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October 22, 2024
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Finding a hearing aid that truly makes a difference is life-changing for anyone who struggles with hearing loss. I see firsthand the happiness my clients feel when they are able to hear clearly and reach their fullest potential.
Founded nearly 150 years ago, Signia has become one of the leading manufacturers of hearing aids. Signia is widely known for its advanced technology, including its new rechargeable Insio Charge&Go AX hearing aids, which are tailored and customized to the shape of your ear canal.
In addition to revolutionizing its products, Signia focuses on the customer experience and better hearing aid management through its smartphone app. In this guide, I’ll go through everything you need to know about Signia––from costs to models to the customer experience.
Did You Know: Did you know that Signia helps veterans and active military members with quality hearing aids through the VA? Learn more about eligibility and how to schedule an appointment for a hearing test.
Our Top-Rated OTC Brands
While Signia hearing aids performed well in our tests, they can easily cost upward of $4,000 for a pair, not to mention they require in-person audiologist visits. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, then one of these three hearing aid brands might be right for you. Each of them offers devices for under $1,5000 for a pair.
Pros and Cons of Signia Hearing Aids
Hearing loss, whether gradual or sudden, is one of the most common conditions impacting older adults, with nearly half of them suffering from it. With new technologies, however, hearing loss doesn’t mean you won’t ever be able to hear again; you just need the right assistance device, like a Signia hearing aid.
Here are some of my favorite features Signia hearing aids have to offer as well as some of my least favorites. Let’s start with my favorites:
Signia Pros
- Mask Mode: Given the recent pandemic, mask-wearing is our norm, and it makes it hard for many of us––especially those with hearing loss––to communicate. People experiencing from hearing loss rely on lip-reading and cued speech to understand what people are saying and Signia’s mask mode allows hearing aid wearers to better understand what people are saying while wearing their masks. The Mask Mode is available in the Signia app underneath the Universal hearing program. When it’s on Mask Mode, the app captures the sound of speech signals, reducing background noise and allowing for words to sound clearer.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Many Signia hearing aids have long-lasting rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion technology is commonly found in portable electronic devices and right now is considered the best rechargeable battery in the hearing aid industry. Signia hearing aids stay charged for 19 hours with daily use. It takes about four hours to fully charge a Signia hearing aid and lithium-ion batteries typically last for about two to three years or 300 to 500 charge cycles, whichever comes first. This rechargeable technology means you don’t have to constantly pay for replaceable batteries or worry about running out of batteries at the wrong time.
- Own Voice Processing: The last thing someone who needs a hearing aid wants to hear is their own voice distorted. Unfortunately, many hearing aids on the market make the wearer’s voice sound unnatural. Not Signia’s. The company is the first in the world to replicate the natural sound of the wearer’s voice thanks to the company’s voice processing technology. This technology processes the wearer’s voice through a microphone independent from the sounds of nature and other people’s voices so your voice sounds natural and familiar.
- Best for Tinnitus: Tinnitus is a common problem that affects about 15 percent of the U.S. population, according to the American Tinnitus Association. Hearing aids with Tinnitus therapies can help negate the symptoms of this condition. Signia not only offers a setting to allow for background static noise like the ocean, which tends to help with this symptom; they also have a program called Notch Therapy. Notch Therapy is a way of treating Tinnitus, which helps the brain ignore the sounds so it fades into the background, and Signia is the only hearing aid that offers this type of therapy.
Signia Cons
- Can’t purchase online: Signia hearing aids aren’t available for direct-to-consumer purchase. That means you have to find a local vendor or audiologist to purchase Signia hearing aids and prices aren’t available online. If you are looking for hearing aids you can purchase, then check out Embrace or Audicus hearing aids, which are both high-quality direct-to-consumer hearing aid options.
- High Costs: Signia is considered one of the best hearing aid manufacturers on the market featuring top-of-the-line devices with revolutionary technology. But as with most things in life, getting the best of something usually costs a pretty penny and Signia hearing aids are no different. Signia is one of the most expensive brands in the industry, with a single hearing aid coming in around $2,000 to $3,000, depending on the style.
FYI: Most hearing aids are price per aid, not per pair, so when calculating the price you usually need to double. For example, a pair of Signia hearing aids costs around $5,000 depending on the style.
