The year 2006 brought with it many new products,
events, and landmarks to the hearing industry. As the year comes to a
close, The Hearing Review asked several companies to comment on what they viewed as their
major achievements, milestones, and corporate highlights during 2006, and
what products, services, and announcements might be expected from their
companies during 2007. Here’s a look from their perspectives on the
past year and the year to come. Additionally, the “HR Headlines” provide a sampling
of just a few of the news items, announcements, and related articles that
made it onto the pages of HR during 2006. For more information on these companies’ products and offerings, use the contact information at the end of each
company entry, or use the circle numbers that correspond to the Reader
Service Card found in this issue.
AHAA Looking Back at 2006... American Hearing Aid
Associates (AHAA) is the industry’s leading provider of business and
marketing planning services. Founded in 1995, AHAA offers its nationwide
network of more than 2,000 independent hearing health care professionals
(Associates) a virtual franchise without loss of their autonomy.
AHAA services include an expert field staff of 30 regional managers who
help Associates customize business and marketing plans and who train owners
and staff.
Its Strategic Solutions services package provides Associates strategic and
hands-on support in developing growth initiatives, expansion plans, and
exit strategies.
In AHAA’s Performance
Network, small, noncompeting groups of its
Associates meet regularly in their local regions to discuss key issues
common to their practices. Goals include improving the effectiveness and
profitability of all members of the group.
In 2006, AHAA launched its new, Web-based marketing services that
allow Associates to order promotional material online, 24-7, from its
Website www.ahaabizlink.com. During the year, AHAA also formalized its Managed Care Division and signed
contracts with national organizations that will motivate millions of their
members to use the AHAA network for hearing health care services.
Moving Forward to 2007...
AHAA will hold its 11th
Annual Convention February 21-24 in Las
Vegas. More than 400 will attend a program focused on all aspects of
running a practice. AHAA will also significantly expand its Strategic
Solutions package and offer new training courses for hearing practice
staffs, including a complete program for managers.
Contact AHAA today to join its dynamic network of
Associates.
American Hearing Aid Associates
West Chester
Pa, www.ahaabizlink.com ; 800-984-3272
HR Headlines • “The 10 Strategies of a Successful CEO: Change is an
Important Factor in the Learning Curve of Success,” by Tina Soika
(Oct 2006). • AHAA Holds 10th Annual Convention (May 2006,). • John H. Harrington named director of AHAA managed care
division (June 2006). • AAA Preview (Feb 2006, p 60), IHS & ADA Preview.
Audioscan Looking Back at 2006...
The 2006 free software update added the
new Sensory Loss Simulator™— the first cochlear loss simulator
in a digital instrument fitting system, DSL®5, and a provision for open
fittings to the Verifit and RM500SL.
We were officially awarded a US patent for our unique directional test which measures
directional effects with all of the hearing aid features enabled! It is the
only way to demonstrate and validate the real-world functioning of
directional right in your office. We also conducted over 35 workshops across the country
to rave reviews. Check www.audioscan.com for details on 2007 workshops in
your area.
Moving Forward to 2007...
In 2007 we are focusing on getting the word out: Manufacturers’ “first fit” algorithms are
a shot in the dark! Digital instruments
need to be fitted and verified with a digital instrument fitting system.
We also want to shine a bright light on the benefits
of Audioscan. A concerned father who was moving called us to find out where
the closest Verifit was to his new community; he wouldn’t have his
daughter’s aids adjusted without one!
This is a great testament to the benefits of Audioscan
equipment. The best fit, increased customer satisfaction/loyalty,
competitive advantage, increased sales through demonstration of function,
and decreased returns.
In 2007, we want people to take a fresh look at Audioscan digital instrument fitting systems because, just as digitals have revolutionized the
hearing aid industry, we’ve revolutionized the testing, fitting, and
counseling for digital aids. Call your representative for a quick
demonstration. You won’t be disappointed!
HR Headlines
• Release of software v2.8 for both the Verifit and the
RM500 SL (Nov 2006).
• Real-time directional hearing instrument test on
Verifit REM/HIT analyzer (July 2006).
• Industry Insider: Audioscan President Bill Cole (May 2006).
• Audioscan introduces the RM500 SL portable real-ear/hearing
aid analyzer (Feb 2006).
• AAA Preview (Feb 2006, p 60), and IHS & ADA Previews
(Sept 2006).
Bernafon Looking Back at 2006...
