Lively 2 Hearing Aid

Lively is a leading online hearing aid retailer—the company sold around $15 million in hearing aids in 2021 alone. Based in New York City, Lively ships hearing aids directly to customers nationwide and provides customer support via teleaudiology. The company is majority-owned by GN Hearing, a Danish company that manufactures ReSound, Beltone, Jabra, Interton, and Lively hearing aid brands.

Lively’s hearing aids are essentially “Lively”-branded ReSound hearing aids. The company’s latest model, Lively 2 Pro, is equivalent to ReSound’s latest flagship, ReSound One. Lively Plus and Lively Lite are equivalent to models from the ReSound Key product family, ReSound’s last-generation value line.

Let’s take a closer look at the models Lively offers as well as why you may (or may not) want to consider their hearing aids.

How much do Lively hearing aids cost

Lively hearing aids cost between $1,195 to $1,995 per pair, depending whether you purchase the Lively 2 Lite, Plus, or Pro model. Lively also offers financing options ranging from $39 to $65 per month, again depending on the model purchased. Financing costs will vary “depending on credit qualifications, loan amount, and term”, according to Lively’s website. All Lively hearing aids come with a 100-day risk-free trial, 3-year product warranty, and free shipping and returns. A charging case is also included with Pro and Plus, Lively’s rechargeable models.

Lively hearing aids overview

• Three models available—two are rechargeable
• Appropriate for mild to moderately-severe hearing loss
• 100-day risk-free trial
• Free home delivery and return shipping
• Three-year warranty which includes professional support and loss/damage coverage
• Online support available 7 days a week
• Online hearing test or upload your own
• My Lively app enables teleaudiology support and remote control functionality
• Direct audio streaming for phone calls and/or music with both Apple® and Android™ compatible phones
• Hands-free calls with the select iPhones® and the Lively 2 Pro and Lively 2 Plus models
• 4 listening programs accessible via the app or push button
• Multiple color options

Ordering from Lively

To get started, you’ll need to take Lively’s online hearing test with headphones in a quiet place. Four different pitches are tested (500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 Hz) and your hearing results are provided to you.  If your results indicate that you are a candidate for Lively hearing aids (as seen below), the website guides you to their webpage describing the different models available. Lively will use your test results to personalize your hearing aids. Alternatively, Lively can use a recent hearing test (usually within the last 6 months) to set up your hearing aids.

After you place your order, the hearing aids are pre-programmed and shipped to your door; you’ll receive them typically within 2-3 days. Once you receive them, a video orientation (through Zoom) will take place. Here the Lively Hearing Care Provider (HCP) will review your ear history and hearing goals, and walk you through using your new hearing aids. They will also ensure that your hearing aids are connected to the smart phone app. Once you receive the hearing aids, your trial period begins. Follow-up care is provided, as needed, for the 3-year warranty period.

Hearing aid models

Lively currently offers 3 different RIC models, including the Lively 2 Pro, the Lively 2 Plus and the Lively 2 Lite.  All models offer an IP68 rating, up to 4 listening programs and will fit hearing losses up to the moderately-severe level. Three different speaker strengths are available—the appropriate speaker will be sent based on your hearing loss. All Lively products carry the same 3-year warranty and support as well as free shipping and a 100-day trial period. However, each model offers a different levels of technology and which one you choose should be based upon not only on price but also your lifestyle and listening needs.

Key features

What do the features do?

The above features are not the company’s marketing names but rather basic descriptors of the functionality of the feature. This also is not an exhaustive list of all the product capabilities but, rather, a selection of ones that may be the most relevant to many wearers. You will find a comprehensive list of features below this article.

Let’s dive a little deeper into each of them to understand what they mean.

Power supply

The Lively 2 Pro and Plus models are both powered by rechargeable batteries. Lively’s lithium-ion rechargeable batteries provide up to 30 hours of use on a single charge and are a must for those with visual acuity or manual dexterity issues.

