I’ve been a longtime reader of this site and have noticed multiple requests either searching for analog hearing aids or asking for ways to make digital devices sound more analog (similar threads can be found on Reddit and other forums). I have also spoken to dozens of audiologists across North America, all of whom get repeated demands for analog hearing aids.
It is clear, in other words, that there is an actual market for these devices. As a lifelong wearer of hearing aids who grew up on analog, I know well why these requests keep coming up. What I am trying to figure out is how we might productively signal to the manufacturers that such a market exists.
I am not trying to start an analog vs digital debate – I’m not saying digital devices shouldn’t exist, just that analog devices should as well. I am happy to discuss the reasons why many of us prefer analog sound if needed.
Suffice to say, I don’t believe there is any good medical or audiological justification for completely phasing out analog hearing aids. So I would like to use this thread to discuss ways that we might demonstrate to manufacturers that, if just one of the major manufacturers made just one analog line, we would buy it!
I have tried circulating a petition here, but it seems that the forum bots don’t like links. Any advice would be much appreciated.