OK. I don’t really know much about hearing aids. But I do know about sound, microphones and transducers. I recently saw an ad for a new type of hearing aid called Lyric. It is unique in that it’s placed inside the ear canal, essentially right up against the ear drum.
It’s manufacturers claim that it is invisible, comfortable and highly effective. They also claim that since it requires significantly less power, it can go for months between battery changes.
Now, a lot of this makes sense to me. Microphones have a characteristic called proximity effect. This is an increase in output level and low frequency response as the sound source is moved closer. In a concert environment, for example, the microphones that are used for low frequency instruments are placed closer to their sources than are those used for higher frequency instruments.
My natural mistrust kicks up however, when I think about the possibility for ear infection, irritation and inflammation. As a hearing person, the thought of embedding something in my ear is pretty scary.
Furthermore, wouldn’t you need two of these devices? Do they only work for the Hard of Hearing, or can they offer any benefit for the profoundly Deaf.
If you’re familiar with the Lyric, I would be interested in any feedback you can provide. Feel free to comment and enlighten.