In 2006, Bernafon celebrated 60 years of serving people through innovation. The successful history of Bernafon
hearing aids began in 1946 at Gfeller AG in Flamatt, which at that time
produced mechanical and electromechanical products. The motivation for
initiating the hearing aid activities came from the company owner, Hans
Gfeller, who suffered from severe hearing impairment himself.
The hearing aid activities started with a homemade
hearing amplifier for Hans Gfeller powered by large batteries. The first
serial-production pocket hearing aid was then launched on the market in
1946 (see photo above). As a hearing aid pioneer, Bernafon has consistently
succeeded in surprising the market with innovative technologies for the
benefit of the hard of hearing since then. The world’s first adjustable hearing aid,
the world’s first computer-programmable
hearing aid, as well as the first hearing instrument with ChannelFree™ signal processing are important milestones in the
successful product history.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Today 110 people are employed at the Bernafon head office in Bern,
Switzerland, of whom over 80 are involved in product development, digital
signal processing, electroacoustics, software, design and technical
audiology.
The company’s jubilee year in 2006 heralded the
arrival of the latest high-tech product: ICOS – a premier class instrument using Personalized Audio Navigation™
that identifies the type of environment in which the user finds him or
herself, and automatically chooses the optimal response. The Lifestyle Profile in the fitting
software allows the audiologist to precisely fit the instrument to the
patient’s listening priorities in a multitude of environments.
HR Headlines
• “Evidence of Enhanced Fine Tuning with a New
Datalogging System,” by Neil S. Hockley, Reinhard Winter, and Lorrie
Scheller (Oct 2006).
• “Boundaries of Real Open Fittings,” by Monika
Bertges Reber (Feb 2006).
E-A-R Auditory systems
Looking Back at 2006...
Previously Aearo Company, E-A-R Auditory Systems’ parent company became Aearo
Technologies in 2006. Commenting on the change,
CEO Mike McLain said, “The addition of the word
‘technologies’ to our name more accurately reflects the mission
of our company. We’re in the business of developing and applying
technologies to protect people, products and performance.”
E-A-R Auditory Systems’ E-A-RTONE 5A Audiometric Insert Earphone has undergone several improvements since its introduction. The
most recent change incorporated in the 5A design in early 2006 was a
modified shape for the base of its pin connector receptacle. The change
prevents the receptacle from rotating regardless of the pressure applied
when the cable is disconnected from the transducer case. Earlier upgrades
to the cable, switching from plastic to a stainless steel case nipple, in
addition to this most recent modification significantly enhanced the
E-A-RTONE 5A’s reliability. Auditory Systems also began an exciting project to take the
E-A-RTONE Insert Earphone to its next technological step.
Moving Forward to 2007...
The year 2007 will usher in several new firsts for
E-A-R Auditory Systems beginning with the introduction of a product catalog. That, in
addition to the Auditory Systems Web site, will provide our customers with greater access to product
descriptions and information. Our Quality Management System, already
certified to ISO 9001:2000, will also be certified to ISO 13485/Medical Devices.
E-A-R Auditory Systems’ most exciting project to
date, a technological leap in the evolution of the E-A-RTONE Insert Earphone, will be
introduced early in the second quarter of 2007.
HR Headlines
• “Hearing Conservation in Schools of Music: The UNT
Model,” by Kris Chesky, PhD (March 2006).
• “Hearing Protection for Musicians,” by Patty
Niquette, MA (March 2006).
• AAA Preview (Feb 2006).
Frye Electronics Looking Back at 2006...
Frye Electronics has made
substantial additions to the FONIX 7000Hearing Aid Test System. Prior to March of 2006, measurements of input-output and
battery current were only available in automated test sequences, such as in
ANSI. In March we introduced version 1.4. Now very complete separate measurements are available that
include estimated battery life for the hearing aid under test, and battery current at
different frequencies and amplitudes. When version
1.5 was released in September, the complete NAL NL1 formula was
included in the instrument, as well as a Visible
Speech program. All instruments were
upgraded free of charge.
In 2006 we introduced a Spanish
version of the FP35. Now all the messages and
menus and measurement labels are in Spanish when the user asks for it. Our FONIX NOAH 3 module was
certified by HIMSA this year. We also greatly improved the user interface.
Our Press and Go program
was also introduced this year. It is especially useful for schools.
Moving Forward to 2007...
We will provide the new IEC
05 test sequence for the FONIX 7000 Hearing Aid
Test System early in the year. One of our programmers is working on a Technician’s Computer Module that will provide an automated program, that will make it
easy to monitor repairs of hearing instruments.
It is quite likely that we will also make whatever
changes are needed to put the NAL NL2 and the
DSL 5 into the FONIX NOAH Module during
2007, as well.
