Find Relief To Your Ear Ringing With Our Quality Hearing Aids→ Shop Now

Blog

Phonak hearing aids – 7 Best Models

phonak hearing aids

Phonak Hearing Aids

Phonak is a leading brand in the field of hearing aids and hearing assistance technology. They produce a wide range of hearing solutions designed to improve the lives of individuals with hearing loss. Phonak’s products often incorporate advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and adaptive sound processing to provide users with clear and natural sound quality in various listening environments.

They offer a variety of models to suit different preferences and degrees of hearing loss, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and receiver-in-canal (RIC) styles. Phonak is known for its innovation in hearing aid technology and commitment to improving the quality of life for people with hearing impairment.

phonak hearing aids

Phonak was established in 1947 by a French entrepreneur named Dr. Charles Holland. The company has since grown into one of the world’s leading providers of hearing aids and hearing assistance technology, with a reputation for innovation and quality in the field of audiology. Phonak is headquartered in Switzerland and has a global presence, serving millions of people with hearing loss worldwide.

Phonak Hearing Aid Models

Phonak offers a wide range of hearing aid models to cater to different degrees of hearing loss, lifestyle preferences, and technological needs. Some of their popular hearing aid models include:
  1. Phonak Audeo Marvel: Known for its exceptional sound quality and connectivity features, including Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from smartphones and other devices.
  2. Phonak Bolero Marvel: A behind-the-ear (BTE) style hearing aid with robust performance and advanced features, suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss.
  3. Phonak Virto Marvel: A custom-made, invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aid that offers discretion without compromising on performance.
  4. Phonak Audeo Paradise: Building upon the success of the Audeo Marvel, the Paradise model offers improved sound processing and speech enhancement features.
  5. Phonak Naída Marvel: Specifically designed for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, this model offers powerful amplification and clear sound quality.
  6. Phonak Sky Marvel: Designed for pediatric users, this model offers durable construction, pediatric-specific features, and customizable options to meet the needs of children with hearing loss.
  7. Phonak Lyric: A unique extended-wear hearing aid that is placed deep in the ear canal by a trained professional and worn continuously for months at a time.

These are just a few examples, and Phonak continues to innovate and introduce new models to meet the evolving needs of individuals with hearing loss.

The price of Phonak hearing aids can vary depending on several factors, including the specific model, features, level of technology, and where you purchase them. Generally, Phonak hearing aids are considered premium devices with advanced features, so they may be priced higher compared to some other brands.

On average, a single Phonak hearing aid can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Factors such as customizations, warranty, ongoing service and support, and bundled accessories can also influence the final cost. Additionally, insurance coverage or financial assistance programs may help offset the expense for some individuals.

phonak hearing aids

Phonak Hearing Aid Batteries;

How Long do Phonak Hearing Aid Batteries Last?

The lifespan of Phonak hearing aid batteries depends on several factors, including the type of hearing aid, the size of the battery, the level of usage, and the features of the hearing aids. Here’s a general guideline:
  1. Battery Size: Phonak hearing aids typically use zinc-air batteries, which come in different sizes, such as size 10, 312, 13, or 675. Generally, smaller batteries have a shorter lifespan than larger ones because they have less capacity.
  2. Usage: The more you use your hearing aids, the quicker the batteries will drain. If you use your hearing aids for extended periods each day, you’ll likely need to replace the batteries more frequently.
  3. Features: Advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or streaming audio can drain the batteries faster than basic hearing aid functions.
  4. Environmental Factors: Environmental conditions, such as high humidity or temperature, can affect battery life. Additionally, opening and closing the battery compartment frequently can expose the batteries to moisture and reduce their lifespan.

phonak hearing aids

As a rough estimate, Phonak zinc-air hearing aid batteries typically last anywhere from 3 to 14 days, depending on the factors mentioned above. It’s a good idea to keep spare batteries on hand so that you can quickly replace them when needed. Additionally, rechargeable hearing aids, like some models offered by Phonak, eliminate the need for disposable batteries and can provide a more convenient and cost-effective solution in the long run.

