Oticon hearing aids

Differences between hearing aid models

Oticon generally organizes their hearing aid models into levels of technology to fit the lifestyle needs of every patient. Most technologies are available in a wide array of hearing aid styles and colors.

• The “premium” hearing aids are the top of the line, with the best technology and most recent innovations. For example, the Opn hearing aids are built on a new chip which reduces noise very effectively. These hearing aids also feature streaming directly to mobile phones (made for iPhone) and connection with other electronic devices through the innovative If This Then That (IFTTT) network. This application allows wearers the option to integrate hearing aids with applications that can automate functions at home, at work and on the go. Premium level hearing aids are especially helpful for people who are in many different listening environments throughout the day and are used to enjoying lively conversations with groups of people in sometimes noisy places. These hearing aids suit wearers who demand the best technology for their dynamic needs.
• The “best” hearing aids contain features that meet the needs of most patients with active lifestyles or challenging hearing loss configurations. For example, the Alta2 has the greatest ability to configure levels of sound at different frequencies. These hearing aids can handle most any listening environment and are suitable for those who enjoy quiet conversations as well as dynamic group interaction
• The “better” hearing aids are meant for individuals who are less active, have less demanding communication needs or have easier hearing losses to fit. For example, the Nera2 has a narrower band of frequencies that can be configured at different levels.
• The “good” hearing aids are the most basic technology. The Ria2 would be most appropriate for someone who isn’t very active (and doesn’t want to be more active) and also has a hearing loss that is easier to fit. These hearing aids are best for those who have basic communication needs including quiet settings, watching TV and having mostly one-on-one conversations.

Premium, best, better and good correspond to the pricing of the hearing aids. The hearing aids with the most features have the highest price tag.

Oticon’s tinnitus feature

The Alta2, Nera2 or Ria2 models may be upgraded to include a tinnitus feature, which consists of soothing ocean sounds that help wearers better manage their tinnitus. This upgrade is indicated by appending the model name with “Pro Ti” (for example, “Alta2 Pro Ti”). This is consistent with Oticon’s philosophy of personalization; the company strives to provide flexibility for the practitioner to fit the patient with the appropriate technology and features for their lifestyle and specific hearing needs.   

Pediatric and super power hearing aids

Oticon has long been regarded as a leader in pediatric amplification with the types of hearing aids and accessories needed by children in the classroom and beyond. They currently offer two pediatric hearing aid models. The Sensei is designed for children with mild, moderate or severe hearing loss and the Sensei SP (SP = super power) is designed for children with severe or profound hearing loss. The pediatric hearing aid models are available in BTE styles, typical of most hearing aid manufacturers. BTE styles are best since children grow and change too quickly to make ITE hearing aids practical, and they are durable and practical for the rigors of kids’ daily use.

In addition to providing multiple fun color options and stickers for personalization, the following kid-friendly features come standard on the Sensei hearing aids:

• An LED light on the case to indicate the hearing aid is functioning properly
• Hypoallergenic, phthalate-free case construction
• Water and dust resistance
• Shock and drop resistance
• Tamper-resistant battery doors

Oticon also makes a super power hearing aid for adults, called Dynamo. Dynamo is a BTE style that puts out plenty of sound and requires a larger battery size. Dynamo hearing aids are available in several technology levels: Premium, Advanced, Essential and Basic.

Other hearing aids made by Oticon

In your research on hearing aids, you may find these legacy Oticon hearing aid models: Alta, Nera, Ria, Chili, Safari, Intiga, Agil or Ino. Oticon typically releases new hearing aid models each year. Talk to your hearing care professional if you want to compare features between legacy and current hearing aid models.  

Assistive listening devices made by Oticon

In addition to a strong line-up of hearing devices, Oticon offers other assistive technology to help people better connect with the world around them. The Connectline and Streamer Pro are assistive listening devices that wirelessly connect an individual’s hearing aids with other sound sources such as television, mobile phones, computers, MP3 players and personal microphones. The Connectline accessories are compatible with every wireless hearing aid in Oticon’s portfolio.