Phonak Bolero M vs. Widex Allure

Check out our comparison of the Phonak Bolero M vs Widex Allure. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.

Phonak Bolero M M M90
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$4,598 per pair
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Score
4.3
Widex Allure RIC R D 440
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SoundScore 4.5/5
$4,398 per pair
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Bolero M
$4,598 per pair
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Allure
$4,398 per pair
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Product Overview

Bolero M
Allure
Form Factor
Form FactorThis type of hearing aid is fitted behind the ear. Sound is channeled to the ear through either a thin or standard tube. A custom-fitted mold may or may not be required.
Form FactorThis type of hearing aid sits behind the ear. A wire runs along the top of the ear and down to a speaker sitting inside the ear canal. An custom-fitted mold may be required.
Expert Rating
N/A
Score
4.3
User Rating
4.12 reviews
5.01 reviews
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.
MildModerateSevere
MildModerateSevere
Product Features
Hands-freeiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP68
Hands-freeRechargeableAndroidTelecoilIP68

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

Bolero M
Allure

HearingTracker Score

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE

Widex Allure is the brand’s most refined take yet on natural sound, pairing its signature low-delay PureSound approach with stronger speech processing and an excellent HearAdvisor A SoundGrade that places it among the top tier of prescription hearing aids, though it’s currently limited in styles and still waiting on key firmware updates like Auracast.

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HearAdvisor SoundScore

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
4.5EXCELLENT

Widex Allure RIC 440 achieved a SoundScore of 4.52/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #7 of 35 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.

Build Quality

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
4.9EXCELLENT

Widex Allure hearing aids have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating and a sturdy tabletop charging base.

Battery

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
3.7AVERAGE

Moment Allure offer 25 hour all-day rechargeable battery life, with an impressive 7 hours of streaming. Recharging Allure will take around 4 hours and there is also a quick charge feature where 30 minutes of charge provides an additional 4 hours of power.

Bluetooth

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
5.0EXCELLENT

Widex Allure hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling. While they do not currently offer Auracast, they are future ready with Bluetooth LE audio.

App Features

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
4.0AVERAGE

The Widex Moment app is all around impressive with its modern, high-contrast appearance and comprehensive features, including sound customization options like a multi-band equalizer. The app also offers dedicated tinnitus features which can be optimized with your hearing care provider.

Comfort

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
5.0EXCELLENT

I found Sheer sRIC very comfortable due to their smaller size and ergonomic design. Your hearing care provider should help fit them with optimal comfort and hearing benefit.

Design

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
5.0EXCELLENT

Sheer sRIC have a modern design and are available in a range of colors from discrete to bold. Personally, I appreciate how Widex hearing aids have a smoother shape and a subtly textured feel.

Value

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
3.2BELOW AVERAGE

Widex Allure RIC 440 has a value score of 3.3/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Handling

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
5.0EXCELLENT

I did not run into any issues while using Widex Moment Sheer 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.

Pro Support

Bolero M

Not yet rated by our experts

Allure
5.0EXCELLENT

You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. Telehealth, or remote care options, are also available though this requires some extra setup with a separate app and necklace dongle.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Bolero M
Allure
Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Bolero M

Lab recordings not yet available

Allure
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Bolero M

Lab recordings not yet available

Allure
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Bolero M

Lab recordings not yet available

Allure

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

Bolero M
Allure
Accessory Connectivity

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.

None
Battery Charger
None

Charge n Clean+1

The new Charge n Clean charger offers a stylish design and combines charging with automatic UV-C sanitization and drying for added hygiene. It features LED indicators, a 4-hour full charge, 30-minute fast charge, and runs a maintenance cycle while charging. It eliminates up to 99.9% of bacteria, yeast, and viruses and connects via USB-C.

Standard Charger

The new standard charger delivers hassle-free, reliable charging in a compact, stylish design. It features LED indicators, a 4-hour full charge, 30-minute fast charge, and convenient USB-C connectivity.

Remote AdjustmentsRemote AdjustmentsAllows your hearing provider to make adjustments to your hearing aids remotely (from home, etc)

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.

