AudiologyNEW! @ AudiologyNOW! 2010

Hearing Review Products showcases some of the new products and new versions of existing products unveiled at the American Academy of Audiology’s AudiologyNOW! 2010 in San Diego in April.

elia, arriva, avero

The elia series next generation hearing system from audifon USA Inc, Debary, Fla, with the new Sound Dynamix technology, adapts to different sound environments automatically. The elia is available in several styles including RITE, BTE, ITE, and super-power custom aids with up to 70 dB gain. It has eight WDRC channels and includes the company’s latest Storm platform, offering faster processing speed for sophisticated algorithms.

The arriva series offers an aggressive AFC², which cancels out feedback instantly. This complete family of BTE and ITE, suitable for every type of hearing loss, is based on the Storm platform and features low latency sound processing and a drastically lowered power consumption, resulting in an extended battery life of 15% or more.

The avero series, a trimmer based digital family of BTE and ITE, is a simple-to-fit two WDRC channel hearing system. With the speed of the AFC², the company offers an open fit option for select avero BTEs. Also based on the Storm platform, this digital features low latency sound processing and a drastically lower power consumption.

(800) 776-0222;
www.audifon.com

INTELLIO Hearing Instrument, flx Hearing Instrument with Clarujust Phoneme-based Optimization

Audina Hearing Instruments Inc, Casselberry, Fla, introduces their new INTELLIO, an intelligent 16-channel hearing instrument available featuring the exclusive IntelliScan, which scans the environment and automatically adjusts to several different situations. This new instrument provides patients with a high-precision listening experience in any environment. The EnviroScan component works in harmony with IntelliScan to enhance the patient’s listening experience and provides improved comfort. Features include IntelliSense, the smart adaptive directional microphone; digital volume control; Softwave; data logging; and high fidelity audio processing.

The flx OTE/BTE hearing instrument is now available with the Clarujust fitting protocol, which utilizes speech sounds to program the flx instrument. The new Clarujust fitting method is incorporated into Audina’s ezFIT programming software and will soon be released with other Audina hearing instruments. Audina has partnered with Audigence and the University of Florida in the development and integration of Clarujust, a fitting method and software, which utilizes speech sounds to program digital hearing instruments with active patient participation.

(800) 223-7700;
www.audina.net

Veras, Vérité 7

Bernafon, Bern, Switzerland (with US headquarters in Somerset, NJ), introduces the latest addition to its ChannelFree line of hearing instruments—Veras. Using proprietary ChannelFree technology, Veras analyzes and adjusts sounds instantly. It features Bluetooth capability and a range of fitting options, including premium and advanced Nano, Micro, Power BTE, and custom choices. The company introduced ChannelFree technology in 2009 with Vérité, a premium receiver-in-the-ear hearing instrument. With key features such as award-winning ergonomic design, Bluetooth wireless connectivity options, and Life-Changing ChannelFree technology, Vérité quickly became a top-seller and helped pave the way for the record sales that Bernafon has seen with the introduction of Veras. The advanced model, Vérité 7, will be available soon.

(888) 941-4203
www.bernafon-us.com

Ear Gear Baha

Ear Gear, Lake Country, British Columbia, Canada, introduces Ear Gear Baha, the latest addition to its product line-up. Designed to fit most models of Baha, it is available in corded and cordless models. The company offers the new product in beige. Ear Gear Baha is available to hearing professionals from Westone, Oaktree, and Warner.

(888) 766-1838
www.gearforears.com

HearPlugz-DF

EAR Inc, Boulder, Colo, offers HearPlugz-DF multifunctional hearing protectors, which are designed to help users hear speech and communications better while engaged in excessive noise or loud sounds, and can be hooked up to radio communications. They feature variable attenuators, so as sound levels increase so does the sound suppression. Breathable, moisture-resistant dual filters improve sound quality when the ear is overloaded with noise (continuous or impact), and musicians and music lovers who attend loud concerts or those who work where loud music is played may appreciate the acoustical response. This new technology is now available as an option in EAR Inc’s electronic models, so users can turn off the electronic unit, and attenuation (sound reduction) will be provided by the dual filters.

(800) 525-2690
www.hearplugz.com

Dry & Store Global II, Update on Clik

Dry & Store Global II, from Ear Technology Corp, Johnson City, Tenn, is now shipping. With hundreds of thousands of units in use, Dry & Store Global has established itself as an effective electrical hearing instrument care appliance worldwide. The redesigned Global II features the patented Dry & Store system that includes a UV lamp to sanitize hearing instruments.

The company is doubling the memory on Clik’s microprocessor chip, providing you with more options for customizing Clik to your patients’ needs. Clik is a full-featured, fully digital mini-BTE that you fit without being tethered to your computer. Its interactive design gives you flexibility to tailor your fitting approach to the interests and capabilities of each patient.

(800) 327-8547
www.eartech.com

ER-200D Personal Noise Dosimeter

Etymotic Research, Elk Grove Village, Ill, has taken the cost and complication out of noise dosimetry with a new programmable, data-logging version of their original Personal Noise Dosimeter. The device is cost-effective, user-friendly, and lightweight. Normal mode measures noise dose for up to 16 hours. Data are reported in Excel, and reports can be printed. QuickCheck mode measures for 2 minutes and displays estimated dose per hour. LEDs alert users when safe levels have been exceeded.

