Using Apple Air Pods or Google's buds instead of my Phonak Audeo 30 hearing aids

@MarkSmith said:

disappointed with my Phonak Audio

The entry-level Audeo 30 model doesn’t perform well in noisy environments. It’s the simplest and most basic version, and Phonak states that it’s mainly intended for quiet surroundings. Compared to the higher-end models, the 30 Model has no advanced noise suppression, because the 30 is the basic entry level and many of the advanced features are turned off

Phonak hearing aid technology levels typically range from

Essential (30) to Standard (50), Advanced (70), and Premium (90)

, with higher numbers indicating more advanced features like greater customization, noise reduction, and automatic program changes. The specific features available vary by technology level, with premium models offering the most sophisticated options for challenging listening situations.

Technology levels

• Essential (30): The most basic level, offering automatic functions but with fewer noise reduction capabilities.

• Standard (50): Adds more features than the Essential level, suitable for those with standard listening needs.

• Advanced (70): Includes features like enhanced music programs, more programming channels, and better noise suppression, making it ideal for those in noisier environments or who stream audio frequently.

• Premium (90): The highest level, offering the most comprehensive feature set, including the greatest number of custom programs and channels, and special programs like “Speech in Car” for the most demanding listening situations.

Key differences

• Features: Higher levels have more advanced features, such as programs for specific situations like “Speech in Loud Noise” and “Comfort in Echo”.

• Customization: Premium levels often have more equalizer adjustment bands and a greater number of custom programs, allowing for more fine-tuning by an audiologist.

• Noise reduction: More sophisticated noise reduction and speech enhancement features are found in the higher technology levels.

• Price: Generally, the price decreases as the technology level decreases

Nice post but I think they’re complaining about ambient noise affecting the other party’s experience in phone calls.

I agree with @firenzel : I have the I30, and they barely handle noise. They work great in quiet environments (I only use mine at home), and the Bluetooth connection is reliable.
There are no settings to manage noise during phone calls in the app.
If the issue is with phone calls, the OP may have better luck using the phone mic instead of the HA mic.
The bottom line is that the I30 is a very basic HA for those who can’t afford a better Phonak product.

Thank you so much! Very comprehensive. Don’t know why the audiologist recommended these. What’s a good price for the 90’s? Is a brand other than Phonak superior?