HR Headlines
• “How to Perform Real-Ear Testing on an Open-Fit
Hearing Aid” (July 2006).
• “How to Verify Directional Hearing Aids in the
Office,” by George Frye (Jan 2006).
• Frye Electronics introduces a new Open Fit Coupler for
testing open-ear fitted hearing instruments (Aug 2006).
• “Measuring Performance: A Defining Professional
Responsibility,” by Sridhar Krishnamurti (Jan 2006).
• AAA Preview (Feb 2006, p 63) and IHS & ADA Preview
(Sept 2006).
GN Otometrics Looking Back at 2006...
GN Otometrics introduced
three state-of-the-art products in 2006. Our customers responded with
outstanding feedback and strong sales of the latest generation of GN
Otometrics' products: AURICAL Visible Speech, ICS Chartr 200, and MADSEN
Xeta. We are just beginning to realize the marketplace impact of these
strategically important solutions.
AURICAL Visible Speech is
the wireless binaural solution for fitting, counseling, and verification.
It takes Speech Mapping to the next level with its binaural simultaneous measurement,
wireless connection, OnTop mode and enhanced patient experience.
The portable ICS Chartr
200 is an advanced vestibular test system that
allows practitioners to diagnose and treat their patients with even more
confidence. With a comprehensive test battery, a remote control, built-in Interpretation Assistant™,
state-of-the-art goggle, and a lightweight flexible light bar, the system
delivers faster, more accurate results and improves patient care.
MADSEN Xeta is the
intuitive air, bone, and masking audiometer designed for fast, efficient
testing and advanced patient handling. The Xeta launch was followed by an
array of improvements within our hearing assessment portfolio.
Moving Forward to 2007...
GN Otometrics dynamic product portfolio is set for
2007 and beyond. With Intelligent Integration™ as the backbone to our new product strategy, we
continue to develop our three expert brands: MADSEN,
AURICAL and ICS. Our innovative products
deliver fast, accurate results, improve office workflow, and enhance
patient care for healthcare professionals and audiologists worldwide. Look
to GN Otometrics for state-of-the-art solutions for hearing and balance
instrumentation and software.
HR Headlines
• “Taking the Guesswork Out of Hearing Instrument
Fittings,” by Megan Quilter (June 2006).
• “Audiology Unplugged: Leading Hearing Care into the
Bluetooth Age,” by Brad Ingrao (Jan 2006).
• AURICAL™ Visible Speech system introduced (July 2006).
iCELLtech corp Looking Back at 2006...
iCell has made significant
growth in sales and technology during 2006. We are especially proud of our
newly launched Model 10. It has the following features:
• Strong stainless
steel housing cuts bulging, yet provides better conduction by Nickel
plating;
• 105 mAh capacity.
Longest running time;
• Rust-free in any
weather condition;
• Powerful
performance in any latest digital hearing aid devices.
These newly innovated batteries have been fascinating
the customers and users in the market.
As for other models, they have also been improved
significantly and have been very favorably received in each market. Due to
the above, users can get 100% satisfaction from any iCellTech battery.
Thanks to high quality introductions in various
markets in the world and promotion at international conventions, iCellTech
is experiencing more brand power and the number of customers is
growing day by day.
Moving Forward to 2007...
We will continue to develop new technologies as one of
leaders in the hearing aid battery industry. Strengthening quality control
procedures, we are targeting zero defects. Customer’s satisfaction is
always our joy.
HR Headlines
• iCellTech Corp introduces its newly developed Size 10
Digital Sound zinc air batteries with 105 mAh capacity (May 2006).
• Marketplace: Offers sizes 5, 10, 312, 13, and 675, and
produces about 50 million cells annually (April 2006).
• AAA Convention (Feb 2006).
Interacoustics Looking Back at 2006...
The 2006 launch of
Interacoustics’ Eclipse gave the market a single platform that provides clinical OAE testing, ABR testing, or a combination of OAE and ABR testing all in one portable box.
For clinical OAE testing, choose to incorporate DPAOE, TEOAE or a combination of both. The ABR options include clinical two-channel
ABR with a variety of stimuli, or the advanced ABR package which
includes VEMP, ECochG, ML, LL, P300 and MNN—each with dedicated
filters and marking software. Additionally, the easy-to-use Cochlear
Implant stimulator control is available for electrically generated ABR
tests. The ABR package can stand alone or be combined with any of the OAE
options.
