Not long ago, Bose unveiled SoundControl, their first-ever hearing aids.
As a business which is known for its home audio systems, speakers, and noise-cancelling headphones, it’s very interesting, but not surprising, to see that they are turning their attention toward treating hearing loss.
This new product is available in many states right now, including Massachusetts, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas, so there is already a large percentage of people who will have come across the Bose SoundControl.
With further research into hearing loss and its development, many corporations, Bose included, are starting to recognize the impact their voice can have on many.
As a relatively new product to the market, the Bose SoundControl is anticipated to be the first of many over-the-counter hearing aids entering the hearing care industry, patiently waiting for the FDA’s approval.
Firstly, Is The Bose SoundControl Worth It?
As North Houston’s most trusted hearing experts, it’s only right that we provide you with an honest opinion on the Bose SoundControl.
POSITIVES:
Starting at a price of $849.00, it’s comparably cheaper than regular hearing aids.
The reason for this is because it cuts out the need to visit an audiologist or have a comprehensive hearing assessment.
If you’re new to hearing aids, you’ll probably think this is great, as you don’t have to fill out pages of paperwork or sign up to a hearing health clinic.
This will attract a select group of people who wouldn’t have otherwise taken action and encourage others to follow in the same path.
Inevitably, the Bose SoundControl is going to serve as a great first step for many people, destigmatizing hearing loss and helping to normalize hearing amplification products.
NEGATIVES:
While convenience is a great option for those who are new to hearing aids, it presents a serious risk to those with an untreated hearing loss.
This is because there is no way to identify what type of hearing loss you suffer with or determine the cause.
When you purchase the Bose SoundControl, there is nothing to suggest that you won’t be unsatisfied with the level of amplification you receive or find it uncomfortable to wear.
It cuts out the level of expertise from an audiologist, as there is no need to have a hearing assessment prior or gain any advice from a medical professional.
Not only is this incredibly dangerous, but it also increases the risk of improper amplification and disappointment, which will lead many users to believe that no hearing aids will work for them.
Why An Audiologist Is The Best Person For Treating Hearing Loss
The reason why I became an audiologist is because I love getting to meet and know my patient personally – it helps me to understand more about them and what approach would work best for them.
Working alongside an audiologist can make a huge difference in your life and it is such an essential part of your hearing journey.
For me, it’s difficult to comprehend that there are people out there who are purchasing hearing aids on a limb without support or advice.
Audiologists have trained for many years at university to understand audiology and hearing technology, so it’s impossible for anyone other than an audiologist to know what type of hearing aid is going to work for you.
When you purchase over-the-counter devices, you cut out the testing, understanding, history, and customized fitting, which all make a big difference in how we fit hearing aids.
It’s A Long-Term Risk
Sure, investing in hearing aids is a big deal. It takes possibly weeks of evaluations and discussions to ensure you’re purchasing the right hearing aids for you.
Just recently, I had a patient visit me with concerns about his Bose Hearphones. Looking at his diagnostic results, it showed us that he had quite a few other hearing-related issues that needed addressing.
He proceeded with hearing devices and not long ago followed up on the issues he had been having. It’s because he went so long without receiving the care that he needed that hearing aids aren’t as effective for him. His Bose Hearphones were under amplifying him.
So, it’s going to take a lot longer to get him to where he needs to be. Whereas, this could have been resolved far sooner.
So, What Should You Do?
While we understand that not everyone has accessibility to an audiologist, we want to help others as the Bose SoundControl becomes readily available.
When it was released, of course, we were excited to see a move in the right direction, but we also felt slight unease.
The Bose SoundControl is a great steppingstone to hearing technology and – paired with hearing healthcare – we can see some real positive changes coming from it.
But to ensure that all users have a positive experience, we decided to launch our “OTC Done Properly” package.
This gives you the opportunity to access entry-level hearing technology while accessing the expertise of the best audiologists in North Houston.
Our “OTC Done Properly” Package Includes:
- An entry level hearing device – you’ll get a pair of entry level devices.
- A hearing assessment by a doctor of audiology – your hearing will be professionally tested through a methodical process in one of our three offices.
- 12-point fitting process to guarantee the perfect fit and performance – your devices will be fitted following our 12-point process to deliver the highest performance and comfort.
- 12-month repair, loss, or damage warranty – you will be covered for any damage, repairs, or loss within your first 12 months, giving you complete peace of mind.
- A trial period for 30 days, return anytime – if you decide that they’re not right for you, then you can return them within 30 days.
- A $500.00 contribution toward upgraded hearing technology within your first 6 months – if you decide that you would like to step into upgraded technology or get a better performance within your first 6 months, then you can benefit from a $500.00 contribution.
- 1 year of aftercare, including service, adjustments, and yearly prescription evaluations – our team of audiologists will have your back and support you to ensure that you hear the life that you love.
- 1 year of hearing aid batteries included – you’ll receive all the batteries you need to ensure your devices continue to perform.
At just a small fee of $1890, it’s your way of accessing over-the-counter devices while accessing some of the most trusted audiologists in North Houston.
To find out more about our “OTC Done Properly” package and discover whether it’s right for you, then get in touch with a member of our team.
Alternatively, schedule your hearing assessment by clicking here.
