Hearing amplifiers: features, best models and tips for choosing

Hearing amplifier: how it differs from a hearing aid for the ears, what is better and more convenient to use - these questions often arise in people suffering from impaired perception of sounds. With age or due to traumatic effects, these body functions noticeably deteriorate, moreover, hearing loss can develop in very young people as a result of listening to loud music on headphones.

A hearing amplifier is a special device with an ear clip that looks like a headset for talking on the phone. The design of the device includes a microphone that picks up sounds, as well as a component that increases their volume. Inside the case there are batteries that power the device. The most important characteristic of such equipment is the working radius - it varies in the range from 10 to 20 m, it determines how distant sounds will be heard in the speaker.

Hearing amplifiers do not always solve purely medical problems. They are quite useful in everyday life. For example, when watching TV at a reduced volume, if necessary, to sensitively catch the crying of a baby in the next room.

Hearing amplifiers are cheaper than hearing aids. They do not require consultation with an ENT doctor before use, they are sold freely. Hearing aids differ significantly not only in the selection of a suitable model. The design of the device itself is rather complicated; the device is designed for long-term continuous operation.

The difference with the hearing amplifier is also in other parameters. Specialized medical devices have better sound and finer tuning. The way of selling is also different. Such devices are not marketed through television advertisements. They belong to medical equipment and have all the necessary hygiene certificates. It should be borne in mind that manufacturers of hearing amplifiers do not check their devices, they are often sold with postal delivery, and difficulties may arise with exchange and return.... The similarities between the 2 types of devices are noticeable.

• Appointment. Both types of devices provide enhanced auditory function. The miniature device acts as a repeater. Sound is processed and amplified even in high-noise environments.
• External design. Most devices look like a behind-the-ear headset, some models are inserted into the ear.

The differences are also quite obvious. Hearing amplifiers do not have the ability to fine tune. With a strong degree of hearing loss, they are practically useless. Frequencies are not selected: both external noise and the interlocutor's voice are amplified equally intensively. We can say that the amplifier helps with minor or temporary hearing impairment, while the hearing aid fully performs the lost functions of the body.

There are several types of hearing amplifiers. They may differ in the way they are worn, the presence of adjustments and controls, and the type of batteries. It is worth considering all the options in more detail.

• By type of construction. All devices are divided into in-the-ear, behind-the-ear, in-ear, and pocket devices. In most modern models, the entire device fits completely inside the auricle. The pocket ones have a directional microphone and an external unit for receiving an audio signal. In-ear models are the most comfortable to wear, do not risk falling out while walking or running.
• By the way the sound is processed. There are digital and analog models that convert the incoming signal in different ways.
• By power source. Inexpensive models are supplied with a coin-cell battery or AAA batteries. More modern ones come with a battery that can be recharged many times.
• By the range of perception. Budget options can pick up sound at a distance of up to 10 m.The more complex and expensive ones have a working radius of up to 20 m.

Devices to combat hearing loss are actively advertised today. They are offered not only to older people, but also to students, hunters, and young parents. Among the popular models of hearing amplifiers, there are several options.

• "Miracle-Rumor". A fairly widely advertised model, it has a flesh-colored body that is inconspicuous in the auricle. The intensity of sound amplification reaches 30 dB - this is less than that of most analogs. The battery in the kit is replaceable; problems may arise with the search for a replacement.

• "Witty". A model with a good working radius, it reaches 20 m. The hearing amplifier of this model has a compact size, has a built-in rechargeable battery with a capacity reserve for 20 hours of operation. Its charge can be replenished via the USB port of the computer and the household power supply, it takes up to 12 hours.

• "The witty TWIN". A model with improved performance and an increased radius of work. As in the classic version, it uses a rechargeable battery, each cell in a pair can work autonomously, which is convenient for sharing them. Among the advantages can be noted the reduced charging time - no more than 8 hours.

• Spy Ear. Inexpensive device, inferior to other models in the ability to amplify sounds. It has weaker technical characteristics, the most simple execution. This model should only be recommended if you want to experience the possibilities of hearing amplifiers.

• Mini Ear (Micro Ear). The smallest models in their class - their dimensions do not exceed the diameter of a coin of 50 or 10 kopecks. The devices are especially loved by young people, they are almost impossible to notice in the ear. Such models are very comfortable, even with prolonged wear, they do not cause discomfort.

• Cyber ​​Ear. One of the first models to appear on the Russian market. This is a pocket-sized technique with a special transmitter mount. It is reliable, copes well with its tasks, but is inferior to other models in terms of wearing comfort. The power source is AAA batteries. The sound is captured only directionally, there is no surround effect.

There are some important criteria to consider when selecting your personal hearing amplifier.

• Appointment. For an ordinary person, in order to make out speech or other sounds in the general noise, devices with an amplification of up to 50-54 dB are needed. For hunting or sports field disciplines, devices are used that amplify only the quietest noises, up to 30 dB. Thus, it is possible to recognize the movement of the animal or detect the enemy on the way.
• Construction type. Older people may find it more convenient to use pocket-type equipment or behind-the-ear devices that can be put on and off as needed.In-ear and in-ear design options are more reminiscent of headphones, they are chosen by young or adults who do not want to indicate wearing the device.
• Famousness of the manufacturer. Even hearing amplifiers that do not have an official medical device status are recommended to be purchased from specialized stores. They usually feature top brands and can be easily returned or exchanged. Purchasing products in the “store on the couch” does not even allow you to find out the real name of the manufacturing company, most often cheap Chinese products are sold under a loud branded name.
• Stereo or mono. Models with 2 independent earbuds in the kit allow you to get a broadcast of surround stereo sound when using the device. Mono amplification technique usually only perceives directional sounds, has no 3D effect.
• The presence of replaceable nozzles. Since the hearing amplifier is a personal item, it is recommended to choose when purchasing devices that provide an extended package. They have different sizes of tips to match options with specific physiological parameters.

Hearing aid "Miracle-hearing" is presented in the video.