I am new to the use of Hearing aids and I have been trialing a pair of Phonak Audeo Smart V’s for about 4 weeks. Then at my request, my Audi let me try a pair of Audeo Smart IX’s and a myPilot. Both of the aids helped, although speech in noisy environments was still a problem. Knowing that I am willing to try new things out, my Audi called me and asked if I wanted to give the Lyric a try. He had the Lryic representative in and was fitting those of his patients that had expressed an interest or were willing to try something new. I was fitted yesterday afternoon. The fitting process is a bit uncomfortable almost bordering on painful at times. Part of that was clearing out some dried wax that was very near the ear drum. Once fully fitted there was no pain, just the unusual feeling of something in your ear. After 24 hours the sensation is still there, but I believe that it is somewhat muted and hope that it will become barely noticeable with time.
I haven’t yet been in a noisy environment to check out my speech comprehension, but in general my hearing does seem to be fairly good and it certainly is hassle free. My hearing was never that bad, so it’s not like many people in these forums who experience a dramatic difference when wearing hearing aids. I can see where the price of these aids can be a deterrent, but since I have to pay for these out of my own pocket anyways, it would actually be cheaper for me the first year. I suspect that no matter which aid I ultimately select, I will always be looking at the next generation and upgrading often. I’ve already been promised a free upgrade to the Audeo Smart S (for Spice) when it comes out if I end up with the Phonak.
The one thing I can say for Lyric so far is it was nice to be able to go to sleep last night watching TV without having to turn it up because I took my aids out
It’s too early for me to have made a decision on whether or not to stick with these, but it is nice to have choices.
I go back to see my Audi in two more weeks. I’ll try and post my impressions between now and them and let you know what I decide if I can ever make up my mind.