Widex Hearing Aids In Aberdeen & Inverness

Widex

Beyond Hearing Aids

The Beyond is the very latest addition to the Widex Line up, it is also their first ever Made For iPhone hearing aid. It is a slightly changed Fusion device based on the Unique technology, and it has three different radios onboard, the one for Widex Link, a telecoil and the new radio for direct iPhone connection making it possible to stream music and conduct phone calls directly to the hearing aid without any intermediary device. Widex Products are famous for their sound quality, now it appears that sound quality extends to the best sound Made for iPhone. The device is slightly longer than the original Fusion but it is thinner, it also has a new button. 

The Beyond App

User Fine Tuning?

Widex have also introduced a smartphone app with the Beyond which is currently available on ios and will soon be available on Android. The Beyond app seems to have the usual features that are available with Made For iPhone devices generally, you can set geo locations for different sound programmes and make changes to how the hearing aids are working on the go. However, there also seems to be an element of self fine tuning on the app, whereby users can actually change the frequency response of the hearing aids. They are calling this feature the Preference Control and it seems to break down frequencies into three bands, Bass, Middle and Treble. It is interesting to see manufacturers begin to hand over this type of control to users. It means that you can have some control over how the hearing aid actually works as you change the sound settings.  

While Widex have now introduced a 2.4ghz BlueTooth radio to the Beyond for the connection to the smartphone, it has retained both the WidexLink and a telecoil on the hearing devices. 

Widex Link

Retaining the Widex Link makes sense for several reasons. The first being, that it is still without doubt, the single best system available for streaming high quality audio. The second is that it will mean that any Widex users who upgrade their devices to the Beyond will still be able to use their Dex accessories. Retaining a T-Coil also makes some sense, the T-Coil system is making a huge resurgence in the United States and many in the UK and Ireland are used to using the T-Coil in public places. 

As we discovered retaining the WidexLink radio also ensured that all of the inter ear features that Widex has become famous for also continue to work even if you are streaming audio to the hearing aids. The inter ear features in particular the inter ear compression ensure that Widex hearing aids work as well as they do and sound so natural. 

The Beyond at present appears to be only a Fusion type hearing aid and it has been introduced as part of the Widex Unique family, however, it will be interesting to see how and if Widex expands the range beyond just the initial offering. The Beyond is available in a 440, 330, 220 and 110 version in line with their usual technology level offers. 

Widex Unique Hearing Aids

Widex have just launched their newest and most technologically advanced hearing aids yet, they are called the Unique range. They say that these are the best that they have ever produced, which is a big claim from one of the best hearing aid manufacturers in the business.

Unique 440

The Widex Unique 440 is the flagship hearing aid in Widex's new "Unique" range. We are very impressed with what we have seen of this hearing aid so far and this current range improves on the now obsolete Dream range in all aspects. We have been fitting it for a while now and we are getting outstanding feedback from our customers.

As you would expect, Widex have produced an excellent range of hearing aids, with a number of features not available in any other hearing aid. Widex hearing aids are already known for  their own unique sound, now combined with some ground breaking features we think that they can justify calling the product "Unique"

Main features

Sound Processing

The Unique 440 uses Widex's new U-platform chip which processes sounds across 15 channels. 15 channels is typical of all Widex top of the range aids. What is different for Widex though is the use of "Sound Class Technology", the hearing aid classifies what kind of sound environment you are currently in out of a choice of nine possible environments that are programmed in. It then adjusts the sound accordingly to maximise your ability to hear speech sounds clearly. The 440 has the most channels in the range and also has a "High Frequency Boost" feature that isn't available in the lower models to give additional clarity when needed.

Wind noise attenuation

Widex claims that it's new wind noise attenuation feature is an industry leading wind noise reduction feature. Widex don't make claims very lightly, so we would be of the opinion that if they say it, it is true. The Unique 440 can attenuate more wind noise than any other hearing aid out there, no matter the direction the wind is coming from, even from directly ahead. However this new feature is only available on the 440 models.

Background noise reduction

All manufacturers have good background noise reduction features as standard these days. However, Widex have introduced a new feature that has extra emphasis on reducing softer, low level background noise that may be annoying. Widex have always put great emphasis on soft sound inputs because they believe that soft sounds in speech are very important for understanding. However, there are soft input sounds that you just don't want to or need to hear, like a computer fan or the noise of a fridge. 

