Invisible in the Canal (IIC) hearing aids are becoming increasingly popular among those who are looking for a discreet solution to their hearing loss. As their name suggests, these hearing aids are designed to sit deep inside the ear canal, making them virtually invisible to others. In this article, we will review some of the best IIC hearing aids available in 2023 and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Top 4 IIC Hearing Aid Recommendations
- Oticon Own
- Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium
- Starkey Evolv Ai IIC
- Phonak Lyric Extended Wear: A Unique Hearing Aid Solution
Importance of Proper Fit and Programming by a Professional
It is crucial to have your IIC hearing aid properly fit and programmed by a professional audiologist who follows best practices. A poorly fitted hearing aid can result in discomfort, reduced sound quality, and a less effective solution for your hearing loss. Use a local audiologist you trust. If you do not have an audiologist we suggest using the website ZipHearing to find a provider committed to following comprehensive best practices.
Oticon Own IIC Hearing Aid: My Top Pick
The Oticon OWN IIC stands out for its design and sound processing capabilities.
The Oticon OWN IIC is designed to sit deeply inside the ear canal, with a customized fit made through 3D scanning or physical impression. This allows for a deep impression and better fit, ensuring maximum comfort and stability.
What sets the Oticon OWN IIC apart is its use of a deep neural network for sound processing. This advanced technology allows for better sound processing compared to traditional algorithms developed by hearing aid engineers. The hearing aid has been trained with over 12 million sound samples, giving it the ability to better distinguish speech from noise.
The Oticon OWN IIC is available in five different technology levels, making it suitable for a wide range of hearing losses. The hearing aid can use either a 75-decibel or a 90-decibel receiver, depending on the individual’s needs.
It uses a disposable battery (size 10), which is expected to have several days of battery life.
One potential drawback of the Oticon OWN IIC is that it does not have Bluetooth compatibility or app controls BUT NO IIC hearing aid does!
The volume and programming can only be adjusted by a hearing care professional, so individuals who value these features may need to consider another option. However, for those who value a deeply fit and discreet IIC hearing aid with advanced sound processing capabilities, the Oticon OWN IIC may be a perfect choice. See why I like the Oticon brand.
Check out current prices at Ziphearing or hear-better.com.
Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium
The Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium is a popular option for those looking for an invisible in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aid. This hearing aid is in its third generation, having been introduced in 2017. One of the key features of the Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium is its titanium shell, which makes it more hypoallergenic and smaller in size than traditional acrylic hearing aids and strong as hell (I have seen one run over by a car and it didn’t dent).
Available in two technology levels, top tier 90 and second tier 70, the Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium has a range of options to choose from. It also comes with three receiver gain levels: medium, power, or superpower, with medium power being the largest that can fit in the titanium shell. This makes it a great option for those who want a discreet hearing aid that is still highly effective.
- Better than the OTICON OWN for severe hearing loss.
Some of the key features of the Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium include its durability, push button for volume and program adjustment, and AutoSense OS 4.0, which automatically adjusts program settings based on the environment. Additionally, the titanium shell can be texturized by a hearing care professional for better retention and a deeper, more invisible fit.
Overall, the Phonak Virto Paradise Titanium is a great option for those who want a discreet and durable hearing aid that still offers a high level of performance. With its range of technology levels and receiver gain options, it is sure to meet the needs of a wide range of individuals with hearing loss.
Check out current prices at Ziphearing, They can also set you up for a hearing exam
Starkey Evolv Ai IIC
The Starkey Evolv Ai IIC is a hearing aid designed for maximum invisibility and maximum comfort. It is available in three technology levels and three receiver gain levels, making it suitable for a wide range of hearing losses.
The Starkey Evolv Ai IIC features a small size 10 battery that provides 4-6 days of battery life, making it convenient and low-maintenance. However, it does not have any wireless capabilities.
The manufacturer suggests that the black color is the best option for maximum invisibility, as it blends in with the wearer’s skin tone. The small size and subtle design of the Evolv Ai IIC make it a great option for those who want to conceal their hearing aid.
In conclusion, the Starkey Evolv Ai IIC is a high-quality hearing aid that offers the excellent sound quality, comfort, and invisibility. With its three technology levels and three receiver gain levels, it can be tailored to meet the needs of a wide range of hearing losses. Whether you are looking for a discreet and comfortable solution for your hearing needs, the Starkey Evolv Ai IIC is definitely worth considering.
Check out current prices at Ziphearing or hear-better.com.
Phonak Lyric Extended Wear: A Unique Hearing Aid Solution
The Phonak Lyric is a unique extended-wear hearing aid that has been on the market for over a decade. This fourth-generation device has undergone several improvements and upgrades, making it one of the most innovative hearing aids available today. Research shows that it has significant psychosocial benefits.
Unlike traditional hearing aids, the Phonak Lyric is professionally placed into the ear canal and can be worn for two or more months. It sits just 4mm away from the eardrum, providing reduced amplification and improved comfort for the user.
One of the key benefits of the Phonak Lyric is its incredible invisibility. It’s designed to be discreet and comfortable, making it ideal for those who don’t want to draw attention to their hearing loss.
Despite its lack of customizability, the Phonak Lyric makes up for this with its simplicity and convenience. It’s a subscription-based service, with the cost covering all exchanges and services for a year. This means that users don’t have to worry about batteries, maintenance, or repairs.
The Phonak Lyric can be worn 24/7 for all activities, whether it’s sleeping, showering, or participating in sports. It’s designed to provide high-quality sound for all situations, making it an ideal choice for people with active lifestyles.
However, it’s important to note that the Phonak Lyric has a limited fitting range and may not be appropriate for all types of hearing loss. It’s important to consult an audiologist to determine if the Phonak Lyric is right for you.
Lyric is also the most expensive option on the market and might not be possible for everyone’s pocketbook.
