The year 2009 brought many new products, events, and turning points 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 2009, and what products, services, and announcements might be expected from them during 2010. Here’s a look from their perspective 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 2009. For more information on these companies’ products and offerings, use the contact information at the end of each company entry.

American Hearing Aid Associates

Looking Back at 2009 …
American Hearing Aid Associates (AHAA) is an industry-leading provider of business and marketing planning services. Founded in 1995, AHAA offers its nationwide network of more than 2,000 independent hearing care professionals (Associates) a virtual franchise without loss of their autonomy.

A highlight of the year was AHAA’s introduction of a new Web site for its network members. Called Navigator, the new service brings together in one site all of AHAA’s fundamental tools, instructions, and practices to guide Associates in building more profitable hearing care practices.

Key components of Navigator are 16 links to tools a practice owner needs to develop, focus, and drive measurable objectives in growing the practice. The Web site also provides Associates continuing communication, direction, and feedback from one of the 30 field managers assigned to them.

Another key service is AHAA’s Preferred Network through which small, noncompeting groups of Associates meet regularly in their local areas to discuss key issues common to their practices. These meetings focus on teaching the owners and their staff the right things, basic processes that help them grow to multimillion dollar levels with improvements in organizational design, hiring, training, tracking, operations, and finance.

Moving Forward to 2010 …
AHAA will hold its 14th Annual Convention on February 10 to 13 in Dallas. More than 450 people are expected to attend a program focused on all aspects of running a practice. The program will use a new format, featuring highly interactive, hands-on workshops where attendees will share ideas and experiences with one another, more than listen to solo presenters.

Contact AHAA today to join its dynamic network of Associates.

American Hearing Aid Associates
Chadds Ford, Pa
(800) 984-3272
www.ahaabizlink.com

HR Headlines

  • Ten Steps to a Successful Hearing Aid Evaluation, by Ed Anthony (HR, November)
  • The 5 Essential Habits of Successful Practice Leaders, by Tina Soika and Marty Layne, AuD (HR, September)
  • American Hearing Aid Associates Convention on Horizon (HR News, November 9)
  • 2010 AHAA Convention to Debut Interactive Workshop Format (HR The Insider, November 12)
  • AHAA Convention Attendance Off the Charts (HR News, March 17)

Audina Hearing Instruments Inc

Looking Back at 2009 …
Audina Hearing Instruments Inc released several new hearing instruments in 2009. After several months of research, development, and patient testing, the new flx OTE/BTE was released in April. The flx open-fit digital instrument received rave reviews both domestically and internationally for its unique contoured design and patient comfort. During the summer months, the Intuition 12 and Sparo 12 instruments were released, offering a new approach to adaptive feedback cancellation, providing significantly faster convergence speeds, and allowing the instruments to adapt to changing feedback conditions up to six times faster than previous digital instruments. We experienced exceptional growth in our International division with the announcement of several new distributors worldwide, including Germany, Greece, Poland, Latvia, Canada, and Santo Domingo.

Moving Forward to 2010 …
The entire Audina staff is excited about 2010 as they kick off the year with their 20th Anniversary celebration. Marc McLarnon, president and co-owner, says, “As a privately owned US company, we are very proud of our growth over the past 20 years and we are looking forward to a very exciting 2010 and beyond.” In the first quarter of 2010, Audina will be releasing the new Intellio, a smart custom digital family of instruments, which will set a new standard in intelligent performance. In a joint venture with Audigence Inc, Melbourne, Fla, and the University of Florida, Gainesville, a new tuning technology, CLARUJUST, will be integrated into selected Audina digital instruments. The CLARUJUST technology will significantly improve speech clarity for users of digital hearing instruments. Plans are in development for additional instrument releases and events to mark Audina’s 20th anniversary.

Audina
Longwood, Fla
(800) 223-7700
www.audina.net

HR Headlines

  • 2009 Web Site Review (HR, January)
  • Audina Debuts New OTE/BTE Digital Hearing Instrument (HR News, February 20)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • Audina Introduces Intuition 12 Custom Digital Hearing Aid (HR The Insider, September 3)
  • Product Showcase (HRP, November/December)

Audioscan

Looking Back at 2009 …
First of all, we would like to thank our loyal customers and our hardworking representatives for another good year in a very tough economy. Our customers know that the Audioscan advantage can be the difference between success and failure in these challenging economic times.