Wider dynamic range of hearing

Widex have also introduced a wider dynamic range of hearing to the Unique so you can hear more than ever. What this means is that most hearing aids take a range of sounds from quiet to loud and compress them into what hearing you have remaining to provide you with the full range of sounds for you to hear. They often ignore the very softest sounds and don't process louder sounds very well. What the Widex Unique hearing aids are doing is extending that range slightly so that very very quiet sounds (5dB) that aren't picked up by normal hearing aids will now be processed enabling you to hear the low sounds that most hearing aids ignore.

Connectivity

For communicating with other devices there is the COM-DEX accessory, which is a bluetooth enabled pendant you hang around your neck. This will pair to your phone so that you can stream audio to your hearing aids from your phone, via the COM-DEX. You can also download an app for your smartphone (Apple or Android) which lets you use it to remotely control the hearing aids. Also available are the usual range of extra accessories for TV or audio equipment streaming.

Tinnitus management

Nearly all modern Widex aids have the option to use Zen tones, Zen is a proprietary feature belonged to Widex that will help to reduce the effects of tinnitus. For tinnitus sufferers these predictable yet non-repetitive sounds are used in combination with counselling and relaxation techniques to deliver tinnitus relief as a part of a tinnitus management programme.

Unique 440 Hearing Aid Types & Sizes

There are three sizes of behind the ear model and three in the ear models available. The Passion is the slim, attractive behind the ear receiver-in-canal model and is suitable for most hearing losses. It has no manual controls so can only be adjusted by remote control or app. The Fusion is the larger, more powerful behind the ear model which also features a push button for program changing. The Fashion is the largest of the over the ear models and is mainly for people who want or need a full earmold.

Of the three in the ear models, one is the standard sized in-the-ear, one is the CIC or completely-in-the-canal. The smallest is the CIC-M which is Widex's equivalent of an IIC or invisible-in-the-canal. Being so small, some features had to be cut from this model, mainly anything requiring wireless communication which this aid cannot fit in.

Unique 330

The Widex Unique 330 is the second to top aid in the new "Unique" range from Widex. They have delivered a very strong range at this price point as they always do, retaining some of the better features.

Main features

Sound Processing

As is normal with Widex, the Unique 330 is a 10 channel aid utilising Widex's U-platform chip that the whole Unique range are built on. The 330 uses the new Sound Class Technology  feature but the aids are restricted to five possible environmental types, again, the aim is to always maximise speech sounds when they are present and comfort when they are not.

Background noise reduction

The noise reduction in the Unique 330 is excellent and is suitable for all but the noisiest environments. However if you are really active with lots of exposure to quite noisy environments then you might want to think about the Unique 440.

Wider dynamic range of hearing

The 330 also has access to that wider dynamic range of hearing, they have also included the soft sound noise reduction so that you won't get annoyed by hearing the fridge buzzing away in the background.

Zen Tinnitus management

As with the previous two ranges of Widex hearing aids, the Zen tinnitus management features are available in the 330. 

Model types

The model types are the same across all of the technology levels, the 330 has the full sized traditional BTE, the Fashion. The middle sized RIC the Fusion and the rather tiny and discreet Passion. In the ear models range from the full sized ITE down to the tiny micro CIC.

Unique 220

The Widex Unique 220 is Widex offering for the mid-range hearing aid market. This range of aids is for people who need to hear well in light social environments as well as in quiet and would like to hear the television. It has many of the features of the Unique 330 but at a lower price point, however with it's superior processor it is still an outstanding hearing aid.

Main features

Sound Processing

The 220 is powered by the U-platform processing chip, Widex say that the chip is significantly better than the previous generation. The Unique 220 has just 6 channels and it only has three environments for the aid to choose from in it's Sound Class Technology. The three environments are speech in quiet, speech in noise and a comfort in noise setting.

Background noise reduction

The noise reduction feature in the Unique 220 range is good enough for hearing speech clearly whilst suppressing background noises in up to moderately noisy environments. If you lead a particularly active lifestyle then you may want to go for one of the better models.

Soft sound amplification

As with the rest of the range, the Unique 220 aids have access to that wider dynamic range of sound, they amplify sounds as quiet as 5 dB so that you can pick up even very soft sounds.

Tinnitus

The Unique 220 also has the Zen programme so it can be used to help relieve tinnitus.