Lively’s rechargeable hearing aids come with a portable charger which, according to the company, will provide a full charge in just 3 hours. Keep in mind that if you stream audio (phone calls, music, etc.), the number of useable hours is reduced. With Lively 2 Pro, use time is cut to 24 hours if you stream audio half the time.

Standard hearing aid batteries come in different sizes, but the Lively 2 Lite utilizes a 312 battery. It’s not the smallest hearing aid battery, but it’s provides a good balance between power and size—the Lite model is attractive and lasts up to 30 hours on a single battery. Keep in mind that Lively provides, at no additional charge, a 1-year supply of batteries. However, after that, you will be responsible for purchasing your own batteries which can be found at many different locations including drug stores.

Frequency range

This data simply tells you which frequencies (pitches) the hearing aid is capable of amplifying. Generally speaking, a wider the frequency response provides a more natural, fuller sound. It also provides more redundancy in the signal, which may even help improve speech understanding, especially in noisy environments.

However, depending on the fit, your residual (remaining) hearing, and depending on whether feedback (whistling) is limiting amplification, you may not experience the full potential of a wide frequency response. Many will be limited to a range of approximately 400 Hz to 6000 Hz. Even 6000 Hz is generous as the response of many RIC hearing aids typically diminishes (“rolls off”) considerably beyond the 3000-4000 Hz range.

So, while an extended frequency range beyond 6000 Hz is possible in a test box, it often isn’t on a real ear. This is especially true when the hearing aid fit is achieved with off-the-shelf ear tips and not custom earmolds.

Wireless connectivity and hands-free calling

Hands-free calling means just that—you can both hear the caller and speak to the caller all through your hearing aids as they essentially function as wireless earbuds. This is becoming more of the norm in the hearing aid industry but it’s taking time to implement (streaming protocols are relatively new and vary across smart phone platforms). As such, you usually only see this feature in the newest and highest-end products as is the case with the Lively hearing aids. The Lively 2 Pro and Lively 2 Plus offer hands-free calling but only for the iPhone and only for the iPhone 11 or newer.

Adaptive directionality

In modern hearing aids, directionality is achieved when 2 or more microphones work together to cancel out sound from a particular direction. The typical use is that the hearing aids, when in directional mode, will allow for sound to be picked up from in front of you but will suppress sound coming from behind or to the side of you.

This is particularly helpful when you are trying to hear someone in a noisy situation, like a restaurant, and directional microphones are one of the best ways to improve speech understanding in noise. How the directionality works—for example, is the directional pattern fixed or changing, does it change on its own or do you have to choose, will vary by product.

Adaptive directionality means that the hearing aids can automatically change the directional pattern—meaning they allow for sound to be picked up in a more narrow or broad area depending on the listening environment and the direction of speech.

All of Jabra's hearing aids offer adaptive directionality but the sophistication of the algorithm increases with the level of technology. For example, in the highest-end model, Jabra Enhance Select 200, the directional pattern will adjust depending on the source of the noise and use both hearing aids (4 microphones) to precisely tune the microphone response across a higher number of frequency channels (compared to lower tier products).

Noise reduction

Noise reduction means that the hearing aids can recognize steady state nose signals (think fan or car engine noise) and minimize them without significantly affecting the sounds you want to hear such as speech. For example, let’s say you’re having a conversation at a coffee shop with a friend and the air conditioning vent is just above you and the baristas behind the counter are making all the noise they typically do. Noise reduction will work to minimize these sounds while still allowing for the speech sounds to be amplified. How sophisticated this process is, how much of a reduction the algorithm makes and how precisely it does it, will vary by level of product and by manufacturer.

With Jabra products, the highest end product (Enhance Select 200) uses spectral subtraction technology across multiple bands to precisely minimize the noise. The other products use the same technology but it is not applied as precisely across the frequency response. This is due, at least in part, to the number of frequency channels available in the different technology tiers. Simply put, the more channels, the more control over the response of the hearing aid. Think of it as using a wide brush to paint the background of a painting or using a very fine brush to paint eyelashes on a person in the painting. The intent of these noise reduction algorithms is to improve overall listening comfort in noisy environments.

