What is the difference between digital hearing aids and analog hearing aids? How do I know what is best for me?
Analog hearing aids convert sound to an electrical signal and amplify it. Analog hearing aids come in basic and advanced technology. Advanced analog hearing aids can have multiple programs for different listening environments as well as directional microphones for improved hearing in noise. Advanced analog hearing aids can perform as well, or, in some cases, better than digital hearing aids. The digital hearing aid market has changed significantly over the past year or two. Digital hearing aids now account for approximately 50% of hearing aids sold in Canada . In British Columbia , this percentage is much higher. Hearing aid manufacturers are attempting to phase out analog hearing aids from the market, and, instead, offer different levels of digital hearing aid technology. Basic-level digital hearing aids cost the same, or less than basic analog hearing aids. Digital hearing aids contain a computer chip in them, like a computer, that converts sound into a special code before amplifying
