There are many decisions to make when deciding which hearing instruments to try. Following the audiological assessment your hearing healthcare professional will provide you with information that is appropriate for your hearing loss and specific to your hearing needs so that you can make an informed decision about which hearing instruments will work best for you. Several factors must be considered including:

• Sound processing technology and circuitry (analog, programmable, digital, single- or multi-channel)
• Style or size of hearing instrument
• Additional options (volume control, programs, directional microphone, telecoil, remote control, etc.)
• Monaural vs. binaural (one versus two) hearing instruments
• Assistive listening devices
• Financial considerations

These decisions are sometimes made independently of one another whereas others require prioritization and compromises. For instance, people will often be under the impression that the smallest hearing aids have the most advanced circuitry inside whereas behind-the-ear hearing aids are “old fashioned” and offer limited sound quality.  In fact, the vast majority of hearing aid technology can be implemented into any size of hearing aid – the style of a hearing aid is not indicative of the level of technology inside the hearing aid. All styles, circuitry, and options each have benefits and limitations which need to be reviewed so as to make the best choice for your unique hearing needs. Another example is many people want the smallest hearing aid available but the severity of hearing loss may preclude this option.