The value of noise

[John Ferrell]

Phonak has a model they refer to as "programable". Actually, it amounts to having three user selectable settings via a tiny push button on each one. They also have volume controls that have a three db range. The technician sets up the the options and also the frequency response. My hearing peaks at 1 khz and drops off to almost nothing at 3 khz. It is my understanding that not of the devices address the area above 8 khz. The response I selected actually goes a little beyond the restoration of the higher frequencies and enhances them a bit. program 1 is the normal setting, program 3 is about 3 db higher. Program 2 utilizes the the feature of having a forward and backward facing microphone in each unit. It greatly reduces (technician programmable) the response to things behind you. It is useful for attenuating undesirable noise from behind. This feature requires the devices to be prominately exposed in the ear. 

There are some situations that are just about hopless though. Noisy restaurants, parties with silverware and dishes rattling are over whelming. I just turn them off in those conditions and point to them when some one is unintelligable. The high visability of the hearing aids seems to help others be a bit more patient. People recognize that you have done your best with the problem, now they will do what they can to help. 

I think most vendors have models that will hide from view if you have a problem with vanity. My personal feeling is that they are in the same class as expensive jewelry, for what you pay, you ought to wear them proudly. That is also what I tell my grand daughter about the braces on her teeth!

I have only had them since April. Some days I wear them all day, and some days not at all. It depends on how much contact I have with other people. There is a lengthy learning curve involved with them. It is best if I have them in for at least 30 minutes before Church Choir. 

My family is very grateful. They were putting up with a loud TV and difficult communications. They cannot replace what I lost, but it is worth the expense and effort. 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Wade Akle 
  To: discussion at nsrca.org 
  Sent: Monday, August 11, 2003 10:24 PM
  Subject: Re: The value of noise


  John,
  Which system did you end up with? 
  Wade
  wbakle at charter.net
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: John Ferrell 
    To: discussion at nsrca.org 
    Sent: Monday, August 11, 2003 6:39 PM
    Subject: Re: The value of noise



    These folks just fixed me up only $2000 an ear, 
    http://www.phonak.com/
    The local store even threw in a years worth of batteries.
    Now I can hear birds sing again!
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: mike mueller 
      To: discussion at nsrca.org 
      Sent: Monday, August 11, 2003 4:34 PM
      Subject: The value of noise


       I just want to see what others think. I for one love noise maybe it has to do with growing up listening to hard rock music or something. What would Nascar be with near silent cars, or how about John Force running at 300 MPH quietly? Would the Blue Angels be exciting if they didn't roar? Same goes with my planes, I like loud, it sounds cool and it adds to the excitement. Why do you think that IMAC type planes appeal to many? I know we have sound restrictions and all but I can't help the fact that I get turned on by the roar of an engine. I wonder if the new more "PC" electric revolution will be as exciting for spectators and participants alike.But hey it's just my opinion I could be wrong. Mike


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