Attempting to educate myself to help my spouse address a hearing issue, and unfortunately the more I discover, the less I know. Lots of noise out here in the name of hearing clearly.

Cliff, thank you for your videos. I’m the only person in my family that is using adaptive technology to help me. I was born hearing but have been deafened over time and these videos significantly helped guide me in my decisions and wished I could have gone to see you in your practice. Thank you for your very educational and informative videos.

This falls into the category of why true audiophiles subjectively prefer vinyl records vs. digital formats, even though the digital formats can capture higher effective data rates and never degrade. Vinyl records just sound warmer, smoother, and ethereal. This is most likely a similar issue with hearing aids. Several researchers have suggested that since the analog vinyl records produce sound that mimics the ear drum's response, it is more attuned to HOW we hear, not WHAT we hear. An interesting point...my dad was profoundly deaf in one ear and only had ~20% hearing in the other, and all of that was in the lower octaves. He got new premium hearing aids that were tuned for him. He couldn't hear hardly anything. Going back to the audiologist, I explained what I had evaluated the problem as. (I taught spectrum analysis for several years and had profiled my dad's hearing earlier.) He had zero hearing above 1KHz in both ears. He had about 20% below ~1 KHz in his left ear. His hearing in his right ear was at most 5% below ~800Hz. What had been done with his new hearing aids was an inverse profile of his hearing to "balance his hearing." This focused on the how and not the what. After much discussion and explanation, I had the audiologist cut everything off above 1KHz with a soft gain profile from 400 Hz (semilog) up to 1Khz. Suddenly he could hear far better than he had in years! Why? Because it focused on the WHAT he was hearing. What was happening was the gain on the frequencies above 1KHz was saturating his ear drums with high SPL's that prevented the lower frequencies (which required maximum ear drum compliance) from being transmitted across the ear drum tympanic membrane. Note, that this was way back in 1995. Things have obviously improved greatly since then.

@Elephantine999

3 ай бұрын

Do you have a double-blind study that supports your claim? There is an awful lot of subjective BS in the audiophile realm (for example, that silver speaker wire works better than copper). You really need a reliable test to make a categorical statement like that. (Or at lest *I* need one.)

What a fantastic example of a small-scale, well-designed clinical study presented in a balanced way that consumers can understand. I am a health care researcher and was extremely impressed by how you took the results of a single study and validated the findings in your own group of clients. You were very clear about the limitations of your study, but that does not take away from your findings. I would love to use this as an example of translating evidence into practice in the research class I am teaching this fall. Bravo!

@DrCliffAuD

3 жыл бұрын

Possibly the best comment I've ever received on my channel! 🏆

@hephzivahisrael6974

2 жыл бұрын

I don't understand why this gentleman spends the whole video saying or implying that there is no real benefit difference between premium and advanced technology, and then says he recommends the premium level to all his patients every time. What then, was the purpose of the video .. it makes no sense to me. Obviously his patients will follow the advice of a specialist .. yet he says he works ethically

@SlackFX.channel

2 жыл бұрын

​@@hephzivahisrael6974He literally directly addresses what you're saying you don't understand at 13:21 onward. Just because you aren't able to make sense of something does not in fact mean that it does not make sense. His stance is entirely reasonable as he's being entirely transparent (and therefore ethical) in how and why he's drawn the conclusions he's drawn, as well as acknowledging the issues with drawing these conclusions weighed against the positive outcomes patients feel they've had in having been recommended the premium products over advanced. Recommending them the premium option does not mean he does not make them aware of what options they have available to them/and why they consider should choosing one over another. Ultimately it is still the patients choice, and like any medical advice, people are always free to seek multiple opinions.

@sarahdurantsmith1278

2 жыл бұрын

@@hephzivahisrael6974 It's a bit hard for a lay person to follow, but I believe the standard he's using is called "informed consent". This basically means that he gives patients the information they need in a way they can understand so they can make the best decision for their health. He tells them that there isn't necessarily a drop in performance, but there are likely benefits the premium technology since he couldn't explain why all 4 patients in the study picked premium before knowing which was which. It doesn't sound like he's pressuring people to go out of a comfortable price range. He doesn't really get into this but the info is also helpful on the other end; the difference between advanced tech and premium is miniscule compared to the difference between no hearing aids and advanced tech

@vasundhararatakonda9455

2 жыл бұрын

Hi no

Thank you for your informative video. I’ve just ordered my first pair of hearing aids so I’m trying to educate myself about the technology available.

Thank you Doctor Cliff for making this high quality content! You are helping people like me make decisions we can live with.

@DrCliffAuD

2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure Paul!

A couple of questions come to mind in the patients making the decision of which technology they preferred. 1) Were they given the choice before any pricing was mentioned? 2) Was the treatment/fitting the same for both levels, i.e. the amount of time taken for the programming and verification the same in order to assure that their wasn't any apparent difference in the device levels? 3) is there a cost difference in fitting/programming the different levels of technology? 4) What "features" are being eliminated by going to the lower tier of technology?

I am getting my hearing aids replaced very soon, great to hear the truth, all l want is to hear, a cell phone costs $600, why should hearing aids cost $6,000.00. Is it a money milking machine for deaf people. thank you for your video.

@SubToTripleThreatRC

3 жыл бұрын

I just got my first set of hearing aids after a (non work related) accident took much of my hearing. I got talked into the $6,000.00 set and am now wondering if I could have saved a couple thousand dollars???

@mmarjisr

3 жыл бұрын

that's just it if the hearing impaired wants to hear again than they gotta pay what a crock

@neilfurby555

2 жыл бұрын

Yes it surely is...

@SaltNBattery

2 жыл бұрын

Yes.

@xiyangyang1974

Жыл бұрын

1. Smart phones are mass products, whereas hearing aids are niche products. 2. There is nearly no consulting effort for a smartphone, whereas users of hearing aids need a lot of consulting. Technology is not expensive, but the workforce is expensive.

