Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between digital and analogue hearing aid technology and how do I know which type is right for me?

How many different styles of hearing aid are there to chose from and which is best suited to my hearing loss?

How much should I expect pay for a hearing aid?

Can I try a hearing aid first before purchasing it?

Is there a charge for trying a hearing aid before purchasing it?

Is there any charge for a hearing assessment and do I need to be referred to you?

If I've purchased my hearing aids elsewhere can I ask you to re-program them?

Q. What is the difference between digital and analogue hearing aid technology and how do I know which type is right for me?

A. Most of the hearing aids that we fit are in fact digital. Generally speaking the sound quality is cleaner, clearer and you are assured of greater comfort in all listening situations. However, there are many different types of digital hearing aid. All styles from behind the ear to completely in the canal and a huge range of options are available to meet your lifestyle needs. - TOP

Q. How many different styles of hearing aid are there to chose from and which is best suited to my hearing loss?

A. Behind-the-ear (BTE). The components sit in a small plastic housing behind the ear which can be matched to the individuals hair colour. Sound passes through tubing over the top of the ear, then through a custom-made ear mould into the ear canal. Most suited for those with severe to profound hearing loss. In-the-ear (ITE). As its name suggests all the components are housed in a 'shell' individually made to fit neatly in the bowl of the ear. Users like their unobtrusive appearance and rate their performance highly in the areas of speech understanding and reduced background noise. Since they are less powerful ITE aids are usually not suitable for severe hearing losses. In-the-canal (ITC) Smaller than its bigger brother the ITC fits discreetly in the ear canal and is best suited to people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Increased cosmetics and acoustics are the main advantages. Those less dextrous may experience difficulty changing the battery. Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) These aids sit deep in the ear canal and can barely be seen. Thanks to advanced digital technology they are now powerful enough to be fitted to those with mild to moderate hearing losses. Choosing which style is best for you will usually depend on the type of hearing loss, type of technology and how much you are willing to pay. This is determined at the initial assessment. - TOP

Q. How much should I expect to pay for a hearing aid?

A. The cost of a hearing aid is determined by the following factors: · Whether it has digital or analogue sound processing · Style of aid - custom made aids involve considerably more labour and will therefore cost more · How many functions the aid has - volume control, telecoil, multiple listening programs, remote control, directional microphones are just some of the options available · Professional charges - highly sophisticated programmable aids require longer fitting times and sometimes further 'fine tuning' visits. This is also figured into the price That said we have hearing aids from £895.00 to £2,330.00. - TOP

Q. Can I try a hearing aid first before purchasing it?

A. Yes you can. All our hearing aids are fitted on a trial basis so you can be absolutely certain that it is the right one for you. - TOP

Q. Is there a charge for trying a hearing aid before purchasing it?

A. Yes there is, but we try to keep this to a minimum and a charge is only made if you decide not to keepthe hearing aid recommended. - TOP

Q. Is there any charge for a hearing assessment and do I need to be referred to you?

A. We charge £60 for the initial assessment, however, this is deducted from the price of any hearing aid system you subsequently decide to purchase from us. During this first appointment your hearing aid audiologist will clearly explain our charges. It is not normally necessary to be referred. Just call or e-mail us for an appointment or more information. - TOP

Q. If I've purchased my hearing aids elsewhere can I ask you to re-program them?

A. Yes, this is a service that we can provide. Please ask us for our consultation charges for non-Cubex patients. - TOP