 

What are two tones on my phonak hearing aid?

Phonak hearing aids often use a range of tones and alerts to communicate different functions or statuses. Here are two common tones you might encounter:

  1. Connection Tone: This is a short, pleasant sound that indicates your hearing aid has successfully connected to a Bluetooth device or another accessory.
  2. Low Battery Alert: This tone is usually a series of beeps or a specific melody that signals your hearing aid’s battery is running low and needs to be replaced or recharged.

If you have specific questions about the tones or need to identify them, referring to your hearing aid’s user manual can provide more detailed information tailored to your model.

 

How to pair phonak hearing aids:

Pairing Phonak hearing aids with Bluetooth devices involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a general guide, but remember that specific steps might vary slightly depending on the model of your Phonak hearing aids and the device you’re pairing with:

Pairing with a Smartphone or Tablet

  1. Turn on Your Hearing Aids:
    • Ensure your Phonak hearing aids are turned on and functioning properly.
  2. Enable Bluetooth on Your Device:
    • Go to the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone or tablet. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
  3. Put Hearing Aids in Pairing Mode:
    • Most Phonak hearing aids automatically enter pairing mode when you first turn them on or if they have not been paired previously. If they don’t, you may need to press and hold a button on the hearing aids or use a specific procedure outlined in your user manual.
  4. Search for Devices:
    • On your smartphone or tablet, tap “Search” or “Scan” in the Bluetooth settings to look for available devices.
  5. Select Your Hearing Aids:
    • When your hearing aids appear in the list of available devices, select them. The name might include “Phonak” or the model number.
  6. Confirm Pairing:
    • Follow any additional prompts to confirm the pairing. You might need to enter a PIN, which is often “0000” or “1234” if prompted, though most Phonak devices don’t require this.
  7. Complete the Setup:
    • Once paired, you should see a confirmation on your device, and you might hear a tone or notification in your hearing aids indicating a successful connection.

Pairing with Other Bluetooth Devices

The process is similar for other Bluetooth devices like computers or TVs:

  1. Enable Bluetooth on the Device:
    • Make sure the Bluetooth function is turned on.
  2. Put Hearing Aids in Pairing Mode:
    • Check if they automatically enter pairing mode or follow the manual’s instructions to enter it.
  3. Search and Select:
    • Use your device to search for available Bluetooth devices and select your hearing aids when they appear.
  4. Confirm Pairing:
    • Follow any additional instructions to complete the pairing.

Using the Phonak App

Phonak offers apps like the Phonak RemoteControl App or myPhonak App for additional functionality:

  1. Download the App:
    • Install the appropriate app from your device’s app store.
  2. Open the App and Follow Instructions:
    • The app will guide you through the process of pairing your hearing aids and adjusting settings.

How to turn off phonak hearing aids

Turning off Phonak hearing aids typically depends on the model you have. Here’s a general guide for turning off Phonak hearing aids:

For Hearing Aids with a Push Button or Switch:

  1. Locate the Power Switch or Button:
    • Some Phonak hearing aids have a small switch or button on the body of the device. This switch is often found on the side or the back of the hearing aid.
  2. Turn Off the Hearing Aids:
    • If your hearing aids have a switch, move it to the “Off” position.
    • For models with a button, press and hold the button for a few seconds until you hear a power-down tone or see a visual indication that the hearing aids are turning off.

For Hearing Aids with a Battery Drawer:

  1. Open the Battery Drawer:
    • Gently open the battery compartment on each hearing aid. This is often done by lifting or sliding the drawer open.
  2. Turn Off the Hearing Aids:
    • Opening the battery drawer cuts off power to the hearing aid, effectively turning it off. The hearing aid should power down as soon as the drawer is opened.