U r so honest and kind to people can't afford expensive hearing aid great thanks I learn lots from your vedeio

Nice video Doc...now ita back to dreamin' of hearing sids for me...someday...😎👍

Very impressed with the honesty in this study.

Wow, a lot to learn about hearing aids. Thank you💕👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

As a pre-teen my father helped clear up these weighty issues with a small bit of advise.... he said.. Whenever a salesman sells you a turd, he most surely will have a gold plated turd for those that want "only the best".. There's always an up sell, and it seems to me that in most cases it comes with diminishing returns and less value for your dollar.

@rogerdodger8415

3 жыл бұрын

@@sanuehimen1415 I think that you have ringing in your ears!

@sanuehimen1415

3 жыл бұрын

@@rogerdodger8415 I have tinnitus before over 2yrs after my friend recommended me to this doctor I was cure completely

@sanuehimen1415

3 жыл бұрын

@@rogerdodger8415 he can help you send him a message on is WhatsApp

@rogerdodger8415

3 жыл бұрын

@@sanuehimen1415 Indeed, but I keep telling you something, and you can't hear me.

@thecreativechamp

2 жыл бұрын

@@sanuehimen1415 Is this real?

Interesting information. I personally like the premium level too. There is usually one feature at that level that is worth the cost to me. One thing that neither study addressed is client satisfaction. If a premium level makes the client happy, then sell them the premium device. (If you make extra money on this, that's even better.) I know you would step down a tier or two if your client couldn't afford the top line - and we like that about you!

OMG! I love science! This was just a fun video to watch. Thanks for making my morning filled with hypotheticals.

Hi Dr. Cliff, have you fitted many of the Phonak Paradise UP model hearing aids yet? I’m using the calm setting vs using autosense. However I’m seeing fluctuations in volume with the Bluetooth when listening to KZread or music . It will start out loud and clear for the 1st 10 seconds or so then decrease to 1/4 or 1/2 then volume.it’s frustrating and I have tried 2 different devices and they both produce the same results. Any insight is greatly appreciate. Perhaps I have a bad hearing aid and need to replace before my trial expires?

I recently got my ears checked at the audiologist. I'm a candidate for hearing aids. Mild to hearing high frequency, so I'm new to all this.

I wonder if asking them why they chose that level would have clarified the results. Perhaps it was primarily the extra automatic features that made the difference rather than the hearing benefit.

Well done Doc.

Love the knowledge you are providing me with my mile to moderate hearing loss. Male with upper range mile loss so I don't always hear or understand the wife (not a joke). Your videos give me a lot to think about from the $849 ($649 until May 15 ) Bose ones to the Costco ones to going to an audiologist to ensure the hearing aid is precisely fitted. I'd tell anyone who is shopping for a hearing aid to listen to a lot of your videos. Thank you so much for the education before I spend hard earned money on a pair.

@123LetsGoEntertainment

Жыл бұрын

Hello May I ask one question? I have been having hearing problems during conversation. So thinking of having hearing aids and want a real comment from a person having similar condition like me. Can you have easy conversation with people especially in public noisy places with the help of hearing aids ? If you don’t mind please answer me. Thank you 🙏

@MrJimmyJoe6000

Жыл бұрын

@@123LetsGoEntertainment I did try the older Bose ones but they did not work for me. However I called Bose a few times and they were very helpful and when I returned them within the warranty period I got my money back very quickly. Bose was very reputable and easy to talk with. to your question. If it is real noisy or lots of conversation I have to be very attentive and I know I am doing some lip reading. I have not tried another set of hearing aids and am waiting until next year money wise to try another pair. Yes, I know the longer you wait can be detrimental. In any case, I think this you tube channel is worth listening to quite a few of them, even the old ones. It's expensive.

@123LetsGoEntertainment

Жыл бұрын

@@MrJimmyJoe6000 thank you very much. It’s quite informative hearing from your story. I have to do more research about it. Thanks again and I hope you have a lovely day.

I was watching this video as a potential hearing aid user, but I really enjoyed the description of the study. I'll be showing this video in my AP Statistics classes when we learn about experimental design!

@johnwilson7809

5 ай бұрын

You'll probably find that n=4 is too small of a sample size.

Thanks for this an enjoyable watch

I like that this is exactly the video I was looking for this week and it’s here now !!

If you are an attorney and concerned about both hearing and people seeing your hearing aid, where you need to listen in a hard surface courtroom and constantly on the phone, what type of hearing aid and brand would you recommend?

In February, I settled on the middle tier of the Octicon Opn S got the minirite R. I was already cringing at the almost $4,000 price tag but wouldn't go a tier lower and couldn't go a tier higher. My audiologist recommended a Starkey brand (the brand they favor) and a h.i.s. recommended the Oticon Ruby. Inheritance money I had at the time is the only reason I have these today. Had I not, I would have financed the Oticon Ruby or the Opn S3 (depending on the price) and left it at that. I did see there were differences between the three on the tech sheet, but not really enough to spend more money on the top tier offered imo. The audiologist didn't really explain thigs like this video did, but I wouldn't have been able to go up a tier anyways. I honestly wasn't looking for any bells an whistles, I just wanted to hear. In all honestly, my Apple Earbuds Pro are my go to when listening to youtube videos or fb lives or my usb headset. The hearing aids just don't sound as good for those things. Informative video Dr. Cliff.

@sanuehimen1415

3 жыл бұрын

Do you have tinnitus contact this doctor can cure you here is WhatsApp number +1(414)-895-3180 if you are interested

interesting look at individual preferences. Well thought out with tiny sample size.

New to your channel, and wondering if you have done a comparison between what is available, both in devices and service, at Costco and typical local audiologists?

Couldn’t agree more. I always say to get the best technology that you can personally afford. Good video.

