"They

work well, but not as well as digital devices, which can be fine tuned

to the exact level of hearing loss the patient has," said Bender.

"Digital also offers cleaner, crisper sound and a wider range of

features."

There are dozens

of digital hearing aids on the market today. So how do you know which

one is right for you?

Once you have

a hearing health care provider assess your specific hearing needs, he

or she will make a recommendation. There are numerous manufacturers, many

of whom produce hearing aids with comparable features. With no shortage

of brands to choose from, don't hesitate to ask for a hearing aid with

the best value versus features.

Check to see

if the device is equipped with feedback management. If it is, sounds can

be amplified to a higher volume with less feedback.

The ability

to constantly measure for noise control is also important. Digital aids

can raise the volume of a soft, high-pitched sound, such as a whisper,

while simultaneously keeping a loud, low-pitched sound, such as a truck

driving by, at a comfortable level.

Multiple program

settings are also handy. They allow the hearing aid to be customized for

different listening situations, such as talking on the phone, or hearing

what people are saying at a noisy hockey game.

Volume control

is another important feature to consider. "Consumers tell us that's

something they need," said Bender.

Freiheit decided

to "go digital" at the urging of his son. He now wears an EVO

twin with dual microphones for directional hearing. The device is manufactured

Digital hearing

aids are available in four different styles, completely in the canal,

in the canal, in the ear and behind the ear. Freiheit's is a canal type.

"They

all work well," said Bender. "The one you decide to go with

is a matter of personal preference."

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