Audio Service glossary

Definitions of technical terms and product features

A   B   C   D   E   H   I   M   N   O   Q   R   S   T   V   W

Section 1-2-3

2earPhone is an upgrade for acoustic telephone calls (non-Bluetooth) in a special hearing program. The telephone signal is streamed wirelessly using AudioLink from the hearing aid against which the telephone is held to the opposite hearing aid so that the telephone call can be heard simultaneously in both ears.

Section A

Acclimatic refers to the automatic amplification adjustment within a defined time period. The acclimatization objective and duration are adjusted individually for the end customer. This is particularly good for helping new users to get used to the hearing systems gradually.

Following the First Fit initial adjustment of the hearing systems, there are 3 options for using Acclimatic:

  1. Use current gain as starting point: fine tuning of the hearing systems with the goal of achieving good spontaneous acceptance. After the first few days of getting used to the systems, select the acclimatization objective and duration and test the target setting. Then activate Acclimatic.
  2. Use current gain as endpoint: fine tuning of the hearing systems with the desired final setting. Select the acclimatization objective and duration. Then push the current gain as endpoint button.The amplification is reduced in accordance with the selection made under Objective. Then start Acclimatic.
  3. Fitting-formula-related: acclimatization from New user to Experienced user or from low to selectable high acclimatization level, depending on the fitting formula. With the TL 16 – 8 hearing systems, Connexx allows for individual selection of the acclimatization objective in addition to the pre-defined fitting objectives.
Intelligent Acclimatic is available in all hearing systems of TL 16 and 12 with volume control. The volume can be manually adjusted by accelerating or decelerating the automatic acclimatization process.
 
The Anti-Feedback system automatically detects feedback and cancels it quickly and effectively. The intensity of the feedback cancellation can be adjusted in Connexx.

ASHA is short for “Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids” 

Direct streaming from Android devices:
ASHA allows wearers to stream high-quality audio - including phone calls, music, and media - directly from many compatible Android smartphones and tablets to their hearing aids.

Stability and sound quality:
It provides a stable wireless connection for clear, reliable, and synchronized audio streaming, enhancing speech understanding and overall listening comfort during calls and media playback.

AudioDirSelect is useful for a hearing system wearer with individual wishes and needs (if the automatic mode does not provide the desired result). It makes it possible to select the direction of the focus manually via an app (individual direction; tap to select desired direction). In this way, a directional focus that may have been selected automatically can be overwritten at any time.

AudioFocus 360 is able to direct the focus automatically to the sides, if the dominant speech comes from the side. This means that, regardless of the position of the speaker, the loudest speaker is focused on directly and background noises from other directions are suppressed.

The previous Speech 360 mode only works omni-directionally when recognizing a speaker on the side.

AudioLink is the high-performance data connection between the left and the right hearing system. It is the prerequisite for the AudioTronic multi-microphone system.

AudioLink enables genuine audio signals to be transmitted between the hearing systems by evaluating up to 4 microphones. This process creates a detailed variable image of the acoustic environment and emulates the natural hearing process.

Comprehension of speech in a noisy situation is particularly acoustically challenging – even for those with normal hearing. A classic example of this is the cocktail party scenario.

The AudioSpot mode is designed specifically for this hearing situation. AudioSpot uses a small frontal focus of up to 45 degrees, which is aligned toward the person speaking and standing in front of the person wearing the hearing system. In addition, the background noise outside this focus is effectively suppressed. The width of the directional level is selected automatically.

Automatic and adaptive directional characteristics of the AudioTronic multi-microphone system in custom hearing systems with one microphone. The directionality is generated by AudioLink with its facility for evaluating the left and right audio signals together. This is complemented by the natural directional effect of the human ear.

AudioTronic stands for multi-microphone technology with switchable operating modes:

  • Omni-directional: the microphone picks up sound from all directions.
  • Panorama: the directional characteristics recreate the natural attributes of the human ear. Deep frequencies are processed omni-directionally and high frequencies are processed with directional characteristics.
  • Directional/directional static: the microphone picks up sound from in front.
  • Adaptive: operating mode in which movable sources of background noise are subdued based on direction.
  • Automatic: hearing systems automatically switch between omni-directional, panorama and selected directional operating mode, also binaurally synchronously in the case of wireless functionality.
  • Speech 360: the microphone focuses on the direction from which speech is coming in a 360° range.
  • AudioFocus 360: automatically focuses on the direction from which speech is coming in a 360° range. Compared to Speech 360, an additional lateral directional effect is created.
  • AudioSpot: concentrated frontal focus of the directional effect. It significantly reduces the hearing effort in a noisy environment. The hearing angle automatically narrows in noisy situations to around 20 degrees to the right and left of center.
Auto Optimization uses input from the hearing aid’s motion sensor, classifier, signal to noise ratio, ambient modulation, streaming and the users’ own voice to constantly optimize the hearing aids’ settings. This allows G8 hearing aids to perfectly match the users' listening focus and environment automatically, which also helps make fitting as easy and effective as possible.
Depending on the hearing situation identified by the classifier, the automatic control of the noise manager as well as AudioTronic and Comformatic is activated.
The volume of the hearing aid is automatically adjusted to the level of environmental noise in audio streaming mode.