For Rechargeable Models:

  1. Place in Charging Case:
    • If you have rechargeable Phonak hearing aids, simply placing them in the charging case may turn them off automatically. Some models do this when placed in the case.
  2. Manually Turn Off (if applicable):
    • Check the user manual for your specific model. Some rechargeable models have a manual power-off option accessible through the app or by pressing a specific button or combination.

Using the Phonak App:

  1. Open the Phonak App:
    • If you use the Phonak app (like myPhonak or Phonak RemoteControl), you may be able to turn off the hearing aids via the app’s settings.
  2. Find the Power Off Option:
    • Navigate to the settings or device management section in the app and look for an option to turn off or power down the hearing aids.

How to turn on phonak hearing aids:

Turning on Phonak hearing aids is usually a straightforward process. Here’s a general guide to help you turn on your Phonak hearing aids:

For Hearing Aids with a Battery Drawer:

  1. Insert the Battery:
    • If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, insert a fresh battery into the compartment. Make sure the battery is placed with the correct orientation (usually indicated inside the battery drawer).
  2. Close the Battery Drawer:
    • Gently close the battery compartment. The hearing aid should turn on automatically when the battery drawer is securely closed.
  3. Power-Up:
    • After closing the drawer, you should hear a startup tone or a series of beeps indicating that the hearing aid is powering up.

For Rechargeable Models:

  1. Charge the Hearing Aids:
    • Place the hearing aids in their charging case. Make sure they are properly seated and that the charging case is connected to a power source.
  2. Automatic Power-On:
    • Many rechargeable models turn on automatically when placed in the charging case if they have sufficient charge. You might see a light indicator or hear a tone to confirm they are powering up.
  3. Manual Power-On (if applicable):
    • Check the user manual for your specific model. Some rechargeable models might have a manual power-on option accessible via a button or through the app.

For Hearing Aids with a Push Button or Switch:

  1. Locate the Power Switch or Button:
    • Find the power switch or button on the hearing aid. This is usually on the side or back of the device.
  2. Turn On the Hearing Aids:
    • If your hearing aids have a switch, move it to the “On” position.
    • For models with a button, press and hold the button for a few seconds until you hear a power-up tone or see a visual indicator.

Using the Phonak App:

  1. Open the Phonak App:
    • If you have the Phonak app (like myPhonak or Phonak RemoteControl), you might be able to turn on the hearing aids via the app if they have been paired with your device.
  2. Check Device Status:
    • Navigate to the device management or settings section in the app to ensure the hearing aids are turned on or check their status.

Phonak waterproof hearing aid

Phonak does offer hearing aids with high levels of water resistance, though it’s important to differentiate between “waterproof” and “water-resistant.” No hearing aids are truly waterproof, but some models are designed to withstand exposure to moisture and can handle everyday situations like light rain or sweat.

Phonak Models with High Water Resistance

  1. Phonak Naída Paradise
    • The Naída Paradise series includes models with IP68 rating, which means they are dust-tight and can withstand water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. This makes them highly resistant to water and dust.
  2. Phonak Audéo Life
    • The Audéo Life hearing aids are specifically designed to be waterproof and are rated IP68 as well. They can handle submersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep and are built to endure exposure to moisture, making them suitable for active lifestyles and environments with high humidity or occasional immersion.

What Does IP68 Rating Mean?

  • IP stands for Ingress Protection.
  • 6 means the hearing aid is completely dust-tight.
  • 8 means the device can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter.

Care and Maintenance Tips

  • Avoid Full Immersion: Even though these models are highly water-resistant, avoid submerging them for prolonged periods or exposing them to water that is hotter than room temperature, such as in a hot tub.
  • Dry Them Properly: After exposure to moisture, dry your hearing aids thoroughly before storing them. Use a drying kit or dehumidifier recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the specific care instructions provided with your hearing aids for the best practices in maintaining water resistance.

 

Leave a Reply