None
Remote Control

RemoteControl

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

RC-DEX

RC-DEX allows you to adjust the volume and switch between programs without directly touching your hearing aids. It features three simple buttons and is small enough to fit on a keychain, making it convenient to carry and use. As you activate its functions, verbal or tone cues in your hearing aids confirm your selections, and an LED indicator on the remote lights up during operation.

Remote Mic Neckloop

Roger MyLink

None
Remote Microphone

Roger Pen

Handy microphone for various listening situations. Thanks to its portable design, it can be conveniently used where additional support is needed over distance and in noise. It can also transmit the sound of multimedia devices e.g. T.V. and has wideband Bluetooth for cellphone calls.

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.

Roger EasyPen+2

An effective yet simple microphone with only two buttons for clients who desire ultimate simplicity with full Roger performance, including listening to multimedia.

PartnerMic™

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

None
Smartphone App
None

Allure App

The Widex Allure app is a powerful companion for Widex hearing aid users, designed to enhance accessibility, personalization, and control. With features like real-time sound adjustments, battery status, AI-powered assistants, and a customizable equalizer, users can fine-tune their hearing experience to match specific environments. The app also includes helpful guides, troubleshooting support, Apple Watch compatibility, and a "Find My Hearing Aids" function to locate misplaced devices. It supports audio streaming on both iOS and compatible Android devices and offers a seamless, intuitive interface for greater independence and confidence.

TV Streamer

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.

TV PLAY 2

TV PLAY 2 streams audio wirelessly from your TV directly to your Widex hearing aids.

Hardware

Bolero M
Allure
Bluetooth® AudioBluetooth® AudioThis hearing aid is capable of streaming Bluetooth® audio certain phones and/or devices.
  • Bluetooth® (A2DP)
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
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
Hands-Free CallingHands-Free CallingIt is possible to have a hands-free phone call with this hearing aid. You are not required to hold the phone up to your mouth.
  • Bluetooth® (HFP)
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
IP RatingIP RatingIP Ratings rate sealing effectiveness of hearing aids against intrusion from foreign solid matter (dirt, dust) and moisture.
IP68
IP68
Push ButtonPush ButtonThe hearing aid features a push button which allows toggling across different sound processing programs
  • Program control
  • Volume Control
  • Mute 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.
Lithium-ion
Lithium-ion
Tap ControlsTap ControlsThe hearing aid may be controlled by physically tapping it with your fingers.
No
  • Accept/end calls
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
Yes
Volume RockerVolume RockerA volume rocker or wheel to allows the adjustment of volume with a finger.
Yes
Yes

