hear.com Horizon Go IX vs. Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra

Check out our comparison of the hear.com Horizon Go IX vs Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.

Published Updated

Score
4.3
hear.com Horizon Go IX 7 IX
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SoundScore 4.4/5
$4,950 per pair
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Score
4.5
Phonak Audéo Infinio Sphere I90
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SoundScore 4.9/5
$4,598 per pair
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Horizon Go IX
$4,950 per pair
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Audéo Infinio Ultra
$4,598 per pair
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Quick Verdict

AI summarized

Summarized with AI assistance from our human-researched product information, in-lab testing, objective sound measurements, and expert ratings.

The real choice is between Horizon Go IX's smaller, more discreet shape and Infinio Ultra's markedly stronger performance in noisy environments for about $350 less.

Horizon Go IX

Choose the hear.com Horizon Go IX if you want a smaller, more discreet RIC with hands-free calling and a polished app, and don't need the strongest possible performance in loud noise.

Audéo Infinio Ultra

Choose the Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra if hearing speech in noisy places is your top priority and you're willing to accept a bulkier body for a lab-measured speech-in-noise score of 4.4/5, while also paying roughly $350 less.

What actually separates them

AI summarized
  1. Speech-in-noise performance

    Lab measured

    Infinio Ultra scored 4.4/5 on tuned lab testing for speech in noise versus 2.7/5 for Horizon Go IX, a large gap that matters most in restaurants, meetings, and other loud settings.

  2. Overall lab SoundScore

    Lab measured

    Infinio Ultra earned a 4.58/5 SoundScore (A grade) against Horizon Go IX's 4.16/5 (also A grade), with Infinio Ultra's edge concentrated in noisy-environment clarity rather than quiet speech, where both score similarly well.

  3. Size and discretion

    Hands-on review

    Our review notes Infinio Ultra's dual-chip design makes it notably larger than typical RICs, while Horizon Go IX keeps a more conventional, sleeker RIC shape that's easier to conceal.

  4. Price

    Price

    Infinio Ultra runs about $350 less per pair than Horizon Go IX, a modest but real gap given both sit near the $4,600-$5,000 mark.

Product Overview

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Form Factor
Expert Rating
Score
4.3
Score
4.5
User Rating
—
3.47 reviews
Hearing Loss Level
MildModerateSevere
MildModerateSevere
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidIP68
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidIP68

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra

HearingTracker Score

Horizon Go IX
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE

Horizon Go IX is a top-tier, Signia-based rechargeable RIC that pairs excellent lab-verified speech performance with standout hands-free Bluetooth and a genuinely useful app suite, though its music streaming is only average for the open-fit form factor and many “unique” perks mirror what you can get from comparable WSA models.

Read full review
Audéo Infinio Ultra
4.5EXCELLENT

Phonak’s Infinio Sphere delivers genuinely standout speech clarity in loud, noisy places thanks to its DEEPSONIC “Sphere mode,” but you’ll trade some discretion and may wrestle with fit or Bluetooth pairing to get that top-tier performance.

Read full review

HearAdvisor SoundScore

Horizon Go IX
4.4ABOVE AVERAGE

Hear.com Horizon Go IX achieved a SoundScore of 4.4/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #19 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
4.9EXCELLENT

Phonak Sphere Infinio Ultra achieved a SoundScore of 4.9/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #3 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

Build Quality

Horizon Go IX
4.9EXCELLENT

Horizon Go IX have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating. They also come with a robust portable charging case.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
5.0EXCELLENT

Phonak Audéo Sphere Ultra have an excellent build quality with a robust, portable charging case and a high ingress rating of IP68.

Battery

Horizon Go IX
4.4ABOVE AVERAGE

Horizon hearing aids offer an impressive 28 hours of use per charge, which is plenty to get you through the day. Recharging takes around 3 hours, but you can always get an addition 6 hours of use if needed with Horizon’s 30-minute quick charge feature.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
4.6EXCELLENT

Ultra is designed to deliver all-day use, with battery-life figures of up to 56 hours under ideal conditions (i.e., in quiet with no streaming) and about 10-11 hours when Sphere mode is continuously engaged. They take 3 to 4 hours to recharge, and a 30-minute quick charge can provide an additional 6 hours of use.

Bluetooth

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

Horizon Go IX are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
5.0EXCELLENT

Phonak Infinio Ultra are compatible with both iOS and Android, offering wireless audio streaming and hands-free calls. Pairing is now easier directly from your phone's Bluetooth menu.

App Features

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

The Horizon app has a user-friendly interface and modern, appealing design. It includes practical features like the ability to control the focus of your hearing aids and a tonal balance slider. Additionally, you will find preset modes which can help improve your listening experience depending on the environment you are in.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
5.0EXCELLENT

I found the MyPhonak Hearing Aid app easy to use with many useful features, including health and fitness tracking.