In 2009 we conducted more than 30 workshops around the country, reaching more than 600 people. We had extremely positive feedback and will continue these workshops next year. Contact your local representative to request a workshop in your area.

We also released new software featuring tools for verifying frequency-shifting instruments. Four new speech passages are available, which can be used to show that previously unaidable speech information has been rendered audible through the use of frequency manipulation. This is a great tool—for both verifying function and showing patients the value of this new technology. As with all Audioscan software, this release was free of charge and can be downloaded at www.audioscan.com

Moving Forward to 2010 …
Throughout 2009, our engineers and software developers have been working on a number of new ideas, which we think will make 2010 a groundbreaking year for Audioscan. We look forward to this New Year with excitement and enthusiasm.

Audioscan
Dorchester, Ontario, Canada
(800) 265-2093
www.audioscan.com

HR Headlines

  • AAA Convention Technology: Audioscan, Otometrics, and Siemens (HR Podcast, April 23)
  • Audioscan Releases Software 3.4 (HR News, September 2)
  • 2009 Web Site Review (HR, January)
  • Marketplace 2009 (HR, February)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • The 2009 ADA Convention Preview (HR, October)
  • Product Showcase (HRP, November/December)

Bernafon

Looking Back at 2009 …
In 2009, Bernafon debuted Vérité, a product that surpassed the conventional parameters of today’s hearing instruments. The Vérité Hearing System with ChannelFree technology allowed Bernafon to set a new standard in hearing care whereby incoming sound signals are processed without being split into channels or bands. Unlike slower-acting compression systems, Vérité analyzes the incoming signal thousands of times per second, capturing the important temporal aspects of speech and applying appropriate gain to even the shortest phonemes. The result is high definition sound quality and maximum speech understanding. With the 2009 introduction of its exclusive and proprietary ChannelFree technology, Bernafon could now offer exceptional technology that you won’t find anywhere else.

Equally exciting for Bernafon in 2009 was its recent award as a select manufacturer for the Government Veterans’ Affairs Digital Hearing Aid Contract. Acceptance onto this contract marked a significant opportunity for Bernafon to work with the fastest-growing segment of the hearing care industry, and the company has received much positive feedback from VA audiologists since the contract start on November 1.

Moving Forward to 2010 …
2010 will prove to be a busy year for the New Jersey-based, Swiss hearing aid manufacturer. Bernafon will focus on adding to its family of ChannelFree products with a line of new designs that will offer Nano, Micro, and Compact Power BTE, and custom ChannelFree hearing solutions. As with Vérité, Bernafon’s new line will offer accessories for optional Bluetooth Wireless Connectivity to a range of electronic devices.

Bernafon
Somerset, NJ
(888) 941-4203
www.verite-us.com

HR Headlines

  • Enhancing Temporal Resolution and Sound Quality: A Novel Approach to Compression, by Arthur Schaub, Dipl Phys (HR, August)
  • Verite (HRP Product Showcase, July/August)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • AudiologyNEXT! (HRP May/June)
  • Bernafon Introduces Verite (HR News, April 9)

Chicago Advertising & Marketing

Looking Back at 2009 …
Home of the Liberty Mailer. Chicago Advertising & Marketing provides direct mail for the hearing aid industry all across the country. Looking back on 2009, CAM helped to make direct mail more affordable to hearing aid dispensers by continuing to offer our highly demanded 25¢ Mailers.

In addition, CAM became a member of the Better Business Bureau, with an A Rating. We will continue to offer our clients superior customer service, the most updated list in the business, and successful mailers that we are known for in 2010.

Moving Forward to 2010 …
Our 2010 Calendar mailer is an example of the unique pieces that we continue to introduce to our clients throughout the year. We help our clients to stand out from their competition and grab more of their market share with our proven CAM Cycle. We continue to make it affordable by offering our E-Z Payment Plan as an option. These concepts are what set us apart from many of our competitors.

As we continue to grow, we receive many calls from clients asking if someone else in their area is already doing advertising with us. If the answer is yes, we can work within our database to “de-dupe” clients’ lists against each others’, providing each with their own unique leads. This ensures that both clients are getting the most Response, Results, and Revenue from their advertising dollars.

