The slim Style AX was also redesigned slightly to be slightly less thick than its predecessor (the Style X). This may improve comfort and discretion for many wearers.
The receivers (speaker portion worn in ear), cables and plug system have also been redesigned to minimize size and improve overall retention and durability. There are also new tips and sleeves which should accommodate a wider range of ear shapes and sizes as well as acoustic needs. This applies to both the Go AX and Style AX hearing aids.
Acoustic Motion Sensors
These sensors recognize when you are in motion and automatically modify your directional listening. The thinking here is that, when in motion, you may want to hear voices from all around you, rather than just the voices in front of you. Imagine walking through a restaurant with a conversation partner—typical hearing aids would continue focusing to the front, while it would be preferable to hear the person at your side in this scenario. Remember, you can also manually engage 360-degree listening via hear.com’s “Panorama Effect”.
Accessories
Horizon products offer several accessories including the StreamLine TV streamer, a StreamLine microphone and a miniPocket remote. The TV streamer allows sound to stream directly from your TV to your hearing aids in Dolby stereo. The StreamLine Mic is beneficial for those who struggle in noisy situation and need help beyond what the hearing aids alone can provide. In addition, the Mic can be used to accept/reject phone calls and it can be used to transmit calls from non-compatible Bluetooth phones and/or other devices such as laptops and tablets. Finally, the uncomplicated miniPocket remote can be used in lieu of the smart phone application for those that prefer a simple device to make simple adjustments to their hearing aids.
Hear.com Delivery Model
It is worth discussing Hear.com’s approach to hearing aid delivery as it does differ from simply choosing an HCP on your own. Their model is to take online leads, connect consumers with a Hear.com expert for a personal consultation and then connect them to a local provider for a 45-day risk-free trial. If the HCP is at a distance from the consumer and/or transportation is an issue, Clinic-in-a-Box™ tele-audiology is another delivery option available through Hear.com.
If tele-audiology is requested, within one business day, a package containing hearing aids, a tablet and diagnostic equipment is shipped to the customer’s house. These items allow an HCP to conduct a hearing evaluation and remotely fit the hearing aids.
Regardless of the fitting approach, in-person or remote, the journey starts with a free phone or video conference consultation. This consult is used to understand the individual’s listening needs, lifestyle requirements and personal listening preferences. Items such as technology tiers, cost and insurance coverage are also discussed to help the consumer navigate their hearing healthcare options. At the end of the discussion, a technology solution and a local HCP recommendation are made (for either remote or in-person care). The Hear.com expert remains as a contact for the wearer even after they are fit by the local HCP and can be used as a resource, especially during the 45-day trial period.
In addition, a Hearing Success Program™ is offered to the wearer during the trial period. The program is a 30-day training course intended to help the wearer adjust to their new hearing aids and learn how to effectively use the technology. The program is achieved via the Horizon app, which also provides access to video-call support. Hear.com notes that the program helps contribute to high satisfaction rate among their customers.
This means that Hear.com customers have access to two expert providers and an application training program during the trial period of the hearing aids. Hear.com also provides long-term support.
Bottom Line
Hear.com is an online hearing healthcare company that provides an extra layer of expert support for the consumer. The company offers their own private-labeled hearing aids that are made by WSA using Signia technology. The current Horizon AX hearing aids offer several advantages over their predecessor. However, there are some disadvantages to these products as well. And while hear.com’s hearing care delivery model works well for many people, there are some potential disadvantages, which are discussed below.
Pros for Horizon AX Products and Hear.com
- New Android streaming capability.
- New redesigned receivers and cables which hopes to improve cosmetics, retention and overall durability.
- Available in multiple power levels, including high-power (HP) for the Go AX to fit a wide range of hearing losses.
- The new Augmented Focus has the potential to improve ease of listening and sound quality but will need to be proven.
- Own voice processing may make a big difference for some in their overall satisfaction with hearing aids by improving the quality and comfort of their own voice.
- Extended dynamic range of input signal which should improve sound quality for loud sounds including music.
- Proven rechargeability with several different charger options and excellent battery life on a single charge.
- Tinnitus features are available.
- High level of professional support for the consumer throughout the entire hearing healthcare journey which may be especially helpful to new hearing aid wearers.
- Additional application made available to encourage hearing aid use and help the consumer acclimate to their hearing devices.
Cons for Horizon AX Products and Hear.com
- At this time, no hands-free calling without the use of an accessory. However, this feature should be available later this year.
- No “tap” feature for initiating streaming; to start/stop streaming wearers can utilize their smart phone app or an accessory.
- No user controls on the Style AX—must be controlled via the app or a remote
- Custom hearing instruments not an option at this time but are said to be in the works.
- No pediatric options such as locking battery door and small earhooks.
- Other than volume changes, tinnitus feature cannot be adjusted by the wearer.
- Own voice processing requires a binaural fitting where both hearing aids are directional.
- Not every consumer may need the additional support and some may find several contacts confusing.
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