5 BIGGEST Hearing Aid Scams

[@1492tomato]

Retired audiologist here. Sadly, Cliff is right. Audiology is another profession where we designate ourselves "Priests of the Temple." We're not. We're servants - just like any other public professionals who understands what they're really trying to do. Every profession has its used car salesmen: doctors, lawyers, accountants and us. Not offering excuses, but what I love about Cliff's videos is that he gives you cogent questions to ask - along with answers to look out for. Dr. Cliff, you are a service to the profession and the hearing impaired community. God speed.

[@johngreen1776]

As a Senior, retired business professional. I have been studying the hearing aid market to get my first pair of hearing aids. I am shocked at the deception, price gouging and just plain dishonesty in some of the providers. The same hearing aid may sell from $1100.00 to $3800.00 depending upon who sells it. This seems to be the last frontier of the con man.

[@alexsandra9000]

I couldn’t agree more! There is relatively little reliable, non biased consumer information out there. You are forced to glean what you can from public as well as manufacturers websites just to cobble together a basic understanding of hearing aid devices, let alone hearing loss in general. I’m so glad I found this channel! I’ll be binge watching just so I can learn enough to help my mom get herring aids this year.

[@jeanettesovick271]

Amen to that! My friend told me both she and her husband needed hearing aids…but decided against when told they would pay $4,000 for each pair…they just could not justify that cost being on a fixed income!😮

[@jeanettesovick271]

$3800!! That is chump change compared to what I had to pay for water-resistant PHONAK’s😱😱😱. Which ran me $8,000. I had so much trouble keeping them in, I turned them in and have not purchased anything yet. I left my ENT and found a private audiologist hoping to get much better info and service!

[@marianmyles9152]

How can YOUR credentials be verified? 😂

[@DeeKru]

One company that advertised in a magazine wrote me almost $6000. I said no. They kept texting me discounts, $5000, $3500, $2500 and last quote $1100. What dies that tell you?

[@Shaylene2779]

Lifelong hearing aid wearer here. I absolutely love my audiologist. I’ve had many over the years and she is by far the best. I’m also very lucky that I have the rare insurance that not only covers the cost of the hearing aids every 5 yrs, but also the ear molds (severe loss in left ear & moderate to severe in right) & up to 80 batteries a year. . She does the whole in office program adjustment, never lets me leave until I’m satisfied with them & does follow ups in case I need readjustments. She also gets me in quickly if I have any problems or emergencies with them. She’s also one of those people that you can tell are actually listening to what you’re telling them and thoroughly answers all your questions. Her office carries multiple brands and types of hearing aids, depending on what your personal hearing needs are. She’s one audiologist that I completely trust with this.

[@onkarvatsalvlogs8559]

I have same moderate problem in both ear i use invisible hear aid in both ear could tell me how I can. Repair my veins

[@Shaylene2779]

@@onkarvatsalvlogs8559 I have no idea what caused my loss. They did an operation on my right ear when I was 7 to see if they could fix it, but it didn’t help at all. Was out of school for 6 weeks recovering and ended up repeating 2nd grade for nothing.

[@TheSgtsMess]

I always get the impression that audiologists are more sales people than medical professionals

[@jTempVids]

100% agree with you.

[@jimdshea]

You think the people giving you a hearing test at Costco are even licensed audiologists? Not sure if that's a requirement to give a hearing test? Do you think you would be unable to set up a correct profile - for your own hearing - if you had the same software as these "fitters"? For the vast majority of people it is like buying a $2 pair of reading glasses - your eyes aren't falling out of your head, you just need a little boost.

[@KillswitchStreamer]

I worked in sales for years. Started the appointment off with "coming to an understanding" about sales tactics and to cut the BS and save each other time. I think they appreciated that because the tone changed immediately.

[@curtisloew4554]

​@@jimdsheaThat's true for those of us that are willing to pay more for prestine hearing, but most of us are willing to settle for some relief and decent improvement with a cheap amplifier. It's just not cost effective for someone like me to pay an extra $500 or so and go to an audiologist for a hearing experience that's only a little bit better than Costco hearing aids.

[@michaeltroster9059]

Of course they are. Hearing AIDS have about $75-100 technology , and the hearing aids are very good, but not worth the $3-4000 costs. This guy pretends he’s helping from being scammed, but seems to be a scammer himself, pushing the high priced stuff.

[@davidparker7156]

you mention the massive markup on the cheap hearing aids, but i also bet there is a huge mark up on the better ones as well....

[@odc2725]

I often listen to Dr. Cliff's reviews. I appreciate his point of view as it allows me to understand the hearing aid industry.

[@DJaquithFL]

Now while my mother is spending $3,500 for a single hearing aid fitted and configured from an audiologist, that markup is obscene. You know it and I know it.