2 years ago I tried Costco KS9 120 days (I could have 180) ; It cost $1500 and adjusted by dispenser; then, i switch to $4000 Oticon S3, adjusted by experienced audi, for almost 40 days (out 45 days trail) In the last 5 days I switched from one to another. Both were the same; so, ended up with Costco. My A audiogram curve is down to approximately -75db at both ears. there may be situations that one rides bike so wind is a big factor or one works a warehouse and the 8 hours of noise is a factor. The S3 at 4000$ did not do the trick and S1 was $6500. for me noise usually occurs in restaurant (total of 8 hours a month) or football/basketball games (several times a year). So this $5000 more to S1 not worth the diff. At my home or at my car or walking in the nature with friend Costco was superb.

@gonzo2.0

2 жыл бұрын

Consumer Reports always finds Costco hearing aids to be the best product for the best price. I think you made a good choice.

@MR-pr8tp

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing as I am going to go with Costco and stay within budget. I am convinced the profits and differences in the devices are simply lining someone's profit margins. After all, we are the only country that makes profits over care for the clients. I am simply convinced these devices could be made less expensive for the consumer.

In my country audiologists always start with the question: How much are you willing/able to spend on your hearing aids? Because most people here simply connot afford premium technology. I myself collected money for 2 years to buy me advanced level hearing aids (one per year).

@johnwilson7809

5 ай бұрын

Used car dealers also lead with that question.

Really helpful. Thanks

In my extensive personal layman’s research I feel that very basic core hearing benefits are equal across each level in various models. This is good for extremely mild hearing loss. However when you reach moderate severe or profound you definitely need the features of premium and advanced. At these levels the higher the level the better the fine tuning capabilities exist along with specialized features like noise cancelling and tinnitus masking. I have hearing loss similar to your patient #4 and I require the top tier to achieve the best quality of life possible. I could go with a lower tier and still obtain improved hearing but not at the level that I could with a step up. Also since hearing worsens rather than improves with age it makes sense to purchase the premium level which can later be programmed for hearing that worsens rather than needing to buy another pair prematurely. I am happy with my premium aides but as you stated go with the best you can afford.

@ruthnovack144

2 жыл бұрын

best hearing aid to purchase

@ruthnovack144

2 жыл бұрын

what is the best hearingaid to purchase

@kaylasmusic

11 ай бұрын

Agreed! But it’s most likely you’ll be changing the device after a few years or so, because that’s generally the lifespan for the devices now,.. you could always start with advanced level and see if you need premium, because it’s usually a 1,000 difference

@kaylasmusic

11 ай бұрын

@@ruthnovack144It depends on your lifestyle situation and hearing loss

Excellent video. Thank you. Wish you were in the NYC / LI area.

Great way of explanation

I was tested at a hearing aid center as I have a pretty good loss of hearing at 75. When I was asked to go outside and see how they sounded with street noise and speaking with people, they were lousy, and 42

I think those guys went for the premium/better ones because the whole thing about hearing loss is that you are MISSING OUT on what you had before all your life and what everyone else seems to enjoy, especially if you are just on the cusp of being quite young for needing them, like i am at 59 years. So the thought of missing yet another funny throw-away remark which leaves others laughing or getting your spouse to repeat themselves one more time or seeing them try to conceal their annoyance with you makes it worth the extra money, even for a limited difference. So that's why your subjects chose the premium, I think. 😊 The question is then: is there any significant difference between the brands. I have already listened to the Starkey Livio Edge 2400 review - v helpful, thank you.

Very interesting, should definitely look to do this with a much larger sample size. Big as you can. And review the questions.

Great channel. Any contacts in northern nj? Especially tinnitus.

What a great Video Cliff. Trying the best to justify why you reccomend Premium and analysing your potential personal bias in the process. A single blind is difficult, as all it takes is a slip like 'I think you'll like these' comment from you for the wearer to create an opinion. I have been using Costco hearing aids as they were the first in Australia to to sell at a relistic margin. Im 60 and on my 2nd pair in about 5 years now using KS 8.0 and tbh not really satisfied. So have started looking at Premium. But to digress, great video and you appear to have integrity and honesty. 👏well done.

Thank you for this information. I was really confused on what was the difference in the two. I have to pay out of pocket for my hearing aids. Thanks for your amazing videos

Dr. Cliff, Thank you very much for your videos. This is great information. For me the difference is between $1,400.00 for the Kirkland verses $7,400.00 for the Audibel Arc AI recommended by the audiologist. I am on trial with the Audibel for 2 weeks and will compare to the Kirkland as soon as I can get to Cosco. I can afford the Audibel but seriously doubt I will want to pay $6,000.00 for the premium features.

@DrCliffAuD

2 жыл бұрын

It has more to do with the professional care you receive. If you feel like the care provided at the Audibel clinic is substantially better than Costco, then I say stick with them.

I get all of my hearing aids from the VA. Currently I have Phonak (Sonovo) M-90s. I will get my P-90s on the 14th, other than the tap feature are they that much different

Based upon your helpful videos and knowledge, I plan to purchase the premium Phonak Lumity 90. Where can I get the best price for this model?

After 6 years of wearing a pair of high quality (Kirkland brand) ReSound hearing aids from Costco, I tried a tried on the Resound Omnia 7 hearing aid (Premium). I noticed a significant improvement in clarity and background noise (tinitus) reduction. Technology has moved forward in 6 years, but I am not sure I can justify the $1700 difference in cost (2 ears) and will most likely purchase the private in house brand "Relate" from my insurer.

That was a lot of information! But as a layman, how do I know which hearing aids are premium and which are advanced? I do not see that particular technology mentioned in hearing aid ads.

Dr. Cliff, I'm waiting for my Phonak Audeo Life Paradise 90s to come in right now because my Resounds broke and are out of warranty. There's a reason why I choose premium level of technology and it is the sound difference. For example on Resound I tried the Tier 5, 7 and 9. The 9 sounded extremely sharp and crisp. The 7 did as well. The 5 was still great, but, not as "high quality". It sounds more realistic and better with the higher tier. I would suggest comparing this as a metaphor to eye exams. Do you know when the eye doctor flashes different lenses between you and ask you if A or B is better? The differences are subtle. Yes, I can read the letters on line 3 perfectly without struggling with lens A. But with Lens B it's a bit worse but still great and easy to read. But, now with Lens A being better the second set Lens 1 and Lens 2, Lens 2 was better for me. These stack with small incremental steps. People who have a loss of hearing can actually hear the subtle cue differences. I think it is because they're designed and programmed for people like us.

