to improve hearing loss for others and make it affordable, especially for the older generation, who tend to ‘miss out’ on experiences because they cannot fully engage with all their senses. The primary benefits of Nano hearing aids are that users get the best of both worlds, namely, diversity and affordability, which is why they have become a favorite among many Americans.

There are a number of hearing aid models available from Nano, each comes with additional features to enhance hearing. Below we look at the two prominent models available and what they offer. Users can purchase and track their orders via the Nano website.

Sigma Wireless

The Sigma Wireless is priced at $597 per pair and comes as a small, near invisible, Behind-the-Ear (BTE) model. It pairs via Bluetooth and Nano’s Mobile App. Although this is the only wireless device from Nano it is easy to navigate and doesn’t require any in-depth technical knowledge - only a smartphone. Users can test their hearing from the mobile app as well as adjust volume, frequencies, and four different sound environments, namely, outdoors, television, restaurants, and conversations. The Sigma does not have a rechargeable battery, however, the lifespan can go up to 14 days. There is also an add-on noise reduction feature.

X2 Recharge (X2R)

The X2 Recharge is priced at $797 per pair and comes with a rechargeable battery with a lifespan that goes up to 16 hours, it has a low-battery warning to alert users before their battery dies. It includes background noise cancellation technology and two directional microphones, which enhances incoming sounds. It fits discreetly as a small Behind-the-Ear (BTE) model, making it almost invisible.

Guarantees and Warranties

Users can find complete transparency on Nano’s website about warranties and guarantees for each hearing aid device on offer. Nano offers a 45-day money back guarantee, which allows an adequate amount of time to test and adjust to a hearing aid (recommended adjustment is a 21-day period). Additionally, users can also purchase an Elite Protection Plan that will provide coverage for a year in the event of damage or loss. Nano does not provide insurance plans, but they make up for this with highly affordable devices and monthly payment plans.

What other hearing aid brands are available?

Although Nano is a popular choice among consumers, below are alternative brands on the market right now that offer similar benefits.

Signia Hearing Aids

Signia offers a variety of different hearing aid types with smartphone connectivity and remote control via the Signia App. Among these is their newer Pure 312 X, which connects via Bluetooth, allowing streaming for music, television, and phone calls. It is a Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) style that makes it discreet when wearing it. It comes with batteries, however the Pure Charge&Go X, also as a RIC (receiver-in-canal) type, has lithium-ion batteries that are rechargeable with an inductive charger. Signia hearing aids are priced between $1000 to $3000 and offer a free trial to test a hearing aid. Users can contact their nearest Signia provider for more information about warranties.

Costco Hearing Aids

Costco Hearing Aids is a well-known retailer in the US, they also specialize in hearing aids. The Kirkland Signature 9.0, priced at $1499.99 per pair, is a Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aid. It comes with various features like 20 channels, binaural signal processing, Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to stream audio or watch television. From the Easy Line Remote Smartphone App users can adjust volume and other settings.

Summary

The decision to purchase a hearing aid will often rely upon the price and ease-of-use. When it comes to Nano hearing aids, users are given affordable options, with buy-one-get-one-free deals, and earbuds are included with each set. While this article does not cover all the hearing aids available, it is clear why Americans gravitate towards Nano’s product offerings.

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