Model Types

The model types are the same across all of the technology levels, the 220 has the full sized traditional BTE, the Fashion. The middle sized RIC the Fusion and the rather tiny and discreet Passion. In the ear models range from the full sized ITE down to the tiny micro CIC.

Unique 110 Hearing Aids

The Unique 110 is the new entry level hearing aid from Widex. The Unique 110 has retained a number of features even though it is the most basic in the range. It has the famous Widex sound and it is a significant step up from the older Dream 110 which wasn't well received.

Main features

Sound Processing

The Unique 110 has four channels and doesn't have Sound Class Technology on board. While it is an automatic aid, It doesn't adjust itself as well as the higher technology models so if you go into a noisier environment you may want to consider programmes so you can adjust the aid to reduce the background noise. The 110 has three manual programs available.

Background noise reduction

Background noise reduction on the 110 is very basic, this is not really the hearing aid for you if you go into environments with a lot of background noise on a regular basis, it may be somewhat difficult to hear speech in these environments.

Soft sound amplification

The Unique 110 still benefits from the extended range of hearing that the more expensive models have and the soft sound noise reduction feature is also present. 

Model Types

The full range of models is available in the Unique range from the smallest CIC to the larger power BTE's. Even the smaller aids are suitable for up to severe hearing losses.

Widex Dream Hearing Aids

 

MORE SOUND, MORE WORDS, MORE PERSONAL

The WIDEX DREAM is the latest hearing aids platform from Widex. They allow more sound in than any other hearing aid so you can hear more details of the world around you. Even in noisy environments such as parties, sport events or at the cinema. And thanks to unique technology that preserves the human voice, you can also hear more words.

WIDEX DREAM allows more sound in than any other hearing aid so you can hear more details of the world around you - and in a way that's as true-to-life as technology allows. Even in noisy environments such as parties, sporting events or at the movie theatre.Thanks to unique Widex technology that preserves the human voice, you can also hear more words - for instance, enjoy conversations, even in the noise of a crowded restaurant or at a concert hall.

DREAM is also more personal, with the exclusive MY.WIDEX.COM, a personalized website to help you get the most from your DREAM hearing aids.

More detailed sound

With Widex DREAM, it's the details that count. You get a rich, well-rounded sound so you can experience the whole world around you. And, you can even enjoy louder sounds with comfort, such as the cheering of a crowd at a football game or the sudden sound changes when watching a movie.

More words and clearer speech

Thanks to new technology that preserves the human voice, you can actively enjoy conversations. So from a crowded restaurant to a noisy concert, DREAM helps you follow the conversation, 

Your own website

DREAM gives you access to your own website that contains information unique to your specific hearing aids and hearing loss. See your personal audiogram, hearing programs and features, tips and advice for handling your hearing aids, and instructional videos and testimonials from other hearing aid wearers.

Manage your tinnitus

DREAM features Personal Zen - a proven program that can help manage tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. It can be customized by us to suit your needs.

Hear high-frequency sounds

With DREAM, high-pitched sounds like bird songs or certain speech sounds, are automatically moved down to regions where you can hear them more clearly.

Enjoy TV, music or calls on your mobile phone

DREAM can be easily combined with the DEX assistive listening devices, so you can enjoy watching echo-free television, listening to music or using your mobile phone - all wirelessly. You can also easily connect to FM streaming or landline telephones with crystal clear sound streaming directly to your hearing aids.

Excellent battery life

DREAM uses up to 20 percent less power with the new PowerSaver technology from Widex. That means the battery needs to be replaced less often.

A DREAM for every wearer

DREAM is available in four Behind-the-ear models and several In-the-ear models - including the nearly invisible CIC. We can help you choose the perfect DREAM for your needs and preferences.

 

Practically Invisible

 

 

If you’re looking for a discreet hearing aid that looks good and delivers great sound, then look no further. The new ultra small DREAM CIC MICRO from Widex is a hearing aid that doesn’t compromise on either. It is one of the smallest hearing aids on the market and up to 30 percent smaller than their traditional CIC (Completely-in-canal) hearing aids.

DREAM 440 Hearing Aids

The DREAM 440 is the premium range of digital hearing aids from Widex. For those of you who demand the best, in even the most complex listening situations such as attending a dinner party, enjoying yourself with friends and family or going shopping, DREAM 440 is the single best choice. It is a perfect hearing instrument for letting you focus on speech in complex noisy environments. Dream 440 is a high performance hearing aid.