As an audiologist, if I were one, I would also ask my patient, what their lifestyle tends to be and then make the judgement whether any extra features would make a difference to that persons lifestyle, in real terms. Just a thought.

Hi Dr Cliff, can one purchase an hearing aid by oneself? If yes, does one also need a Dr to fix it because of the NAL-NL2 you mentioned. Thanks

Hi. what do you think of lucid? would you recommend them

Very interesting video. During a testphase I was able to hear differences between premium and advanced level (Phonak Audeo P90 vs P70). P90 performed much better in (for me) rare situations with very high background noise. In (for me more) common hearing situations (group talk, video conference, phone call, single talk) the difference between P90 and P70 was noticeable but both levels performed not far from each other. Price difference per device in Germany was about 600$. It took me a while to come to a decision. At the end I decided for P70. And I am extremely satisfied. But if my hearing loss increases I tend to go and pay for premium because the difference in performance will most probably have higher benefits in common hearing situations.

@asadwahidi8894

2 жыл бұрын

Sq

I was diagnosed with sudden sensory neural hearing loss in my right ear. I am really struggling with background and distorted sounds. I have a hood hearing aid but I am still not satisfied. I tried a bone conduction ear phone and I could hear perfectly. Of course it was through Bluetooth and my IPhone so there was no background noise. Could you explain about the difference in bone conduction hearing aides and who would benefit from this type and why most audiologist do not talk about this type of hearing aide?

you just reaffirmed that I will be ordering premium aids next month when I go for replacements.

What a cool study, Cliff! 😎 I realize that a larger test group would be better, but I still think it was a smart study to try. And now you can feel more comfortable in the choices YOU are making! 😁

@kaylasmusic

11 ай бұрын

I think a few people would be sufficient but more people would definitely be beneficial to get a variety and a better idea for an average scale

@johnwilson7809

5 ай бұрын

@@kaylasmusic Most statisticians will tell you that a study with n=4 is too small a sample size.

Hello Dr. Great videos . I am a old time hearing aids user I have been using hearing aid for the pas almost 20 years...im 66 years old now, and it seem that my hearing loss is progressing. Am at around 88% loss. Everytime I take a Hearing test it comes back worts that the previous one, used to be 75 and now is 86 88% which is considered to be severe correct ?. My hearing problem seem to be concentrated on clarity. During the audiology test I can sometime hear the minor beeps, but when i am in real settings using hearing devices I cannot hear these minor beeps or sounds I should say, and experience lots of problems understanding speech however loud the hearing devices may be....so..what would be a good solution to these types of problems..I am in the market for a new set and im looking to purchase OTC devices..but I cannot find them for severe hearing loss.. I live on a tight budget so try to find a reasonable set of hearing aid that could fill my needs. any sugestion to my problem will greatly appreciated.. Thanks in advance...

I think this helps, I am just about to buy my 1st pair. I wonder if all suppliers are honest about selling the premium, if it's difficult to tell unless you get to test both levels? I think I will go for the basic level and see how I get on before making a more substantial outlay! here in the UK the basic are £2200 less than the highest level?

Personal anecdote: my premium gear is worth it. I am thankful for my ability to afford it. I experienced a substantial improvement to my quality of life. And since I have severe hearing loss in my left ear, streaming music through my hearings aids with L/R adjustment was like hearing the music all over again.

Great video, did you memorize or teleprompter? In any case, amazing!

@DrCliffAuD

3 жыл бұрын

Memorize

@bbstacker70

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrCliffAuD Damn, I can't even remember my SS number half the time. Splendid videos.

@carlotta4308

2 жыл бұрын

@@DrCliffAuD 😲

So, what you’re saying is that it comes down to features. If you like one over the other due to design, color or features, get that one, because not only are you getting the same quality in hearing improvement, but you’re getting what you want in features as well.

I have a question about hearing aids in the pool. I take water aerobics ( no head in water) I don't even get my hair wet! I don't wear my hearing aids in pool but I can't hear our instructors comments either. Is there a hearing aid that is in the canal (less noticeable ) that I can get instead of the traditional one . I have a signa that's 3 yrs. old. But I can't hear with these very well. I have tinnitus too. I don't know if these were programmed right!! I just want to hear clear and not delayed sounds! Do I need these adjusted OR new ones ? I'm live in Fairfax VA. Help me please! Find a knowledgeable dr. Of audiologist. Thank you. Susan

Good video, I think is important to mention the construction of the device mades long lasting the device and the materials, I am still fan of removable batteries etc, best regards Dr.

@angelaackerman8934

2 жыл бұрын

I just got the reSound One with batteries. I could have gotten it in rechargeable but i opted for battery because the rechargeable would me more toxic if my naughty dog swallowed them. People need to be aware that pets do get ahold of these things. The removable batteries are not quite as bad. Dogs are known to swallow things they shouldn’t. My pug got ahold of mine once but I got away from her before she ruined it.

Dr. Cliff is absolutely right, do not allow the chain-office HA services to robe you. Combine not so called “premium” tech, but advanced category, or basic and make sure the fitting, programming is used along with the “best audiologist practices”. This way one will save money and have the same premium outcome for their hearing loss addressed.

@johnwilson7809

5 ай бұрын

If someone were to "robe you", does that mean buying you clothes?