[@jTempVids]

I'm beginning to believe the whole business model of selling hearing aids is a scam. Then again I think most things in the USA medical industry are a scam/joke, but that's another story. I took my dad to 3 different audiologist, each sold different hearing aids. He wanted to go to all three before purchasing hearing aids. One to compare prices and two to see what they offered. He has moderate hearing loss in the high frequencies. Low and mid are ok. He also has tinnitus. All three confirmed this during the initial hearing test. The whole experience was annoying. After the hearing test, none of the audiologist asked what is your budget. None of them mentioned what models they sold. They'd put one on the table and that was it. I'm sure with his hearing loss any of the lower tier hearing aids would probably work. I even asked about the other brands/models they sold. Nope, this is the one you want or they only sold one brand/kind. One didn't even offer for him to try out a hearing aid. After the hearing test the audiologist said it would be $2500 for a pair. We said that's too much. They said ok. End of conversation. Goodbye. The prices offered varied from $2400 to $6000 for a pair. We made the mistake of telling one how much one of the others was asking. Magically the price at this office was just $100 less than the competition. When we got up and said we'd think about it or we couldn't afford that. None of them tried to sell us a lower tier or cheaper brand hearing aids. They'd only mentioned financing or CareCredit. One did make me laugh. He kept saying $59.99 I just kept thinking, "Oh that's not bad, $59 a month." I said something and he said, "no. it's $5999 with your discounts." I just kinda chuckled and stood up. The fliers your receive in the mail are a joke as well. "Free hearing test, $1000 off hearing aids with this coupon. $250 rebate" We took the coupon with us to one audiologist (Beltone). He looked at it and said. ok. That's $5999 for a pair of Beltone hearing aids with the coupon. A discount means nothing if your can't find out what the MSRP of product, which none of the manufactures list. You have no idea if what your paying is a good price or fair. It's also very hard to compare the models online. Few of the manufactures actually list the differences between models. I do understand the mark up somewhat at the hearing aid stores (audiologist). I don't like it or agree with it but I understand it. All three of these offices said they would take care of your hearing aids for some time period I think it was for 3 years: cleanings, fittings, retesting. repairs, warranty claims, and adjustments. I believe for free. They also all had staff, one or two employees. The audiologist has to make some money as well. I'd much rather a different business model where the hearing aids are like $500 for a pair and you have to pay a fee to get tested, fitted, adjusted, repaired. It kinda reminds me of the old Kirby vacuum door-to-door salesmen. They'd always try to get as much money as they could out of you. Sell one for $2000 to a neighbor, but you refuse, and they offer it to you for $1200. Another analogy would be glasses. At an eye doctor glasses cost $250 to $700 for a pair. You can get online and order directly from a factory (Zenni) and get a pair for as little as $12 for basic glasses or get glasses with a lot of features (progressives, transitions, anti-glare, scratch resist) for maybe $100 max. The eye doctors mark up the glasses massively to make money. I'm talking 1000%. In my opinion hearing aids shouldn't cost more than $400 for a pair. I don't give a damn what's inside them or their features. If you can buy an IPhone 15 Pro Max for $1200. Think about it. A $200 pair of earbuds have most of the features of hearing aids and much more: microphones, DSP's, processors, bluetooth, noise cancelling, touch controls, rechargeable, streaming, etc). At their core hearing aids are just a microphone(s), amplifier, DSP, and a speaker. Sure the newer models all have a computer in them with sound processing, bluetooth, and a dozen other questionable features. Once again your can buy $200 bluetooth headphones that have all these in them. And I'm sorry $2500 to $6000 for something that might only last 3 to 7 years is ridiculous. The lower tier hearing aids should be near free or covered by insurance (Medicare) in the USA, but once again that's another story. After this experience. I'm either going to buy a used set of hearing aids on eBay for $50-$150 or buy a set of OTC self fitting hearing aids (Bose Lexie or Jabra) on eBay for my father. The used hearing aids will be more problematic as I'll either need to invest in buying the programming tools/software or take them to one of the local audiologist and have them program them. I have no idea how much they charge or if they will even service used hearing aids if you didn't purchase the hearing aid through them directly. I also question the true adjustability of the OTC hearing aids. How much customization of the hearing aid settings are available to the user? That leads me to my last point. In this day and age all hearing aids should be easily user programmable. Hearing aids can now be bought OTC without a prescription or even seeing an audiologist. Almost all new digital hearing aids have Bluetooth, I see no reason to keep them locked or require proprietary hardware/software to program them. End of rant. Thank you.

[@paulmaxwell8851]

You pretty much said everything I wanted to say. The industry is predatory and rips off elderly consumers who often don't realize they're being scammed. And 805 of adults with hearing can't afford these products so they go without. Disgraceful.

[@rumproast5159]

Thanks for your rant. You have educated me as I’m now just looking for hearing aids. I have the same hearing loss as your Dad and can probably go another year or two with aids but I’d rather not. I see I’m in for quite a time. My first appt with the audiologist is next week. It’s at an ENT’s office so I’ll keep your rant in the back of my mind. Stay well.

[@marym1485]

@@rumproast5159 price compare at costco. that's where I've gotten the last two pairs.

[@analog_guy]

I fully agree with you on all points. I began with name-brand $3000 hearing aids from an audiologist. I could never get them adjusted to suit and I couldn't adjust them myself. I finally replaced them with the Bose Lexie B1s and these are much better. I still wish for even-more adjustability and the ability to make custom ear molds. I'm sure Lexie also has a very high markup. Having worked in the electronics industry, I know these things should not be expensive. Today we can buy complete laptop computers for $200 and up.