Listening situations:
Parties and social events
Meetings and small groups
Shopping and public areas

Features:
Comfort for sudden sounds is preserved
Natural focus on the voice in front/behind
Speech enhancement for the dominant voice in a crowd
Enhanced identification and cancellation of feedback
Warning signals when connection is lost
Excellent performance when talking on the phone, listening to music or watching TV

DREAM 330 Hearing Aids

If you expect a high level of performance from your hearing aids at a mid range price, then the DREAM 330 range of digital hearing aids is for you. It offers specific features for localising and focusing on specific sound sources from the front or the back. And it makes complex outdoor listening situations with lots of high pitched noise more tolerable. Dream 330 is a mid range performance hearing aid.

Listening situations:

Parties and social events
Meetings and small groups
Shopping and public areas
Features:

Comfort for sudden sounds is preserved
Natural focus on the voice in front/behind
Understanding speech in complex environments
Enhanced identification and cancellation of feedback
Great performance when talking on the phone, listening to music or watching TV

DREAM 220 Hearing Aids

DREAM 220 offers ideal performance not just in one-on-one situations but also in more complex listening situations like when attending theatres, lectures and events as well as when watching TV or listening to music at home. Dream 220 is an essential performance hearing aid.

Listening situations:

One-to-one
Good performance in theatre and lectures
Focus on comfort

Features:

Enhanced identification and cancellation of feedback
Improves hearing for sounds of any loudness
Support the localisation of sounds in complex environments
Hear speech clearly from behind

DREAM 110 Hearing Aids

DREAM 110 gives you excellent sound quality at an affordable price. If you need a hearing aid that performs well in listening situations such as one-to-one conversations or talking on the phone, then DREAM 110 is a great choice. Dream 110 is a basic performance hearing aid.

Listening situations:

One-to-one
Phone conversation
Good sound quality

Features:
Listening comfort in noise by reducing noise and intensifying speech
Allows soft sounds to be heard
High pitched sounds are audible in all listening situations.

SUPER

The power to hear

Small, comfortable and versatile - WIDEX SUPER introduces RITE technology to the super power segment for the first time.

SUPER:

• has the power to provide loudness
• has the gain for speech understanding
• has no feedback/doesn’t whistle
• has a long battery life
• is made for all day, everyday use
• has a robust and stylish design
• gives you the choice of two receivers, for either moderate to severe or severe to profound hearing loss, plus various ear-tips and earmolds. This versatile model is packed with InterEar features for better localization.

The power to hear

Despite the small-size design SUPER is an extremely powerful hearing aid. SUPER concentrates on audibility – giving you access to sounds that you may not have heard before. For example the Audibility Extender moves high-pitched sounds such as birds chirping and children’s voices down to where you can hear them. And a 675 battery means more power for up to 3 weeks’ usage.

All day, all weather

SUPER is reliable and user-friendly for all weather and all day use. The clever design makes it weather-resistant, while wind noise is reduced by up to 18 dB.

Hear sound from everywhere

Determining the direction of sound is a common problem among hearing aid users.
SUPER can help you determine where sounds are coming from; for those who have difficulty orientating themselves when wearing a traditional BTE hearing aid, this is great news.

Music, television and phone calls

By combining SUPER with the Dex assistive listening devices, you can enjoy watching TV, listening to music or using your cell phone - all completely wirelessly and without any delay.

DEX ASSISTIVE LISTENING DEVICES

With the DEX™ assistive listening devices from Widex it becomes easy for you to communicate with your:

• Phone
• TV
• Remote Control
• Other external audio devices

 

 

The UNI-DEX

The all new UNI-DEX is extremely easy to use. Simply plug the mini-jack cable into your mobile phone or audio device, hang the UNI-DEX around your neck, and you are ready to go.

 

The M-DEX

M-DEX offers wireless connectivity between hearing aids and a mobile phone, practically turning the hearing aids into wireless headsets.

 

The TV-DEX

With the TV-DEX you can enjoy distortion-free wireless transmission of TV sound directly to your hearing aid

 

The RC-DEX

The RC-DEX is designed for basic wireless remote control of the hearing aids.

 

The T-DEX

T-DEX gives you easy connection with mobile phones. For use with all Widex hearing aids with a telecoil

The PHONE-DEX

PHONE-DEX is a cordless phone that streams sound directly into your hearing aids. The PHONE-DEX is easy to hold and can be used as a regular phone as well