Audicus Omni 2 vs. MDHearingAid Neo XS

Audicus Omni 2 is a polished “premium OTC” RIC built on proven Sonova/Unitron tech, with a smaller design, strong speech enhancement in quieter settings, reliable universal Bluetooth and hands-free calling, and a simple, capable app, but its rechargeable battery life is only middling and the remote-care model feels more limited and less modern than some top direct-to-consumer competitors.

Neo XS is an instant-fit in-ear OTC hearing aid that offers improvements in MDHearing's product line in terms of rechargeable battery life, audio processing, and size. However, our lab testing found its performance underwhelming.

Audicus Omni 2 achieved a SoundScore of 4.6/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #5 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.

MDHearing Neo XS achieved a SoundScore of 2.9/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #63 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.

I found the build quality of Omni Series 2 top-notch which is consistent with a prescription hearing aid redesigned for the OTC market. With a durable ingress rating of IP68, these hearing aids should last many years with a good maintenance regiment.

Neo XS do not have an ingress rating but they appear to be well built. The charging case feels sturdy and should offer good protection when Neo XS are recharging or otherwise not in use.

Omni Series 2 have a 16 hour battery life, which less than many other prescription level hearing aids. However, Audicus also offers a disposable battery option which you may prefer based on your needs and preferences.

Neo XS offers internal rechargeable batteries lasting up to 18 hours. This should be enough to get you through your day without needing a recharge.

Omni Series 2 are Made for All (MFA) with Universal Bluetooth compatibility for iOS and Android devices. I found the Bluetooth features highly reliable and easy to use, just as you would expect with reputable hearing aids. Various wireless accessories are also available which can be very useful.

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The app is user-friendly, with many handy features such as hearing based personalization and multi-band adjustments. You should find plenty of tools to tailor Omni 2 to your preferences.

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I found Omni Series 2 very comfortable with their slim design and modern earwire design. You will also have plenty of options to improve fit and sound with different ear tips, earwire sizes, and expert remote support.

Neo XS are relatively comfortable in ear. However, using the button caused minor discomfort as it required some force which pushed the hearing aid deeper into my ear.

Sleek and modern, Omni Series 2 feature a contemporary earwire receiver design and come with a strong charging case. This showcases Audicus's, and their parent company Sonova's, renowned quality.

Neo XS are smaller than other MDHearing aids and many OTC products. If you are interested in discrete hearing aids Neo XS are nearly invisible in your ears.

Audicus Omni 2 has a value score of 3.8/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

MDHearing Neo XS has a value score of 3.9/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Overall, my experience using Omni 2 was straightforward with no major issues. There are many options for personalizing Omni 2, such as the app and remote case, which were easy to use and worth taking advantage of to get the most out these hearing aids.

Neo XS are relatively small hearing aids which may be difficult for individuals with vision and or dexterity issues. This should not be a problem for most but MDHearing does offer assistance from licensed professionals if needed.

Audicus provides superior support compared to many OTC hearing aid companies, offering remote phone and email assistance from hearing experts. While the remote programming works effectively, it feels a bit outdated compared to what other modern prescription hearing aids offer.

MDHearing does not offer in-person support or remote programming. You do however receive free lifetime phone and online help from their licensed hearing professionals. This is a nice offering especially if you are new to hearing aids.