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As an audiologist working with all the major hearing aid brands, I have seen the benefits and best features of each company's devices. In this comparison guide, I'm excited to present a hearing aid matchup between two of the biggest players in the industry: Oticon and Signia! Both of these hearing aids offer unique features and fit a wide range of hearing loss. But you might be asking yourself which one is the better fit for you. Well, you’re in luck! In this fun hearing aid duel, I'll be providing a head-to-head comparison of both companies' products in a variety of categories. May the battle begin!
Round One – Styles
The Oticon brand brings to the ring three unique hearing aid styles - the Intent, the OWN, and the Zircon models, each tailored to cater to different budgets and personal preferences. Stepping into the spotlight first is the Intent, their flagship model, known for its premium sound quality, intelligent technology, and chic, rounded design. It's also equipped with a dual push button for volume and program changes, perfect for those who like full control. The runner-up is the Oticon OWN, offering a range of designs, from the tiny but mighty IIC to the more prominent ITE. It even includes a CROS option, specifically designed for single-sided hearing loss. Not only does it fit your hearing loss, but these devices also come in a range of colors. From tastefully discrete shades that blend with your hair color to more daring options like sky blue, Oticon ensures you can hear well and look good doing it!
On the other side of the ring, Signia holds its own with an equally impressive lineup of models. The company boasts a wide array of form factors, with the same amazing processing power, ranging from discreet custom devices to Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and potent Behind-the-Ear (BTE) aids. The custom hearing aids even feature rechargeable options. Signia is particularly recognized for its stylish and award-winning Styletto hearing aids. These sleek, fashionable devices redefine what hearing aids can look like, with a slim, modern design that could easily be mistaken for a high-fashion accessory. Additionally, their ready-to-wear Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Silk hearing aids are an excellent choice for those seeking instant fitting and superior comfort.
And the winner of Round One goes to... Signia! Although both Oticon and Signia brought forth a strong lineup of diverse hearing aid models, Signia edged out the competition with its impressive range of designs and features. Their lineup features rechargeable custom hearing aids, the sleek and fashionable Styletto and the ready-to-wear Silk models, all of which stand out for their unique functional benefits and aesthetic appeal. While Oticon certainly demonstrated strong contenders, it is the innovation and attention to detail in Signia’s offerings that ultimately steal the show in this round. Stay tuned as we move on to the next exciting round in this hearing aid showdown!
Round Two – Bluetooth Connection
In this corner, Oticon packs a punch with its robust Bluetooth connectivity. Specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with your digital lifestyle, Oticon hearing aids can directly connect to your iPhone, or compatible Android models, delivering crystal clear streaming quality directly to your ears. This feature is a game-changer for those who frequently use their phones for music, phone calls, or video content. If you're an iPhone or compatible Android user, you're in luck! Your Oticon hearing aids can function hands-free, allowing you to carry on with your daily activities without missing a beat. Oticon’s thoughtful design and advanced technology ensure that whether you're an iPhone or Android user, you can enjoy connectivity options. But let's not leave out the best part: Oticon Intent comes with Bluetooth LE Audio, fully Auracast ready!
Hopping over to the other side of the ring, Signia steps up with an equally impressive Bluetooth feature. Equipped with direct streaming to both Android and iPhone devices, Signia hearing aids deliver unrivaled audio quality straight to your ears. Whether you're tuning into your favorite podcast, answering a call, or watching videos, Signia ensures a seamless streaming experience. But that's not all! Signia's robust battery life means you can enjoy all-day streaming without worrying about battery drain. That's right, folks! A full day of top-notch audio streaming at your disposal. And for Android users, hands-free operation is available through the use of the StreamLine Mic accessory. Signia's Pure Charge&Go IX hearing aids also have Auracast-ready hardware, showing their attention to future utility as Auracast becomes more widespread. Essentially, there is only a firmware update needed to make these devices fully Auracast-capable. This handy feature proves, yet again, that Signia is a powerful contender in this round of the hearing aid showdown!