The Eclipse hardware platform is a portable, compact
package that can easily connect to a computer via one USB port. The entire
system is compatible with Windows® and is easy to use with
features like unlimited test protocols, customized latency norms, offline
digital filtering, and unlimited report templates.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Interacoustics has always been dedicated to providing
customers with value and state-of-the-art technology for all areas of
audiological evaluations. As a result, Interacoustics is now the largest
supplier of audiological equipment in the world and employs over 180 individuals in order to
provide the world with quality instrumentation.
In the next year, Interacoustics will continue to
focus on the Eclipse platform with the addition of VEMP testing as well as ASSR testing with a
revolutionary new algorithm and more efficient stimulus (both patented).
HR Headlines
• “How to Test More Efficiently with Customized
Audiometric Tests” (July 2006).
• Interacoustics introduces its new version of the software
for the VO25 and VN15 VNG systems (Sept 2006).
• Marketplace: Product line features audiometers, middle-ear
analyzers, ABR, OAE, VNG, RhinoMetrics, and hearing aid testing
(April 2006).
• AAA Preview (Feb 2006, p 64) and IHS & ADA Conventions
(Sept).
Maico diagnostics Looking Back at 2006...
Maico Diagnostics launched
two new products in 2006. The first was its newest middle ear analyzer, the MI 44—the
latest product to meet the needs of audiologists and hearing specialists
who provide diagnostic testing. While Maico is
known for its quality screening instruments, the MI 44 serves as a bridge
between screening and diagnostic testing with features such as both manual
and automatic pump control for the most testing flexibility, as well as
standard accessories that include both a screening and a diagnostic probe.
In addition, Maico brought a new automatic screening
audiometer to the pediatric market. The Detective
Audiometer provides fast, easy tests that
print in seconds and includes voice prompts (in English and Spanish) that
give patients instructions at the beginning of the test as well as
directions if they miscue during the test.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Maico Diagnostics is a leading manufacturer of quality
medical testing equipment. The company will launch its first PC-based audiometer in
2007, which will have all the qualities Maico has been known for since
1937—accurate, efficient testing with intuitive controls and fast
operation. The new instrument will include all-inclusive reporting, a
combined audiometer keyboard/PC keyboard, and a few other unique features
that will delight users.
HR Headlines
• Industry Insider: Interview with Maico Vice President Ron
Perlt (Jan 2006).
• Oticon Foundation grants $1.3 million to Walter Reed
Hospital (Jan 2006).
• AAA Preview (February 2006) and IHS & ADA Preview
(Sept 2006).
• Literature Review: Product guide for the new MI44 middle
ear analyzer (Nov 2006).
Oticon Looking Back at 2006... In 2006, Oticon literally
changed the shape of hearing care with Delta—the hearing device that people actually want to wear.
Delta has been a huge success for hearing care
professionals across the USA who finally have both a product and an
effective marketing support package to attract first time users into their
practices.
In fact, some 72% of
Delta’s have been fitted to first-time users and the user satisfaction ratings are well over 90%. Delta
appeals to people of all ages who have a hearing loss, but who simply
refuse to wear traditional hearing aids because of the negative stigma they
attach to these devices.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Oticon will continue to support our hearing care
professionals with attractive products and proven marketing support
packages that really work. 2007 will see a range
of new product introductions and innovative marketing support activities designed to support them.
If your practice has yet to try marketing Oticon
products, then 2007 should be the year to get going. We have expanded our
general sales force, our pediatric sales force, and our marketing support
staff. So we have both superior products and the professional support you
need to help your practice grow in 2007.
HR Headlines
• “Multimedia: Better Tools Facilitate Better
Process,” by Douglas Beck and Roger McGuire (May 2006).
• “New Design Focus Yields a Hearing Device that People
Actually Want,” by Mark Flynn (Apr 2006).
• Ninth Annual Oticon Audiology Summer Camp (Oct 2006).
• Introduces FM solution, the Oticon Amigo (Sept 2006)
• Huey Lewis and Oticon Delta Show Consumers It’s
“Hip to Hear” (Sept 2006)
• “How to Change the Perception of Wearing A Hearing
Device” (July 2006)
• Safran open-fit, a hearing aid bridging the gap between
Syncro and Tego Pro (May 2006)
Phonak Hearing Systems
Looking Back at 2006...
The Phonak revolution
continues in 2006 and 2007 with the introduction of Savia ART, the newest member of the Digital Bionics family. ART, the
new masterpiece of hearing performance, applies cutting edge technology to
maximize wearer satisfaction. It features:
• Sound Relax:
Suppresses annoying impulse sounds while maintaining sound authenticity;
• Self Learning:
Learns and applies loudness preferences automatically;
• No-Whistle
Technology: Features multi-level, multi-channel, and multi-program feedback
management;
• Canal Receiver
Technology micro model: Offers the acoustic advantages of an external
receiver.