Comfort

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

I found Horizon IX to be very comfortable thanks to their ergonomic shape and earwire design. Your hearing care provider should ensure they are fitted for optimal comfort and hearing benefit.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
5.0EXCELLENT

Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio Ultra were extremely comfortable and lightweight in my ears. In general, hearing care providers can make numerous physical changes to prescription hearing aids to improve comfort.

Design

Horizon Go IX
4.2AVERAGE

Horizon IX features a modern, sleek design and is available in a variety of colors.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
4.1AVERAGE

Phonak's new Audéo Sphere Infinio Ultra model shares the same notably larger size as the original Phonak Infinio Sphere. This is needed for its increased AI processing. While the larger size may be more noticeable, Sphere Ultra remains comfortable, and your provider should have no trouble adjusting the fit to your preference.

Value

Horizon Go IX
3.2BELOW AVERAGE

Hear.com Horizon Go IX has a value score of 3.1/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
3.6BELOW AVERAGE

Phonak Sphere Infinio Ultra has a value score of 3.5/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Handling

Horizon Go IX
4.8EXCELLENT

I did not run into any issues while using Horizon Go IX hearing aids. They are very easy to use once setup by your hearing care provider. First-time users may need some practice to get accustomed to inserting the receiver-in-ear style properly.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
4.8EXCELLENT

Infinio Ultra are easy to use and adjust using either the large multi-function button or MyPhonak app. I had no issues making adjustments with either.

Pro Support

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

You should receive quality hearing care and support from your Hear.com provider. The Horizon app should further enhance your experience with easier access to useful setting adjustments.

Audéo Infinio Ultra
5.0EXCELLENT

Prescription hearing aids like Infinio Sphere Ultra are fit by hearing care providers so you should receive quality care. The MyPhonak app also opens the possibility for remote programming and virtual follow-up appointments.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Busy Cafe
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Quiet Office
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Streaming Music
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra

HearingTracker partners with HearAdvisor to provide recordings and performance data from an acoustic laboratory that follows standard scientific procedures. All hearing aids are fitted and performance-tested for mild sloping to moderate hearing loss. All audio samples cutoff above 10kHz.

Accessories

Compatible accessories for each hearing aid

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Accessory Connectivity
None

RogerDirect™

As a break-through in hearing technology, Marvel hearing aids feature RogerDirect™ which allows the Roger technology to stream directly to Marvel hearing aids without having to attach an external receiver. This major innovation makes Roger technology easier to use and more attractive for a broader group ranging from mild to profound hearing loss. Roger technology makes use of intelligent and adaptive algorithms that continuously measure and precisely analyze noise levels to keep the Roger signal clearly audible above the background noise.

Battery Charger

Pure Charger

This small desktop charger addresses basic needs when it comes to providing power to the hearing aids. 2 LEDs indicate the charging status (one per hearing aid). The Pure Charger can be plugged into the mains via USB to a power adapter.

Pure Portable Charger+1

This charger offers comfort and charging on the go. Its power bank allows for 3 full charges of a pair of hearing aids. A lid protects the hearing aids and prevents dust accumulating in the charger. 2 LEDs indicate the charging status (one per hearing aid) and one for the integrated power bank. All of the chargers are available with the power plug.

Pure Dry&Clean Charger+1

The Pure Dry&Clean Charger not only charges the hearing aids but also offers UVC cleaning and drying technology to keep the hearing aids in peak condition. The UVC cleaning starts automatically when the hearing aids are placed inside and is completed in just 15 minutes. 3 LEDs per hearing aid indicate their charging status and an additional LED indicates the cleaning status. The Pure Dry&Clean Charger also has a lid to ensure optimal cleaning and storage of the hearing aids.

Multi-Charger

Stationary Signia charger compatible with multiple hearing aids.

ChargerGo RIC Sphere Infinio+1

Charger with integrated battery

Bluetooth Streamer

StreamLine Mic+2

A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.

None
CROS System

CROS Pure Charge&Go T AX

None
Remote Adjustments
None

myPhonak App+2

The myPhonak app allows you to access remote support, information about their hearing aids, and a hearing diary. The app also allows you to adjust the volume and pitch of your hearing aids, and change program settings.

Remote Control

miniPocket

Enables push-button remote control of hearing aid functions.

Signia App+2

The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.

RemoteControl

The Phonak RemoteControl provides a discreet way to control your Phonak hearing aids.

Remote Microphone
None

Roger Table Mic II+1

Phonak Roger Table Mic II is a microphone dedicated for working adults who participate in various meetings. It selects the person who’s talking and switches automatically between the meeting participants.

PartnerMic™

Discreet remote microphone that helps to boost your partners voice in one-to-one conversations in noise.

TV Streamer

StreamLine TV

Streams television sound to hearing aids over a distance of up to 30 feet (10 meters).

