JVC EH-Z1500 vs. MDHearingAid Neo XS

Check out our comparison of the JVC EH-Z1500 vs MDHearingAid Neo XS. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.

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JVC EH-Z1500
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EH-Z1500

$799.99 per pair
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MDHearingAid Neo XS
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Neo XS

$397 per pair
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Product Overview

Form Factor
Thin TubeForm FactorThis type of hearing aid sits behind the ear. A tube runs along the top of the ear and inside the ear canal. A non-custom plastic or silicone 'dome' or custom-fitted mold may be fitted in the ear.
Completely In the CanalForm FactorThis type of custom-fitted hearing aid is mostly hidden inside the ear. In people with smaller ear canals this type of hearing aid may not be possible. This type of aid is often fitted without directional microphones or telecoils.
Expert Rating
Score
0.0
Score
0.0
User Rating
3.7
1 reviews
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Hearing Loss LevelHearing Loss LevelThis represents HearingTracker's best guess on suitability. Please consult a licensed audiologist to confirm your own candidacy for this device.
MildModerateSevereProfound
MildModerateSevereProfound
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP67
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoil

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

EH-Z1500
Neo XS
EH-Z1500
3.6AVERAGE

The JVC EH-Z1500 OTC Hearing Aid is a high-quality, over-the-counter device designed to enhance hearing clarity and comfort for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. It features advanced sound processing technology, a discreet design, and easy-to-use controls, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable hearing solution.

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Neo XS
2.8BELOW AVERAGE

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.

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EH-Z1500
3.9ABOVE AVERAGE

JVC EH-Z1500 achieved a SoundScore of 3.92/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #15 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

Neo XS
2.5BELOW AVERAGE

MDHearing Neo XS achieved a SoundScore of 2.47/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #47 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

EH-Z1500
4.3AVERAGE

JVC hearing aids boast an impressive IP67 ingress rating, with a build that's better than other OTC products but not as robust as newer prescription models. The buttons are reliable, though the slimtube design feels a bit outdated.

Neo XS
3.8BELOW AVERAGE

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.

EH-Z1500
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE

You may be disappointed that these hearing aids are not rechargeable and require a disposable 312 battery. However, the batteries should last you several days, and can offer greater convenience at times, though this makes them more susceptible to water damage.

Neo XS
4.0AVERAGE

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.

EH-Z1500
4.3AVERAGE

The Tuned app provides good features without being too complicated. Personalizing these hearing aids with the in-app hearing test is also a nice touch. For a more accurate fit, input hearing thresholds from an audiologic evaluation.

Neo XS
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EH-Z1500
3.5BELOW AVERAGE

I found JVC hearing aids comfortable though the slimtubes are more noticeable than the newer earwire receivers. The body is also larger than many new hearing aids though this did not drastically effect comfort.

Neo XS
3.5BELOW AVERAGE

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.

EH-Z1500
3.5BELOW AVERAGE

The design is slightly older, featuring slimtubes and disposable batteries. Despite this, the hearing aids, multi-function buttons, and app function well together.

Neo XS
4.0BELOW AVERAGE

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.

EH-Z1500
3.9ABOVE AVERAGE

JVC EH-Z1500 has a value score of 3.9/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Neo XS
3.3BELOW AVERAGE

MDHearing Neo XS has a value score of 3.4/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

EH-Z1500
4.0AVERAGE

Behind-the-ear hearing aids like these can be tricky to handle at first, but most people can use them without issue with practice. Some users might find changing disposable batteries inconvenient compared to rechargeable options.

Neo XS
3.0BELOW AVERAGE

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.

EH-Z1500
3.0ABOVE AVERAGE

Like most OTC products, JVC does not include in-person care. However, the app offers both remote programming services from JVC providers as well as various educational guides to help with better hearing.

Neo XS
2.0BELOW AVERAGE

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.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
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

Remote Adjustments
Tuned Hearing App

Tuned Hearing App

Remote Adjustments+2

Beyond offering real-time solutions for your hearing aid fitting and troubleshooting needs, TUNED becomes your constant companion, supporting you every step of the way toward improved hearing and a fuller life.

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Remote Control
Tuned Hearing App

Tuned Hearing App

Remote Control+2

Beyond offering real-time solutions for your hearing aid fitting and troubleshooting needs, TUNED becomes your constant companion, supporting you every step of the way toward improved hearing and a fuller life.

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Smartphone App
Tuned Hearing App

Tuned Hearing App

Smartphone App+2

Beyond offering real-time solutions for your hearing aid fitting and troubleshooting needs, TUNED becomes your constant companion, supporting you every step of the way toward improved hearing and a fuller life.

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Hardware

Disposable BatteriesDisposable BatteriesCommon disposable batteries last anywhere from a few days to two weeks or more. For more information Google "how long do hearing aid batteries last" and click on the Hearing Tracker link.
312
No
IP RatingIP RatingIP Ratings rate sealing effectiveness of hearing aids against intrusion from foreign solid matter (dirt, dust) and moisture.
IP67
No
Push ButtonPush ButtonThe hearing aid features a push button which allows toggling across different sound processing programs
  • Program control
  • Program control
  • Volume Control
Rechargeable BatteriesRechargeable BatteriesCharge your batteries overnight in a docking station and get a full day's use (in most cases) of battery life the following day.
No
Lithium-ion
TelecoilTelecoilThe hearing aid is able to pick up audio from landline telephones or public audio systems without using its acoustic microphones. This minimizes background noise and improves clarity and understanding, even over great distances. At performing arts venues, events, government meetings, etc., look for assistive listening systems (hearing loop, FM, and infrared systems), which must be provided at no cost under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other international regulations.
Yes
No
Volume RockerVolume RockerA volume rocker or wheel to allows the adjustment of volume with a finger.
Yes
No

Software Features

Feedback SuppressionFeedback SuppressionIf any sound amplified by the hearing aid escapes the ear canal, it may reach the hearing aid’s own microphone and cause a harsh whistling noise. Some hearing aids are able to recognize when this feedback occurs and reduce or eliminate it.
No
Yes
Noise ReductionNoise ReductionThis feature uses modern hearing aids’ processing power to examine the incoming sound signal, determine if noise is present and reduce the volume of the troublesome sound to increase comfort.
No
Yes
Self-fittingSelf-fittingThis hearing aid allows you to fit yourself without professional assistance. Typically found in OTC products.
Tuned based on hearing test through device
No
Wind Noise ReductionWind Noise ReductionAs wind blows against the microphones of hearing aids, unpleasant noise may be generated. Some hearing aids have the ability to recognize this wind noise and reduce its level. Such reductions may also affect the audibility of desired sounds, like speech.
Yes
No