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The thought behind the Songbird disposable hearing aid is for those that have mild to moderate hearing loss or deafness. They can get a cheaper alternative to the high priced hearing aids that are custom fit. It is a behind-the-ear fitting device. For those that are hard of hearing, it is meant as a hearing amplifier that can be tossed away and bought new instead of having frequent office visits and charges to maintain.
Disposable Hearing Aids
The concept behind the “disposable hearing aid” is that there can be inexpensive hearing aids that will last a moderate time line (in the case of the Songbird, 400 hours approximately) and then can be replaced instead of buying new batteries, going for maintenance of the hearing aid, or other “service calls”. Instead of $1500-$3000 per hearing aid, the consumer pays under $100 (it retails for $80) every few months for a “new” hearing aid.
The price is about right for this model. After testing, it provided service that was better than other over-the-counter non fitted hearing loss aids. For those looking for a temporary fix for a hearing loss problem, this would really work. The feedback issues do resolve themselves so long as the hearing aid is taken out of the ear before volume adjusting. It does amplify everything though and will not replace digital hearing aid technology for having only specific tones amplified.
Battery Life of Songbird
Songbird advertises their batteries to last 400 hours or 90-120 days, whichever comes first. The hearing aid comes sealed in a foil pouch that is not to be opened until the wearer is ready to begin using the hearing aid. Exposure to the air is supposed to be what makes the battery last a shorter while.Personally, this was about right as the one tested lasted 101 days "out of the pack".
Taking Care of Disposable Hearing Aids
The Songbird Flexfit comes with a brush to keep ear wax or other buildup off of the sensitive parts of the hearing loss helper. Keeping the hearing aid out of the air will keep the battery lasting longer and keeping it out of water will keep all the electrical parts working properly. This is not to be worn while showering or swimming. Using a microfiber cleaning cloth could be a nice addition and was not provided.
Personal Thoughts on Songbird
The Songbird Flexfit was comfortable right out of the box. There were feedback issues at first, but after proper adjustment to the volume it was fine. Voices seemed “in a tunnel” and tinny at first as well, but again these were fine after an hour of use and more normal. It was nice hearing voicing in other rooms and not having to lip read. However, this is a true sound amplifier, it makes everything louder and isn’t selective whether it is background noise, a voice, or the sound of an actual breath. It does help in situations where it is needed and keeps one from asking “What?”.
Center For Hearing Aids
E-32, Hauz Khas Market,
New Delhi-110016
E-mail : ramavision@satyam.net.in
ramavision@hathway.com
24X7 Contact no: +91 9810074489
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