[@coldspring624]

One of the few things I can hear and loud and clear.

[@maxmaximus6671]

I have the Phonak Audeo Life hearing aids I just received through my Audiologist, I was fortunate to have an AuD who took his time to make sure I was hearing real-time best practices I paid good money and I'm happy with my results.

[@luannweis1885]

Love my phonaks. Been wearing them 3 months now. No one knows I wear hearing aids. More discreet than ear buds. Love the way they work thru my phone and watch!

[@frankfontana8174]

​@@luannweis1885tell me more about your hearing aids. Thanks, Frank

[@MartyRaaymakers]

Worst i have had are phonaks, tbh

[@mattdonna9677]

Always good info on this channel, I don't buy anything online for the reason you described. Getting a hearing aid last year allows me to function in society again and viewing your channel was the catalyst. Thank you Dr. Cliff .

[@PAHighlander24]

One bit of advice for veterans. Hearing aids and audiologist fees are covered under your VA benefits. If you never sought treatment for anything from the VA before, and need hearing aids, go to the nearest VA facility. I have a lot if friends who have taken advantage of these benefits recently and are glad they did.

[@monoped8437]

for years, i was told i wasn't eligible. suddenly, i was. quite a group of goodies they provided.

[@urbnfusionteam3200]

So if you VA you can afford to be scammed...lol

[@donaldhoffman346]

You are right about Refunds after returning the hearing aids. Nano Hearing Aids is being advertised everywhere on TV. Hearing aids would not fit in my wife's ear correctly. So, got an RMA number and sent them back. 4 weeks later I contacted the company about my refund. Was informed the hearing aids were damaged and will not get a refund. They were not damaged when they were shipped back through UPS. The photo they sent me to show the damage could not have been done during shipment. Went to the BBB website and found many complaints about the same thing and ne refund given back.

[@superaijaz]

Thanks for mentioning their name so that others can save themselve from these thugs

[@TimScrogham]

Costco's hearing center is vastly underrated. my experience with the Jabra Enhance Pro and Costco has been excellent! my local audiologist tried charging me 4x ($6,495) what these cost me at Costco for basically the same product.

[@Denyshowe]

My experience, too. I went there because Consumer Reports gave it such a high mark. Great customer service and $2105 for an Rexton in the ear canal aid and a 6 mos FREE return policy, no questions asked. I'm sure they ask, but I'm confident with people i've dealt with at COSTCO that it would not turn into a drawn out argument/stall. I love having the app on my iphone to adjust its use.

[@superaijaz]

@@Denyshowe Do they have any expert there who can help you to find the right hearing aid model?

[@MGMidget73]

​@@superaijazYes, my CostCo I just delt with a DrAud. He fitted me with REXTONs. 1499. They had a bundle special where they threw in a travel charger. Just came home today with them. Hearing sounds I haven't heard for a long while. They said it will take about a month for your brain to adjust to the new sounds. I can even hear my vehicle's blinkers again.

[@paulmaxwell8851]

Yes they do. Here at our local Costco the person is an accredited audiologist.@@superaijaz

[@michaelkruchkow480]

I also have Costco hearing aids. Phonak. They no longer offer them because a bug in the chargers. The only concern I have is they do not follow best practices. On the whole, they do a fairly good job and have great support. Oh I forgot, they do not take insurance.

[@jealouspirate]

Unfortunately most of these scams occur within the established industry, not just shady online retailers. Oticon was fined millions in Australia for misleading advertising. A few years ago Phonak ran "advertorials" disguised as regular articles in my local newspaper talking about how their new chip "elminates" unwanted noise - a truly false and annoying claim I had to walk back in my clinic. Not to mention how thin the quality evidence is for most advanced hearing aid features.

[@Denyshowe]

As a journalist I would suggest it's pretty hard to disguise an advertorial as a news story. Maybe I'm too close to the issue to judge, but I think advertorials are obvious.

[@davidmartin1015]

One point I would like to bring up after having dealt with quite a few hearing aid providers is that virtually none of them have experienced 8:22 deafness themselves, so , though I realise they know a lot about audiology they have never experienced what I have. Sometimes it’s fairly obvious too.

[@kayechalmers3807]

Agreed.. I doubt anyone without hearing loss really understands.

[@alamotwo1]

I don’t agree, they deal with people all day long every day and most of the ones I have used are genuinely sympathetic to our loss of socialization in groups or public places. They know full well how it affects us.

[@diegotriste6966]

True that. thats exactly what I been thinking.all the guys advertising hearing aids dont have hearing problems themselves.

[@drt5446]

I now have an audiologist who has hearing loss. I'm not sure that makes them better but definitely understands from a personal take.

[@rebeccahale322]

As a hearing loss person. I am completely turned off hearing aid scans. Most advertising can be traced to a scam of some kind . I'm still looking for affordable hearing aids.. I can see through the scans in the very ad they're pushing.. This industry is one of the most misleading of all.. Thank you for your information..