(888) 389-6684
www.etymotic.com

FONIX 8000 Hearing Aid Test System, New Version 3.00 of WinCHAP Computer Program

Frye Electronics, Tigard, Ore, now offers the FONIX 8000 Hearing Aid Test System, which performs quick and accurate coupler measurements of hearing aids including an optional directional Polar Plot test screen and sound chamber. Dual probe and built-in speech signals are expected to be added in the coming year. ANSI, IEC, and JIS test sequences can be ordered. New AutoDetect Battery Simulator Pills are included. All units include tests of signal processing delay and phase.

The company manufactures and sells hearing aid analyzers and audiometers. It also provides computer programs to use with its products, so data can be stored in your computer and the analyzers and audiometers can be run from a computer, if desired. Version 3.00 can be used with the new FONIX 8000 Hearing Aid Test System. Its polar plot measurements can now be stored in the computer.

(800) 547-8209
www.frye.com

AQ In-The-Ear Hearing System

Hansaton USA, Plymouth, Minn, introduces the AQ In-The-Ear hearing system, with patented rechargeable battery technology. The systems are recharged overnight in a custom charging station, helping to eliminate the need for battery changes and tiny operating controls. The system uses a patented smart inductive charging station. The sealed battery compartment reduces moisture ingress, extending the life of the hearing system. The systems have an operating time of more than 20 hours and take between 2 and 4 hours to recharge. The battery is guaranteed for 5 years. The systems are available as canal or concha models and are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Hansaton also gives a lifelong rechargeable battery guarantee for all AQ in-the-ear hearing systems.

(888) 984-7432
www.hansaton-usa.com

New Line of AT235 Series Clinical Middle Ear Analyzers and AA222 Combo Clinical Audiometer/Impedance Instruments

Interacoustics, Eden Prairie, Minn, is releasing the new and improved line of AT235 series clinical middle ear analyzers and the AA222 combo clinical audiometer/impedance instruments. The new design incorporates the power supply, provides built-in calibration cavities, and has updated USB interfaces. In combination with the newly introduced Diagnostic Suite software, all IA instruments are moving toward full integration for combined audio/tymp reports.

(800) 947-6334
www.interacoustics-us.com

Earscan 4 Industrial Audiometer

Micro Audiometrics, Murphy, NC, introduces Earscan 4, the newest addition to the Earscan family of audiometers. Earscan 4 is a computer-controlled audiometer, which includes audiometric testing software along with an integrated bioacoustic simulator and optional room monitor. It offers automatic and manual pure tone operation, dual station capability, USB connectivity, and audio capability. Multiple Earscans can be connected easily via USB hubs.

(866) 327-7226
www.microaud.com

Micro-Cera

Microsonic, Ambridge, Pa, introduces Micro-Cera, a new product to address severe allergy problems. The new material is designed to be a solution for patients who have hypersensitivity to conventional acrylic molds. The company has added a process called Micro-Glaze, which helps reduce skin irritation by coating the entire earmold with an antibacterial and skin-friendly material.

(800) 523-7672
www.microsonic-inc.com

Agil

Oticon Inc, Somerset, NJ, introduces Oticon Agil, an advanced signal processing concept for the second generation wireless hearing instrument family specifically designed to help preserve natural characteristics of speech while enriching the sound quality. Features include excellent speech understanding in noise; significant reduction in the cognitive efforts needed to understand speech; improved audio through wireless technology for open fittings and enhanced 3-D listening; new audiological concepts: Speech Guard, Spatial Sound 2.0, and Connect(+); new RISE II processing platform with twice the calculation power of RISE; and highly flexible RITE speaker solution in three speaker power levels, covering mild to severe losses with the same instrument.

(800) 526-3921
www.oticonusa.com

MADSEN Astera Clinical Audiometer, Astera-OTOflex Combo

GN Otometrics, Schaumburg, III, is continuously making significant improvements to the MADSEN Astera Audiometer—a major improvement has been to make it EMR-ready. (800) 289-2150; www.myaudiometer.com.

With the MADSEN Astera-OTOflex combo, users can benefit from the shared user interface of both instruments. With one click, you can carry out combined reporting, including measurement data from audiometry and immittance. The company is introducing the touchscreen to the combo, which is a major improvement.

www.otometrics.com

OTOPod M2 Wireless Diagnostic Audiometer and Hearing Instrument Programmer

Otovation, King of Prussia, Pa, introduces the OTOPod M2 wireless diagnostic audiometer and hearing instrument programmer. Similar in form to the company’s patented OTOPod M1 audiometer, the M2 adds capabilities to program a variety of Widex hearing aids, including the mind440, mind330, Passion, Inteo, AIKIA, Flash, REAL, Senso, Bravo, and Bravissimo product families. Support for the M2 has been added to Widex’s Compass 5.0 software, which is used in conjunction with Otovation’s Symphony NOAH Module software to provide a complete diagnostic testing and instrument fitting system with the uniquely portable M2 device.