Hi Dr. Cliff, do you have any videos on BTE vs RITE? I am looking into new hearing aids. I have Oticon OPN Mini-rites but I hated the domes (itching, feedback, movement, etc) and switched to a lite tip mold. It’s okay, but it still gets clogged and I clean it multiple times a day. My cerumen is very thin liquid. I have mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss mostly in the high frequencies and constant very loud tinnitus. My AuD didn’t think I needed the mold in the first place, but I couldn’t hear myself and everyone always told me I was yelling. I wore a size 6 dome, so my canals are a little small and totally straight. I’m also a bartender (loud job), a singer (I know lol), and in nursing school (digital stethoscope), so I have a pretty varied list of needs. Like I need the ability to hear one person over many and protect my ears from noise damage. I also need to be able to hear myself. Who benefits from BTE vs RITE? How do I make an informed choice?

@aziyzulabdi6713

Жыл бұрын

You got OPN or OPN S?

@krishysler1373

Жыл бұрын

@@aziyzulabdi6713 OPN

@aziyzulabdi6713

Жыл бұрын

@@krishysler1373 my case very similar to you, with tinnitus in both ears.

I began wearing hearing aids 30 years ago. My choice buying a hearing aid was cost and expendable replacement due to my working environment. I worked in a power plant with extreme noise, heat and moisture. So I just bought a basic aid that I could turn on and off and replace with a additional pair at low cost. Now I’m retired and I bought a high tech model that I wear almost all the time unfortunately the high tech hearing aid batteries don’t last more than 14 hours. I still have to wear my old aids if I’m using them for a long period of time. Plus hearing aid stores come and go with changing economies.

This may have already beeen asked - are the hearing aids on the 2 levels the same device so that the only difference is how you adjust/program them? Also about how long do hearing aids last? Thanks for the informatvie video!

Thanks!

@DrCliffAuD

Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

Which devices were included in your test please?

Dr. Cliff Olson What tier level are the hearing Aid at costco?? Thank you. Thank you. 👍👍👍👍

A bigger study is needed. No-fault in recommending premium HA. The patient is free to choose.

Thanks bro, very honest comments and good personal effort put into an important subject

I can purchase a 55" UHD 4K OLED smart TV for $700. The idea that hearing aids programmed to a person's unique hearing loss profile have to cost thousands per ear is highly suspect. Yes, they are smaller than a TV but they really do not have that much to fit into their footprint limitations, especially when you consider what's crammed into a smartphone, and of course the cost of the materials in a hearing aid is probably a thousand time less than that of a TV. I think someone somewhere around the world will break this artificial logjam and provide hearing aids with all the premium customization level features for well under $1000 for both ears.

@neilfurby555

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely agree, from my perspective at least I suspect a very dubious relationship between performance and value, relying primarily on customer ignorance heavily influenced by great volumes of “professional opinion”.

@1947froggy

2 жыл бұрын

Costco almost there:)

@ChangesOneTim

2 жыл бұрын

Good analogy. Hearing aids today are essentially modular design with a range all based on the same 'platform'. Perhaps this can also be likened to the modular concept in car engine ranges: a certain German carmaker has a lovely 1995cc engine, the basic single turbo version gives cracking refined performance with 0-60 mph in 7.5sec, but they'll try to persuade you to go for the twin turbo spec with extra bells, whistles and 7.1sec 0-60 mph time. Better still, why not be bold and order the quad turbo with go-faster stripes, super-sporty suspension and 6.8sec 0-60 mph time? You'll have been persuaded to pay thousands more to 'go advanced' or 'go premium' even though you'd still enjoy 99% of the driving experience by sticking to basic.

@attilaann9421

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely. Good to see someone talk about price. Maintenance and adjustment. Why can’t the individual be taught to adjust and maintain his own hearing aid? This ain’t astrophysics or heart surgery.

@ChangesOneTim

2 жыл бұрын

@@attilaann9421 For maintenance and replacement of mechanical bits, why not? To an extent I do that myself already eg domes and receivers and cleaning stuff. But sound is a technical thing and I for one would continue to entrust that side to a professional.

I think there's actually a simple 'formula' to follow. WRS tells you to what degree aids will help. In quiet. I had in my ears, properly fitted, lowest an highest tier, and were equally (bad, since my WRS is bad, 70, and it's said that WRS is bad if it's not great math test score eg 90+ and I really agree with that) in quiet. However, point is that they were EQUAL. In quiet. NO aids no matter the price will give you more than your WRS (unless you utilize frequency lowering tech when you have completely dead high frequencies, but that again is available in lower tier tech as well as far as I remember) Then you need SNR value. Those who need low SNR, for them low tech aids should work in all environments. As more SNR you need, you need bigger tech. However, important thing is to know that after some point, no tech in aids will help. That's usually around 7-10 since that's lab environment maximum that aids can achieve. If you need more, you need external mics. They also have limit, but they also are closer to the source. They're at theoretical 15db help, in ideal environment. Again, with bad WRS no tech in the world can help you (beside cochlear implant, but for that, 70 is considered too good hearing to be worth risking, since CI OP has some risks) However, with bad WRS any help counts and makes the difference and gives you ability to be under less strain when listening. So even though you'll never get the perfect, it's worth trying. And then the final - if your hearing is so bad (mine is) that you need mics, you'll get better value for money with going lowest aid + mic since you'll work with mic anyway and aid is just a relay. So if money is an issue - that'd be my advice - go for external mic and lowest tech level for aids that can work with those mics, than spending your money on highest aid tech and not getting even close results to those that mics can give you. Yes, highest tech aids will be better for you than lowest tech aids in many difficult situations, but if you need mics for those really difficult - then aid level doesn't matter - if they work with mics, mics do the job anyway. And no aids on ear can catch sounds well in big distances, eg 7m is maximum in ideal conditions. Mic you can put there and move away ;) And above all, own your hearing loss. It's there to stay, it won't go away, and only damage you'll have by hiding the aid is - your low comprehension and many strained relationships because of misunderstanding. Not worth it, put your aids on top of the ear, put your mic in the centre of the table and enjoy a bit less strain when listening. As normal hearing people do :)

Dr. Cliff, I'm very impressed by the intelligence behind your reasoning. Now, if you could only be in Tennessee 🙂

@DrCliffAuD

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Michael, I do know a GREAT audiologist in Nashville if you're interested.