Chicago Advertising & Marketing
Yorkville, Ill
(800) 778-9300
www.campromotions.net

HR Headlines

  • 2009 Web Site Review (HR, January)
  • Marketplace 2009 (HR, February)
  • Focus on: Marketing/Business Building (HRP, May/June)
  • How-to and Case Studies (HR, July)
  • 2009 Literature Review (HR, November)

Interacoustics

Looking Back at 2009…
Interacoustics introduced the new Titan Middle Ear Analyzer, a complete clinical device in a portable, handheld design. Automatic and manual testing, high frequency probe tones, ipsi and contra acoustic reflexes, and more. For the complete clinical solution, combine the Titan with our new Equinox2.0 PC-based audiometer; the platforms share a report template for completely customizable reports.

Our PC-based Equinox2.0 performs the whole range of standard clinical tests with seamless integration into electronic medical records, completely flexible print layouts, and PTA calculations, and holds a built-in amplifier—up to 90 dB speech in free field. Furthermore, the system offers built-in wave files (including VA lists), overlay of historical audiograms, and optional high frequency tests up to 20 kHz. A new generation of our Balance-testing system VO425 was introduced, which takes advantage of greatly increased transmission speed to achieve real-time analysis and high-quality video. Newly designed goggles provide greater patient comfort and connect directly to a laptop, making the system easily portable. A good year, with introduction of three new products and growth in our core products!

Moving Forward to 2010 …
Interacoustics continues to make advancements in all instrument software programs to unify the look and feel of the user interface. The new Diagnostic Suite simplifies integration of data collected on stand-alone audiometers like the AD229, AC33, and AC40 and progress on to the impedance stand-alone instruments like the AT235 and AA222. The software integrates data into NOAH or the OtoAccess database program from Interacoustics, and then it will be possible to combine audiometer and impedance data into a single report page including capabilities for report writing.

New advances in evoked potential technology will become available on the standard Eclipse EP25 system. The Chirp advantage revolutionizes typical ABR testing by generating larger amplitude waveforms, thereby decreasing test time and making it easier to analyze data. The incorporation of Bayesian and Fmp provides further confirmation regarding the quality of the ABR data, enabling the clinician to make better-informed clinical decisions.

Interacoustics
Eden Prairie, Minn
(800) 947-6334
www.interacoustics-us.com

HR Headlines

  • Developments in ASSR: 2009, by Douglas L. Beck, AuD; David P. Speidel, MS; and Jill Gordon Craig, MA (HR, August)
  • Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex: Innovation, Review, and Application, by Douglas L. Beck, AuD; David P. Speidel, MS; Jos Huijnen, MSc; and Michelle R. Petrak, PhD (HR, April)
  • Focus On: OAE Screeners (HRP, February)
  • Focus On: Audiometers (HRP, March/April)
  • Focus On: Tympanometers (HRP, July/August)

Oticon Inc

Looking Back at 2009…
At Oticon, our goal is always to put the needs of people with hearing loss first. In 2009, Oticon continued to build on our superior RISE microchip platform to introduce new hearing instruments with wireless connectivity at their core.

The ConnectLine System of innovative connectivity solutions enables simple connections to any TV or landline phone. The only system that connects wirelessly and seamlessly to both TV and landline phones, it allows effortless listening with just the push of a button.

Vigo Pro Connect and Vigo Connect take the benefits of the popular mid-priced Vigo family up a level with the addition of wireless connectivity.

For price-conscious consumers, Hit and Hit Pro are packed with features normally found in far more expensive hearing devices—redefining the standard in entry-level hearing care.

This year, Oticon also unveiled the first comprehensive family of hearing instruments designed exclusively for children with hearing loss from infancy through the teen years. The new Safari family offers extensive bandwidth to support language development, wireless binaural processing to improve spatial awareness and localization capabilities, and wireless connectivity for easy access to phones, TVs, and other communication and entertainment devices.

We also continued to develop our highly successful consumer marketing program and our online business portal MyOticon.com, to further streamline the process of doing business with Oticon.

Moving Forward to 2010…
In 2010, Oticon will introduce innovative hearing solutions that continue to define the state of the art in hearing care. We will support these products with the most creative and effective consumer marketing programs in the industry. Most importantly, in 2010 we continue our commitment to supporting the critical role of hearing care professionals in ensuring that the technological advances we provide reach their potential to truly make a difference for people with hearing loss.