Cost of Signia Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are one of the most expensive medical devices on the market. While there are some more affordable hearing aids, on average, a pair of hearing aids costs around $3,000 to $6,000. Before we get into the details about the Signia models, let’s take a glance at the prices and features that are offered with some of the more popular Signia styles:
| Styletto X | Pure Charge & Go X | Silk X | Motion Charge&Go X | Insio Charge&Go AX | |
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| Cost | ~$1,700 per aid; ~3,400 per pair | ~$1,800 per aid; $3,600 per pair | ~$2,700 per aid; ~$5,400 per pair | Contact Signia for the latest pricing information | Contact Signia for the latest pricing information |
| Style | Behind the ear | Behind the ear | Completely in canal | Behind-the-ear | Customized fit; In-the-ear or in-the-canal |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Type | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery | Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery |
| Hearing Loss Level | Mild, moderate, or severe with the exchangeable miniReceivers 2.0 | Mild, moderate, or severe | Mild, moderate, or severe | Mild, moderate, or severe | Mild, moderate, or severe |
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Keep in Mind: These are Signia’s middle of the line hearing aid prices. Their most expensive hearing aids come in at around $6,000 per pair.
Signia Hearing Aid Models
Signia is known for offering hearing aids with the top technical features and for having a variety of models to choose from. Here’s a rundown of some of my personal favorites: Styletto X, Pure Charge & Go X, Silk X, and Motion Charge&Go X.
Pro Tip: Check your hearing in less than five minutes with Signia’s free online hearing test.
Styletto X
The Styletto X is one of the newer devices Signia offers. With their sleek and modern aesthetic, the hearing aids are sophisticated while meeting all hearing needs. The hearing aids have a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and come with a modern-looking carrying case that you can use to charge the hearing aids; simply place the case on a charging pad and you are good to go. This is reminiscent of how you would charge your wireless Apple ear-pods. Even better than that though is the charging on the go option. The wireless mobile case can charge your hearing aids up to three times so you will never be caught with a dead hearing aid!
The Signia Xperience chip, which is a new technology, allows for better speech understanding in noisy environments. This is a result of Signia’s acoustic-motion sensors which give wearers the ability to benefit from better hearing in both quiet situations such as being at home as well as noisier ones like restaurants or concerts.
The Styletto X also has Bluetooth capabilities as well as Own Voice Processing. With Bluetooth, wearers can connect their hearing aids to Bluetooth-compatible devices like their iPhones or car GPS’s making it easier to hear when using those electronic devices.
Did You Know: Did you know that you can connect your Signia hearing aids to the Signia app for support and enhanced performance?
Pure Charge & Go X
Pure Charge & Go X allows wearers to hear clear, quality sound anywhere they go. The acoustic-motion sensor technology means the hearing aids understand everyone’s hearing environment in even greater detail than ever before and delivers sound tailored to each individual. Plus, Dynamic Soundscape Processing delivers a natural sound and the best speech understanding in all situations, even when moving.
The device is also equipped with Bluetooth technology to allow users to directly connect their hearing aid to their smartphones for phone calls and audio streaming and StreamLine TV for television streaming. And with Own Voice Processing and directional microphones, the user can hear their voice as well as clearly understand the voices of those standing directly in front of them.
Silk X
The Silk X is a hearing aid that fits completely inside the canal for the ultimate discretion. With four different silicone sleeves that fit in most ear canals, you can get that same perfect fit that comes with purchasing custom hearing aids.
This hearing aid is one of the more expensive ones Signia has to offer and provides wearers the ability to take phone calls and listen to music in ways you’re used to, as with over-ear headphones. Plus, the Binaural OneMic Directionality allows for enhanced listening comfort in all types of noisy environments. Bluetooth isn’t a capability of this hearing aid, meaning music and TV streaming aren’t supported; however, wearers can hear crystal clear phone calls in both ears thanks to the miniPocket accessory. Since these hearing aids are nearly invisible and discreet for everyday wear, others won’t notice you’re wearing them.
Signia Motion Charge&Go X
Signia Motion Charge&Go X is one of the newer hearing aid models from Signia. This particular model features sensor technology that is able to pinpoint when you’re moving. Other key features include Bluetooth streaming, charge-on-the-go capabilities, AI digital assistant, and Automatic Situation Detection. With Motion Charge&Go X, you also don’t have to worry about being out and about because it has up to 61 hours of use on a single charge. With a super sleek design and the latest Signia Xperience sound engine technology, this hearing aid device is the ultimate upgrade with acoustic motion sensors for accuracy and better speech and sound clarity.
Pro Tip: Looking for a customized fit for your ears? Check out Signia’s latest new rechargeable hearing aid with a customized fit, the Insio Charge&Go AX.
New Signia Technology
Signia uses new Augmented Focus technology in their new Pure Charge&Go AX hearing aid models. Augmented Focus technology helps enhance speech clarity during difficult hearing situations and background noise. This technology includes features such as Android & iPhone connectivity, an AI digital assistant, immersive soundscape, and more. According to Signia, this technology was inspired by 3D movie effects, where the background is far away from the images that are in front of you.