Also new this year is microPower, the cosmetic solution for anyone with moderate to severe
hearing loss. Chose from microPower V (with Eleva inside) or microPower IX (with Savia inside) and give your patients the smallest and most
powerful microBTE on the market. Special features designed to help in
difficult listening situations include EasyPhone Plus and FM access using
the new MyLink receiver.
Moving Forward to 2007...
In 2007, Phonak is launching an exciting new
initiative called “Hear the World” to raise awareness about the importance of hearing and the
impact of hearing loss around the world. Music is a universal language that
goes beyond geographic, social, and linguistic boundaries; therefore, it is
the ideal medium to spread the message of Hear the World. Renowned musical
artists Placido Domingo and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra have agreed to join Phonak as ambassadors for this
important and emotional topic. Another important element of the initiative
is the non-profit Hear the World foundation which has been established to focus on increasing
awareness, raising support, and helping to prevent hearing loss globally.
Phonak Hearing Systems
Warrenville, Ill www.phonak.com; (800) 777-7333
HR Headlines
• “Facts vs Myths: The Skinny on Slim-Tube Open
Fittings,” by David A. Fabry (May 2006).
• “In One Ear and Synchronized with the Other: Automatic
Hearing Instruments Under Scrutiny,” by David A. Fabry (Nov 2006).
• Phonak to Purchase GN ReSound (Oct 2006).
• Phonak’s Landis Wins Tour, but Questions Emerge (Aug
2006).
Rayovac Looking Back at 2006...
Rayovac celebrates 100 years of growth,
quality, and innovation! In 2006, testing again
confirmed Rayovac ProLine Advanced is the World’s Longest Lasting
Hearing Aid Battery. Others have tried to make this claim, but time after
time their performance has fallen short. 2006 research confirmed that
consumers want long-lasting and reliable batteries.
Besides being the World’s Longest Lasting
Battery, Rayovac ProLine Advanced continues to offer a more consistent
and reliable battery, time and again.
Moving Forward to 2007...
After 14 years of partnership, Arnold Palmer has resigned with
Rayovac to continue promoting better hearing.
The Rayovac technical and manufacturing teams are
continuing to focus on new product developments to be launched in the next
couple of years
Call your ProLine representative to learn more about
the best battery in the world: 1-800-356-7422 or Canada: 1-800-387-3529
HR Headlines
• “Three Easy Options for Promoting Batteries For
Increased Patient Loyalty and Business Growth” (July 2006).
• ProLine battery package honored with award for design
excellence in the 2006 American Graphic Design Competition (Nov
2006).
• Rayovac Proline Advanced (Apr 2006).
• Brochure highlights the important features that Rayovac
ProLine offers (Nov 2006).
SEbotek Hearing Systems
Looking Back at 2006...
The first to introduce
receiver-in-the-ear technology, SeboTek continues to grow by offering
solutions across the entire fitting range. In
2006, SeboTek introduced its:
• Proprietary
Moisture Seal;
• Series 200 Speaker Links with ClearSound™ Wax Guard;
• Series 300 Ultra
Soft Tips;
• Speaker Link
Warranties up to 3 years;
• Customer-centric
pricing and policies, and more robust marketing support.
SeboTek also launched the VQ-721, built on a platform capable of processing 42 million
instructions per second (compared to 3 to 4 million in most other devices),
and InFocus Lifestyles™ software to make fitting fast and efficient. The VQ-721
includes:
• IntelliSound™
128 Channel Adaptive Noise Reduction and AFXTM Adaptive Feedback
Eliminator;
• Multichannel
Compression and 6 frequency shaping controls, including 8-band graphic
equalizer;
• Programmable power
on delay;
• Low equivalent
input noise level of <20 dB;
• Four customizable
memories and large dynamic range;
• Telecoil, Loop/FM
compatibility.
Moving Forward to 2007...
SeboTek builds on its patented design and
Infocus™ Technology, which combines an exclusive coupler effect and
acoustic benefits with advanced, software-driven digital processing to: 1)
Eliminate occlusion effect and other fitting challenges; 2) Provide more
feedback attenuation than any open-fit device; 3) Offer more full-spectrum
directionality than any other device. No other device:
• Provides a minimum contact seal that allows the speaker to
float comfortably inside the ear canal;
• Is clinically proven to eliminate occlusion-effect;
• Offers high fidelity, full spectrum sound with extended
frequency from 100 Hz to 14,000 Hz;
• Provides ultra-wideband dual directionality with up to 20 dB of
usable attenuation in low frequencies where most noise is present;
SeboTek Hearing Systems LLC
Tulsa, Okla www.SeboTek.com; (800) 388-9041
HR Headlines
• “How to Provide a Cosmetic
Hearing Solution for Severe Hearing Losses Without the Typical Side
Effects” (July 2006).