Wind noise reduction

Just as the name implies, the Jabra hearing aids will diminish wind noise when detected. As wind noise is predominantly low frequency in nature, most hearing aids will typically make a low frequency gain (volume) reduction and may make other programming adjustments as well. Of course, this doesn’t mean you don’t still hear the wind, but it may make the wind noise less annoying. Again, this is a listening comfort feature.

Impact noise reduction

This type of noise reduction is used to minimize sudden sounds. For example, the sound of silverware on a plate or a door slamming can be quite annoying to hearing aid wearers and this algorithm will, again, try to make your listening experience more comfortable.

Music mode

This feature helps the hearing aids distinguish music from feedback as both sounds are tonal in nature. As some musical tones can mimic feedback (at least to the hearing aid’s brain) this feature helps to ensure that a sound reduction is not made for music and only for the feedback. For those that enjoy routinely listening to music this may be a useful feature.

Synchronized controls

This pragmatic feature allows for the control of both hearing aids with the change of just one. For example, if you want to turn up the volume, you can do so on one hearing aid and it will change in both, and the sound remains balanced. This also applies to program changes and, for more sophisticated products, may also apply to directionality, noise reduction and other features.

Color options

All of the Jabra products offer 5 color options which can be chosen to match skin/hair tone. Previously, the top-tier Lively hearing aid offered 8 color options, but this is no longer the case.

The My Lively app

The My Lively app is available for all 3 levels of technology but the control and features will vary by product level. All of the products also have access to 4 pre-programmed listening environments which are accessible via the push button on the hearing aids or via the app. These include “all around”, “restaurant”, “outdoors” and “music”. You can also check the battery status, change volume and (depending on model) and make temporary program changes such as increasing the noise filter or boosting clarity.

Importantly, the app is also where some virtual care takes place. That is, while the hearing aid will arrive pre-programmed to your door, adjustments can be sent to the app and uploaded to your hearing aids. You can also request professional assistance and view tips and tutorials. If needed, you can also call Lively with questions about your hearing aids. I called a few times when writing this article and found them to be helpful and very professional. Finally, the app also features a “find my hearing aid” locator which can be quite handy if the hearing aids are misplaced.

Accessories

All of Lively’s products are compatible with the available accessories which include the TV Streamer, the MultiMic and the Phone Clip+. Keep in mind that each of these accessories are only available at an additional cost. For example, the TV Streamer which allows for the TV sound to be streamed directly to your hearing aids will cost you an additional $299. However, many hearing aid wearers find the TV streamers to be very helpful as they allow for you to watch the TV at your preferred loudness while others in the room can do the same. It also allows for a cleaner, better sound than just listening to the TV through your hearing aids alone.

The MultiMic ($275) may be recommended to you if you have significant trouble following conversations in noisy environments. The MulitMic works by picking up a person’s voice and transmitting it directly to your hearing aids increasing the signal level (speech) relative to the environmental noise. The MultiMic can be clipped to a lapel or placed on a table as needed. It also has an audio jack that can be used with laptops or other devices to allow for streaming to your hearing aids.

The MultiMic also includes a telephone coil which can be used in settings that are looped. It should be noted that none of the current Lively hearing aids offer a t-coil in the hearing aid. Some buildings such as houses of worship and movie theatres are sometimes looped so that sound can be picked up by the telephone coil (in the MultiMic) and then sent directly to your hearing aids. Again, this helps to improve the clarity of the sound and improve overall listening. It should be noted that with a remote delivery care model it is not possible to test your ability to hear in noise which can help the HCP decide whether or not to recommend accessories such as the MultiMic.

The Phone Clip+ is needed for older, non-compatible Android phones (or other Bluetooth audio accessories) if you would like to stream phone calls, music, etc. to your hearing aids. The older phones simply need to be Bluetooth compatible. You can also use the Phone Clip+ to accept phone calls, change the volume or program on your hearing aids and mute the hearing aids. The Phone Clip+ also enables hands-free calling.

