In ‘digital world ‘ is heard a lot these days, especially when talking of electronic devices. As for a hearing aid, the word digital refers to the conversion of sound into digital symbols. This kind of conversion or adjustment happens in real time and is done by the computer chip fitted into the hearing instrument. There are basically two types, the Analog and the Digital.
The Analog type convert the sound waves into electrical signals which are then amplified. These are adjustable aids which are custom made to suit the needs of the user and is accordingly programmed. These are provided with various programs and settings as suggested by the audiologist. These settings help the user to use the machine as per the surroundings and the immediate requirement.
The Digital Hearing Aids on the other hand convert the sound waves into numerical codes, very similar to the binary codes of the computer before amplifying them. A camera is an ideal example to explain this theory of the digital hearing aids. At a point of time the cameras were huge, even the ones which were of personal use. It was because the numerous components that it consisted off were held together in a body frame. Gradually, when the cameras became digital, their sizes reduced by a noticeable measure. This happened because all the ‘working parts ‘were basically inside a very small computer chip. The same happened with the mobile phones as well.
The digital type of Hearing aid is just the same. The petite computer chip inside the aid is responsible for its convenient sizing. It enables easy handling and adjustment for the audiologist apart from the numerous functions it supports. These digital hearing aids come with various listening modes, automatic volume control and an automatic feedback reduction. These hearing instruments are 100% digital and are the finest quality aids available in the market currently. The digital type hearing instruments are much more expensive than the analog ones because of their sophisticated working and the computer chip.
Digital type Hearing aid may not necessarily prove the best choice for everybody. The kind of hearing instrument suitable for a person varies according to the intensity of the problem and other factors. Hence, it is advisable to consult a doctor or an audiologist for proper directions on the usage and the kind of hearing aid. Improper use of a hearing aid may also lead to increase in hearing loss or other diseases.
According to a survey, most people still feel more comfortable using the analog hearing aid. The improper adjustment of the digital type of hearing aid is the primary reason for this. The hearing aid has extremely sophisticated functions which need proper adjustment. For this it is necessary to give the user a very detailed and illustrative demonstration of the machine. This should be done in a very user friendly manner as well.
Sonic India - Hearing Aids 