• SeboTek Hearing Systems offers the PAC (March 2006)
• Industry Insider: Sebotek President Jim Feeley (Feb 2006).
Siemens Hearing instruments Looking Back at 2006...
• Spring 2006, Siemens
introduced the CENTRA™ family of hearing instruments. These instruments were
designed using wearer-focused engineering. Breakthrough technologies
available with all CENTRA instruments include SoundSmoothing™, DataLearning™, and e2e wireless™. CENTRA’s extensive flexibility provides
unparalleled fitting ease and consumer usability.
CENTRA continues to elicit extremely positive reviews
from both hearing care professionals and patients. “My patients like
wearing hearing instruments now,” says an audiologist who feels
“CENTRA is the best.” e2e wireless is one of the reasons this
audiologist gives for CENTRA's success with her patients. She also credits
CENTRA Life, an
open-ear BTE, with successfully introducing new patients to amplification.
Siemens continues its promise to address hearing care
professionals’ needs with the introduction and enhancement of iScan™. iScan enables
professionals to take a 3D image of an ear impression in their office and
send it to Siemens via email. This new technology was introduced to reduce
turnaround time, increase order accuracy, and eliminate the hassles of mail
order.
Recent enhancements include an accuracy check reminder
to help ensure that the iScan is in top working order. Also, the software now double-checks each scan’s quality and if data is insufficient in any area of the ear
impression, the iScan turntable repositions itself to reimage that area. In
addition, iScan features optional acoustical sounds to alert the
professional when scanning is complete, thus allowing the professional to
focus on the patient and not the scanning process.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Siemens will continue to lead the dynamic hearing
industry with new technologies and service and support programs that
address specific hearing care professional and consumer needs.
HR Headlines
• “Digital Noise Reduction: Yes, There is Research
Supporting its Effectiveness” by Pamela Burton, Carolyn Smaka, and
Thomas Powers, (March 2006).
• “How to Reduce Annoying Transient Noises to Increase
Patient Satisfaction,” (July 2006).
• “Does In-Office Electronic Scanning of Impressions
Really Change Everything?” by William Lesiecki (Jan 2006).
• Siemens offers Centra hearing instrument (July 2006).
SoniC Innovations Looking Back at 2006...
Looking back on 2006,
SONIC innovations introduced three compelling product solutions and new
fitting tools designed to assist hearing care professionals better satisfy
the needs of their patients.
Ion is the smallest, most
powerful open-ear hearing aid ever developed. With unbeatable cosmetics and
comfort, Ion provides a high frequency fitting range up to 80 dB. To make a
great product even better, this autumn, Ion+ was launched. Ion+ is a standard ear hook that can be retro
fit to any Ion and used with a custom mold. Ion+ offers a flat fitting
range up to 80 dB.
Balance offers a new
approach to premium digital hearing aid design. Balance gives you the best
of both worlds by combining cutting-edge adaptive systems with proven
digital hearing aid technology. The result is reliable performance and
natural sound quality in a variety of listening environments. Balance
features a Universal Listening Program, Hybrid Noise Reduction, Enhanced
Adaptive DIRECTIONALfocus™, Hybrid Directionality, and Fixed and
Adaptive Feedback Cancellation in a complete line of product models,
including a new microBTE.
Natura Pro, the newest
addition to the value-priced Natura family of products, gives you all the
features you expect with the advancements of our latest technology. Packed
with S.M.A.R.T. Technology, Noise Reduction, Feedback
Cancellation, and DIRECTIONALplus™, Natura Pro makes priceless
conversations affordable for your patients.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Moving forward in 2007, hearing care professionals can
continue to expect the best in products and service from SONIC innovations,
as we continue to develop innovative solutions to help their business
succeed.
Sonic Innovations
Salt Lake City www.sonici.com ; (888) 423-7834
HR Headlines
• “The Value Proposition of Open-Fit Hearing
Aids,” by Christopher Schweitzer and Sally K. Jessee (Sept 2006)
• Michael Halloran named CFO of Sonic Innovations (Sept 2006).