[@johngreen1776]

The best deal we have found are at Costco.

[@emmanueldidier321]

​@@johngreen1776 No. Those are sound amplifiers,which are useless, or even dangerous, on a noisy environment.

[@ruthrodriguez5765]

I've learned so much from your vlog. Thank you!!! One would think that since the technology for bluetooth earbuds has come so far, the same would be true for hearing aids. I love my earbuds. Clear, great sound, great connectivity to my phone, tv, tablets, ipad, lalptops, great noise cancellation, and comapred to hearing aids, great prices, etc.

[@stgaming2248]

Pls can you share what brand earbuds you are using

[@moviedog1]

I think the whole hearing aid industry is a scam. $2000 to $3000 for hearing aids. I could never afford that. I guess I just have to stay deaf. Insurance doesn't pay for any of the costs. The reason why people buy these cheap hearing aids is because some of us can't afford the $2000, $3000 price tag.

[@shauncronin3961]

Just went to the audiologist last week, they want 3400 dollars. Not going to happen that’s a months check.

[@alamotwo1]

I assume that your hearing loss is just moderate because you can’t buy the best ones needed for severe loss for $3400. I need the very best that money can buy and even those; Oticon More1, don’t really do the job either. Retail price is over $6,000 for a pair. I bought mine two years ago through an intermediary company for $4,000. I’ve never used earmolds but that’s next to try to gain just a bit more. The technology improves constantly so I buy new Oticons, the best they have, every 2 to 3 years. That’s $112.00 per month and a great bargain to someone like me who cannot have a conversation without them. I say they’re not perfect and they aren’t but they make life bearable.

[@alamotwo1]

Also, if you watch tv alone get the Bluetooth connectors, the difference is amazing, like being in a concert hall.

[@alamotwo1]

See my post above, get a second mortgage or borrow from your bank and get a new lease on life. But don’t scrimp, get the best ones and use an intermediary company to point you to a retailer in their network to get a 33% discount to $4000. You’ll be glad you got the best ones. If you’re like me you’ve busted your butt your whole life raising, educating and supporting a big, fine family but now it’s ME time and I deserve to have a decent remainder of a very long life. I’m not the old guy who sits in the corner because he can’t hold a conversation, hell no.

[@jeanettesovick271]

@@alamotwo1what and where is an “intrermediary company?? I bought my Phonak aids from my audiologist who is employed but an ENT…what a waste if time!! The cost was $8,000! They did NOT fit me for custom ear molds! Instead, I had foam or rubber domes that would Not stay in my ears! They constantly fell out of my ears..very anxiety-provoking, esprecially when losing one in a restaurant..I did recover it…then the Aud finally decided to do custom ear molds! She must have had her eyes closed when performing the molds! This nonsense continued through the entire warranty period(60) days! When we asked for additional time, they flatly refused. Did not care about the difficulties I was experiencing! Four months have passes, and I have an upcoming appt. with an independent audiologist who can help me successfully find the best hearing device. I hope I can find a pair to assist my hearing and not reach a price over $8K!😮❤

[@Andrew-cn6rc]

From my experience, the only time my audiolist is attentive. Is every 5 years when I'm due to upgrade. I get a surprise call! Asking me to come in for my "annual check up" After I've purchased a new one. I'm dealt with like a problem

[@DrCliffAuD]

You need a better audiologist

[@michaeldockery3655]

Hey Dr had to get hearing aids about two yrs ago. My thoughts last the whole hearing aid business is a scam. I can hear every annoying sound in the world but talking to people they not worth 50 cent but cost lot more than that. No one in the world would convince me to buy anymore.

[@garymyers472]

Buy it online and pay for it with a credit card. Return early and if problem notify your bank

[@marieglover5653]

I bought a hearing amplifier from one of the online companies. It works like they said and .i can now watch TV with my family with volume at a normal level. i don't have the extra $1500 in addition to my insurance for "professional hearing aids". I do have a box with about $6000 worth of outdated hearing aids that my husband wouldn't wear.

[@triciagumbrecht6338]

This is so discouraging. 😢 Here are all the problems, what are the solutions?

[@ladybug8275]

Thank u Doctor Cliff for this in foyou are appreciated so / I'm been having a little trouble lately hope my doctor can fix it / in the mean time it was great and thankful for all your help/ have a blessed night!💕🙏🙏

[@epoulos108]

I fell into one of these and returned the hearing aid within 45 days because even before I saw this my intuition was that it’s scammy business. I think god for the validation. :( You have amazing content!

[@lrblouie]

Here's another one, got an email from a local provider inviting me to participate in a clinical trial for new technology. Ended up having a call and was super excited until they told me they offered "financing" for their hearing devices. The "clinical trial" was a ruse to get me into the office.

[@dennisgrimski7892]

I just had that occur to me too. I walked in, and quickly discovered it was a ruse to sell me a $8,000 hearing aid.

[@caseybalvert3547]

Yup. Been there. I even wrote a thorough and lengthy review. When I returned them, they weren’t interested in my review. 😮 I would have returned them anyway as they performed poorly. It was a provider that owns a bunch of stores and had purchased hearing aids from them in the past. Never went back.

