I am trying a new pair of Oticon OPN BTEs. So far I am very impressed. I know most people opt for thin tubes but I have also heard good things about standard thick tubes. My audiogram is attached. Cosmetics is not important, only comfort and sound quality. Would appreciate advice. Thanks. --Steve
From your hearing profile I think even the OPN mini RITE with 100dB or 105dB may suffice, unless you prefer the BTE version for some reason.
Having said that, I don’t really know anything about the tube size to recommend the thinner or thicker for you. I can only guess that it probably makes little difference in terms of the sound quality for you based on your hearing loss.
Don’t know if you’ve tried out the Speech Rescue feature yet, but if not yet, you may be even more impressed with it once you try it out
I have been wearing BTE for over 50 years and use a standard # 13 “Tygon” tubing. Studies have shown the benefits of a large tube to conduct the sound. Also a study was done to show a boost in high frequencies by the use of a “Horn Tip” at the end of the tube. The study showed the benefit of a larger smooth bore tube.
An obvious analogy is a water hose versus a fire hose.
There is a definite perceived QUALITY benefit, but It might take you several weeks to appreciate the full benefit through “Adaptation”. The use of *RIC (Speaker in the Canal) is superior as there are no tube loss.
. Good luck.
ive just purchased mini RITE Opn 3 aids, the receiver yes is in the ear so have the fine tubes, being a girlie for cosmectic reasons too, and why not…i was told as the receiver is in the ear the sound quality is better than being filtered down the tube
That is a good first step. Now, to get the full benefit from your new hearing aids, wear them always. You will be tempted not to use them in noisy situations. By persisting, your brain will accommodate and over time you will understand better and they will eventually seem natural in all situations. When I get a new set of hearing aids it takes 4-6 weeks before most everything sounds clear and normal.
So be persistently patient and enjoy good listening…
I use a #13 tube too! 