• “The Return of the Earmold,” by Darrell E. Rose
(Aug 2006)
• “How to Fit the Sonic Innovations Ion Device”
(July 2006)
• AAA Preview (Feb 2006, p 66) and IHS & ADA Preview
(Sept 2006).
SOnion Looking Back at 2006... One of Sonion’s
motivations is to make smaller components without degrading performance.
With hearing instrument transducers, the overall size (volume) of a
component has an inverse effect on the acoustical performance. Making
components smaller usually means the performance also gets less, and
finding a balance becomes a challenge. Making a component smaller in size
without degrading the performance creates a much better balance, which
eventually creates the ability to make smaller hearing instruments.
Through Sonion’s innovation, we have developed a
smaller microphone without sacrificing the performance seen on larger
models. Our new 6200 series microphone is 40% smaller, but has similar or even better performance
than the 9000 microphone. This advantage allows manufacturers to build smaller hearing
instruments without compromising performance.
Sonion is pleased to present the next generation of
protection for your hearing instrument transducers. Sonion's C-Barrier™ solution is a
completely new design that will help increase hearing instrument longevity
(reducing field returns).
The C-Barrier™ is an acoustically transparent
membrane that sits at the end of the canal tip on a hearing instrument and
physically blocks out unwanted foreign material such as cerumen and
moisture from entering the sound tube. The C-Barrier™ membrane can be
easily cleaned by using a soft tissue. The replacement and insertion of
C-Barrier™ can be performed by either the dispensing professional or
end-user.
Moving Forward to 2007...
Sonion will continue developing new innovations and
improve the performance and reliability for all of our components. And to
better support our growth and market demands, Sonion will be finalizing the
building of a new production facility in Vietnam, and the first production will be a complete new
line of our popular 3000 series. Sonion already has manufacturing facilities in Poland,
China, and soon to be Vietnam.
Sonion US
Minnetonka, Minn www.sonion.com ; (952) 543-8500
HR Headlines
• “How Do Volume Controls Work, and Do Hearing-Impaired
Consumers Really Need Them?” by Morten Wagner (Nov 2006).
• Sonion launches its new Web site (Oct 2006).
• BHI mini-documentary sponsored by Sonion (Sept 2006).
• Industry Insider: Lars Ronn, President of Sonion (July 2006).
Westone Looking Back at 2006... The past year was a year
that was both challenging and exciting for Westone. In June, we lost our
CEO of the past 20 years, Randy Morgan, to an aggressive form of brain cancer. Randy was widely
known and respected in the industry, and will be missed by all of us. Upon
Randy’s passing, Westone’s Chief Operating Officer, Lynn
Kehler, was named president.
But it was also a very exciting year! We expanded our
selection of clinical supplies and custom
earpieces, including several great custom
earpiece options for thin-tube, open-fitting hearing instruments. In
October, Westone’s Colorado Springs headquarters achieved ISO 9001:2000 quality management
certification. We will be working to certify our Renton, Washington and
Kalamazoo, Michigan manufacturing facilities in 2007.
Moving Forward to 2007...
The future has never looked better for Westone and our
customers! We are excited about introducing ongoing improvements in our product quality and customer service through our ISO quality management system. We are also focusing
on a variety of different production technologies, including 3D stereo lithography (SLA)
manufacturing of earpieces (Westone’s "FIT"
technology).
Westone’s music
products division will be introducing some
exciting new products, as we continue to gain market share in the
professional musician market as well as the consumer/personal listening
(iPod®) market.
As we go forward, our number-one priority is to meet
or exceed our customers’ expectations. We will continue to follow
“The Golden Rule” and treat our customers like we always
have—as a valued part of the Westone family.
As always, “Thanks for thinking of
Westone!”
Westone Laboratories Inc
Colorado Springs, Colo www.westone.com ; (800)
525-5071
HR Headlines
• “How to Achieve Custom-Fit Comfort with an Open-Fit
Hearing Instrument” (July 2006).
• Obituary: Westone President and
CEO Randy Morgan (July 2006)
• Industry Insider: Westone Customer Service Manager Hank
Netherton (June 2006).
• Westone offers its latest supply catalog (May 2006).
Widex Hearing Aid Co Looking Back at 2006... In 2006, Widex celebrated
its 50th anniversary as one of the world’s largest and most respected
manufacturers of hearing instruments. Hal-Hen also celebrated its 60th anniversary as the dominant
supplier of hearing care accessories. 2006 saw Widex introduce the
breakthrough of Integrated Signal Processing in INTEO CIC to Power BTE hearing instruments. INTEO, which the company
asserts is “The World’s Smartest Hearing Aid”, was an
important success for Widex. And INTEO was the focus of many of the
company’s national seminars for professionals.
