2017 is winding down and as it closes, year-end favorites and best-of lists are springing up everywhere. Here at Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services, we’ve noticed enough exceptional hearing devices this year to warrant a list of our own. In an era of rapid innovations in hearing care, a few hearing aids stand out among the pack to constitute the Best of 2017. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best products in hearing care that were offered this year.

Oticon Opn

Oticon’s Opn has been winning awards since its release. This past year marked a new chapter for Opn with the release of a rechargeable “hybrid” style device. The Opn miniRITE offers users the combined power of long-lasting rechargeable power with traditional battery backup so the user never has to worry about running out of charge.

Opn models have always featured revolutionary “Open Sound” sound balancing to improve comprehension in conversation and even in the most challenging noisy environments. The latest OPN models are no exception, and additionally combine the best traditional features with new technological improvements. With SoundSupport, Opn models feature options for integrated tinnitus relief. Telecoil accessibility is also possible with the click of a button.

Opn is optimized with Oticon’s If That Then This internet network that helps users integrate their hearing aid use into everyday functionality. The IFTTT network can perform on a variety of levels, sending alerts and audio information directly to your devices and giving you access to streaming options via your iphone.

Signia Cellion

Signia may be a newer brand on the market, but it comes backed with Siemens’ long history of exceptional hearing research and innovation. The launch of Signia’s Cellion hearing aid highlighted design integrity with a leap forward in rechargeable hearing technology. Using lithium-ion inductive charging, Cellion is able to hold two days worth of power from one overnight charge. A half hour of recharging can keep the devices powered for close to seven hours.

Cellion models also come equipped with what is rapidly becoming more standard across the industry – streaming integration with smart phones and devices. Signia uses their patented easyTek app to integrate streaming sound and hearing device control. In addition to phone and media streaming, Signia offers a line of compatible streaming accessories for Cellion users. A television transmitter adapts any television into easyTek compatible audio input. The VoiceLink microphone makes one-on-one communication easier with a portable microphone unit that is readymade to stream to the Cellion device. For users with different needs, Cellion’s technological savvy can be downplayed in favor of easy, large format remote control featuring the same crisp, balanced sound quality.

Phonak Audéo B-R

Phonak took the sonically improved Audéo B and made it even richer with top of the line rechargeable capability. The Audéo B-R harnesses the flexible rechargeable efficiency of a sealed-in lithium ion battery to offer wearers 24 hours of battery life per charge. The Audéo B-R also features a universalized approach to streaming tech which makes streaming a breeze on any device equipped with Bluetooth wireless capacity. Instead of being locked into a phone style or manufacturer, Phonak’s Bluetooth dependent approach gives Android users some of the first options for smart-phone enabled hearing aid technology.

The Audéo B-R has also streamlined adjustments to a built-in automated device feature. When you change environments and settings, Audéo automatically matches the soundscape to settings optimized for your hearing. Cleaning, charging and nightly care has also been simplified with a combined charging and maintenance unit.

Orange County Physicians' Hearing Services

There you have it folks, our winners’ circle featuring some of the best innovations in technology, new frontiers in energy conservation, improved performance and user friendliness. If you’re in Orange County, trying some of these hearing aids for yourself is as easy as giving us a call at Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services. Our team of hearing specialists can make it easy for you to find the right device for your lifestyle and hearing needs. We offer a wide selection of the best in hearing wellness solutions alongside our knowledgeable staff ready to show you how to get the most from your new device. If your ready to start hearing better, set up an appointment today!