Section B

Bluetooth Classic Audio refers to the original set of audio streaming technologies and offers a lot of options:

Universal compatibility:
Bluetooth Classic Audio is supported by the vast majority of mobile phones and devices in use today, including many older models. This makes it the most universally compatible streaming solution currently available, promoting nearly every wearer to benefit from wireless audio - regardless of their phone or computer type.

Hands-free calling:
With Bluetooth Classic Audio, wearers can enjoy two-way hands-free (hearing and speaking) calls - not just on iOS, but also on a wide range of Android phones and other devices, like computers and tablets, that are equipped with Bluetooth Classic. The protocol supports robust hands-free telephony, making everyday communication simpler and more accessible.

Long established, proven performance:
As a widely adopted technology, Bluetooth Classic Audio offers mature stability and reliability, with proven performance in thousands of consumer electronics products. Its mature ecosystem reduces technical challenges in pairing, connecting stability, and compatibility

Bluetooth Low Energy Audio is the successor of Bluetooth Classic and provides more advantages:

Energy efficiency
Bluetooth LE Audio is built on the Bluetooth Low Energy technology, which is optimized for minimal power consumption. This means hearing aid wearers can stream audio from compatible devices throughout the day without significantly impacting their hearing aid´s battery life.

Improved sound quality
The LC3 codec used in Bluetooth LE Audio offers improved sound clarity at lower data rates, providing reliable, high-fidelity music and speech streaming. even in environments with limited wireless bandwidth.

Future-ready and forward-looking
Bluetooth LE Audio is progressing gradually, being integrated into technological devices such as smartphones and computers.

Section C

The classifier automatically recognizes up to 6 different hearing situations:

  • Speech in Quiet
  • Speech in Noise
  • Noise
  • Music
  • Car
  • Quiet

Individual ear mold for the Audio Service RIC hearing systems. Easy and secure click connection to connect to external receivers. Better individual fit in the ear: no slipping or falling out during movement. Defined acoustic positioning: The positioning in the auditory canal and thus the volume and frequency spectrum can always be reproduced.

The CLIC MOULD 2.0 is fitted with the small HF 4 Black wax guard as standard and is available in Open and Power versions. The Clic Ball of the external receiver ensures optimum hold and allows maximum movement.

Even for wearers who have a high degree of hearing loss or prefer a closed system, CLIC MOULD Power offers a cosmetically appealing solution.

The Click Dome is a standard ear mold for immediate fitting of RIC hearing systems. Available as Click Dome Open, Semi-open, Closed or Double. The Clic Ball of the external receiver can be rotated after it has been clicked into the dome. This ensures excellent wearing comfort and a perfect fit in the ear.
The Click Sleeve is a standard ear mold for immediate fitting of RIC and quiX hearing systems. The flexible, soft Click Sleeve adapts perfectly to the geometry of the auditory canal and enables a secure fit in the ear (especially in a large auditory canal). The standard ear mold is available in sizes XS, S, M and L, in open (vented), closed, and power versions for each size.

Comformatic stands for an automatic, situational frequency response adaptation.

By means of the classifier, adaptation based on the situation and frequency response configuration take place. Thus within the hearing program, the characteristics are changed and as a result, the tone of the hearing system is optimized, along with the noise parameters. The result is enhanced sound quality and clearer speech in every hearing situation.

Comfort365 automatically regulates the combination of proven features: automatic situation recognition, noise management, directionality and the SNR management. The auto-situation adaptation classifies acoustic situations and correspondingly coordinates the signal processing to them. The customer can comfortably use the benefits of Comfort365 throughout the entire day – without having to perform manual settings. Comfort365 demonstrates the best efficacy with Audio Service hearing aids which have an AudioLink and the multi-microphone system AudioTronic.

Comfort365 is based on complex algorithms which were implemented exclusively for the fitting formula AS-Fit.