In 2006, both Widex and Hal-Hen continue their worldwide charitable efforts on
behalf of underprivileged hearing-impaired children in many countries,
including Ghana-West Africa, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and Russia. These
charitable endeavors are still coordinated by Harold Spar & Henry
Meltsner—the men who originally began Hal-Hen (1946) and Widex USA
(1956) after their service in the US Navy.
In 2006, Widex also announced promotions for
outstanding personnel such as Cheryl Anderson, Peaches Bush, Brent Crayton,
Rena Heywood, Mary Johnson, Jamie Katz, Corrinne Masto, and Nilda Rosario,
among others.
Moving Forward to 2007...
INTEO and the significant benefits of Integrated
Signal Processing remain at the forefront of Widex’s plans for 2007.
Leading the Widex Office
of Clinical Research in Clinical Amplification (ORCA) is Director of Audiology Francis Kuk, PhD. ORCA is tasked
with documenting the efficacy of the products, as well as generating
educational materials used in professional training. ORCA will continue
their efforts in 2007, creating professional
seminars that focus on technology, fitting
rationales, fitting experiences, and the hot topics of the day.
Widex Hearing Aid Co
Long Island City, NY www.widexPro.com ; (800)
221-0188
HR Headlines
• “Hal-Hen & Widex USA Celebrate Landmarks”
(Nov 2006).
• “Linear Frequency Transposition: Extending the
Audibility of High-Frequency Information,” by Francis Kuk (Oct
2006).
• Widex Congress of Pediatric Audiology (July 2006).
• “Where an Accurate Fitting Begins: Assessment of
In-Situ Acoustics (AISA),” by Francis Kuk and Norton Nordahn (July
2006).
AHAA
Audioscan
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Bernafon
Moving Forward to 2007... 
E-A-R Auditory systems
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Frye Electronics
Moving Forward to 2007... 
GN Otometrics
MADSEN Xeta is the
intuitive air, bone, and masking audiometer designed for fast, efficient
testing and advanced patient handling. The Xeta launch was followed by an
array of improvements within our hearing assessment portfolio.
iCELLtech corp
Thanks to high quality introductions in various
markets in the world and promotion at international conventions, iCellTech
is experiencing more brand power and the number of customers is
growing day by day.
Interacoustics
The Eclipse hardware platform is a portable, compact
package that can easily connect to a computer via one USB port. The entire
system is compatible with Windows® and is easy to use with
features like unlimited test protocols, customized latency norms, offline
digital filtering, and unlimited report templates.
Maico diagnostics
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Oticon
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Phonak Hearing Systems
Also new this year is microPower, the cosmetic solution for anyone with moderate to severe
hearing loss. Chose from microPower V (with Eleva inside) or microPower IX (with Savia inside) and give your patients the smallest and most
powerful microBTE on the market. Special features designed to help in
difficult listening situations include EasyPhone Plus and FM access using
the new MyLink receiver.
Rayovac
The Rayovac technical and manufacturing teams are
continuing to focus on new product developments to be launched in the next
couple of years
SEbotek Hearing Systems
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Siemens Hearing instruments
Recent enhancements include an accuracy check reminder
to help ensure that the iScan is in top working order. Also, the software now double-checks each scan’s quality and if data is insufficient in any area of the ear
impression, the iScan turntable repositions itself to reimage that area. In
addition, iScan features optional acoustical sounds to alert the
professional when scanning is complete, thus allowing the professional to
focus on the patient and not the scanning process.
SoniC Innovations
Balance offers a new
approach to premium digital hearing aid design. Balance gives you the best
of both worlds by combining cutting-edge adaptive systems with proven
digital hearing aid technology. The result is reliable performance and
natural sound quality in a variety of listening environments. Balance
features a Universal Listening Program, Hybrid Noise Reduction, Enhanced
Adaptive DIRECTIONALfocus™, Hybrid Directionality, and Fixed and
Adaptive Feedback Cancellation in a complete line of product models,
including a new microBTE.
SOnion
Sonion is pleased to present the next generation of
protection for your hearing instrument transducers. Sonion's C-Barrier™ solution is a
completely new design that will help increase hearing instrument longevity
(reducing field returns).
Westone
Westone’s music
products division will be introducing some
exciting new products, as we continue to gain market share in the
professional musician market as well as the consumer/personal listening
(iPod®) market.
Widex Hearing Aid Co
Moving Forward to 2007... 
Experts here are available to answer all your questions!