Roger Select™+4

Phonak Roger Select is a microphone specifically designed to help boost your hearing performance and keep you at the heart of the conversation.

TV Connector

The Phonak TV Connector is a wireless accessory that streams audio directly from your TV or stereo system to your Phonak hearing aids, transforming them into wireless stereo headsets. Enjoy high-quality sound, independent volume control, and a long transmission range of up to 15 meters.

Roger On+1

Phonak Roger On is an advanced remote mic accessory developed by Phonak. It is designed to improve speech understanding in noisy environments, over distance, and when many people are speaking simultaneously. Equipped with MultiBeam 2.0 Technology, it provides a boost in understanding by capturing voices from all directions. The Roger On can connect to a variety of multimedia devices and is fully compatible with almost all hearing aids and cochlear implants that have a T-coil or a Roger receiver.

Hardware

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Accelerometer
No
Yes
Bluetooth® Audio
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • Bluetooth® (A2DP)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
  • Auracast™ Ready
Hands-Free Calling
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • Bluetooth® (HFP)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
IP Rating
IP68
IP68
Push Button
No
  • Program control
  • Volume Control
  • Audio Stream Mix
Rechargeable Batteries
Lithium-ion
Lithium-ion
Tap Controls
No
  • Voice assistant
  • Accept/end calls
  • Pause/Resume
  • Tinnitus program
Voice Assistant
No
  • Siri
  • Google
Volume Rocker
Yes
Yes

Software Features

Horizon Go IX
Audéo Infinio Ultra
Adjustment Bands
20
20
Adjustment Synchronization
e2e wireless 4.0
QuickSync
Audio Stream Mixer
No
Environmental Balance
Direction Selection
Speech Focus5/5Also covers Directionality
No
Directionality
Binaural DirectionalityPanorama EffectSpatial SpeechFocusSpeech FocusAlso covers Direction Selection
StereoZoom 2.0UltraZoomPremium
Ear Simulation
TruEar 360
Real Ear Sound
Echo Reduction
Auto EchoShield
No
Environmental Adaptation
Conversation Dynamics AnalyzerConversation Source Analyzer5/5RealTime Conversation Enhancement5/5
AutoSense OS: 6.0
Extended bandwidth
12kHz
No
Extended Dynamic Range
Yes
No
Feedback Suppression
Feedback cancellation
WhistleBlock
Frequency Lowering
No
SoundRecover2
Listening Programs
6
4
New User Adaptation
No
auto Acclimatization
Noise Reduction
SoundSmoothing™: 3
NoiseBlock
Occlusion Reduction
No
AOV
Own Voice Comfort
OVP™ 2.0
No
Phone in Stereo
No
DuoPhone
Preference Adaptation
No
User Preference Tuning
Processing Channels
48
No
Spatial Noise Cancellation
No
Dynamic Noise Cancellation
Sudden Loud Noise Reduction
No
SoundRelax
Tinnitus Relief
Yes
Tinnitus Balance
Unique Amplification Strategy
Advanced Focus Streams3Augmented Focus™Conversation Booster5/5Dynamic Soundscape Processing 3.05/5Speech & Noise Management5/5SpeechStabilizer
Motion Sensor HearingSpeech Enhancer
Wind Noise Reduction
eWindScreen binaural
WindBlock

Bottom Line

AI summarized

The Verdict

If background noise is your biggest complaint — restaurants, parties, meetings — the Infinio Ultra's 4.4/5 lab score for speech in noise is a meaningful step above the Horizon Go IX's 2.7/5, and it costs roughly $350 less per pair to boot.

The tradeoff is size: Phonak's dual-chip design is noticeably bulkier than the Horizon Go IX's more conventional RIC body.

Which is right for you?

Go with the Horizon Go IX if a smaller, easier-to-conceal hearing aid matters more to you than squeezing out the last bit of clarity in loud rooms — its speech-in-quiet performance (4.0/5) is strong and close to Infinio Ultra's, so quiet-environment listening won't suffer much either way. Both deserve professional real-ear tuning at fitting; skipping that step leaves real performance on the table for either device.

What to ask at your fitting

AI summarized
  1. Ask about Sphere mode battery life

    Infinio Ultra's intensive noise-fighting mode runs about 10-11 hours per charge, so if you're in loud environments most of the day, confirm that's enough for your routine before committing.

  2. Try both in person for fit and size

    Infinio Ultra's larger dual-chip body versus Horizon Go IX's more standard RIC shape is a physical difference worth feeling on your own ear, especially if you wear glasses or have smaller ears.

  3. Request real-ear measurement tuning

    Both devices' lab scores jumped substantially after professional tuning (Horizon Go IX to 4.3/5, Infinio Ultra to 5.2/5), so insist your provider performs verified fitting rather than relying on default settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

AI summarized