@1969russian

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrCliffAuD Hey Dr. Cliff, you know of any great audiologist in Columbus Ohio? I need a really good 1 because mine that I had went to over the last 25 years has passed away 😔.. I trusted her so much about my hearing as I had bought 4 pairs from her in the last 25 years… Now I feel lost. It’s almost like she was my best friend. She totally helped me so much with all of my hearing needs. I really feel lost now that she’s gone.

I am one eared; and wear a Benefon Z-9 from Costco. Would I benefit with a premium instrument?

This past December I purchased my first hearing aids. I looked over the features and decided that the advanced level fit my life the best. While I've enjoyed a substantial improvement in my hearing, the next pair I will buy will be with premium technology....now that I've gained experience, I believe additional features would be worth it to me. As usual Dr. Cliff, you do a marvelous job of explaining everything and helping we users to make better informed decisions...keep up the good work.

@123LetsGoEntertainment

Жыл бұрын

Hello May I ask one question? I have been having hearing problems during conversation. So thinking of having hearing aids and want a real comment from a person having similar condition like me. Can you have easy conversation with people especially in public noisy places with the help of hearing aids ? If you don’t mind please answer me. Thank you 🙏

I have tinnitus and minor hearing loss in my right ear, Now i want an over the counter hearing device that works with an app . to do that frequency phase cancellation for my tinnitus . I also understand a lot about audio devices. like the sound difference between say a neumann mic and a say joly modified mic can be only a 5% difference, 0ne mic 500 dollars the other mic being 5000 dollars and this goes across the spectrum of all audio devices. compressors mic pres EQ's etc. So is there a device that competes which I would complain the extremely over over over priced medical grade devices? I should mention I don't want a white noise masking device . I don't mind going to a doctor but I need a doctor that can also prescribe a correct over the counter hearing device, that can do what the extremely over over over priced hearing aids can do.

I wear hearing aids. My audiologist sells 3 tiers of hearing aids @ about $1000/$2000/$3000 each. The cheaper ones are the basic models with the speakers in the hearing aid behind the ear and a tube running into the ear. The mid range covers all the models from behind the ear w/ the speaker in the ear, to the very tiny ones that are replaced every 3 months at the office and are otherwise worn 24 hours a day. The highest priced ones are the same as the mid range ones but are recommended for the profound hearing loss patients that need something like frequency compression. It also doesn’t matter which brand of hearing aid of the several they offer. The cost also includes 2 office visits a year for cleaning and servicing and 1 comprehensive hearing test a year - for 3 years. Also, at the end of the warranty period, they will send in your hearing aids to be rebuilt at no cost to you. So, yeah, I wear the mid ranged aids. Granted the prices I quoted were as of about 5 years ago, so I don’t know what they are now. On a side note, my hearing is pretty bad. On the day I got my hearing aids, as I left the dr’s office, I started my car and for the first time heard my car’s startup chimes. For a second I thought the car was broken until I realized what it was. All-in-all, they were worth every dime I paid for them.

Hi everybody, I'm Italian and I ABSOLUTELY need analog Beltone S90 hearing aids because I have been using the analog system for 25 years. I have SERIOUS problems using digital hearing aids, such as tinnitus and headaches especially from my left ear. Can anybody tell me where to find these?

I'm in New Zealand & each quality step increase costs an extra $2000, fyi Also l am a woman & l find your factual, straight talking approach very, very appealing. fyi

@michelecaldwell3962

3 жыл бұрын

I agree! He is so easy to listen to!

I'd be interested to see APHAB and SADL on these folks for each device. Also, a larger sample size would be preferred.

@DrCliffAuD

3 жыл бұрын

Hopefully this will encourage researchers to get federal grant money to conduct a larger scale experiment.

@michelecaldwell3962

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrCliffAuD Absolutely and I appreciate that you took the time to perform the study at all!

@geofru

Жыл бұрын

Agree generally. Unfortunately, you'd need 50 or more subjects for a reasonable sample size, plus randomly assigned, and double blind. I doubt that anyone would fund that sized study to prove that the lower cost and lower profit model is just as good.

@bradingrao8496

Жыл бұрын

@@geofru and that exactly explains how we audiologists allowed the hearing aid industry to define and shape our "profession. " All rhetoric, no results.

Love it.👍

Interesting study for sure. A few observations: 1) Single to noise ratio is usually abbreviated as S/N, and not SIN. Maybe that was just a typo. 2) When you said "measurable difference", I don't think it was measurable as you had to use the user's opinion to determine better, worse, or the same. "Measurable" would mean it could be measured with a device that had a definite output, like a dB meter for example. 3) With only 4 people (n=4) the sample size is really too small to make any kind statistically significant analysis. But certainly a good starting point. 4) Many of us would like to know exactly what is the difference between the higher "technology" vs the lower "technology". Gain, frequencies, separation, S/N, filtering, distortion %, etc. In other words, what does each higher level of "technology" have over the lower levels.

What kind of hearing aids work if you have Ménière’s disease. I have lost of hearing in my left ear

good job

Which technology was the last one used for each client? I suspect a strong correlation to recency.

@TheRealLaughingGravy

3 жыл бұрын

As he said, two clients started with the premium and the other two started with the advanced, then halfway through they switched. All four picked the premium. Since this test group was so small, we can't infer any correlation (positive or negative) to recency.

My question is about the increase in price charged by the manufactures. If I am correct (please tell me otherwise), the aids have the same hardware installed regardless of the technology level with only difference is the software programming that allows what level of technology can be used. So why charge such a large difference between technology level?

@oldblackstock2499

2 жыл бұрын

My question exactly. I see you haven't been answered. The cost of hearing aids is outrageous ! And most of us must have it.

@neilfurby555

2 жыл бұрын

Great question. I also suspect that the internals of devices are identical, and the performance differences are created by adjusting the software controlling frequency response and other operating parameters. As a new user of hearing aids I am finding it pretty much impossible to obtain any specific information about device performance, all that seems to be made public is endless lists of features, none of which are ever quantified. Given the outrageous prices charged for these mass produced electronic devices, I can only assume that someone somewhere is banking very healthy profits based on a curious mix of customer naivety and blind faith in the hype? Someone tell me I am wrong please?