Oticon Inc
Somerset, NJ
(800) 526-3921
www.oticonusa.com

HR Headlines

  • Traditional and Nontraditional Communication and Connectivity, by Douglas L. Beck, AuD, and Michael A. Harvey, PhD (HR, January)
  • Directionality and Noise Reduction in Pediatric Fittings, by George Lindley, PhD, AuD; Donald J. Schum, PhD; and Merethe Lindgaard Fuglholt, MA (HR, May)
  • Broader Bandwidth Improves Sound Quality for Hearing-Impaired, by M. Lisa Sjolander, AuD, and Marcus Holmberg, PhD (HR, June)
  • Improving TV Listening for Hearing Aid Users, by M. Lisa Sjolander, AuD; Martin Bergmann, MSc; and Lise Bruun Hansen, MA (HR, October)
  • Oticon Introduces Mini Power BTE (HR News, April 15)
  • Oticon Pediatrics Donation Supports Hands & Voices Guide By Your Side Program (HR News, September 15)
  • Oticon Debuts Its First Family of Hearing Instruments Exclusively for Children, Teens With Hearing Loss (HR News, October 23)

Otometrics

Looking back at 2009…
2009 brought exciting introductions from Otometrics. Our new clinical audiometer—the MADSEN Astera—made a significant impact on the way audiologists work when it was released in December 2008. The year 2009 has been great for Astera, despite the economic downturn in the market. In July, the already powerful Astera was enhanced with new, stronger features such as a historical audiogram comparison tool and a more flexible speech module, including phoneme scoring.

In 2009, we also introduced a new system for evoked potential testing—the ICS Chartr EP 200. The system builds on the expertise of the Chartr line and offers user-friendly testing and straightforward analysis. The EP 200 can be combined with the successful Chartr 200 VNG/ENG system, providing users with a complete test battery and a shared database. The Chartr 200 had another great year and still proves to be the most reliable VNG/ENG system on the market, providing quality data for quality care.

Moving forward to 2010 …
In 2010 MADSEN celebrates 50 years in audiology, and the year will bring more exciting introductions from Otometrics. With Intelligent Integration as the backbone of our product strategy, we continue to develop our product portfolio. Our innovative products deliver fast, accurate results, improve office workflow, and enhance patient care for health care professionals and audiologists worldwide. Look to Otometrics for state-of-the-art solutions for hearing and balance instrumentation and software.

Otometrics
Schaumburg, Ill
(800) 289-2150
www.otometrics.com

HR Headlines

  • Otometrics Introduces Evoked Potential Testing With New ICS Chartr EP200 (HR News, February 24)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • AAA Convention Technology: Audioscan, Otometrics, and Siemens (HR Podcast, April 23)
  • How-to and Case Studies (HR, July)
  • Focus On: Tympanometers (HRP, July/August)
  • New, Improved Astera From GN Otometrics (HR News, August 3)
  • Otometrics Introduces Multi-Frequency ASSR With New ICS Chartr EP 200 (HR News, September 16)
  • The 2009 ADA Convention Preview (HR, October)

Phonak

Looking back at 2009…
In 2008, Phonak launched an entirely new product platform called CORE, a sophisticated audioprocessing technology platform. Exélia Art set a new benchmark in premium performance, with a unique combination of Phonak exclusive SoundRecover signal processing and wireless connectivity.

Launched in 2008, Naída continues to dominate the power hearing instrument market by providing consumers the freedom to forget their dependence on amplification and the confidence to communicate successfully in all environments. SoundRecover restores high frequency audibility, resulting in exceptional audibility and clarity.

Versáta and Certéna provide an advanced and basic CORE solution. CORE products offer SoundFlow, resulting in smooth, seamless program transitions in all situations, WhistleBlock, for up to 20 dB added stable gain, and full connectivity options including cable-free fitting. The fall of 2009 introduced Versáta SR and Certéna SR custom products, adding SoundRecover signal processing to these two product lines. Milo Plus, a full line of basic product on the CORE platform for your most price-sensitive consumers, completes the portfolio.