In the battle of Bluetooth connection, both brands pack a punch. However, Oticon comes out ahead in this round, thanks to their Bluetooth LE Audio capability. Both provide reliable Bluetooth connections and easy integration with Smartphones and other devices.
Round Three – App Controls
Ladies and gentlemen, the next round in this fierce competition is the battle of app controls. This is where we scrutinize the power and user-friendliness of the mobile apps offered by Oticon and Signia. In this era of digital convenience, the ability to control and fine-tune your hearing aids from your Smartphone is a crucial feature. Let's see how our formidable contenders stack up in this exciting round. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at each brand's app capabilities, and find out who takes the crown in this integral aspect of modern hearing technology. Let the App Control duel commence!
The latest innovation from Oticon is their new Companion App, a streamlined, user-friendly platform that incorporates functionality from two previous applications. Formerly separate, the remote care and hearing aid control features are now conveniently housed in one central location, simplifying the user experience. The Companion App is easy to navigate, placing total control of your hearing aids at your fingertips. Additionally, it introduces a practical feature, 'Find My Hearing Aids', adding an extra layer of convenience and security for users. This innovative addition truly demonstrates Oticon's commitment to enhancing user experience with thoughtful design and advanced technology.
Stepping into the ring is Signia's intuitive mobile app which is loved by users for its easy adjustments and user-friendly interface. A noteworthy feature of this app is the 'mask mode', a timely innovation in the era of mask-wearing. This unique feature boosts speech understanding, which can help even in non-masking-wearing situations, and helps users easily understand speech even when the speaker is wearing a mask. A standout feature that patients particularly love is the ability to adjust the directionality of the microphones in the app. This flexibility allows users to focus on sounds from specific directions, enhancing their listening experience in various environments. And let’s not forget the Signia Assistant that let’s you make adjustments right in the situations you need them. With its focus on user convenience and innovative features, Signia's app demonstrates the company's dedication to providing an unparalleled listening experience.
In this well-matched face-off of app controls, Signia has proven itself to be the champion of this round. While both brands presented impressive features and easy-to-use applications, Signia's offering stands a notch above. The distinctive 'mask mode', a timely response to the new normal of mask-wearing, significantly enhances speech understanding, proving useful in a myriad of scenarios beyond mask-wearing situations. Additionally, the Signia Assistant provides an extra layer of customization, letting users adjust the directionality of the microphone, thus tailoring their listening experience to their environment. These innovative features place Signia ahead, giving them the crown in this crucial round of app controls. Stay tuned as we continue to witness this exciting showdown in the world of advanced hearing technology.
Round Four – Special Features
As we head into the next round of our hearing aid showdown, we are going to explore the special features from each brand. This is where we witness the show-stopping features from both Oticon and Signia. Let the Special Features showdown begin!
Signia brings to the fore an array of special features that make it a formidable force in the world of hearing aid technology. One such feature is their dexterity-friendly chargers. Catering to a wide range of users, whether you have a custom hearing aid, a Receiver in the Canal (RIC), or a Behind the Ear (BTE) device, Signia has made charging your hearing aid quite easy. No more fumbling around with tiny components; these chargers are designed with user convenience in mind, making the charging process seamless and straightforward.
Yet, the standout component in Signia's impressive repertoire is the Signia Assistant. Think of it as a portable audiologist, ready to assist with fine-tuning at all times. This virtual assistant is always at your disposal, providing real-time feedback and adjustments to ensure your hearing aids are performing at their optimum. It's like having professional audiology support wherever you go, ensuring you always experience the highest audio quality. This distinctive feature showcases Signia's commitment to continually enhancing user experience through innovative technology and thoughtful design.
Oticon, a notable powerhouse in the field of hearing aid technology, has several unique features that enhance user utility and convenience. A key highlight is their 'Find My Hearing Aid' functionality. This feature, embedded in their Companion App, adds an extra layer of security, giving users peace of mind by enabling you to locate your hearing aids if they're misplaced. This practical feature illustrates Oticon's commitment to delivering convenience to their users through thoughtful technology.