Section D

Data Logging is the electronic “diary” for effective and customized fine-tuning. This technology continuously logs and analyzes various parameters and data while the hearing system is worn: hearing environment, frequency with which the programs are used, wearing time, change of volume in the individual programs with display of the corresponding dB level.

Supplemented by the customer’s own input, this information enables exact fine-tuning. It makes situations that are difficult to describe easier to analyze and enables any problems to be alleviated with precision.

Streaming has become one of the top drivers of hearing aid purchases, and with Audio Service hearing aids, you can meet this demand with a state-of-the-art solution. Offering a full suite of connectivity options, Audio Service enables your customers to stay connected across all their devices. There are different protocols available Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth LE Audio, ASHA and MFi to make it easy to connect to nearly every device.

Section E

Communication in an echoing room – for example, in a hallway or gym – is a challenge for the hearing system wearer since the direct sound of the conversation partner is superimposed with reflections. This reduces speech discrimination and makes it harder to hear. EchoClear is a special hearing program detects the level difference between direct sound and reflected sound and thus reduces echo effects and reverberations. In addition, the directional mode is activated.

Learn more about EchoClear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDAgTSe3-lQ

The extended dynamic range offers clear sounds without artefacts. Improved analog/digital conversion makes it possible to transmit audio signals with practically no distortions. The extended dynamic range extends to a maximum of 113 dB.

Section H

Headset Mode enables the wearer to use the hearing aids for speaking and listening during phone calls without having to use their iPhone manually. When connected to an iOS device, the sound is streamed directly to-and-from the hearing aids. With Call Control the user is able to answer phone calls via the device's push button or with Tap Control for devices without a push button.

Learn how to use Headset Mode for Mfi pairing with an iPhone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-ZYBnd1arY 

With HiFi functionality, the signal bandwidth for the microphone programs has been extended to 10 kHz. Transmission of the high-frequency parts of the signals has a positive impact on sound quality. Hearing is more natural, which particularly enhances the perception of natural sounds and music. With HiFi, wearers can experience multi-faceted, complex and full sound. Speech clarity is improved thanks to transmission of the speech-relevant harmonic waves and the accentuation of consonants. Comprehension in complex background noise situations becomes a lot easier and localization is improved.

The HiRes Comformatic analyzes the acoustic environment. And goes beyond. The Motion Sensor adds  a further dimension to the definition of specific hearing scenarios. The result is a more individualized hearing experience and better sound quality.

Section I

IP (Ingress Protection) is an international standard for protection against foreign bodies (e.g., dust) and water. The first number relates to protection from dust and the second to protection from water. Certification is carried out by independent institutes that test and evaluate the products. The result describes the state of the device after exposure to the test condition in question. The codes achieved indicate the level of protection that the device in question attained.

Section M

MFi stands for "Made for iPhone/iPod/iPad." and is a program to ensure that third-party accessories (like cables, chargers, and headphones) meet the specific performance and safety standards of Apple.

Seamless integration and control
Wearers can easily control volume, programs, and settings directly from their Apple device using the native Accessibility menu or dedicated apps. This provides an intuitive and easy-to-use experience.

High-quality sound
The dedicated wireless connection offers stable, high-fidelity sound for both streaming and phone calls, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Microsafe is the world’s first microphone filter for custom hearing systems that effectively reduces wind noise right where it originates: directly in the ear. The integrated filter, which can be changed from outside, systematically blocks out disruptive wind noise without impairing the speech signals. It also protects against soiling. The result: hearing comfort is enhanced significantly, there is less downtime, and fewer repairs are needed.

With a diameter of just 1.85 millimeters, Microsafe is much smaller than the wax guards. Standard with all semi-modular custom hearing systems.

Since the G6 platform Audio Service hearing aids feature an integrated Motion Sensor. Adding a wearer’s movement into situation detection enables up to 20 times more hearing situations than previous models, automatically.

In G7 hearing aids

Multi-Track Processing in G7 hearing aids utilizes a similar technique pioneered in the music industry - isolating separate sound sources to enhance what hearing aids’ wearers want to hear, while balancing the rest of the mix. The result is better speech understanding and environmental awareness, without compromising on performance or battery life. 

Learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruirUcXlXTg

In G8 hearing aids

The latest generation of Multi-Track Processing in G8 hearing aids takes our revolutionary approach to the next level. 

Multi-Track Processing now uses up to five tracks to process and balance multiple target speakers at once, while maintaining environmental awareness for users – for better speech understanding, even in noisy social situations. 