Audéo YES reintroduced Phonak as a force to be reckoned with in early 2009, providing a stylish CRT solution with power, flexibility, and durability to suit virtually every hearing loss and lifestyle. Audéo Mini and SMART joined the portfolio in the fall of 2009 with the smallest CRT and the smallest wireless CRT in the industry.

Nios micro expanded the pediatric portfolio in 2009, with instruments in both the advanced and basic category. The perfect solution for little ears, Nios provides industry benchmarks for feedback elimination, SoundRecover signal processing strategy, and dynamic FM technology.

Phonak expanded its CORE custom product line to include a Power CIC and full shell power directional, with acoustically optimized venting (AOV) on all custom products.

Phonak
Warrenville, Ill
(800) 777-7333
www.phonak-us.com
www.phonakpro.com

HR Headlines

  • Sonova Acquires Advanced Bionics for $489 Million (HR News, November 9)
  • Sonova Group Names Mike Orscheln as New Phonak US Chief (HR News, January 16)
  • Phonak’s Cathy Jones Becomes BHI President (HR News, January 22)
  • A Comparison of Performance in Children with Nonlinear Frequency Compression Systems, by Danielle Glista, MSc; Susan Scollie, PhD; Melissa Polonenko, MCISc; and Jacob Sulkers, BA (HR, November)
  • Benefits of Wireless Technology, by Anna Biggins (HR, October)
  • Nonlinear Frequency Compression for Children and Adults, Podcast with Marlene Bagatto, AuD (HR Podcast, March 5)
  • Wireless Hearing System From Phonak (HR News, January 20)
  • AudiologyNow! 2009: Sonova Guns It Forward With New Phonak, Unitron Products (HR online, April 3)
  • AAA Convention Technology: Oticon Medical and Phonak (HR Podcast, May 7)
  • Phonak Introduces Audeo Mini and Milo Products (HR News, October 1)

ReSound

Looking back at 2009 …
ReSound introduced two new families of hearing instruments that deliver unrivaled sound quality: ReSound Live and dot2 by ReSound. These products offer a multitude of improvements for you and your patients.

Surround Sound By ReSound. Surround Sound processing operates with the same goal as movie and music production. These hearing instruments capture bass and treble inputs independently, and then blend them to create the richest, most vibrant sound possible. Your patients will notice a significant difference in the fidelity of the sound generated by ReSound Live and dot2 by ReSound instruments.

Autoscope automatically narrows the directional beam on conversations taking place in front of the listener as noise levels increase, and automatically widens the directional beam when noise levels decrease. This enables the hearing instrument to appropriately optimize speech understanding in noise while improving environmental awareness when less noise is present.

ReSound’s latest generation of feedback suppression, Dual Stabilizer II DFS, ensures patients experience stable sound quality by using phase cancellation technology to control feedback. WhistleControl now provides added stability and listening comfort—even in the most demanding environments, such as when using the telephone. WhistleControl acts as an emergency brake, by reducing gain when changes occur that would otherwise cause feedback. When the situation changes, such that the feedback trigger is no longer present, gain levels are automatically restored to their original settings. In doing so, patients’ comfort is optimized without needlessly reducing audibility.

Both ReSound Live and dot2 by ReSound are available in three price points.

In addition to these exciting new products, ReSound also introduced a collection of consumer marketing resources to promote your practice and attract new patients, utilizing tested and proven campaigns.

ReSound
Bloomington, Minn
(800) 248-4327
www.gnresound.com

HR Headlines

  • Marketplace 2009 (HR, February)
  • ReSound Essence Cuts Cost, Not Corners (HR News, February 14)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • ReSound Introduces Remote Microphone Custom Hearing Instrument (HR News, April 10)
  • Stable Gain Limits of Instant-fit Hearing Aid Couplings, by Michelle Gray, MSc, and Rhys Meredith, MSc (HR, November)
  • The 2009 ADA Convention Preview (HR, October)
  • ReSound Debuts New Surround Sound Processor (HR The Insider, October 8)
  • ReSound Unveils Resound Live, a New Surround Sound Hearing Device (HR News, October 14)
  • ReSound Introduces Next Generation: dot2 by ReSound (HR News, November 6)

Sonic Innovations

Looking back at 2009 …
2009 marked an exciting year for Sonic Innovations. In April, they launched their first Receiver-in-the-Canal product, Touch. Available in three technology levels, Touch boasts the smallest RIC size in the industry. With its 15 fashionable color clips, large ergonomic push button, and fantastic moisture resistance, Touch has seen an outstanding success in the market.