[@MrJerry8159]

Thanks Doctor Cliff for some great information!

[@aussie8114]

Most elderly people have hearing aids, when they die their expensive hearing aids get thrown in the bin. Such a waste.

[@noormotani9719]

Now that you have described the scams, how do I know and choose a clinic. The market is flooded and most of them make huge claims.

[@janesmith9677]

Choose a clinic which is owned by an independent audiologist, not by a hearing aid company.

[@davebuccino4626]

Dr Cliff, are you aware that the VA does not use Best Practices and that there are no Audiologists in Las Vegas who do use Best Practices. Any suggestions?

[@peterpigott5816]

In switzerland I bought a Widex hearing aid it cost me the same cost of 14 Apple I Pad sheer rip off it died in two years.the aid is tiny and the electronics most likely do not cost more than a few dollars. I have just bought another Swiss one on the internet for less than one I pad and it seems as good if not better than the Widex. I understand resellers are upset that their fountain of cash will run dry now that the public will resent being Conned. Peter Pigott Mount Wilson Australia

[@mikebarron5805]

I had the Widex brand of hearing aids. They were the replacement set after my frist set from MOXI reached five years old. One of the aids failed after two weeks of use. It took 6-8 weeks for the repairs. It also took 6-8 weeks from the time the AuD ordered them till they were delivered. That puts this deal already well beyond the 45 day warranty period. My AuD is trying to resolve the issues that I've listed and documented. Currently I'm still using my old MOXI hearing aids and they are working just fine after six years of constant use.

[@gitch64]

It all seems overwhelming

[@wborntrager6911]

Unfortunately many of the audiologist offices are scamming us also. We were quoted multiple times the price of the hearing aids quoted elsewhere with the same - or better - audiology services. We're still looking around because we could lose as much as $8000 extra by going with the local audiologist - for an inferior product. They can turn buying a hearing aid into buying a new car...

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sorry to hear that you're having a negative experience. It can be a big investment so working with an audiologist who is trustworthy and follows best practices is key. That's why I started the HearingUp network. Check out the site for resources before you purchase: hearingup.com

[@wborntrager6911]

@@DrCliffAuD Thank you for this list. I see there is one audiologist listed within a reasonable distance from my location. I have a question on the REM: This measurement is taken in the outer ear. Am I mistaken in thinking that most hearing loss involves the middle and inner ear - the tympanic and cochlear areas? How does REM evaluate these problems?

[@DrCliffAuD]

@@wborntrager6911 REM doesn't evaluate anything. It verifies that the amplification levels are at the prescriptive targets necessary to overcome an inner/middle ear hearing loss.

[@aidan84917]

How to choose good and effortabl hearing aid with good quality sounds and no any noises. Plus I want them invisible

[@samwyz69]

When I got my hearing test about a year ago, they recommended $10,000 hearing aids! $2,000 - $3,000 hearing aids are already too high. It’s total robbery! I did not get the $10,000 hearing aids, nor could I even afford to dream of them!

[@dennisb5407]

Living in Florida I just finished my hearing evaluation and ready to choose my hearing aids. This particular Dr. Only carries Starkey Hearing Aids. How many no cost visits are usually accompany this type of purchase which will need service. Thank you in advance

[@constancewoolson283]

I was scammed by Decibel hearing aids. Lost $500.00. As a senior that really hurt! Thanks for your posts.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sorry to hear that.

[@phillipperez3358]

What do you think about the hearing aid feature that apple and samsung earbuds offer?

[@thomaswood7495]

Online reviews are the new cancer of the techno age.

[@spi_890]

Number one is the outrages prices!!

[@davidl.williams7366]

On the other hand....... I bought Rx $5,000 Siemens hearing aids from an eye Dr. I had been unable to hear high pitched sounds, and especially consonants of others speaking to me. She tuned them in to increase the sounds of consonants. It was disappointing that it barely helped. After a decade of that and some retunings, I found myself not even using the aids much at all. When I saw the cheap aids, I thought it was worth a try, and bought the $99 Atoms. Wow! The amplifier worked, and FAR better than the expensive Rx ones. I can now actually hear consonants plainly! So, Optical Drs, say what you will, but I won't be listening to you

[@thelmamoore657]

What do you think about Beltone for hearing aids cuz that's what I have and they're expensive and they had my hearing aid set four and a half years that were wrong

[@bobboscarato1313]

After about 4 years hearing aids distort too much. In fact I don't use them anymore and Beltone is hounding me to upgrade. No way,

[@rodwaldron4971]

Bigest scam is manufacturers refusing to release software that allows you to adjust hearing aid yourself. As an ex BBC engineer having adjusted equipment etc. I feel my understanding of hearing is fairly good and would be mr than capable of setting up an hearing aid. This would allow me to purchase at a more reasonable cost new, or more important used at a much reduced cost. System may be not the latest, but just read advertising written maybe 2years ago, can system now be that poor.