Signia Accessories
There are a variety of accessories that make Signia hearing aids, even more, user-friendly. Here is a quick look at some of the most popular ones:
- The miniPocket remote control allows users to adjust sound levels on their hearing aids without having to take them out. It’s small enough to carry around on a keychain and allows for discreet volume adjustment.
- If you want to be able to stream television through your hearing aids, you will need to purchase the StreamLine TV device, which allows audio from the television to stream directly to your hearing aid.
- The StreamLine Mic allows for hands-free phone calls and music streaming through any Bluetooth smartphone.
- Signia’s Inductive Chargers are a fast-charging option that is compatible with all hearing aids fitted with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.
- Signia’s EarWear 3.0 collection is designed to help your hearing aids fit comfortably in your ears. With a 25% size reduction, you won’t even notice you’re wearing a hearing aid because of the flexible positioning of the tube or cable. EarWear 3.0 consists of the miniReceiver 3.0, ThinTube 3.0, Eartips 3.0, and Sleeves 3.0.
- Signia’s hearing aid batteries come in all sizes and are suitable for all hearing aids. They are also environmentally-friendly and mercury-free.
- Signia’s Charging-on-the-go accessories include the Active X Charger, Pure Portable Charger, Styletto X Charger, Styletto Connect Charger, Styletto Charger, Styelleto Charger Essential, and other charging accessories for rechargeable hearing aids.
Keep in mind that pricing for accessories is not listed on Signia’s website. You’ll have to contact a representative to learn more.
Signia App
Signia’s free app is available for all smartphones, both Android and iPhone, and has everything you need to work your hearing aid as well as receive customer service right at your fingertips. The app allows you to adjust the volume on your hearing aids, monitor your connection and battery status, adjust your hearing aid for directional hearing, and manage connectivity.
Additionally, users can get support from hearing care professionals via virtual appointments, through the chatbox, or via text message and phone call. Finally, within the Signia app is Signia assistant, which gives you settings to ensure clearer sound, in addition to around-the-clock support.
Pro Tip: To use the Signia app, you’ll need a smartphone. Check out our rundowns of the best smartphones for seniors and best iPhones for seniors.
Signia Warranties
Signia offers a two-year warranty for their hearing aids. Under this warranty, repairs are covered through the company’s international repair services. According to Signia, their International Repair plan lets users receive repair services for their hearing aids in 26 countries. Keep in mind that this service doesn’t apply to custom-made hearing aids.
However, if your hearing aids are out of warranty, you will be charged the standard repair rate to get them fixed at the company’s repair center.
Signia vs. Eargo
Signia and Eargo are two of the leading hearing aid manufacturers in the world. Both companies offer a variety of hearing aids to suit different needs and budgets.
Signia hearing aids are known for their natural sound quality and their focus on user experience. Signia hearing aids use a technology called Signia Assistant, which allows you to control your hearing aids with your voice. Signia hearing aids also offer a variety of features, such as noise cancellation, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries.
Eargo hearing aids are known for their discreet design and their ability to be worn without visible wires. Eargo hearing aids use a technology called Sound Match, which analyzes the sound environment and adjusts the hearing aid settings accordingly. Eargo hearing aids also offer a variety of features, such as noise cancellation and directional sound.
The primary difference between these hearing aids will be the type of hearing loss they’re designed to treat. Eargo, as an OTC brand, is only designed for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, while Signia hearing aids can treat severe and even profound hearing loss.
To learn more about Eargo’s different hearing aids, read our full Eargo review.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the best hearing aid with rechargeable batteries and advanced AI technology, Signia is a brand you want to consider. Because Signia implements the newest technologies, the hearing aids are modern and user friendly. Plus, it offers high-quality sound. Focused on revolutionizing the user experience and technology, Signia is one of the best hearing aid providers in the industry.
That being said, it’s important to note that Signia is on the more expensive side and costs a couple of thousand dollars. But you know what they say—you get what you pay for, and that’s the case with Signia hearing aids.
Signia Frequently Asked Questions
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How do you buy Signia hearing aids?
Signia hearing aids are not a direct-to-consumer brand so you aren’t able to purchase the hearing aids online. Instead, you need to find a local retailer or audiologist to purchase the hearing aids.
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Is Signia a good hearing aid?
With top-of-the-line technology, Signia is an excellent choice for people who want to get the most out of their hearing aids. That combined with their long-lasting rechargeable batteries, which takes away the need for traditional batteries, makes Signia a great contender for those who need a hearing aid.
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How do I know when my hearing aid needs to be charged?
You will know your hearing aid needs to be charged when you hear the low battery signal. The signal repeats every 15 minutes. To charge the battery, you need to connect the charger to the power supply and put the hearing aids in the charging slots.