Because of its outstanding design and proven patient benefit, Touch was named an International CES Best of Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree.

Moving forward to 2010 …
In 2010, Sonic Innovations will continue to focus on providing products offering unparalleled patient benefit, stylish form factors, and exception quality and reliability. It plans to expand its product portfolio to include a new Power BTE built on its proven Sonic Sound platform. The remainder of 2010 will see additional new product designs intended to enhance their overall product offering. Sonic also intends to enhance its best-in-industry customer service and quality with exciting new programs and offerings.

Sonic Innovations
Salt Lake City
(888) 423-7834
www.sonici.com

HR Headlines

  • Hearing at the Speed of Life, by Victor H. Bray, Jr, PhD, and Michael Nilsson, PhD (HR, March)
  • Expert Insight with Michael Nilsson, PhD (HR Online Q & A)
  • Science & Technology Podcast: Michael Nilsson Answers the “Top 10” Expert Insight Questions (HR Science & Tech Podcast, July 23 & 30)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • Sonic Innovations to Offer Industry’s Smallest RIC Hearing Aid (HR Podcast, March 27)
  • Sonic Innovations Introduces Its First RIC Hearing Aid (HR News, April 8)
  • How-to and Case Studies (HR, July)
  • Sonic Names Kathy Schofield-Landon as Marketing VP (HR News, July 2)
  • Sonic Innovations Awarded VA Contract (HR News, August 21)
  • Sonic Innovations Warns: Ignoring Hearing Loss Can Result in Income Loss (HR The Insider, September 10)
  • Sonic Innovations Named as CES Innovations Design and Engineering Award Honoree (HR News, November 13)

Starkey

Looking back at 2009 …
Starkey had an exciting 2009 with the introduction of a new hearing aid family—S Series with Drive Architecture—featuring a state-of-the-art integrated circuit platform powered by multi-core technology that triples the processing power of previous platforms and is designed to deliver maximum power, performance, and patient satisfaction.

S Series includes Starkey’s newest features including PureWave Feedback Eliminator, an industry-leading feedback cancellation system; Acoustic Scene Analyzer, an integrated noise management system; InVision Directionality, boasting the highest DI scores and lowest operation noise floor; AudioScape, an acoustic pattern recognition system using patented real-time environment detection and classification to adapt to any listening environment; and T2, which allows patients to control their hearing aids using a cell or touch-tone phone.

Continuing on the innovation track in 2009, Starkey introduced the revolutionary new S Series BTE featuring Sweep Technology in October. Sweep Technology provides a completely new way to adjust hearing aids by replacing all of the traditional buttons and dials with an innovative touch surface that allows patients to adjust volume up or down and change memories with the simple sweep or touch of a finger. Sweep was put through a number of clinical trials, where it was overwhelmingly preferred to traditional controls. It’s smarter and simpler.

Moving forward to 2010 …
Starkey will continue to develop and release best-in-class hearing instruments and breakthrough fitting software. With an intense focus on evidence-based design, Starkey products will be proven to enhance the patient journey.

Starkey
Eden Prairie, Minn
(800) 328-8602
StarkeyPro.com

HR Headlines

  • Power to the People: A RIC for Severe-to-Profound Hearing Loss, by Justyn F.D. Pisa, AuD (HR, September)
  • Digital Aids and Cell Phones: The Impact of New Technology on Phone Use, by Karrie Recker, AuD, and Sridhar Kalluri, PhD (HR, March)
  • Starkey Debuts S Series With Drive Architecture: The Next Generation of Hearing Aids (HR News, April 8)
  • Evidence-Based Design in Product Development (HR Podcast, April 9)
  • Elton John to Headline Upcoming Starkey Hearing Foundation Awards Gala (HR News, June 29)
  • Dave Fabry, PhD, Joins Starkey as Managing Director of AudioSync (HR News, July 7)
  • Third Issue of Starkey Audiology Series Available (HR News, Oct 8)
  • Starkey CEO Inducted into Minnesota Science & Technology Hall of Fame (HR News, October 30)
  • Starkey Hearing Research Center Staff Participates in Success of NCRAR Conference (HR News, October 9)
  • Starkey’s Sweep Technology Wins Consumer Electronics Show Innovations Award (HR News, November 13)

Unitron

Looking back at 2009 …
In 2009, Unitron launched a new brand, including a new logo and connect tagline, exemplifying the company’s commitment to people with hearing loss and the professionals who support them. At the heart of Unitron’s brand is the promise to develop purpose-driven hearing innovations, demonstrated by 2009’s product introductions.