Learn more: https://youtu.be/2XsOu41GEE0

Experience the ultimate enjoyment of music. In comparison to speech signals, music signals have an expanded frequency and dynamic range. When listening to music, hearing system wearers often miss sound nuances and dynamic range which can lead to distortion in loud passages. Based on these findings, MusicSelect was developed: special signal processing for the demanding music lover.

Section N

The noise manager is based on the classifier. Depending on the situation identified, noise reduction, Selectronic, impulse suppressor or wind noise cancellation are automatically activated. This ensures unhindered quality of hearing at all times.
If the noise manager is switched off, the noise reduction can be manually adjusted.

Section O

The hearing aid recognizes the wearer’s specific voice pattern and integrates it into the signal processing. In turn, this enables the wearer to perceive their own voice as naturally as possible and provides a high level of spontaneous acceptance. As a result, the wearer may communicate more and be more socially active, helping to improve their quality of life.
Thin tube with standard ear mold (tip). Quick-start option for open-fitting systems. For rapid fitting and immediate hearing success.
Ideal preparation for fitting an individual hearing system.

Section Q

The quiX Mould is a standard ear mold for immediate fitting of quiX hearing systems. It is an open, hard ear mold which ensures a good, secure fit in the ear and provides good occlusion. Available in sizes S, M and L.

Section R

The nylon or carbon removal line (depending on the model) makes it easy to remove a custom hearing aid from the ear.

Section S

Selectronic is an extension of the noise manager and combines fast noise reduction with effective directional microphone technology. Selectronic suppresses stationery and fluctuating background noise. In particularly challenging background noise situations (such as at a cocktail party) it improves ease of hearing and reduces the effort required to hear.
The selective frequency compression compresses relatively high-frequency information in a deeper frequency range. As a result, high-frequency proportions of speech and sounds are selectively brought into the audible range. The vocal information and quality are essentially retained. Frequency compression is advantageous for people with advanced hearing loss, but other types of hearing loss, such as ski-slope hearing loss, can also benefit from this technology.
Improved spatial awareness without any compromises on directionality. SpatialSpot expands your customers’ auditive radius by functioning dynamically with a frontal focus and blending in spatial components at the same time. Hearing system wearers can concentrate on the conversation, but still react to additional acoustic signals.

Section T

TeleCare is a flexible and modern service for hearing care professionals and their customers. Hearing aid adjustments can be made remotely, and communication can be live via chat, voice or video call. The customer does not need to come to the hearing care professional for hearing aid adjustments.

The modern TRC S compression concept works with two variable compression levels. The knee points are intelligently defined by the First Fit. As a result, the adjustment of the amplification curves for low, medium, and loud input levels can be very easily made with the compression ratio (CR) and the amplification (GC). The adjustment for the applicable input level is thus completely independent of the amplification setting for other input levels.

TRC S is particularly suitable for contemporary fitting philosophies (e.g., percentile analysis). When using the traditional fitting formulas (NAL-NL2, DSL v5) the compression parameters can be manually accessed.

Section V

Ideally, the vent of custom hearing systems needs to be big enough to prevent occlusion while the system itself has to be kept small. Good sound quality is also essential. The Pro-Vent is ideal for these requirements. It is available in two versions:

EquiVent
The aim is an extremely small custom hearing system that delivers acoustically equivalent performance to a round vent (AEV - acoustically equivalent vent).

ComforVent
The aim is to find the best balance between freedom from occlusion and a pleasant sound (AOV – acoustically optimized vent).

Section W

The wax guard is an exchangeable filter in the external receivers which protects them from soiling. In combination with the HF 4 Black in the CLIC MOULD or the filter in the Click Dome or click Sleeve, the external receivers in RIC or Instant Fit hearing aids are doubly protected.

This smart technology automatically suppresses unpleasant wind noise and therefore ensures a more comfortable hearing experience, particularly outdoors. The automatic algorithm reduces the annoying fluctuations in the wind noise, which makes it easier to ignore them.

Learn more about Wind Noise Reduction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xGb7shnLQ8

Hearing aids support wireless communication which s is the prerequisite for the following functions:

Binaural synchronization
• Synchronization of the control elements and their functions right / left
• Synchronization of the auto-situation adaption right / left

AudioLink
Transfer of real audio signals between the hearing aids. This makes it possible to evaluate up to four microphone signals together. AudioLink is the technical prerequisite for the AudioTronic multi-microphone system.

Wireless CROS/BiCROS
The sound is transmitted wirelessly from the unaidable side.

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