Hey Guys…
Sorry for not responding to this thread, I haven’t been on the forum for a while. Anyway…“now the rest of the story”.
For those that don’t want to read to the end of this post…YES, IT WAS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE.
I went for my hearing test and yes I do need hearing aids. After the audi completed the test she started her sales pitch. She recommended the “Audibel Range Platinum” for my hearing problem. Price…$2,500 per aid. I asked what aid was priced at $895, she said it was a “Start 5”. She didn’t have a “Start 5” nor even a picture of it. As she described the “Start 5” it was one of the older large clunky “in the ear” models.
I asked her what their top of the line model was at 80% off. She said it was the “Audibel Range Platinum”. Based on that, the regular retail price would be $25,000 per pair. I laughed at her and said I didn’t believe they sold many at that price. I told her that when I made the appointment I was told the Range Platinums were the $895 aid. She said the person answering the phone was mistaken and she would correct them.
The audi then said she had her masters degree and is close to having her doctors degree. She said she hates the deception part of the business. I really felt sorry for her. I truly believe she wants to help people and is forced to lie and deceive.
By the way, I then went to Sam’s. The audi “Robin” also tested me. I believe she was more through than the first audi. She explained the aids she thought I needed and explained why. With Sam’s 90 day return policy I decided to give they a try. I am now wearing a $3,000 pair of Liberty aids.
I went back to Robin after a week and explained a couple of concerns. She made some adjustments. I believe…and so does the wife…that these aids have made a big difference in my hearing. TV not as loud, not as many huhs, and I understand what is being said.
Based on my experience at Sam’s I think the hearing aid business may want to change it’s business model. I am totally convinced the audi makes the difference. Those audi’s that want to help people instead of 'selling used cars" will migrate over to the Sams and Costcos.