Premium-level Passport features wireless connectivity and smartFocus, enabling wearers to customize adaptive parameters. Shift, the ultra-small 10A CRT BTE with Passport’s core feature set, incorporates state-of-the-art technology into a beautiful design. Wireless Moxi 13 CRT (canal receiver technology) and Moda 13 Slim Tube put the advantages of a 13 BTE in a compact size; while crossover Fuse represents the evolution of the open fit, putting the best attributes of a BTE entirely inside the ear. Latitude, the new advanced through standard hearing instrument series, offers an unrivalled set of purpose-driven features across three product lines.

Unitron continued to provide hearing care professionals with professional development opportunities, including seminars, online e-learning courses., and support in improving their practices, with initiatives such as an independent benchmarking study to examine best business practices of hearing care clinics across the United States.

Unitron also launched uHear, a self-administered screening test to identify potential hearing loss. The iTunes application has been downloaded more than 200,000 times worldwide, with close to half of those in the United States.

The company announced a new president and CEO of Unitron US: Rodney Schutt brings a rich history in the medical device and medical imaging industries and an extensive background in sales, operations, marketing, and business development.

Moving forward to 2010 …
In the coming year, Unitron will launch a new Web site with enhanced consumer resources and new services for hearing care professional customers. The company will continue to set new industry standards through product and service introductions to core and niche markets that incorporate purpose-driven innovations to solve the everyday challenges of hearing loss.

Unitron
Plymouth, Minn
(800) 888-8882
www.unitronhearing.us

HR Headlines

  • Two Proven Ways to Engage Front Office Staffers in Your Practice, by Brian Taylor, AuD (HR, August)
  • Earmolds: Practical Considerations to Improve Performance in Hearing Aids, by Brian Taylor, AuD, and Darrel Teter, PhD (HR, September)
  • Improving BTE and Mini-BTE Fittings with Mechanical Adjustments to the Earmold and Plumbing (HR Science & Tech Podcast, October 8)
  • Unitron Introduces Hearing Test Application for iPhone (HR News, May 11)
  • Unitron’s Passport Now Available Worldwide (HR News, June 18)


Varta Microbattery

Moving forward with power one.
Power one looks to 2010 as a banner year with focus continuing on both rechargeable hearing aid batteries and charger systems and their industry-leading IMPLANT plus brand cell for cochlear implant users.

Rechargeable, power one NiMH hearing aid batteries are quickly becoming renowned for their excellent reliability, convenience, and quality. Made in Germany, these innovative, environmental friendly batteries are manufactured by Varta Microbattery, and are subject to strict safety and quality standards. Rechargeable batteries are available for the most-often required sizes (p10, p13, and p312), with a special charger for size p675 batteries.

The power one pocketcharger is powered by a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery and requires no electrical outlet. Exhausted cells can be recharged in up to 2.5 hours depending on their type. Batteries that are not completely discharged will be automatically discharged as a part of the charging process to improve safety and extend durability. For a power supply in your pocket, power one offers the extremely convenient pencharger. This unique charger is protected by international patent, uses two AAA batteries, and charges rechargeable power one batteries without any external power supply, in approximately 5 hours. It is an indispensable convenience for users of hearing aids who are on the go.

Designed specifically for cochlear implant users, power one offers the IMPLANT plus hearing aid battery. Advanced technology has increased battery volume, thus resulting in greater capacity and longer battery life. IMPLANT plus from power one is the only battery brand recommended by Cochlear Corp for use in cochlear implants. These cells are manufactured in the world´s largest and most modern hearing aid cell production facility in Ellwangen, Germany.

Varta Microbattery
White Plains, NY
(800) 468-2782
www.varta-microbattery.com

HR Headlines

  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)

Westone Laboratories Inc

Looking back at 2009 …
2009 was a very special year for us.