@ChangesOneTim

2 жыл бұрын

@@neilfurby555 On the basis that each person's hearing benefit is possibly just 50% from make/model of their aids with at least the other 50% benefit from the skill and experience of their fitting audiologist, it does make me wonder if the whole business model deliberately disincentivises the latter to do the best possible job for clients unless they choose to go premium!

@MR-pr8tp

2 жыл бұрын

@@oldblackstock2499 Amen! The cost and along with all American healthcare isn't about helping us but lining the pockets of someone in control. Of course these audiologists make money from selling and promoting the higher cost devices. . A real turnoff for me.

@carolcooke7125

Жыл бұрын

@@neilfurby555 Check out bandwidth and channels for better hearing aids

Why do you make more money selling premium devices? Why is the business model setup that way? Doesn't this invite a conflict of interest? Are there hardware differences between these technology levels or are the added features turned on and off by software or by an EPROM for example? Do the higher prices of premium devices represent higher manufacturing costs or are the higher prices market driven?

@patriotsandtyrants

3 жыл бұрын

I can’t speak for every clinic, but in mine we bundle pricing identically regardless of technology level. Now, premium devices cost more to get than essential so the cost to the patient is higher, but it doesn’t change the cost of my services at all. We do this specifically to remove the income bias and therefore the conflict of interest. I make the same amount off the essential as I do off the premium. I still recommend premium level devices.

@jeffsweeney312

3 жыл бұрын

Dr. Cliff said in the video that he made more money on premium hearing aids. I understand the services are the same so the cost for services should be the same. Are you saying there is no markup going to the audiologist on the hearing aids? The aids are sold to your patients at the cost to the audiologist? I really don't understand. Are the aids and services being bundled into a single price as is common at many audiologists? Can you even talk about this or are you under some sort of nondisclosure agreements?

@patriotsandtyrants

3 жыл бұрын

@@jeffsweeney312 Hey Jeff, no non disclosure at all so I am happy to discuss this at any length. As I said in my previous post, I can really only speak for the pricing policies at my own clinic, everyone is free to do as they will. You’re obviously well informed on bundled vs unbundled pricing, so I won’t go in to all of that, however when it comes to bundling, there is a whole lot of leeway on how that is done. Most practices that I have observed do what I call a tiered markup on hearing aids. They can have any number of models to do that, but a common one I see is tier 5 priced at say $4000 and then have $1000 step ups from there per tier. It’s a perfectly fine model and while a good chunk of those steps are used to pay for higher end devices, not all of it is, so in these cases the clinic makes more money per unit at premium level vs essential or standard, although it isn’t always very much more. Our model looks a little different, and was designed to remove any monetary incentive to recommend higher level products. We built our model based on best practice care, fitting and aftercare for 6 years. We then charge the patient for the hearing aids which is cost of aids plus administrative costs. If the hearing aids we use cost us say, $1800.00 per unit and you need two, your pricing would be... $3600.00 for aids $300.00 administrative + selected service plan ________________________ Total price for treatment. Again, that is how I do it, there are a thousand other ways to do it, so for specifics it would be best to discuss pricing policies with your clinic.

@jeffsweeney312

3 жыл бұрын

Next time I buy aids I certainly will discuss pricing models with my audiologist. I have finally learned from experience. I'm still trying to understand pros and cons and what sort of questions to ask. The discussion needs to happen up front before any tests and evaluations. I don't want to be halfway through the process only to grab test results and walk out. That would be ugly. I appreciate your transparency and pricing model. I like the subscription model for services because it removes disincentives for visiting my audiologist. Prompt treatment is better treatment as far as I can tell. Occasionally, life intervenes and a service contract is interrupted (My audiologist kindly extended my contract last year because of the pandemic.) Still, I think many patients would rather pay on an as needed basis. Then there is the issue of warranties. Six years is about the useful life of a pair of hearing aids. Standard warranties are about three years. Should we pay the premium to extend these warranties or should we take our chances? Are extended warranties provided by manufacturers or third-parties? Are audiologists reimbursed for services related to warranty repairs? Can repairs under warranty be handled by any audiologist (out-of-town emergencies, etc.)? I used to joke because aids are so expensive that I wear the equivalent of half a Toyota on my ears. And, it is tempting to make an analogy between buying aids and buying a new car. Do I get the Chevy or the Cadillac? But, that would be wrong. Hearing aids are healthcare, though regrettably unreimbursed. It is the quality of care that matters most, not the hardware.

@patriotsandtyrants

3 жыл бұрын

@@jeffsweeney312 To the warranty question, I have found that the best answer depends largely on the person wearing the devices. Do you care for your hearing aids very well? clean them daily? Use an electronic drying system? Don't expose them to a lot of debris and moisture? If so, then you will likely be fine allowing the warranty to expire, you'll probably be okay. However, if you're like the other 95% of the population, I would keep them in warranty. Most extended warranties are provided by the clinics themselves, although there are third parties that do offer them. As for reimbursements, I am not entirely sure, we are a large enough practice to do our own extended coverages. As for out of town audiologists, if you do find yourself out of town I would strongly recommend calling your home clinic and informing them that a repair is needed, they can direct you in which way is best to handle that repair. As for the car analogy, you are mostly correct. While there are some performance differences between models of cars, the comparison to hearing aids mostly end there. Hearing aids are NOT a commodity, they are a tool used by a professional in order to achieve the appropriate end result.

Like, your shirt, great color.

Thanks for the thoughtful study. If I understood correctly there wasn't a hardware difference between the advanced and premium devices, only a software programming difference - is that correct? If so why does simply using a different program raise the cost of the aids $200-$500 each? Since you mentioned computers, the difference in cost between them is based on hardware sophistication not software; they all run the same operating systems and programs. It would also be interesting to hear you say more about the differences are between premium and advanced aids.