[@TheDarkSnaffle]

I wear Unitron hearing aids. I got them from an audiology company where they gave me all the tests and recommended them. Their price ranged from AU$4000 to AU$11000 per pair depending on the features you wanted. The base models were exactly the same unit as the top of the range model, the top model just having features activated that the lower models didn't have using software. You really can't tell me it costs AU$7000 to activate features by software. It's not a scam, but a ripoff. Respectable audiologist companies could easily knock thousands off their prices because: 1. They'd still make huge profits even at the lower prices, and 2. They know people are prepared to pay such huge prices because they think that huge price means they are getting something special, whereas they are just units that cost $100 or so to manufacture and the software makes the difference.

[@amramhakohen3923]

True dat ! Preach, brother !

[@samgiamarelos4524]

Pretty difficult to to rate a product as rubbish or not quite good value or anything negative about it when accepting money from said product, even when disclosing sponsorship arrangements, you have to admit

[@rwgreene999]

I actually know what I want in a hearing aid, I just can't find it. 1: Controlled by phone app, not me trying to touch buttons while it's on my ear (causing feedback while finding the secret button 2: Hearing aids in real life, but also can also be used BT to phone during call 3: Enhanced voices and NOTHING ELSE 4: rechargeable with a battery that last a day 5. Ability to read reviews on the App before buying the phone (app must be on android or apple store) Optional: - listen to music from phone - Behind the ear instead of stuck in the ear - recharges in a case that attaches to power with standard USB - Hearing evaluation program - ability to connect bluetooth to TV My hearing aid from an audiologist enhances all kind of noise that interfere with me hearing someone talk

[@katemitchell8690]

Siemens hearing aids will do everything you require

[@luvlife2786]

It's shame when you go to an ENT Dr and they sell you the highest price hearing aids because your insurance will cover most of it. That being said, The high priced hearing aids started acting up.( they had a 3 year warrantee.)At 2 1/2 years they developed a problem. I tried to get them fixed 3 different times. I was told It must be me and would not touch them until I came in for additional charges. It was obvious they didn't want to fix them as the warrantee ran out in 6 months. I wish I had found this channel prior to this encounter.

[@IvanWolfgang]

Is there any hearing aids that are OTC and under $400 that you would recommend?

[@Doamino41]

So it sounds to me like you are saying all OTC hearing aids are scams because they are much cheaper and are inferior to prescription hearing aids. Unfortunately many seniors like myself who need them can't afford prescription hearing aids because insurance does not cover them. I just got through spending $300 on Audien Atom Pro 2 hearing aids which hasn't shipped yet. I'll have 45 days to try them out.

[@Tdarnell-k4x]

Over the counter hearing aids

[@SirJesseCarmona]

are mearsun bone conduction hearing aids a scam?

[@rachelprobst9278]

The real scam is my grandmother finally finding hearing aids that work for her, but never got them because they cost $8000! If you don't want people to get scammed by crappy heating aids, make them affordable. And why doesn't insurance cover them? We know hearing loss can lead to dementia, so why are we not prioritizing hearing health?

[@lenoralenor5135]

Where is a good place to donate my dad's hearing aid?

[@tippchiam6822]

I use all those cheap hearing aids and it had been of great help to me.

[@DrCliffAuD]

@@tippchiam6822 cool

[@epoulos108]

Is there a problem going with a certified hearing aid instrument person?

[@sajidrafique375]

The guy at Miracle ear in sugar land texas gave me a bill for $150 for molds after i returned his $8000 set ... Thnks god it was a monthly credit payment ..I refused him the $150 too because he never put that as a condition

[@salsYThandle]

I am a backer for linker Nova through Indiegogo. Waiting for the product. Those first 400 backers more than 50 percent are not happy. Can you please do some research and do a video on them. Their customer service is so pathetic they keep delaying the shipments and not answering for refund requests. Thank you.

[@TheTweety1705]

It this qualify as a scam? Hearing Aid manufactors advertise their products that have an app and within 2 years you can't use this app anymore because the manufactor does not support the app any longer.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sounds like every Garmin watch I've ever had. Not sure it's a scam, it is just a crappy example of technological advancement.

[@fooBar55]

@@DrCliffAuD A garmin costs $300 while a Hearing aid cost $4000 to $6000 - you cant compare the two. This is not technology advancement but HA Manufacturers not providing the service they were paid for. My 8 year iphone still works with the last version which is typically updated for 5 years. I rather lose $200 in scam than a have my $4500 hearing aid having its app fail after 3 years.

[@sharnnaharm]

Can you please expand your list of recommended providers to other parts of the world. I’m in Australia and have found out this week I need a hearing aid after deterioration in my hearing post head injury in 2009. Would be great to find advice on a provider close to me too. Thank-you for posting other information regarding hearing aids. I am learning so much

[@eleonoragv]

Many thxs! I have my Widex hearing aids. Greetings from El Calafate. Glaciers National Park. Patagonia-Argentina.

[@lobbyskids2]

Oticon hearing aids will connect to phones and tablets but not windows PC without a separate device called a connect clip. This is like $150 - $200 extra

[@AliceWilliams-l4x]

Great info. Thank you!