Software Features

Bolero M
Allure
Adjustment BandsAdjustment BandsThese are frequency-divided sections that can be adjusted in a hearing aid in order to amplify sounds. Although there are rarely more than 10 frequencies measured in a hearing assessment, having more bands that can be adjusted may allow for improved speech understanding and user comfort.
20
15
Adjustment SynchronizationAdjustment SynchronizationThis feature allows for a more pleasant listening experience by ensuring that both hearing aids process sound the same way. If one hearing aid changes its processing in response to noise or speech, it will send a wireless signal to the other hearing aid so both process sound in the same way.
QuickSyncQuickSyncOne touch on the program selection button or volume control results in instant identical change in the other instrument.
No
Audio Stream MixerAudio Stream MixerAllows the user to adjust the volume of the audio stream relative to the microphone input using the push button or volume control on the hearing aid unit.
Environmental BalanceEnvironmental BalanceEnvironmental balance is a volume modification capability in Phonak Audéo B-Direct hearing aids that allows clients to adjust the volume of the streamed signal versus the surrounding environmental sounds by the press of the volume control.
No
Automatic Phone ProgramAutomatic Phone ProgramHearing aids with this feature can detect when a phone is placed near them and automatically switch to a phone program. In this setting, the hearing aids will reduce background noise and increase the volume of the phone.
EasyPhoneEasyPhoneAutomatically selects your telephone program when the telephone handset is held close to your ear
No
Dedicated Streaming CompressorDedicated Streaming CompressorImproved sound quality of streamed sound, made possible by a separate streaming compressor.
No
Yes
DirectionalityDirectionalityDepending on the types and number of microphones a hearing aid has, the hearing aid may be able to boost sounds from specific directions (by reducing sounds from other directions). This can be helpful to focus on a speaker directly in front of the hearing aid user, as well as to give the user information about where different sounds are coming from.
UltraZoom: PremiumUltraZoomDirectional microphone technology is a proven method of effectively improving speech intelligibility in background noise. UltraZoom is the adaptive multi-channel beamforming technology, automatically available in AutoSense OS or in a manual program.
High Definition Locator: 15High Definition LocatorAutomatic, adaptive, channel specific directionality to improve speech understanding in background noise
Ear SimulationEar SimulationThe outer ear, or pinna, can have a significant effect on the frequency shape of sound arriving at your inner ear. Some hearing aids mimic the "pinna effect" when producing sound, to deliver more natural sound to the listener.
Real Ear SoundReal Ear SoundReal Ear Sound simulates the performance characteristics of the pinna. This restores localization and the ability to experience natural sound perception.
Digital PinnaDigital PinnaThe central auditory system uses input from both ears to form spatial judgment, such as spatial awareness, localization, distance estimation, etc. The use of independent fast-acting compression in each ear can disrupt the loudness and timing relationship of sounds between ears (IID and ITD cues). This may alter the spatial relationship of sounds and lead to poorer spatial performance. The use of algorithms, such as the digital pinna, are designed to preserve the front/back localization cues. Source: Hearing Review
Echo ReductionEcho ReductionThis feature improves speech audibility by reducing the “blurring” of speech sounds that can occur in the presence of echoes.
EchoBlockEchoBlockEchoBlock improves listening experience in reverberant environments like large assembly halls, places of worship and rooms with reflective surfaces.
No
Environmental AdaptationEnvironmental AdaptationThe hearing aid can detect different acoustical environments, like speech in noise, and adjust the sound of the hearing aid accordingly to drive comfort or speech understanding, etc.
AutoSense OS: 3.0AutoSense OSHearing aids with AutoSense OS recognize and automatically adapt to more of your client’s listening situations than ever before. AutoSense OS accurately captures and analyzes the sound environment, then precisely blends feature elements from multiple programs in real time to provide a seamless listening experience.
Sound Classifier Categories: 11Sound Classifier CategoriesHearing aids will adapt automatically to different listening situations to support clarity, comfort, and audibility.
Extended Input Dynamic RangeExtended Input Dynamic RangeTechnology used to reduce peak clipping resulting from sound passing through analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).
No
True-Input TechnologyTrue-Input TechnologyTrue Input technology solves increases the amount of sound you can hear through your hearing aid before clipping or distortion occurs.
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.
WhistleBlockWhistleBlockWhistleBlock differentiates between naturally occurring feedback-like sounds and true feedback. This means increased audibility and sound quality that is free from annoying feedback.
Dynamic Feedback ControllerDynamic Feedback ControllerThe new Dynamic Feedback Controller adapts in real-time to manage feedback effectively while preserving the sound quality.
Frequency LoweringFrequency LoweringUnderstanding certain speech sounds is dependent on the high frequency parts of these sounds. For individuals with high frequency hearing loss, this feature can take high frequency speech information and move it to lower frequencies where it will be audible.
SoundRecover2SoundRecover2The new SoundRecover2 algorithm aims to restore the audibility of relevant high frequency sounds while leaving intact the low frequency structures important for good sound quality. The new frequency lowering scheme retains the essence of the original SoundRecover, utilizes an adaptive algorithm and an additional cut-off frequency in order to successfully extend these benefits to those with more extreme severe-to-profound hearing loss.