(866) 686-8284
www.otovation.com

Versáta Art and Certéna Art with SoundRecover, Audéo Zip

SoundRecover, an innovation in hearing instrument technology, is now available across the Swiss-based Phonak portfolio (US headquarters, Warrenville, Ill). Versáta Art and Certéna Art complete the Classic line that Exélia Art began, extending SoundRecover benefits to all wearers regardless of hearing loss, lifestyle, personal preference, age, or budget. Audéo Zip promises to exceed the expectations of first-time wearers seeking an InstantFit CIC with choices in level of technology.

(800) 679-4871
www.phonak-us.com

ReSound Alera

ReSound, Bloomington, Minn, unveils ReSound Alera—an entirely new generation of wireless hearing instruments featuring 2.4 gHz technology. The devices deliver wireless technology that doesn’t require a body-worn streamer, with cable-free wireless fitting and a long transmission range that gives patients greater range on TV streaming and range of remote control.

(800) 248-4327
www.gnresound.com.

Cobalt+ and Gem+

Rexton, Plymouth, Minn, announces two new additions to its versatile product portfolio. With the new Cobalt+ and Gem+, wearers can experience the Art of Good Hearing, while looking their best. With a variety of new features, sleek housing, and a new fitting platform, these products will enable your patients to enjoy the sounds of life. Products will be available in late May/early June.

(800) 876-1141
www.rexton.com

BestSound Technology

Siemens Hearing Instruments, Piscataway, NJ, introduces BestSound Technology—new advanced features that deliver the best sound and best fit across a complete portfolio of products. New features include FeedbackStopper to quickly and accurately reduce or eliminate feedback before it starts, SpeechFocus for better understanding even for speech coming from behind the wearer, and SoundLearning 2.0, which learns and automatically applies wearer preferences in various listening situations.

(800) 766-4500
www.usa.siemens.com/hearing

Endura

Sonic Innovations, Salt Lake City, presents Endura, the new Super Power BTE, built on the company’s popular sound processing technology. In addition to providing powerful amplification, adaptive directionality, and clinically proven noise reduction, Endura includes patient usability features such as Voice Alerts, integrated Direct Audio Input, and Bluetooth connectivity.

(888) 423-7834
www.sonici.com

S Series iQ Featuring Voice iQ, S Series iQ OtoLens, Starkey Pediatrics

Starkey Laboratories Inc, Eden Prairie, Minn, introduce S Series iQ, featuring Voice iQ, a new noise reduction and speech preservation system. Voice iQ, a noise reducing technology that reduces noise between syllables of speech, uses a two-part algorithm: dynamic voice identification paired with a spectral noise control that calculates appropriate gain on a per channel basis. Coupled with InVision Directionality, with high diffuse field DI scores and a low operational noise floor, Voice iQ preserves speech understanding in noise. The system classifies inputs every 6 milliseconds and adapts every 20 milliseconds, to diminish noise between syllables.

S Series iQ OtoLens, an invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aid, is a custom-molded hearing aid built using the Comfort Fit process and lives in the second bend of the ear, so it is 100% invisible with minimal occlusion. The device features the same technology and digital signal processing as the company’s leading product family, S Series iQ, and provides 35 dB of gain, which allows professionals to fit patients with moderate to severe hearing loss. OtoLens takes advantage of Starkey’s Voice iQ and includes other iQ features including PureWave Feedback Eliminator, which allows for venting in addition to feedback cancellation; and T2 Remote enabling patients to adjust their IIC’s volume or memory. OtoLens allows patients to change its size 10 battery on their own, without needing additional tools or visits to their hearing care professional.

The company introduces Starkey Pediatrics, a new program developed using Starkey’s evidence-based design approach, providing hearing professionals with hearing products and professional and patient support. Only Starkey Pediatrics hearing aids are authorized to offer Nickelodeon characters—including Dora the Explorer, Go, Diego, Go, SpongeBob SquarePants, and iCarly—on their earmolds. Starkey S Series iQ hearing instruments provide child-friendly features such as PureWave Feedback Eliminator, Live Real Ear Measurement, and pediatric-specific Auto Path via Starkey’s Inspire fitting software.

(800) 328-8602
www.starkeypro.com

Smart Alert System

Unitron, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada (with US headquarters in Plymouth, Minn), introduces the Smart Alert System—an integrated hearing and alerting system—responding to a need of hearing care professionals and their clients for a fully integrated system that enables household alerts, such as the telephone, doorbell, or smoke alarm, to communicate directly with hearing instruments. The system, developed in partnership with Bellman & Symfon, which specializes in alerting technologies, brings together Unitron’s remote control and advanced hearing instruments with home alerting detectors.

(800) 888-8882
www.unitron.com

ImpressEar Cordless Cartridge Impression Gun

Westone, Colorado Springs, Colo, reintroduces the ImpressEar Cordless Cartridge Impression Gun, which is powered by a rechargeable nickel metal-hydride battery that recharges in 2 hours and will dispense as many as 30 cartridges of impression material on a single charge. Other features include flow and drip control and a push button plunger.

(800) 525-5071
www.westone.com