Perspective on price

The pricing of Lively hearing aids is certainly attractive and can be significantly less than that of similar hearing aids provided in many hearing aid clinics. You can decide to pay for the hearing aids in full or choose to finance the hearing aids through their partner Bread^®. Of course, financing requires credit approval and an added percentage rate which will increase the overall cost of the hearing aids.

However, while Lively pricing is attractive, it isn’t always the lowest price and we can look to Costco as a comparison. The premium Kirkland Signature brand (manufactured by Sonova, another “big 5” hearing aid manufacturer) can be purchased for $1399 a pair. This premium technology level product also includes a charger, Bluetooth compatibility, in-person service and follow-up and now the ability to request remote care. You may also be able to find in-person professional care and similar products/pricing at local HCPs and you may prefer or even require that in-person care.

Making the case for Lively’s delivery model

There are certainly advantages to both delivery care models and, depending on your preferences, level of comfort with technology and hearing healthcare needs one may be preferable to the other. Keep in mind that the primary benefits any online delivery model are greater convenience and lower price. Lively isn’t arguing that their service model is the gold standard of audiological care—and it isn’t. But, in a world where the gold standard is seldom practiced in the clinic, one can make a case for a well-managed online delivery model that increases accessibility, and puts better hearing into the ears of the masses.

Pros and cons of online delivery

If you are utilizing Lively’s online hearing test, the programming is based upon a very limited set of data. It’s not only the limited frequencies that are tested, it’s also not possible to measure such things as Uncomfortable Loudness Levels (UCLs) which are used to set the output limits of the hearing aids, or your ability to understand speech in noise. In addition, the remote care model will not allow for verification of the fit via probe microphone measures which help to ensure the programming is appropriate for your hearing loss. All of these things are part of recommended best practices from associations such as the American Academy of Audiology. It also means that the hearing aids you receive will likely be programmed conservatively and may not provide you with the best audibility overall.

Perspective on price

The pricing of Jabra's hearing aids is certainly attractive and can be significantly less than that of similar hearing aids provided in many hearing aid clinics. You can decide to pay for the hearing aids in full or choose to finance the hearing aids through their partner Bread®. Of course, financing requires credit approval and an added percentage rate which will increase the overall cost of the hearing aids.

However, while pricing online is attractive, it isn’t always the lowest price and we can look to Costco as a comparison. In fact, Costco also sells Jabra products, specifically the Jabra Enhance Pro™ 10 which is listed for $1699 (price may vary by location) and is based upon the ReSound ONE 9 product. This is one technology level higher than the Enhance Select 200 which is similar to the ReSound ONE 5. The Jabra Enhance Pro 10 from Costco includes a charger, Bluetooth compatibility, hands-free calling (Apple products), and in-person service. Also, some Costco locations offer remote care; allowing you to get both in-person care for the fitting and remote care as needed; this is considered a hybrid delivery model. Most hearing aid manufacturers now offer hybrid care as a feature of their hearing aids and smart apps.

Beyond buying your hearing aids at a warehouse, you may also be able to find in-person professional care and similar products/pricing at local HCPs. For some individuals, in-person care with more personalized service is required or simply preferred.

Making the case for Jabra's delivery model

There are certainly advantages to each delivery care model (online, in-person, hybrid) and, depending on your preferences, level of comfort with technology, and hearing healthcare needs, one may be preferable to the other. Keep in mind that the primary benefits any online delivery model are greater convenience and lower price. Jabra isn’t arguing that their service model is the gold standard of audiological care—and it isn’t. But, in a world where the gold standard is seldom practiced in the clinic, one can make a case for a well-managed online delivery model that increases accessibility, and puts better hearing into the ears of the masses.