No
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
3
5
New User AdaptationNew User AdaptationProvider may set the hearing aid to gradually get louder over the first few weeks or months of a new hearing aid fitting. This can be convenient for new users who want to experience maximum benefit without making a lot of trips to the provider for tune ups.
auto Acclimatizationauto Acclimatizationauto Acclimatization is used to automatically increase the client's amplification, while the client is using the device.
No
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.
NoiseBlockNoiseBlockHigh-resolution noise cancellation - NoiseBlock Processing is particularly effective at reducing uncomfortable environmental noises. It can recognize the subtle differences between speech and non-speech sounds, removing noise while maintaining audibility. more
Soft-level noise reductionSoft-level noise reductionProviding more gain for soft sounds (low compression thresholds) is good for amplifying soft speech but it can also mean soft unwanted sounds - such as the noise from fans, refrigerators, or even hearing aid microphone noises, are audible even when in quiet environments. The Soft Level Noise Reduction Algorithm differentiates unmodulated soft sounds from modulated soft sounds and reduces their amplification. This results in an enhanced sound quality for the user.
Occlusion ReductionOcclusion ReductionWhen ears are plugged, or occluded, by hearing aids the low frequencies from one’s own voice are amplified and may be uncomfortable. This effect is typically reduced in hearing aids through venting or open-fit models. In some cases the perception of occlusion may also be reduced through software by adjusting the acoustic output of the hearing aid.
AOVAOVAcoustically Optimized Venting (AOV) reduces occlusion to the lowest level possible by optimizing the fitting calculation.
No
Phone in StereoPhone in StereoThis feature allows input from a phone presented to one hearing aid to be transmitted to both hearing aids at the same time, improving speech understanding.
DuoPhoneDuoPhoneWith DuoPhone, as soon as the phone is held to the ear the signal is heard in both ears. Background noise is reduced and clarity significantly improved.
No
Preference AdaptationPreference AdaptationIf a hearing aid user frequently adjusts the volume or program settings of their devices, some hearing aids will recognize when and where these changes are made and begin automatically making these changes in those settings.
User Preference TuningUser Preference TuningRemembers adjustments you make with FlexControl and FlexVolume and applies them automatically for a hearing aid more in tune with your preferences.
No
Processing ChannelsProcessing ChannelsThese are all the frequency-divided sections the hearing aid is able to examine at a single time. The hearing aid uses this information to determine whether the contents of each section are noise, speech, or something else and amplify the sound in each section accordingly.
No
15
Spatial Noise CancellationSpatial Noise CancellationThis feature recognizes where sounds are coming from and can reduce noise coming from behind or to the side of the listener. This helps the listener focus on the speaker, usually in front of them.
SNR-BoostSNR-BoostThe SNR boost is what we call a "spatial noise canceller." This means that when the hearing instruments are in the UltraZoom mode, they will analyze the signal to noise ratio in both the front and back planes. Then, the system will look for where there is a poor signal-to-noise ratio and it will apply another level of noise canceling on top of the standard noise canceling that is only active when the aids are in the directional mode. This goes beyond what we are already doing with multichannel adaptive directionality in terms of improving signal to noise ratio. Essentially, this minimizes noise for the client when they're in a very noisy environment. UltraZoom is part of the universal automatic program, SoundFlow. - Source: http://www.audiologyonline.com/interviews/interview-with-nathan-schau-au-1334
No
Sudden Loud Noise ReductionSudden Loud Noise ReductionThis feature detects loud sounds and reduces their volume to a comfortable level. Though not a replacement for hearing protection, this technology can greatly improve listener comfort.
SoundRelaxSoundRelaxSoundRelax cushions otherwise unpleasant impulse sounds without affecting speech clarity or causing unnatural perception of other sounds.
TruSound Softener: 4 Modes
Tinnitus ReliefTinnitus ReliefTinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be addressed by hearing aids in several different ways, such as introducing a soft therapeutic signal or targeted notched noise.
Tinnitus BalanceTinnitus BalanceThe Tinnitus Balance noise generator generates a broadband sound for use in tinnitus management therapies.
No
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
No
Allure PureSound™Allure PureSound™The Allure PureSound™ program enhances speech intelligibility in noise by 4.3dB for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, combining ZeroDelay technology with advanced processingSpeech Enhancer ProSpeech Enhancer ProA 52-band spectral analysis system that is designed to provide unparalleled granular control over speech and noiseTruAcoustics™TruAcoustics™TruAcoustics™ provides customized, tailor-made fitting possible for patients of all hearing losses.
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.
WindBlockWindBlockWindBlock utilizes a wind identification and classification system. The powerful, adaptive algorithm automatically suppresses wind noise. It allows wearers to enjoy the outdoors without compromise.
Smartwind Manager: PremiumSmartwind ManagerKeeps speech and other important sounds audible while significantly reducing the wind annoyance.