@tictactoe325

Жыл бұрын

When I was looking at hearing aids the difference in price point was in the number of channels and availability of different programs/ apps. The bottom layer of hearing aids only had 4 channels, whereas the top range has 24 channels. I chose the top range because of the amount of channels that can accommodate my hearing spectrum and the ability of the hearing aids to do what I wanted. Yes, it’s cost me a small fortune, but it’s worth it for a quality of life.

Thank you so much. I am so happy to have found your videos! I need to get a new set of hearing aids. They will be my 2nd set ever. I purchased my first set about 4 years ago at age 54. Sadly, three weeks ago my covid mask knocked one out of my ear on vacation. I had no idea until it was long gone. So I now find myself needing to start over. I am actually glad because I was not happy with my first set. $4000 for the pair!!! Initially I think I was, but over time they seemed to help less. SO NOW where to start? I am trying to decide if going to Costco is a good place to start or if it is better to find a new audiologist. I WISH you were in the Atlanta area because I would Love to visit you. Thank you so much for your highly informative videos! They are really helping me figure this out.

@sanuehimen1415

3 жыл бұрын

Do you have tinnitus contact this doctor can cure you here is WhatsApp number +1(414)-895-3180 if you are interested

@ruthnovack144

2 жыл бұрын

? .

@sct4040

2 жыл бұрын

My hubby sees his ENT, with an in-house audiology exam, then we take the test result to Costco. Costco prices are very reasonable, at whole sale and with a wide price range. Hubby liked the $2,800 Resound.

Fascinating

Based on my own personal experience (as a hearing aid user for the past 36 years), premium technology becomes much more important if the hearing loss is more severe. And the features are also important because if you need hearing aids to be fully productive at work (and that is my case) you really want to have the maximum flexibility and options that premium products offer.

Hi my name is Leon I've been wearing hearing aids for years now and my hearing just got worse over time it was very scary until I decided to get a cochlear implant in my right ear I'm glad I did because I had a very good surgeon and of course she is leaving for a new job soon we're going to miss her a lot I'm beginning to get used to my implant it's worth it I wish I had done it sooner it's so lonely and scary when you can't hear not any more

@rosalindllk6454

2 жыл бұрын

Is implant painful,l had profound hearing lost,need surgery.

PLEASE HELP!!! My mom has turned 90 this July and she has suffered with Tinnitus in both ears since the age of 6. She had a mastoid surgery and it has caused the "duo-tone" ringing in her ears all this time. She now listens to the T.V. at the 40 - 50 range on the volume control and family is tired of yelling at her so she can hear us. What can be done to help her hearing loss and relieve the ringing as well? Is there any technology out there that helps both? Thank you!

Very interesting. Can you let me know which basic hearing aid you recommend that does not require smart phone integration?

@DrCliffAuD

2 жыл бұрын

No hearing aids require smartphone integration.

İ have a question please İs it dangerous to use hearing aid in just one side Like if i use it in the right side (%40 damage) without the left And i already have 20% damage in the leftt side

I was given Resound One tier number 5 and I got to try them out for two weeks. Loved them, so when it came time to pick my hearing aids. I decided to go down to tier 4 and was told it’s not that different other then price. Why pay more if you don’t have to right? However since then I’ve been having trouble and each week I’m back at my audiologist making changes. I’m frustrated and I don’t understand how the demos gave me no trouble, and now I’m having trouble.

@DrCliffAuD

3 жыл бұрын

Yep, you went too low in tech. Bummer. Can you upgrade?

@MalloryElizabeth

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrCliffAuD Yes I’m on my second 30 day trial, so I believe I’m still in the window to upgrade. Thanks for replying!

Nice, thoughtful research design with a clear presentation. Also an important question for our family which we were struggling to find unbiased evidence for. Thanks for sharing! Two questions: 1) are there physical differences between the devices? Are tier 1 devices more stylish or comfortable? I.e. might people prefer them for non-functional reasons? 2) Wouldn't a two tailed hypothesis test be appropriate here? Under the null that participants' eventual choices were truly random, the types are arbitrary. Following your example, we could have just as easily characterized the result as flipping a coin 4 times and getting all tails. So, under the null, I think we want to calculate the probability that everyone chooses the same type (all heads *or* all tails, all tier 1 *or* all tier 2) rather than everyone chooses a particular type. The p-value would be 2 x [ ( 1 / 2 ) ^ 4 ] = 1 / 8 = 0.125.

@DrCliffAuD

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Austin. To answer your question, Technology tiers have no impact on the styling of the device. To your second question, I should consult with you the next time I attempt to do a case study. Statistical analysis is not my strongest suit. 😂 Seriously, I became an AuD not a PhD for a reason...I'm not smart enough. 😂

What are best practices? I have worn hearing aids for over 15 years, but have never heard of best practices.

I think it’s kind of scummy how these companies sell you the same hardware( hearing aids )and give you different levels of software instead of just selling you one great product .

@edbouhl3100

2 жыл бұрын

It’s also extremely misleading to use the term ‘Technology’ instead of ‘Software’. There is only one point in this video that hinted that the hardware is the same in all five levels, when he mentioned reprogramming the devices and fewer features as a result. The implication seems clear to me that you should be able to buy a ‘Basic’ hearing aid and later have the software upgraded. But I think most buyers would balk at paying that much purely for software - and per device at that. At the end of the day, it’s about marketing and profit. The hardware is the razor and the software is the blades. At $1000 per ear for a software upgrade, it’s a profitable business.

@sancoffsr

2 жыл бұрын

@@edbouhl3100 But it is software this is what they use to tune the device.

I am wanting not just the heating improvements but premium features like streaming music at a high quality. That to me makes premium hearing aids a better choice on the surface.

@carolcooke7125

Жыл бұрын

In my experience with Oticon More 1s, it's better to use your headphones for a good music listening experience ... none of these expensive hearing aids stream music well via Bluetooth even with the option to change the bass and treble.