It was 50 years ago that Ron and Mickey Morgan made their first custom earpieces on the kitchen table of a log cabin in Divide, Colo, and started what would become Westone.

We want to thank them for what they started. We also thank everyone who has contributed to the growth of Westone: suppliers and vendors we have worked with throughout the years, and all of our talented and dedicated employees, past and present. Most importantly, we would like to say a very special “Thank You” to all of our loyal customers, without whom Westone could not have become what it is today.

This year has been filled with many exciting developments. The continued growth of the receiver-in-canal and receiver-in-the-ear hearing instrument technology led to new developments in custom-fit earpieces designed specifically for these new hearing instruments.

Another growth area has been with our FIT technology earpieces (digital manufacturing). More practices are taking advantage of the benefits afforded by use of this technology. Westone’s custom and universal-fit lines of music products also expanded in 2009, including the introduction of earphones for professional musicians and a complete rollout of our consumer and audiophile line. Music lovers looking to upgrade from stock earbuds can select from the Westone 3, our new dual-driver Westone 2, or the single driver Westone 1. (This can also be an exciting area of growth for your practice.)

Moving forward to 2010 …
Looking forward to 2010, it promises to be another exciting year. There are many new projects in development here at Westone. Some are designed to provide better products for your patients, and others are designed to make your job as hearing care professional easier.

As we have been doing for 50 years, we will be monitoring new hearing aid technology to ensure we continue to lead the pack in providing you with the most innovative, up-to-date, custom-fit earpiece solutions.

Most of all, as we move forward, you can be assured that we’ll continue to treat our customers like we always have—as a valued part of the family.

Westone Laboratories Inc
Colorado Springs, Colo
(800) 525-5071
www.westone.com

HR Headlines

  • 2009 Web Site Review (HR, January)
  • Marketplace 2009 (HR, February)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • How-to and Case Studies (HR, July)
  • The 2009 ADA Convention Preview (HR, October)
  • Product Showcase (HRP, September)

Widex

Looking back at 2009 …
Widex, one of the world’s most respected manufacturers of hearing instruments, introduced several innovations during 2009.

A major one was the mind series of products. Premier level mind440 models and high-level mind330 CIC, ITC, ITE, BTE, Open Fit BTE, and thin-tube, micro-sized BTE models, which offer Dual Integrated Signal Processing (Dual ISP).

Mind hearing instruments also contain a highly original feature that did not (and still does not) exist in any other hearing aid in the world.

Zen is a Widex-only patented program that uses fractal technology to generate soothing harmonic tones and chimes that can aid patients in relaxation. Zen has generated media attention as an intriguing and unexpected hearing aid feature.

Moving forward to 2010 …
Widex will soon introduce the performance and reliability of mind hearing instruments combined with a virtually invisible size. This hearing aid will be new for 2010—and a dual ISP hearing instrument that truly offers no compromise of size versus performance. It is not simply small. This discreet hearing instrument will contain Dual ISP—as well as outstanding features such as the Audibility Extender, SmartSpeak, EcoTech II Technology for low current drain and longer battery life, and a Multi-Directional Active Feedback Cancelling System. The new Widex hearing aid will also offer an advanced High Definition Locator and Speech Enhancer for improved speech understanding in noise. It will be like having 15 microphones in the hearing aid, each adjusting continuously to optimize how patients hear sounds from different directions.

Widex
Long Island City, NY
(800) 221-0188
www.widexPro.com

HR Headlines

  • Westermann Retires After 36 Years With Widex A/S (HR The Insider, January 8)
  • Ensuring High-fidelity in Hearing Aid Sound Processing, by Francis Kuk, PhD; Anders Jessen, BS; and Lars Baekgaard, MS (HR, March)
  • Considerations in Fitting Hearing Aids with Extended Bandwidths, by Francis Kuk, PhD, and Lars Baekgaard, MS (HR, October)
  • Walking Guide to the 2009 AAA Convention (HR, March)
  • AFA, Widex Partner to Award AuD Scholarship (HR News, March 31)
  • How-to and Case Studies (HR, July)
  • The 2009 ADA Convention Preview (HR, October)
  • EarQ Group, Widex Join Forces (HR News, October 15)
  • 2009 Literature Review (HR, November)