[@augustsilva100]

Are there any online providers that are legitimate that carry named brands? Hear Up providers are far from where I live (Homestead, Fl.)

[@nathanfrisby3133]

I have returned 3 different brands , one was from a Nationally advertised business, one from QVC and another on line. So far I haven’t found one that actually is more than an amplifier.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Yep, most of those devices are complete garbage.

[@JoyceDuff-o2p]

@@DrCliffAuD Why do you not answer the real questions as opposed to only those putting down competing products or correcting where ha are made. There are some real questions and you don' t bother to respond.

[@saltydawg69er]

Can you tell me if Bossa hearing aids is a reputable company

[@hyohyou2133]

Boxes is a scam.

[@royking7298]

i got a $6,500 pair of Starkey hearing aids from Lisingston Hearing Aid center in El Paso, Tx in early 2022, I was told that even though I was relocating to Europe I would be able to get updates, and adjustents from local distribuitors, or at the Livingston location remotely. The devices which were suppose to be the latest technology AI assisted devices, only amplified all sounds and noises, and did not help my hearing at all. Nothing they told me was true. They were not able to provide me with adjustments, remotely, nor were there any distribuitors in my location in Portugal. Scams abound folks. Buyer beward. I feel like a big fool.

[@SuperDD3392]

If hearing aids weren't soooo expensive people wouldn't have to try to look for affordable alternatives.

[@geraividet]

Audiologist are the new car salesmen

[@tommygarcia7406]

Why can't ads be short and sweet. They got to drag it on.

[@amjedhussain7954]

Of course you sell very expensive hearing aids so they are going to buy a cheap hearing online. All hearing aids are amplifiers,make the sound more louder in basic. My insurance only paid $300 and cost of the hearing aids average between $3000 to $5000

[@thepoboy9698]

If it wasn't for the VA I wouldn't have hearing aids at all.

[@dgangel7]

Thank you for telling it like it is. I get so mad when I see these folks get these devices and I myself know it's full of it. Especially the ones you can buy at a store!

[@williamlewis9350]

I suppose all that's true, but somehow it all sounds like the lead-in to a sales pitch for your own product.

[@johngrabner]

I would assume the DSP used in hearing aids are not made by the hearing aid vendor but rather IC from big IC shops. So why would I not expect a low cost hearing aid to have an equalizer with decent performance, after all it is only Software. Likewise, 3d printing technology used in the profesional industry now have resolution to allow printing of hearing aid cases. So why the crazy high prices?

[@DrCliffAuD]

R&D, manufacturing, and marketing my friend.

[@wborntrager6911]

I've been designing electronics for over 25 years - nothing quite as small as a CIC or IIC hearing aid, but the challenge is to get it this small (and avoid feedback). I have designed items as small as a BTE, though, and it cost very little. I work with components that measure just over 1/10 of 1 square mm. I would be shocked if the manufacturing cost and materials added up to more than $30 for a $4000 hearing aid no matter how complicated the manufacturing and regulatory processes are. (And by the way: Some DSPs are cheap now...) I understand adding a few hundred dollars for the audiologist visits, but the highest priced hearing aids should certainly not exceed $1000 per pair (including those visits). That price would even amortize in some very expensive development NRE considering the volumes sold. It's still a scam regardless of whether you buy the cheap junk or the good ones from an audiologist.

[@BlackhawkPilot]

Use a CC so you can challenge the charge.

[@stevebrown6793]

Think alot of people can do not have the money , so they go online for hope of better hearing or like me and do without .

[@rodneypayne2431]

Phonak and other extremely pricey hearing aids are also made in China. Many in the same factory as the cheap hearing aids. The cheap hearing aids are also not just “amplifiers”. They have the same chips and smart technology. The relevance of high priced Audiologists pushing overpriced products is coming to an end. Phonak has been producing hearing aids in their manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China since 2003.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Weird. I wonder what all of the manufacturer equipment was for when I visited their Swiss headquarters? 🤔 I'm not sure you actually know what is really going on in the Rx Hearing Aid manufacturing world. Please, just go use those cheap "amplifiers" that perform identical to Rx hearing aids. No need to even watch my channel. I'm sure you'll do great with them!

[@rodneypayne2431]

@@DrCliffAuD Actually I am not sure you really know what is going on. Phonak has been producing hearing aids in their manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China since 2003.

[@ThaddWilson]

That was harsh. ​@@DrCliffAuD

[@DrCliffAuD]

@@ThaddWilson sometimes people need it. Some people are so cynical that they become detached from reality. This commenter was clearly one of them.

[@americanboondocks]

Mine cost thousands of dollars. Insurance thankfully paid for them. But the sound quality ain't any better than my $25 Walmart earbuds I listen to music with.

[@DrCliffAuD]

Sounds like they weren't programmed properly

[@jefffeltes9309]

My grandmother got hearing aids years ago and they did NOT do Real Ear or the test box thing, but she LOVED the hearing aids. She would comment on how happy she was that she got them. How did she get "scammed" in this scenario?