Pros and cons of online delivery

If you are utilizing Jabra's online hearing test, the programming is based upon a very limited set of data. That is, it's not just that limited frequencies that are tested, it’s also not possible to measure such things as Uncomfortable Loudness Levels (UCLs) which are used to set the output limits of the hearing aids. The online test also isn't testing your ability to understand speech in noise or allowing for verification of the fit via probe microphone measures which help to ensure the programming is appropriate for your hearing loss. All of these things are part of recommended best practices from associations such as the American Academy of Audiology. It also means that the hearing aids you receive will likely be programmed conservatively and may not provide you with the best audibility overall.

On the flip side, the remote care model does allow for convenient care and Lively even provides service 7 days a week. You can order the hearing aids and receive service without ever having to leave your home. For those that have difficulty getting to appointments because of distance or transportation issues, for example, this can be ideal. The model has also proven necessary during the pandemic where it simply wasn’t possible to get into a clinic.

To their credit, Lively doesn’t “lock” their hearing aids. What this means is that if you wanted (or needed to) to be seen by a local HCP, and they had the appropriate programming software, the HCP could make changes to the hearing aids. Keep in mind, some HCPs may not be willing to do this if you didn’t buy the hearing aids from them. If they do agree to provide care, you should expect to pay for their time and expertise.

Also, it’s important to keep in mind that in order to use the Lively hearing aids you will need to own a smart phone or a tablet and have at least a minimal level of comfort with technology. If you’re comfortable using those devices, then the entire process should be simple enough. However, if you struggle with technology, buying hearing aids online likely isn’t for you.

At least in part, the pandemic forced another method of care to be provided by HCPs—the hybrid model. That is, while most of your clinical care will be done in the office (like the hearing test and initial fitting), some or all of the follow-up care can be done via virtual appointments. Many hearing aid manufacturers make this possible in their fitting software and their hearing aid applications. HCPs have adopted this hybrid care out of necessity or convenience so be sure to ask your local provider what options are available.

Finally, if your hearing loss isn’t “typical” then the virtual only model isn’t recommended as you should be followed by a professional who can properly manage your condition. For example, if you experience tinnitus that interferes with your daily life, your condition is best suited for in-person care. Also, if you have had previous ear surgeries, suffer from vertigo or have other significant health conditions such as diabetes we would recommend being seen by a qualified professional. To be fair, it is likely that Lively would also recommend this once they are aware of your medical history. We always recommend starting at an audiologist to rule out medical pathologies, or at the very least, take the the Consumer Ear Disease Risk Assessment, offered by Mayo Clinic and Northwestern University.

Bottom Line

There are Pros and Cons to both the Lively hearing aids as well as their delivery model. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Pros of Lively 2

• High quality hearing aids at varying technology and price points
• Competitive pricing and available financing options
• Bundle package includes hearing aids, charger (or batteries) and remote care
• Quick-turnaround on orders—receive usually within 2-3 days
• Convenience of remote care
• 100-day risk free trial
• 3-year warranty which includes professional support
• Support available 7 days a week
• Hands-free and/or direct audio streaming with compatible phones
• Online reviews are generally positive

Cons of Lively 2

• Appropriate only for adults (18+) and available only in the U.S.
• Not appropriate for severe or profound hearing losses
• Smart phone or tablet required
• Minimal level of tech-savvy required for remote delivery model
• No in-person care which may be preferred or required for some people
• Telecoil not available (not hearing loopaccessible)
• Tinnitus features not available
• Hearing test (unless provided from another provider) is not diagnostic and includes only a limited number of frequencies with which to program the hearing aids
• Best practices procedures such as UCLs and probe mic-measures are not possible
• May be more expensive than some hearing aids provided via in-person care
• May be difficult to achieve a proper physical fit with off-the-shelf ear tips and other hearing aid components

Take into consideration your hearing healthcare needs, preferences and how you would like your care delivered. If you are comfortable with remote care and a candidate for their hearing aids, you can be confident that the Lively hearing aids are of excellent quality and are built and serviced by a well-established hearing aid company. It also means that Lively is backed by a major company and isn’t likely to be non-existent in a few years. However, be sure to look beyond price and ensure that both the hearing aids and the level of care are adequate for your needs.