CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Connect Hearing, one of the strongest networks of Hearing Care Professionals in the United States, has expanded its portfolio to include two groundbreaking instruments from Swiss based Phonak, the leading global provider of hearing instruments and wireless communication solutions. The discreet and highly functional Audéo™ B-Direct and Virto™ B families showcase exciting new technologies that are now available to better serve clients.
Audéo B-Direct
Phonak’s new Audéo B-Direct is a game-changer for receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid users. The advanced technology in the hearing device supports the classic Bluetooth® protocol and allows the user to take advantage of direct connectivity to any cell phone*. Other RIC competitors have a limited number of devices they can connect to while Audéo B-Direct works cross-platform with all cell phones running Bluetooth 4.2 and higher. This connectivity lets users take hands-free calls and easily connect to a TV or stereo system.
While other streaming devices require users to physically hold and talk into their phones to have a conversation, Audéo B-Direct features Own Voice Pickup, which utilizes the microphones on the hearing aids to carry on a conversation. While the phone is in range, it is possible to answer phone calls with just a touch of the hearing aid and talk hands-free using the hearing aid as a wireless headset. This allows a completely hands-free experience, enabling users to freely engage in other activities.
Audéo B-Direct hearing aids are also compatible with Phonak’s new TV Connector. This TV solution is up to 8x easier to set-up than leading competitors and eliminates the need of a body-worn streamer. While within the streaming distance of up to 15 meters, users who automatically connect to the TV or stereo system may move around other areas of the house without missing out on the listening experience. Additionally, there is simultaneous streaming to multiple users at the same time.
Compared to other direct streaming models, the Audéo B-Direct operates with a size 13 battery providing on average a six-day battery life. It also comes in the same wide variety of colors, fitting ranges and receiver options as the rest of the Audéo B family.
Virto B Family
Customizable hearing aids are extremely important since each ear is unique and perceives sounds differently. Phonak’s Virto B, the world’s first hearing aid with Biometric Calibration, joins Virto B-Titanium as a highly customizable hearing aid that provides a comfortable fit. These hearing aids are a true example of Phonak’s highly-advanced technological capabilities.
Phonak uses Biometric Calibration by gathering 1,600 data points based on the ear impression to build a hearing aid that fits each patient’s unique ear and hearing abilities. A hearing aid that fits perfectly ultimately provides the best listening experience and sound quality.
The Virto B hearing aids provide a 2 dB improvement in directionality leading to better hearing performance**. Directionality can improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for hearing aid users by diminishing sound from some directions while emphasizing it on others. When patients are confronted with a noisy situation, the 2 dB advancement minimizes background noise and the focus is centered on what the wearer wants to hear.
“Phonak’s exceptional technology and innovation is distinctly prominent in these hearing devices,” said Patrick Schuerer, Vice President of Marketing, Connect Hearing. “They promise to deliver an effortless listening experience with a custom fit and discreet style and we know our clients look forward to having these hearing aids available as options.”
* with Bluetooth® 4.2 wireless technology and most older Bluetooth phones
** Field Study News under development. Full details available in September 2017 at http://www.phonakpro.com/evidence
About Connect Hearing
Connect Hearing is one of the strongest networks of hearing care professionals in the United States. Our convenient neighborhood hearing centers offer superior hearing technology, backed by exceptional patient care and service. We provide complimentary hearing screenings, free 2-week hearing instrument trials, and affordable payment options to ensure you find the best hearing solution for you. Connect Hearing – Affordability, Technology and Service. Headquartered in the Chicago area, we are a US-based division of Sonova (SOON:VX), the world's leading provider of innovative hearing care solutions. Visit ConnectHearing.com to learn more.
About Phonak
In 2017, Phonak – a member of the Sonova Group – proudly celebrates its 70th anniversary. Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland was born in 1947 out of a passion for taking on the most difficult hearing challenges. Seventy years later, this passion remains. As the industry’s leading hearing instrument provider, Phonak offers the broadest portfolio of life-changing hearing solutions. From pediatric to profound hearing loss, they remain committed to creating hearing solutions that change people’s lives to thrive socially and emotionally. They believe in creating a world where ‘Life is on’ for everyone. For more information, please visit them at Phonak.com.