Furthermore, Oticon brings to the table a crucial aspect of user convenience - replaceable rechargeable batteries. These batteries can be replaced at your local hearing aid clinic, eliminating the need to send your hearing aids away for battery replacement. This means less downtime and more time enjoying the benefits of your hearing aids. This practical feature is a testament to Oticon's user-focused approach, always ensuring that their customers have uninterrupted access to the best possible hearing experience.
While both contenders showed well in this round with their unique features and user-focused technology, it's clear that Signia takes the crown. Signia's innovative features, especially the Signia Assistant and dexterity-friendly chargers, set it apart in this competition. They showcased their commitment to superior user experience, offering practical solutions and real-time support for hearing aid users.
Round Five – Sound Quality
Each contender in this arena brings its unique sonic signature to the table, a testament to the intricate engineering and innovative technology that underpin their devices. Let’s take a closer look at the distinctive acoustic characteristics and sound features that set Oticon and Signia apart. Hold on to your seats, folks, this is where the true winner of this intense face-off will be determined!
Oticon, a standout in the hearing aid industry, has been lauded for its smooth, mellow sound quality. This company has mastered the delicate balance of providing a soothing, comfortable listening experience without compromising the richness and clarity of sound. The cornerstone of Oticon's sound profile is their innovative BrainHearing and Deep Neural Network technology. This feature offers an open, natural quality of sound, providing users with a heightened awareness of their surroundings. Unlike traditional hearing aids which focus on one specific sound source, BrainHearing technology allows users to listen to multiple sounds in their vicinity, thus creating a more immersive and realistic auditory environment. This technology works in harmony with your brain’s natural process of interpreting sound, making for a seamless and effortless listening experience. Oticon's commitment to stellar sound quality and user-focused design is truly reflected in their BrainHearing technology, once again affirming their position as a key player in this intense competition.
Not to be outdone, Signia has its own distinct acoustical prowess. Signia hearing aids are renowned for their crisp, sharp sound quality, a characteristic that enables users to hear the world around them with great clarity. At the heart of Signia's sound technology lies their unique Multiple Beam-Forming Technology. This technology allows users to discern multiple speakers simultaneously, a feat that imbues everyday conversations with an unparalleled level of auditory depth and dimension. As a result, users can navigate social scenarios with ease, making for a more enriching and fulfilling auditory experience. It's evident that Signia's commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality is unwavering, their innovative technology and meticulous design reflecting their dedication to enhancing the lives of hearing aid users. This distinct sonic signature, coupled with their emphasis on user-focused design, certainly makes Signia a formidable contender in this final round of our showdown.
After thorough examination of the sound quality, we’re giving Signia the edge in this final round. While Oticon's BrainHearing technology delivers a smooth and natural sound, it is Signia's Multiple Beam-Forming Technology that truly sets it apart. The ability to discern multiple speakers simultaneously, bringing a new depth and dimension to everyday conversations, is a game-changer in the hearing aid industry. This breakthrough technology, coupled with Signia's crisp and clear sound quality, facilitates an immersive auditory experience for users. Therefore, in this final face-off, it's Signia that takes the crown, underlining its status as a leader in the field of hearing aid technology.
The Winner
The overall winner of this hearing aid showdown is Signia. With its innovative features, user-focused design, and superior sound quality, Signia consistently showcased its commitment to enhancing the auditory experience of its users. From the Signia Assistant to the dexterity-friendly chargers, and ultimately, the incomparable beam-forming technology, Signia's offerings persistently outshone the competition. Oticon didn’t go down without a fight with features like the 'Find My Hearing Aid' function and the BrainHearing technology.
Final Thoughts
Thanks for humoring us as we had a little fun with this matchup between two hearing aid leaders. While both brands offer an impressive array of features, Signia won this match-up.
But now that you’ve seen how both contenders stack up, it’s ultimately up to you to decide for yourself: which has the features that work best for you? Feel free to check out our other resources at Soundly: Live Listen to compare sound quality, our free hearing test, or get a more close-up perspective in our hearing aid reviews.
