What is the Difference Between Digital and Analog Hearing Aids?

Scientifically, it has been proven that the human ear is not designed to naturally hear sounds that are of a low or high pitch. The ear is a sensitive organ and the anatomy can be affected if it is continuously exposed to loud noises. As a result, the best solution for hearing loss is a pair of high-quality hearing devices. While some hearing professionals still offer digital and analog hearing aids, a device that is digitally programmable is the ideal way to compensate for hearing loss.  

Understanding digital hearing aids

Hearing aids do vary in their circuitry and technology. However, the digital hearing aids made today can enhance sound more proficiently by the use of microchips and digitized sound processing (DSP). The digital hearing aids feature all the amenities of analog programmable aids but instead use DSP to convert waves of sounds into digital signals.   

What are the benefits to digital hearing aids?

A computerized chip inside the device analyzes the signals to differentiate between conversations and noise. Once the difference between the two types of noise is made, the device supplies an amplified and distortion free signal. In turn, the processing permits for more adaptability in programming the hearing aid. In addition, the sound that is transmitted helps the individual hear and comprehend what is said. While digital technology is the most expensive of sound enhancement technologies out there, it proves to outdo the traditional hearing aids due to the following reasons:  

• Improvement in programmability  
• A better fit  
• Better management of background noise  
• Better control of whistling sounds or acoustic feedback  
• Enhanced noise reduction  

Some digital aids are able to store several programs as well. As the sound environment changes, a person can alter the settings as well. This is normally facilitated by pressing a button on the hearing device or by utilizing a remote control in order to switch channels. The device is designed to be reprogrammed by an audiologist as the user’s hearing requirements change over time. Again, digital hearing aids are more expensive than the traditional analog models. However, the devices do have a longer life span and provide improved hearing in varying listening situations.  

Understanding analog hearing aids

The conventional analog hearing aids are designed with a specific frequency response based on the listener’s audiogram. In turn, the audiologist directs the manufacturer about the settings to install. Although some adjustments need to be made, the device works to amplify all sounds – including noise and speech – in the same way. This technology is affordable and can be used by the budget-conscious consumers. Analog hearing aids work for all the different types of hearing loss as well.   

The analog programmable model of hearing aid is made with a microchip that permits an audiologist to program the device for different situations. Environments are defined by venues where quiet conversations take place or where there is a lot of noises, such as a theater or a restaurant. Moreover, the settings, used to program the device, depend on the user’s hearing loss profile, tolerance for noise and speech understanding.  

Due to the innovation and popularity of digital hearing aids, the manufacturing and availability of analog models are decreasing considerably.