[@bonnykuhfal6239]

It sounds like she didn’t get scammed. Real ear isn’t always comparable with what your brain says sounds good. Todays technology is so good at match8ng what the person needs, along with a clear conversation about how they sound and a demo of hearing in background noise can usually produce good results. Our patients are happy! Or all the have to do is let us know and we will do what ever it takes to fix it.

[@Sashazur]

From my experience as a hearing aid wearer, real ear isn’t a foolproof system that has to be used to get good results. It just helps.

[@starstuff5958]

I have had OTC aids for decades and they have worked perfectly. My issue is that the hearing aids don't have batteries. I have tried the others and they are terrible. I find it difficult to replace what I have so holding on to them as long as I can.

[@CallMeGailyn]

I would be completely lost without hearing aids. I have profound loss in both ears. If you are a senior with Medicare, you now have a wonderful hearing benefit of 2500.00 thanks to Bidenomics, and i have used it and am taking part in my world. Being deaf is isolating. People do not have much patience with those who can't hear.

[@CapitanFantasma1776]

Thanks!

[@lakrfan4980]

As an Audiologist you will naturally downgrade any type of OTC hearing device in favor of more expensive professional brands. To do otherwise would hurt your own livelyhood.

[@DrCliffAuD]

You do understand that I get PAID by brands to promote their OTC Hearing aids AND I sell them myself right?

[@epoulos108]

Way to insult Dr Aud.

[@JRock-vf4fw]

Is Ziphearing legitimate?

[@syedmalam296]

Have you reviewed miracle ear devices ?

[@mikeg7684]

They are Signia hearing aids disguised as miracle ear, one of the most expensive franchise companies, don’t go.

[@marypatriciaknight4092]

Is Bell tone good?

[@DrCliffAuD]

They could be depending on the professional you work with, however they are basically just locked Resound devices.

[@madunicorn7621]

lol I was just thinking about the bs of these 5 start reviews when I was on a aid site

[@darshinibk87]

Hello doctor Cliff.... I had brought a pair of Oticon hearing aids for my 3 and half year old kid in March 2021. They have issued me a kit of White box and am not sure if it's a genuine kit as am not able to find them on google. How do I confirm it? Can you please help me out on this as the audiologist and sales person say its genuine whereas few of them said its not.

[@FM-cq6wx]

How about Oticon.. it is from Denmark not China right?

[@DrCliffAuD]

@@FM-cq6wx yes, that is correct

[@dredude55]

Why do hearing aid company's products not follow Moore's Law that says "technology doubles every couple of years and the cost halves." All hearing aids have done is sky rocket in price. :(

[@DrCliffAuD]

No theydo not follow Moore's Law. Also, there is an important difference between the amount of transistors in an integrated circuit, and hearing aids which is the professional service required to ensure their optimal performance. Besides, adjusted for inflation, hearing aids are significantly less expensive than they used to be.

[@kdsz944]

why are these hearing aid gadgets better than a stereo mic/ ipone / cubase / shure IEM professional 4 amped earbuds + waves plugins and convolution?????

[@Star_Jewel_Realm]

The best thing you can do about this is to consult with qualified professionals and specialists. Do not buy into these scams. Read the small prints. Most of these reviews are actors portrayed and they were paid by the promoter to sell their products.

[@williamdavis4542]

Why do you hate the BBB? Is it because of the way they push you to get rated by them... for a fee?

[@DrCliffAuD]

Yup. Total 100% pay to play.

[@barrysmith8193]

The real scam is that the technology is very and always unpredictable no matter the brand or price level. Don’t count on any of them working the same way hour after hour day after day. From one moment to another. Every day is a new day of disappointment and frustration. I’m actually glad that Bluetooth died. He can’t come up with new ways to ruin my life.

[@Pipo_gra]

I'm really tired of being laughed at by this question but it is a genuine question: can any hearing aids made nowadays be made WITHOUT the bluetooth function ? It's utterly exhausting to wear bluetooth all day around my brain just to participate in the world. I miss the analog hearing aids that gave me zero headaches. This is my chief complaint.

[@laimingma5532]

they talk about hearing aid, how about ear ring problem ?

[@greghaff229]

I don't trust the entire hearing aid industry.

[@78asasou]

I was scammed foe two aids for $4500...they turned out to be amplifiers.!

[@stevenelson3515]

The second scam with the online articles is the one I hate the most. Thankfully, about 95% of the time, it’s easy to tell the scam reviews. When you read an article about, for example, the best aids for profound loss and you see some $500 aid in the third position, it’s pretty obvious.

[@bobboscarato1313]

A profound deaf hearing aid can cost over $ 7,500.- I'll do without it!

[@stevenelson3515]

@@bobboscarato1313 I have profound loss on one side and serious loss on the other, along with terrible word recognition on the profound side, so I need profound just to get up to a poor hearing level. I got top of the line Widex aids in October. $6800 for the pair and they are the best I’ve had (Oticon before). I’m lucky in that my insurance (Medicare supplement) provides $5000 every three years, so I was out of pocket $1800. Still a huge amount, but at least manageable.

[@arneschonberger]

What about hearing aides from big box stores like sam’s and Costco ? Person aat costco told me he did not go to school for hearing but had “on the job training “!